Scotland is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and rugged coastline. The country boasts some of the best walking paths in the world, from remote mountain trails to stunning coastal routes. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a novice walker, Scotland has something for everyone.
West Highland Way
The West Highland Way is Scotland’s most famous long-distance trail, stretching 96 miles from Milngavie, just outside Glasgow, to Fort William in the Scottish Highlands. The path winds its way through some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery, including Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, and Glen Coe. The West Highland Way takes around seven to nine days to complete, and walkers can either camp or stay in one of the many villages and towns along the way.
The Great Glen Way
The Great Glen Way is a 79-mile trail that runs from Fort William in the west to Inverness in the east. The path follows the Caledonian Canal, which cuts through the Great Glen fault line, linking Loch Linnhe to the west with Loch Ness to the east. The trail takes walkers through some of Scotland’s most stunning scenery, including the famous Loch Ness, and the magnificent Ben Nevis mountain range. The Great Glen Way takes around six to seven days to complete and offers a mix of challenging terrain and easy walking.
The Fife Coastal Path
The Fife Coastal Path is a 117-mile route that takes walkers along the stunning Firth of Forth coastline. The path starts in North Queensferry and finishes in the quaint town of St Andrews. Along the way, walkers can enjoy stunning sea views, pass through charming fishing villages, and explore historic castles and ruins. The Fife Coastal Path takes around seven to nine days to complete, but walkers can break up the route into smaller sections if they prefer.
The Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is one of Scotland’s most popular destinations, and it’s easy to see why. The island boasts some of the country’s most stunning scenery, including the towering Cuillin mountain range and the otherworldly rock formations of the Trotternish Peninsula. Walkers can explore the island on a range of different trails, from easy coastal walks to challenging mountain hikes. The Isle of Skye is also home to a range of wildlife, including otters, seals, and eagles, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
The Rob Roy Way
The Rob Roy Way is a 77-mile trail that takes walkers through some of the most picturesque countryside in Scotland. The path follows the route taken by the famous Scottish outlaw, Rob Roy MacGregor, through the Trossachs National Park. Along the way, walkers can enjoy stunning views of Loch Lomond, the wild hills of Breadalbane, and the rolling countryside of Perthshire. The Rob Roy Way takes around six to seven days to complete, and walkers can choose from a range of accommodation options along the route.
The Southern Upland Way
The Southern Upland Way is Scotland’s longest trail, stretching 212 miles from Portpatrick in the west to Cockburnspath in the east. The path takes walkers through some of Scotland’s most remote and rugged landscapes, including the rolling hills of the Borders, the wild Galloway Hills, and the dramatic cliffs of the Berwickshire coast. The Southern Upland Way takes around two to three weeks to complete, and walkers should be prepared for challenging terrain and unpredictable weather conditions.
