Lost Valley

The Lost Valley, or Coire Gabhail, is one of Glencoe’s most dramatic and atmospheric hidden gems. Tucked away behind the towering cliffs of the Three Sisters, this hanging valley was once the secret hiding place of cattle spirited away by the MacDonalds of Glencoe. Today, it remains a magical place, combining history, legend, and wild Highland scenery. From the Three Sisters car park, the path climbs steeply into the glen, crossing the River Coe via stepping stones or a small bridge, then following a rough and rocky trail up through ancient woodland. The route is adventurous, with some light scrambling required in places and a boulder-strewn path leading further into the valley. Eventually, the glen opens out into the wide bowl of the Lost Valley, a grassy meadow hemmed in by towering cliffs. The contrast between the narrow, rocky approach and the sudden sense of space is breathtaking. It feels otherworldly—secluded, quiet, and surrounded by some of the finest mountain scenery in Scotland. This is a short but rewarding hike that captures the drama and mystery of Glencoe in a single outing.