Glencoe Overnight Guide
Glencoe is the most dramatic valley in Scotland. Towering mountains, deep lochs, and a haunting history make it a must-stop for van life.
Overnight Parking
Wild camping is legal in Scotland (right to roam). Popular Glencoe spots:
- A82 layby at the Pass of Glencoe: Stunning views of Buachaille Etive Mor. 4-5 van spaces. Arrive late, leave early. No facilities.
- Glencoe Lochan: Forestry car park. Free. 6 spaces. Toilets nearby. 10 min walk from Clachaig Inn.
- Inchree (Onich): Small car park near the falls. Free. 3-4 van spaces. Quiet.
- Red Squirrel Campsite (Glencoe village): £15/night. Toilets, showers. Book ahead in summer.
Essential Walks
- The Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail): 4km, moderate. Hidden valley used by MacDonalds to hide cattle. Start from the A82 car park.
- Pap of Glencoe: 6km, 750m ascent. Strenuous but worth it for panoramic views.
- Signal Rock and The Study: 2km, easy. Family-friendly. Start at the National Trust visitor centre.
Fuel and Supplies
Glencoe village has a petrol station, shop, and pub. Stock up in Ballachulish or Fort William (30 min).
Best Time
May-June for long days and green landscapes. September for autumn colours and fewer midges.
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Getting Started
If you're new to this topic, start with the basics:
- Understand the key concepts
- Research your specific needs
- Set a realistic budget
- Plan your approach before buying
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying the cheapest option (often costs more long-term)
- Skipping research on UK-specific requirements
- Not reading reviews from other UK van lifers
- Forgetting about ongoing costs and maintenance
UK-Specific Considerations
Living in the UK means dealing with:
- Variable weather conditions
- UK regulations and standards
- British suppliers and support
- Right-hand drive vehicle considerations
Budget Planning
For most van lifers, we recommend:
- Budget option: £50-100 (basic but functional)
- Mid-range: £100-200 (good quality, lasting)
- Premium: £200+ (best quality, longest lasting)
Maintenance Tips
Keep your equipment working well:
- Check regularly for wear and tear
- Clean according to manufacturer instructions
- Store properly when not in use
- Replace parts before they fail
Community Recommendations
The van life community consistently recommends:
- Starting simple and upgrading as needed
- Buying from established UK suppliers
- Reading forums and Facebook groups for real-world advice
- Watching YouTube tutorials before attempting installations
Route Planning Tips
- Use OS Maps for detailed UK mapping
- Download offline maps before heading out
- Check road conditions and closures
- Plan fuel stops in remote areas
- Book campsites in advance during summer
- Have a backup plan for bad weather
