Glen Etive

Glen Etive is a valley in the Scottish Highlands where the River Etive runs for about 18 kilometers from the mountains near Rannoch Moor down to Loch Etive. The valley is framed by steep, grass-covered slopes that create a narrow, enclosed setting throughout its length.

A track was built in 1750 along the south side of Loch Etive to Taynuilt, opening the first regular access to the valley. Steamship service from Oban started in 1847, making the area easier to reach from the coast.

The valley appeared in several major films, including James Bond's Skyfall and the historical drama Braveheart. Visitors often recognize the landscape from these productions when exploring the area.

A single-track road runs through the valley and ends at a turning circle near a pier at the head of Loch Etive. The road is narrow, so drivers should expect to pass other vehicles carefully at passing places along the route.

Two distinctive mountains at the northern end of the valley are called Buachaille Etive Mòr and Buachaille Etive Beag, Scottish names meaning "shepherd of Etive." These peaks are landmarks that many hikers and photographers recognize immediately.

Location: Highland

Location: Ardchattan and Muckairn

Location: Lismore and Appin

GPS coordinates: 56.60111,-5.00583

Latest update: December 6, 2025 22:03