All you need to know about the history of Glencoe and why you should go. We’re poets, and we didn’t even know it!
But seriously, we know Scotland is a pretty historical place, but Glencoe is up there with one of the most historical. The Glencoe Valley and its little village nestled in the middle attract over 2 million tourists on average who are desperate to see what most people consider to be Scotland’s most scenic place.
And it’s not only the scenery that will stun you; the history will blow your mind. Read on to find out more.
A Landscape Shaped by Fire and Ice
Glencoe did not emerge in a single night. It came into being due to billions of years of glacial activity and frequent volcanic eruptions.
The region was home to an ancient supervolcano that erupted with such great force that it shaped the wilderness around it. Glaciers then moved through the valley, etching deep grooves in the earth’s surface.
Now, magnificent mountains like Buachaille Etive Mòr and the Three Sisters (the most famous) proudly loom over the valley as a testament to the power of nature.
You don’t need to have a background in geology to feel the weight of ancient history that surrounds the place. Take one of our Scottish motorhomes through the valley and you can almost see the carvings of the lava and ice still there.
The Massacre of Glencoe
One event that shaped Glencoe is the event that happened in 1692.
Like many other monarchs across the globe, King William III had one particular interest—the Highland clans. With that said, in 1692, he ordered the Highland clans to align themselves with the British crown, which was to be done by the first of January of the same year. Grand Chief Alasdair MacIain of Glencoe, due to severe weather conditions and bureaucratic paperwork, was unable to meet the deadlines.
As a result, a troop of soldiers headed by Captain Robert Campbell of Glenlyon came in the pretence of seeking shelter. The MacDonalds punished them for 12 days. However, on the 13th of February, the soldiers betrayed the hosts and killed 38 men, women, and children alongside many others who died from exposure after running to the snow-capped mountains.
This betrayal the Scottish people had to suffer left a great emotional trauma, which came to symbolise the broader Highland clan and government strife.
If you do visit Glencoe today, you will sense the unshakeable tension left by the forlornness as history feels brought to life.
Glencoe and Scottish Folklore
Myths and legends swirl and interlace through the hills, with valleys of Glencoe carrying the echoes of its heroic endeavours.
Those far from here believe that whispers of galloping horses and melancholic voices emerge from within the mountain on bizarre foggy nights, marking the MacDonald vale. Others speak of Cailleach Bheur, a goddess of winter who is believed to wander over the mountains while crafting the region with her magical staff.
Elves and other form changers are also believed to lie in the ancient glen, further tilting the scale of mystique. It’s reasonable to put the hearsay on the doorstep of fantasy, but this place, more than any other, immerses you in the feeling that it is enchanted.
From Rebellion to Resilience
From Rebellion to Resilience: Glencoe stood the risk of disappearing completely after the massacre, but the people of the valley endured.
The MacDonalds and other Highland clans tried to preserve their traditions, language, music, and way of life despite many attempts to eradicate Highland culture. Many Highlanders, Glencoe residents included, participated in the Jacobite revolts of the 18th century in an effort to restore the Stuart monarchy.
These revolts may have been quelled in defeat, but the ‘Highland Spirit’ has never died. Eventually, the Highlands turned into a land of culture and pride instead of conflict. Today, during gatherings and celebrations, the valley still reverberates with the sound of bagpipes played in honour of the people who used to live there.
Why You Should Go
We don’t need to give you a reason why, but we’ve got a few for you.
There are several hiking trails, like the Devil’s Staircase and the Lost Valley, both with remarkable views and the chance to walk where clansmen once roamed.
Photographers are also highly fascinated by the beauty Aonach Eagach has to offer, especially the light that twirls over the numerous peaks. The valley has a unique transformation during the seasons. In summer, it is covered in greenery; during autumn, it glimmers with fiery orange and is snowcapped during the winters.
Every corner of Glencoe is interesting and beautiful, and the food in the village is some of the best you’ll taste in Scotland!
There is more to Glencoe than just an attraction; it is a living experience. So don’t forget your boots and camera and see for yourself. It is a place that captures the heart and imagination!
