Boating
Learn to windsurf or sail at Linnhe Marine Boat Hire – or, if you’re already familiar with the wind and the waves, hire a boat and explore the loch’s castles and prehistoric sites.
There are also several cruise companies in Fort William that run daily cruises on Loch Linnhe, a trip that gives you a dramatic view of Glencoe. The skipper of Crannog Cruises gives you a live commentary – pointing out sightings of seals, otters and porpoises.
Drive round to Loch Shiel and you can go for a cruise on M.V. Sileas – choose from a variety of trips from one hour to a full day. For something a little pacier, try SeaXplorer – fast-paced wildlife and fishing trips by RIB boat depart daily from just outside the hotel.
South of Oban you’ll find Seafari. There are daily excursions to explore some of the best sea life in the area, as well as Corryvreckan, the world’s third-largest whirlpool.
Keep your eyes peeled for basking sharks and porpoises.
Climbing, abseiling, coasteering
The experienced guides at Vertical Descents will take you through a full range of outdoor activities – from white water rafting and surfing to canyoning and coasteering. Get ready to push your limits and have an adrenaline rush like no other.
Horse Riding
Keen to explore Glencoe on horseback? The Lettershuna Riding Centre have a selection of well-schooled horses and ponies for hacking and trekking. Most of their riding is on quiet coastal tracks and beaches – and there’s a steed for every ability.
Ice climbing
Okay, you got us... this one isn't outdoors but it does a good job at replicating the icy outdoor climates. Ice Factor is the biggest indoor ice climbing arena in the world and is an excellent place to head if the weather turns.
You can give ice climbing a go, or stick with traditional rock climbing if you prefer. The aerial adventure course takes you ten metres above ground, onto a series of increasingly wobbly rope-based obstacles. There’s a kids’ play area for the little ones, and a steam room and sauna if you need to warm up after the ice.
Skiing
Glencoe Mountain is Scotland’s most popular place to ski – with dramatic snow-holding gullies and excellent slopes. There are runs to suit everyone, from novices all the way up to advanced. More advanced skiers might like the longest vertical descent (2,600ft/792m) and the steepest on-piste black run in Scotland - The Fly Paper.
Head to Nevis Range for Scotland’s highest ski area – and the only mountain gondola in the country. In the summer season, you can swap skis for mountain bikes and take on some downhill and cross country trails. It’s also worth taking the gondola to the top station for access to waymarked trails and viewpoints – plus the restaurant, bar and shop.
