Scotland
The dramatic ancient landscape of Scotland has long enticed walkers with its majestic wilderness. Fortunately, Scotland is home to a large network of waymarked Great Trails which showcase its varied natural wonders. The Highlands routes are famous for their breathtaking mountains, peaceful valleys, vast lakes and wild rivers. There are also rugged coastal trails and tranquil woodland paths to explore.
Scottish scenery is a photographer’s paradise with its ever changing light and weather conditions. The Highlands offer a multitude of panoramic views atop impressive peaks and ridges. Each valley has its own unique atmosphere and many glens have been carved out by massive glacial activity.
History abounds in Scotland. Some trails follow the route of ancient cattle drovers’ paths. Other walks pass Roman ruins, ancient castles and stately homes. Walkers in Scotland can visit the legendary lakes including Loch Lomond and Loch Ness.
Scotland hosts most of the UK’s largest forests where you can calm the mind and treat the senses especially in autumn and spring. The Scottish forests are wildlife sanctuaries for many animals and birds including red deer, red squirrels, foxes, badgers, woodpeckers and owls. Galloway Forest Park is particularly popular with stargazers as it was the first Dark Park Sky designated in the UK due to the clarity of its pitch black skies.
Some of the best walking regions in Scotland are set out below. Click on the buttons for more detail.
The West Highlands
The West Highlands comprise mountains, lochs and glens on a grand and majestic scale. The West Highland way is Scotland’s most popular long distance trail. The serene beauty of Loch Lomond and Loch Leven are particular highlights. The Highlands are also home to UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis.
The East Highlands
This region is dominated by the massive Cairngorm Mountain range. However, it possible to avoid the summits and enjoy the surrounding lochs, glens, moorlands, woodlands and waterfalls at a lower level. A land of epic landscapes and five of the six highest mountains in Britain.
The Great Glen
The Great Glen is the most famous and scenic of all the glens (valleys) in Scotland. It follows the natural fault line which divides Scotland from coast to coast. Amongst the walking highlights are four spectacular lochs including the legendary Loch Ness with its resident sea monster.
The Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is the largest island within the Inner Hebrides archipelago which lies off the northwest coast of Scotland. A holiday here is like stepping back in time and immersing yourself in the island’s wild, remote and historical landscape. It is home to the challenging Cuillin Mountains and dramatic rock formations.
The Southern Uplands
The Southern Uplands are the southernmost and least populated of the Scottish regions. This is the perfect area for walkers seeking to escape the crowds and explore remote, unspoilt terrain. The Galloway Forest and Dark Sky Park is home to clear night skies and an explosion of visible stars.
The Kintyre Peninsula
The Kintyre Peninsula is a particularly picturesque peninsula situated off the west coast of Scotland. Trails here are well way-marked and offer superb views of the surrounding seas and islands. There is a surprising variety of scenery including beaches, coastline, conifer forests, hills and moors - all punctuated by quaint fishing villages.