Where there are mountains there are glens, and in Scotland there are many mountainous regions which are even award-winning. The word “Glen” (like many place names) originates from Scottish Gaelic and refers to a steep-sided valley. Many are U-shaped and were formed by huge glaciers carving their shape in the last ice age.
As Sir David Attenborough said, “Scotland is a wonderfully fascinating place for wildlife and nature. It has, in my opinion, some of the most marvellous landscapes and wildlife spectacles you will find anywhere.”
Now that summer 2023 has arrived, here are our top 13 Scottish glens which boast exquisite wildlife and enchanting scenery.
9. Glen Affric
Widely called the ‘most beautiful glen’ in Scotland, Glen Affric reaches out from Kintail in the west to close to Cannich in Strathglass. It is beloved for its glorious woodlands, loch and rugged hill scenery. Photo: via WikiCommons
10. Glen Tilt
Known as “Gleann Teilt” in Scottish Gaelic, you can find this glen in the extreme north of Perthshire. It is considered long as it stretches out 18 kilometres from Blair Atholl village to the Falls of Tarf. Photo: via WikiCommons
11. Glen Clova
Glen Clova sits northwest from Dykehead on the B955, trailing the River South Esk in the direction of Glen Doll. It is one of the five Angus glens which offers incredible views and opportunities to spot wildlife. Photo: via WikiCommons
12. Gleann Mor
In Scottish Gaelic the name “Gleann Mor” can be translated as “Great/Big Glen”. This steep valley can be found at the head of StrathCarron, it sits to the west of the Glencalvie Forest. Photo: Rob Lawrence on Flickr