Glencoe has many famous mountain peaks, chiefly Buchaille Etive Mor, which appears on every postcard stand in Scotland, as well as the dramatic and challenging Aonach Eagach Ridge.
Indeed, many walking holidays in Scotland have focused extensively on the valley, with its great array of challenging peaks and ridges.
However, for those who want to climb the very highest mountains in the valley, that challenge requires an ascent of Bidean nam Bian and Stob Coire Sgreamhach.
The climb starts by the path past Loch Achtriochtan, near the side road that leads to the Clachaig Inn and the Youth Hostel. It is a long way up with a bit of mild scrambling and several twists and turns, but the rewards are immense. On a clear day, the views from the 3,773 ft peak of Bidean are mind-blowing, with Ben Nevis, the sea and over 100 peaks visible.
From here, there is a long but gradual descent to Bealach Dearg, the head of the Lost Valley. Beyond, the ridge starts to rise again round to Stob Coire Sgreamhach, at 3,517 ft the only other peak in the valley to top 3,500 ft.
Having hit the summit, return to Bealach Dearg and descend into the Lost Valley. Famous as a place where castle rustlers would take stolen livestock, it looks for all the world like the valley bottom, until one passes through the trees and huge glacial boulders at the end. At that point, it becomes clear that it is anything but.
Instead, there is a glorious descent back into the glen, fringed by waterfalls, streams and more boulders, with a few footbridges to keep your feet dry until you reach the A82.
There is a track road running parallel with the main road to help avoid traffic at least part of the way back to the start point, after which, at the end of a magnificent day of challenging walking with stunning views, a trip to the pub and a cool drink has been well earned.