Scotland is the pinnacle walker destination – offering some of the most scenic hiking and nature walks in the world. The diversity of the landscape means you could be trekking through the Highlands, exploring forestry or wandering remote beaches. Whichever corner of Scotland you end up in, you can be sure that breathtaking views are never far away. You can’t go wrong in our luxury Scottish hotel near Pitlochry for a hiking holiday- see our guide for the most iconic Scottish views.
There are walking routes of all abilities on offer, but narrowing down where you want to venture first is a difficult task. Whether you are looking for the most popular hiking spots and Scottish walking tours or hunting for some hidden gems, get your walking boots ready for our take on the top six most famous walks in Scotland…
1. GLENFINNAN VIADUCT TRAIL (83.2 Miles from the hotel)
The Viaduct Trail is a firm family favourite. The awe-inspiring architecture and magical mountain backdrop have become instantly recognisable to the world after featuring in the Harry Potter film series – see our list of Top 10 Must-Visit Film and TV Locations in Scotland.
The summer season offers the perfect opportunity to spend an hour or two exploring the scenery and nature walks, as well as the chance to see the Jacobite steam train running from Glenfinnan to Fort William and Mallaig on the longest concrete railway bridge in Scotland.
The Glenfinnan Viaduct Trail is an excellent short walk. Just 2.5 miles (4 km) in length, you’ll cross paths with the Glenfinnan Monument which was built in 1815 to commemorate Jacobite clansmen before ending up in a stunning position at the head of Loch Shiel.
2. ARTHUR’S SEAT (96.1 Miles from the hotel)
This famous landmark is situated within Holyrood Park, standing tall above the city of Edinburgh. Experience the renowned 3 mile (4.75km) hill climb in the heart of the city away from the hustle and bustle, with extraordinary views from start to finish, with the ultimate panoramic view of Edinburgh at the summit being the reward.
It’s an easy yet stunningly rewarding walk – now a grassy landscape, you will walk upon the remains of an ancient, now dormant volcano thought to be around 350 million years old. The origins of the hill’s name are shrouded in mystery – some speculate it was the site for Camelot, the home of King Arthur.
3. WEST HIGHLAND WAY (47.2 Miles from the hotel)
Recognised as the first official long-distance footpath in Scotland and as one of Scotland’s official Great Trails, the 96 miles (155km) long route is a fantastic challenge between Milngavie and Fort William. It is the most popular and beautiful walking route in Scotland, with a variety of routes to explore, usually starting easy down south and becoming more challenging as you venture north into the depths of the Highlands.
You can choose to hike all or part of the West Highland Way route and enjoy the brilliantly diverse scenery along the way, including views of Devil’s Staircase and Ben Nevis. The seven-mile (11.2km) stretch from Inverarnan to Tyndrum is considered the most challenging feat and takes approximately seven hours to complete. However you choose to tackle the route, you will feel a huge reward for walking one of the most iconic long-distance walks in the world.
If you’re looking for easier walks closer to home at our hotel in Pitlochry with available parking, then take a look at our roundup of 5 Highland Perthshire hiking routes for beginners.
4. COASTAL: TOBERMORY BAY TO AROS PARK (117 miles)
This impressive walk will take you through coastlines, woodlands, waterfalls and lily-clad lochs, allowing excellent views back across Mull’s multi-coloured capital.
This two-hour walk starts with a coastal path with picture-perfect views of Tobermory and its famed colourful buildings. Transcend across magical coastal woodland paths with occasional glimpses of Ardnamurchan before ending in the tranquillity of Aros Park – formerly the house and grounds of Aros House. This 3 mile (5.5km) famous coastal route offers fantastic spots for picnics and photo opportunities, making it perfect for families and couples. Once you’re at Aros Park, you can spend time viewing the impressive waterfalls along Aros Burn and the focal point of the park, the beautiful Loch a Ghurrabain, before making your way back around the looped path to Tobermory Bay.
5. FIFE COASTAL PATH (85.2 miles)
This glorious, yet challenging walk offers everything with the variety of landscapes you’ll see along the way. The Fife Coastal Path stretches for 117 miles (188km), beginning in Kincardine-on-Forth and ending in Newburgh. You’ll experience charming fishing villages and historical harbours, golden beaches, ruined castles, woods and nature reserves and even famous landmarks like St. Andrews.
Pick out the route that suits you best – such as the 14 miles (22.5km) Burntisland to Buckhaven route and stop in the Royal Burgh of Dysart, dating back to the 7th century. Here, you can take advantage of The Harbourmaster’s House and the fantastic Coastal Centre Exhibition and explore the history of the harbour and the Fife Coastal Path.
6. COIRE GABHAIL (76.4 miles)
This is one of the Scotland’s 100 best walk routes and famed for its dramatic scenery with its deep valleys and rugged mountain terrain. Coire Gabhail, known as the Lost Valley, has quite the explosive past, having formed centuries ago from fiery volcanic explosions.
After gaining a reputation for its unique properties and spectacular scenery, it comes as no surprise it was set as the backdrop for James Bond’s Skyfall. The Lost Valley makes a stunning two to three-hour rocky hike, offering majestic sights of the Three Sisters in the Glencoe Valley. The area also has quite an incredible history– the name Coire Gabhail (translates as The Hollow of the Spoils or Booty) refers to the time the Macdonald clan hid cattle and livestock in the area with the privacy of the towering mountains, having fled and taken refuge here in the aftermath of the Glencoe massacre of 1692.
To enjoy first-class accommodation on your next luxury hiking holiday in Scotland, book your stay online at our hotel near Pitlochry at Dunalastair Hotel Suites Loch Rannoch. Alternatively, call our friendly reservations team today on +44 (0)1882 580444