Hiking in Scotland

Hiking in Scotland is more than a walk – it’s a journey into wild, ancient landscapes steeped in history and legend. From the dramatic peaks of the Highlands to the windswept coastlines of the Hebrides, Scotland offers hikers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and raw adventure. Trails through Glencoe’s towering valleys and the rugged ridgelines of the Isle of Skye provide some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the UK. If you’re tackling Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak, or wandering the quieter paths of the Cairngorms, every route reveals something new – whether it’s a mirror-like loch, a herd of red deer, or a ruined castle hidden in the mist.

Scotland welcomes walkers with a variety of places to stay, from cosy inns and traditional B&Bs in remote glens, to bunkhouses and hostels tailored for outdoor explorers. For a touch of luxury, there are lochside lodges and boutique hotels that make for the perfect base after a day on the trail. Wild camping is also legal and popular in many parts of Scotland, offering a true back-to-nature experience under starry skies.

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  Ben Nevis Walk (Tourist Route) from Glen Nevis Vistor Centre – 15km ascent of the UK’s Highest Peak, near Fort William in the Lochaber Region
  The Ben Nevis walk from the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre is the classic route up the UK’s tallest mountain. Following the Mountain Track (also known as the Tourist Path), this 15km circular takes you from sea level at Glen Nevis to the summit at 1,345 metres. The path is well-maintained, but it’s still a serious mountain day with steep sections, exposure, and changeable weather.
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  Ben Macdui Circular Walk – 29km Cairngorms Hike to Scotland’s Second Highest Peak. Remote, Wild and incredibly Scenic, this route rewards Strong Hikers.
  The Ben Macdui Circular is one of the most epic high-level hikes in the Cairngorms. At 29km, it’s a full mountain day that takes you across vast plateaus, past alpine lochans, and up to the summit of Ben Macdui, the second highest mountain in the UK. Remote, wild and incredibly scenic, this route rewards strong hikers with an unforgettable experience in one of Scotland’s true mountain heartlands.