Walking Holidays In Scotland - Footsteps In An Enchanted Land

By Author: Sarah James
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Ruined castles dot the landscape, heather and bracken cloak the gently rolling hills and the lure of a romantic past beckons visitors to Scotland. It is the land of the legendary Loch Ness monster “Essie” who in spite of being pursued by countless scientists using the latest technology remains as elusive as ever. Scotland is the birthplace of golf and keeper of the game’s most revered greens, the Old Course at St. Andrews. Most of all, Scotland is a landscape that begs to be explored, that entices people to walk in the footsteps of the past while enjoying the natural beauty of its present. Taking a walking holiday in Scotland is an unforgettable experience.

Just south of St. Andrews is East Neuk, a collection of some of Scotland’s most scenic fishing villages. In the village of Anstruther there is a trail that follows the sea to the neighboring village of Pittenweem. Those who love the sea will appreciate the crash of waves on the rocky shoreline and the breeze that sometimes threatens to separate you from your favorite hat.

One of Scotland’s ...
... greatest walks is the West Highland Way that begins in Milngavie just north of Glasgow. The entire trail is 153 kilometers (95 miles) and arrangements must be made in advance, even if you plan to only walk part of it. The trail stretches along Loch Lomond, through Glencoe and Fort William and on to the highest peak in Britain, Ben Nevis. The Fort William to Ben Nevis portion can be done in a day if you get an early start. The mountain is 6 kilometers (4 miles) southeast of town.

The Southern Upland Way is another scenic walk and one that rivals the West Highland Way in popularity and scenic delights. It is over twice as long, 341 kilometers (212 miles). The trail starts at Portpatrick on the southwest coast and ends up at Cockburnspath on the eastern shore. On the way the trail passes through farmland, forests, heather covered moors, craggy mountains and wind swept beaches. Most hikers take a good two weeks or longer to complete the trek.

Those who are fans of Sir Walter Scott’s tales “The Lady of the Lake” and “Rob Roy” will want to take the Rob Roy Way trail which begins and ends in Callandar, north of Glasgow. The 81 kilometer (52 mile) circuit is a historical gem. Walk in the steps of Rob Roy and visit his grave at Balquhidder. Wander through remote glens with abandoned settlements and skirt five freshwater lochs, or lakes, considered some of the finest in the Southern Highlands. Perhaps you will take the time for a little fishing. Allow at least a week for this trip but there is so much to see and experience, nearly two would be better.

Experienced hikers and back woodsmen may choose to do all or part of these hikes on their own. There are tour companies that will map out your journey and make arrangements for nightly stays and take care of luggage. Either way you are sure to come back with delightful memories, beautiful photos and at peace with yourself and the world. Happy journeys!
About Author:
Sarah James writes for the internet, mainly business and travel articles. She is currently helping to develop content for the new website of Macs Adventure Holidays who have just started offering Camino de Santiago Tours. When not writing she can usually be found walking in the hills of Ireland.