A Scenic Descent: Cruising from Glencoe to Stirling via the A82
When I looked at our next staging-point, I realised: our Scotland journey was about to shift gears. Up until now, it felt like a whirlwind—every day packed with sights, activities, and one destination after another. Then I thought to myself, “Hang on… maybe we don’t need to sprint through the Highlands.”
So our plan changed. After our restful night in Glencoe, we headed for Stirling — but not in one go. Instead, we took the slow, scenic route: the famous A82. This isn’t just a road, it’s a kind of Highland theatre. The A82 is among Scotland’s most scenic drives, cutting through lochs, mountains, valleys, and sweeping panoramas.
Why the A82?
The A82 links Glasgow to Fort William and beyond, cutting through some of the Highlands’ most epic scenery. Because we were travelling with family, this “drive & stop” approach felt perfect. No rush, just enough movement to feel like an adventure — and plenty of pause to let everything register.
Our Stops & Moments
Three Sisters Viewpoint (Ballachulish PH49 4HX)
The three peaks stood like guardians, etched against the sky. The wind was fierce that morning (end of April), and I convinced the kids to stand together for a family photo despite the chill. The drama of those mountains gave me such a rush of awe.
Loch Tulla Viewpoint (A82, Bridge of Orchy PA36 4AG)
Some literature describes this one as a must-stop place on the A82. We parked up and looked out over the still water and hills. The calm after the swirling wind at the Three Sisters. A moment for a deep breath.
Loch Ba Viewpoint (Bridge of Orchy PA36 4AG)
Tucked beside the road, this easy-stop spot was ideal for a quick stretch. The fact that you don’t need to hike far makes it family-friendly. Guides suggest you could devote half a day just to do this stretch properly — even without extensive walking.
Reflections as We Drove
While I sat in the passenger seat, watching the road bend and the mountains shift light, I felt grateful we chose this route. I noticed how the rhythm slowed: the kids chatting, the husband steering, and me just letting the view wash over me. This felt like a real holiday moment — not just ticking boxes.
Quick Tips for Your Own Drive
- Pull-off parking is available at major viewpoints, but weekends and mid-season get busy. Arrive early if you can.
- Weather changes quickly in the Highlands: bring a windbreaker and waterproof.
- Easy stops = kid-friendly. You don’t need big hikes to soak in the scenery.
- The A82 is long and scenic — allocate a decent chunk of morning or afternoon for it.
- Even “just driving” becomes an attraction. Take time to look out the window!
Final Thought
When we eventually rolled into Stirling, we felt refreshed. Not because we did nothing, but because we did just enough — enough to feel the grandeur of the Highlands, yet gentle enough to soak it in. That’s the beauty of this route. It reminds you that slowing down is sometimes the best way to move forward.