Walking Holidays in Scotland

Scotland is a true walker's paradise, with everything from gentle lowlands and coastal paths to the more rugged mountains of the Highlands. Walking holidays in Scotland offer something for everyone. From the quiet countryside of the Scottish Borders to the dramatic scenery of the Highlands, our hiking tours include the best that Scotland has to offer.

For those that like a challenge, tackle the classic West Highland Way joining the Scottish lowlands with the West Highlands, with its rugged landscape and magnificent mountain views. Or experience the gentler side of walking in Scotland on one of our easier walking holidays such as the Great Glen Way, ideal for those who want to see Scotland at its best, but with a little less effort.The route follows the classic Caledonian Canal and heads along the shores of the famous Loch Ness. For a longer walking holiday join these two stunning walks together for a true Scottish experience.

The Rob Roy Way takes you on a journey through the Southern Highlands on a mixture of forest tracks, old railway lines and up into the hills. Along the way you will be rewarded with tumbling waterfalls, lochs and breathtaking mountain views. The Speyside Way heads inland from the stunning Moray coast, into the magical Spey Valley and through whisky country to finish in the foothills of the magnificent Cairngorm mountains. The John Muir Way is a picturesque low level coast to coast walk through central Scotland from Helensburgh to Dunbar, the birthplace of John Muir. Woodland, farmland, foreshore and a bit of time in the city, combine in a perfect example of country walking in stunning surroundings.

Enjoy a flavour of both Scotland and England on St Cuthberts Way as you meander through the Scottish borders, into Northumberland and across the causeway to the charming island of Lindisfarne. Along the way you can visit ancient abbeys, castles and a cave, all with historic tales to tell. The Borders Abbeys Way links four of Britain’s most magnificent ruined medieval abbeys; Melrose, Dryburgh, Kelso and Jedburgh. Enjoy gentle riverside paths following the Tweed and the Teviot and immerse yourself in the peace and tranquillity of the spacious Borders farmlands boasting flower filled meadows and a wealth of birdlife and wildlife.

On the east coast we have the Fife Coastal Path stretching from North Queensferry, just over the Firth of Forth from Edinburgh, right round to Newport-on-Tay, just this side of the bridge to Dundee on the Firth of Tay. Award winning beaches, nature reserves, old fishing harbours and historical buildings decorate this lovely stretch of coastline.

Whether you are looking for spectacular mountain landscapes, peaceful lochside views, a flavour of Scottish history, or a taste of salmon fishing and whisky distilleries, we can recommend a walking holiday in Scotland.

A gentle circuit of the spacious Scottish Borders countryside enjoying flower filled meadows and a wealth of birdlife and wildlife.

Melrose Abbey on the Borders Abbey Way

The Borders Abbeys Way links four of Britain’s most magnificent ruined medieval abbeys; Melrose, Dryburgh, Kelso and Jedburgh. The abbeys along with a host of historical sites paint a picture of the conflicts between the kingdoms of Scotland and England that raged throughout the Borderlands from the mid-12th to early 17th centuries.

Well waymarked and good under foot, the walking is a pleasure. The gradients are for the most part gentle, yet the views are at times breathtakingly beautiful. Riverside paths following the Tweed and the Teviot, old drove roads and disused railway lines along with forest tracks and open moorland combine to guide you on a spectacular 68 mile circuit of the Scottish Borders countryside that will delight even the most seasoned walker.

Founded in the first half of the 12th century on the command of King David I of Scotland the abbeys are testament to the supremacy and prosperity of medieval Anglo Norman monasticism. However, for four centuries the abbeys and the Borders folk fell victim to the lawlessness and violence that engulfed the region. Never more so than during Wars of Scottish Independence in the 14th century, when Scotland, led by Robert the Bruce emerged victorious with the re-establishment of an independent Scottish monarchy. The ruins that remain today are largely the result of military campaigns by the Earl of Hertford in 1544 and 1545 on behalf of King Henry VIII of England. Further destruction came from repeated vandalism by cross border militias known as Reivers and later Moss Troopers, during a period when the Borders was a perilous and lawless frontier.

