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Glencoe forest lies on the lower slopes of the Pap of Glencoe, on a promontory that extends into Loch Leven, from 10 to 240 m above sea level and covering 137 ha. Highly visible from the A82, the forest is a landmark feature at the western end of Glencoe. It is a backdrop and an easily accessible recreational resource for the village of Glencoe and is also close to Ballachulish. Attracting at least 20,000 visitors a year, recreation provision includes a car park, several waymarked trails and informal access routes and an all - ability trail around Glencoe Lochan, which includes access to fishing platforms. Glencoe forest lies within the Ben Nevis and Glencoe National Scenic Area. Natural regeneration of native woodland in the wider locality has been successful and is actively encouraged by the neighbouring Estates (National Trust for Scotland and the British Alcan Estate). Much of the area was policy woodland, which was partially restored in the early part of the 20th Century with subsequent planting from 1950, when the Forestry Commission acquired the Estate, until 1966. Harvesting of first rotation crops beginning in 1994/95. The priority for this woodland continues to be sustainable timber production, while enhancing the landscape and improving amenity. Recreation remains a high priority and the aim is to retain the policy woodland character and expand and regenerate the native broadleaved element, with restoration of PAWS sites. Lower slopes will be managed primarily as Continuous Cover Forestry (CCF) with upper slopes felled and restocked in a phased approach, creating a transition between the two areas to avoid a hard line. Control of invasive non- native species, particularly Rhododendron, remains a priority.

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Get in touch

If you would like further information or have any questions, please contact:

Planning Team
Forestry and Land Scotland
West Region
Torlundy
Fort William
PH33 6SW

Email: enquiries.west@forestryandland.gov.scot 

Phone: 0300 067 6870