9 spectacular walks

Ben Lomond

Whatever the season, Ben Lomond has a dignity and a magic that has drawn artists, beauty-seekers, hikers and climbers for centuries. Discover exhilarating walks and spectacular views from the summit across Loch Lomond. Or explore the mountain’s human history on the low-level Ardess Hidden History Trail.

Kintail & Morvich

The sharp peaks of the Five Sisters dominate the skyline of this rugged natural wonderland. The magnificent estate is a walker’s paradise: a network of trails leads up and around the mountains, lochs, glens and coastline.

Glencoe National Nature Reserve

Featured place: Glencoe National Nature Reserve

Glencoe is the home of Scottish mountaineering, and climbers will find plenty of challenges in the crests and ridges of Aonach Eagach, the Three Sisters or any of the eight Munros on the estate. There are also good hillwalking routes and easier rambles, such as the walk to Signal Rock. The woodland trails lead into the lower levels of the glen, through birch and red deer territory, to the ruins at Inverigan, one of the sites of the Glencoe Massacre.

Goatfell

Featured place: Goatfell

At 874m (2,866ft), Goat Fell is the highest peak on the Isle of Arran. Walkers and mountaineers who venture into this dramatic and challenging landscape are rewarded with spectacular views of the island and, on a clear day, across to Ben Lomond, Jura and the coast of Ireland.

Torridon

A paradise for hikers, climbers, geologists and nature lovers, Torridon includes some of Scotland’s finest mountain scenery. Challenge yourself to reach the summit of one of five Munros, enjoy a peaceful picnic by Loch Torridon or visit the countryside centre for information on the wildlife and walking routes.

Falls of Glomach

Featured place: Falls of Glomach

Venture into this far-flung Highland landscape to stand before one of the highest waterfalls in Britain – 113m of tumbling, crystal-clear water. Set in a steep, remote and narrow cleft, it can be reached only on foot.

Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve

A must for walkers and nature-lovers, Ben Lawers is Scotland’s tenth highest Munro and has the most celebrated collection of rare mountain plants in Britain. Look out for wildlife including red deer, ptarmigan, ring ouzels, skylarks and black grouse. History enthusiasts will enjoy following the Kiltyrie Hidden History Trail.

Balmacara Estate & Woodland Walks

If ever there was an area of land to entice people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the outdoors, it’s Balmacara. Explore this stunning estate on the Lochalsh peninsula and enjoy fantastic views, charming villages and beautiful coastal walks through native woodland.

Grey Mare’s Tail Nature Reserve

Gazing at this mesmerising waterfall – one of the UK’s highest – it’s easy to see how Grey Mare’s Tail got its name. Hike up the steep slopes to Loch Skeen, a glassy pool of mountain water and the source of the waterfall, or challenge yourself to reach the summit of White Coomb (821m) to enjoy spectacular views.

Walking in Scotland