Those days are past now and what remains is a place of peacefulness, a gentle countryside where historic towns and picturesque villages await you with a warm welcome. Nature lovers will rejoice in the Borders. The Tweed and the Teviot are home to salmon, trout and grayling. As you walk the river banks look for swans, tufted ducks and the great crested grebe. Nearby will be the grey wagtail and the sandmartin. Listen for the curlew, the skylark and from the hawthorn bushes, the song of the yellow hammer. In the meadows common spotted orchid can be found as well as mountain pansy, harebell, wood sorrel and primrose. Woodland gives cover to the redpoll, bullfinch and siskin while providing shelter for roe deer, badgers, fox and great spotted woodpeckers.

Length

5 - 8 nights

Full Route Length

68 miles / 109 km

Average Grade

Moderate

Why do this walk?

Marvel at four of Britain’s most magnificent ruined medieval abbeys.

Discover the story of the Border Reivers and Moss Troopers.

Delight in flower filled meadows and a wealth of birdlife and wildlife.

Explore the lands where King Robert the Bruce launched his raids into England.

Enjoy gentle riverside paths following the Tweed and the Teviot.

Visit Abbottsford House, the magnificent former residence of Sir Walter Scott.

Immerse yourself in the peace and tranquility of the spacious Borders farmlands.

Journey from the Firth of Forth around the East Neuk of Fife to the Firth of Tay.

The Fife Coastal Path is a journey of discovery. Designated by Scottish Natural Heritage as one of Scotland’s Great Trails the path is an absolute joy every step of the way as it stretches 81 miles from the Forth Estuary in the south, to the Tay Estuary in the north.

The path begins at North Queensferry with spectacular views of the estuary, the iconic Forth Bridges and the Edinburgh skyline. The walking is relatively straightforward, but the terrain is fascinating with evidence of lava flows and limestone strata containing marine fossils. Dysart Harbour and the Harbourmaster’s House are highlights as you make your way through the 7th century Royal Burgh. Cultural heritage, historic monuments, quaint villages, valued nature reserves, volcanic plugs and Fife’s only working fishing harbour are just some of the gems decorating the path as you continue to St Andrews and your journey’s end at Newport-on-Tay.

Clifftop walking, woodland, abandoned railway and of course gorgeous grassy paths through golden sand dunes, combine to deliver an incredible walking experience as you travel through the Kingdom of Fife. Always charming, at times challenging, the Fife Coastal Path and the warm Scottish welcome of its hosts, will remain long in the memory of the walker.

Length

4 - 7 nights

Full Route Length

81 miles / 130 km

Shortest Break Length

34 miles / 55km

Average Grade

Easy to Moderate

Why do this walk?

Delight in 15 Seaside Award beaches and a host of charming coves.

Marvel at rock formations, lava flows and fossil sites dating back to a time of active volcanoes and tropical swamps.

View stunning examples of architecture spanning eight centuries.

Enjoy the many nature or wildlife reserves and sites of special scientific interest boasting marshlands, calcareous dunes and botanically important coastal grasslands.

Spot grey seals and bottlenose dolphins, bats and red squirrels.

 

A gentler introduction to the highlands, coast to coast from Fort William to Inverness and along the Caledonian Canal and the shores of Loch Ness.

Walking Holidays in Scotland - Great Glen Way

The Great Glen Way is a 73 mile coast to coast path from Fort William on the Atlantic west coast to Inverness on the North Sea. The trail follows the natural geological fault line running through the Great Glen, also known as Glen Albyn or Glen Mor.

The walk begins at Fort William, in the shadow of Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. From there the Great Glen Way waves goodbye to Loch Linnhe and heads north on the Caledonian Canal past Neptune’s Staircase and on to Gairlochy before journeying along the banks of Loch Lochy, Loch Oich and Loch Ness, famous for its mythical monster. The Way leaves Loch Ness as it travels through the ancient Abriachan woodland, home to pine martens, red squirrels and golden eagles, before joining the River Ness to reach Inverness Castle and the end of the trail.

With its good way marking, this is a relatively easy, and predominantly low level route along canal towpaths and enchanting forest tracks, providing great views of the lochs of the Great Glen and fine panoramas of the surrounding mountains. The castles and forts along the trail provide a glimpse into Scotland’s rich history and culture.

