Six of the best walking holidays in Scotland
Scotland, with its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural history, offers some of the most splendid walking holidays in Europe. Here are six of the best:
1. West Highland Way – Stretching 96 miles from Milngavie to Fort William, this popular route takes walkers through the diverse landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, offering stunning views of Loch Lomond and Ben Nevis.
2. Speyside Way – Winding along the River Spey for approximately 65 miles, this trail is perfect for nature lovers and whisky enthusiasts alike, as it passes through the heart of Scotland’s malt whisky country.
3. Rob Roy Way – Named after the Scottish folk hero Rob Roy MacGregor, this 79-mile path meanders through the beautiful central Highlands, linking Drymen with Pitlochry and traversing serene lochs, dense woodlands, and heather-clad hills.
4. St Cuthbert’s Way – This 62.5-mile walk connects Melrose in the Scottish Borders with the Holy Island of Lindisfarne in England. The route is rich in history, taking walkers to the haunting ruins of Dryburgh Abbey and across rolling farmland before reaching the tidal causeway to Holy Island.
5. Great Glen Way – Following Scotland’s natural fault line, this 79-mile trail offers a mix of canal paths, forest tracks, and highland scenery between Fort William and Inverness, revealing picturesque views of Loch Ness along the way.
6. Southern Upland Way – For those seeking a challenge, this coast-to-coast walk spans 214 miles across the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders from Portpatrick on the west coast to Cockburnspath on the east, featuring dramatic cliff-top walks and extensive moorland landscapes.
Each of these walking holidays offers a unique way to immerse yourself in Scotland’s awe-inspiring beauty while providing an opportunity to explore its cultural heritage. Whether you’re an avid hiker or someone who prefers leisurely strolls, Scotland has something for everyone who wants to experience travel by foot.