The Great Glen Way is the perfect introduction to long distance walking in the Scottish Highlands.

Length

6 - 8 nights

Full Route Length

73 miles / 117 km

Average Grade

Moderate

Why do this walk?

Walk from coast to coast through the Scottish highlands, on well made paths without too much ascent.

The Caledonian Canal provides an interesting backdrop and historical interest along much of the route.

Explore Loch Ness, by foot and boat.

Fine views of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain.

A delightful 135 mile coast to coast walk through Scotland’s central belt from Helensburgh to Dunbar, birthplace of John Muir.

This delightful coast to coast trail through central Scotland delivers a perfect blend of country, coastal and leafy urban walking. One of Scotland’s Great Trails, the John Muir Way journeys for 135 miles from Helensburgh on the Firth of Clyde to Dunbar in East Lothian. Along the way you’ll enjoy stunning views over Loch Lomond, walk beneath the impressive Campsie Fells and explore remnants of Roman forts and the Antonine Wall. You’ll spend time in Scotland’s capital, view historic homes, and marvel at miles of sweeping golden sands. All this before entering the John Muir Country Park, a haven for nature lovers. Finally, take time to reflect on your achievement with an idyllic clifftop approach to Dunbar.

John Muir was a remarkable man; a botanist, geologist and glaciologist. He found fame as an author, explorer and environmental campaigner, and is best known to many as the father of the United States national parks. Born in Dunbar in 1838, he spent the first eleven years of his life there, finding enjoyment exploring the surrounding countryside and coastline, as well as scrambling on the ruins of Dunbar Castle. He later wrote “When I was a boy in Scotland I was fond of everything that was wild, and all my life I’ve been growing fonder and fonder of wild places and wild creatures.”

It’s fitting therefore that in addition to the sublime scenery, the John Muir Way features a variety of habitats, home to a wealth of flora and fauna. The trail’s hedgerows, often fragrant with flowers, give shelter to the likes of voles and weasels as well as goldfinches and wrens. In the skies above expect to see kestrels and buzzards. The John Muir Country Park covers an area of nearly 2000 acres and this saltmarsh, grassland and woodland supports over 400 plant species and a variety of birdlife including the skylark and ringed plover. The canals and lochs on the Way are home to swans and a variety of ducks. Coastal paths are adorned with thrift, wild thyme and common orchids. Cormorants and lapwings patrol the coast while a number of islands in the Firth of Forth house colonies of puffins and gannets, most notably the magnificent Bass Rock.

All those that follow this incredible trail through Scotland will find themselves immersed in nature, enriched by history, and rewarded with a renewed feeling of wellbeing.

Length

5 - 11 nights

Full Route Length

135 miles / 217 km

Shortest Break Length

57 miles / 92 km

Average Grade

Easy to Moderate

Why do this walk?

Walk coast to coast through Scotland on a picturesque low level trail.

Enjoy stunning views of Loch Lomond and its islands.

Journey in the shadows of the impressive Campsie Fells and Kilsyth Hills.

Marvel at the incredible Falkirk Wheel and walk alongside the Union Canal.

Visit Linlithgow Palace, birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots.

Take the opportunity to scale the magnificent Arthur’s Seat enjoying panoramic views over Edinburgh.

Walk through the John Muir Country Park, home to over 400 plant species and variety of birdlife.

Through the Trossachs and the Southern Highlands on drovers tracks, paths, and quiet lanes.

The Rob Roy Way encompasses many of the places linked with the now legendary Scottish outlaw and folk hero, Rob Roy MacGregor, who lived in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The 79 mile trail begins in Drymen, on the south eastern edge of the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, and journeys north through the picturesque landscapes of Stirlingshire and Perthshire, finishing in the vibrant town of Pitlochry.

Embarking on the Rob Roy Way, walkers are immersed in the tranquil woodlands of the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, where the richness of Scotland’s flora and fauna immediately becomes apparent. As you thread your way through the wild expanse of the Trossachs, a rugged beauty unfolds, reminiscent of the untamed nature that once provided cover for Rob Roy’s daring endeavours. The splendour of the trail continues with the dramatic landscapes surrounding Loch Tay.

In addition to stunning wilderness, the route travels through charming villages and past historic sites, including the atmospheric ruins of the 16th-century Balquhidder Kirk, where Rob Roy MacGregor is laid to rest.

Celebrated for its blend of natural beauty and historical resonance, the Rob Roy Way invites adventurers to walk in the footsteps of a legend. Each step weaving together a narrative of rugged landscapes, serene lochs, and the indomitable spirit of the Scottish Highlands.

Length

6 - 8 nights

Full Route Length

79 miles / 126 km

Shortest Break Length

69 miles / 111 km

Average Grade

Moderate

Why do this walk?

Walk in the quiet forests of the Trossachs and Perthshire.

Follow the route along numerous loch sides, with great views into the surrounding hills.

Visit picturesque Callandar and the renowned Victorian town of Pitlochry.

From the Moray coast walk through the heart of malt whisky country and into the foothills of the Cairngorms.

Telford's Bridge on the Speyside Way

Weaving through the heart of Scotland’s whisky country, the Speyside Way stands testament to the country’s stunning landscapes and rich heritage. As a result it has established itself as one of Scotland’s most popular trails. The 65 mile journey commences in the vibrant town of Buckie on the Moray Firth and winds its way southward, culminating in the historic village of Aviemore nestled within the Cairngorms National Park. Walkers seeking further exploration and a longer experience can choose to incorporate the Tomintoul and Dufftown spurs into their holiday.

Your introduction to the Speyside Way is the crisp sea air of the Moray Firth. As you venture on, the trail unveils the picturesque Spey Valley, famed for its meandering river and fertile landscapes. The route guides you through charming whisky villages such as Craigellachie and Aberlour, where historic distilleries dot the landscape, inviting you to explore the craftsmanship behind Scotland’s beloved spirit.

The Speyside Way then leads you into the heart of the Cairngorms, offering a dramatic change in scenery. The trail takes you through ancient pine forests and over open moorlands, with majestic views of the Cairngorm Mountains as your backdrop.

Ultimately, the Speyside Way is much more than a walking trail, it’s an exploration of Scotland’s diverse landscapes, captivating history, and the artistry of its famed distilleries. Whether tracing the banks of the River Spey, strolling through woodlands, or savouring the warmth of Scottish hospitality, the Speyside Way promises to be a memorable adventure for those seeking the essence of Scotland’s cultural and natural treasures.

Length

6 - 8 nights

Full Route Length

92 miles / 148 km

Shortest Break Length

65 miles / 105 km

Average Grade

Moderate to Challenging

Why do this walk?

A great riverside walk along one of Scotland longest rivers.

Relaxed easy walking (for Scotland!), and straightforward navigation.

Enjoy the peace and tranquillity of one of Scotland's quieter corners.

Pay a visit to one (or more) of the many distilleries in the malt whisky capital of the world.

Finish in Aviemore, at the heart of the Cairngorms National Park.

Through the quiet countryside of the Scottish Borders from Melrose to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne in England’s border county of Northumberland.

St Cutherbert's Cave on St Cuthbert's Way

St Cuthbert’s Way threads its way through the quiet countryside of the Scottish Borders and Northumberland, joining together places associated with the 7th Century Saint. It begins in the market town of Melrose in the Scottish Borders and finishes on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne on the edge of the North Sea. In-between it takes in some beautiful countryside, including the banks of the River Tweed and the foothills of the Cheviot Hills, and visits important historic sites such as Dryburgh Abbey and St Cuthbert’s Cave.

Starting in Melrose you will head through the Eildon Hills with great views of the surrounding countryside, before following the banks of the famous River Tweed. After a quick detour to the ruins of Dryburgh Abbey, you follow the course of Dere Street, an ancient Roman Road, before heading cross country to Kirk Yetholm, the end point of the Pennine way.

You will now head through the foothills of the remote and beautiful Cheviot Hills, and on to the sleepy market town of Wooler. As the coast draws near, you will visit St Cuthbert’s Cave before descending to the unique tidal causeway which leads to Holy Island with its spectacular priory and castle.

Length

5 - 8 nights

Full Route Length

63 miles / 101 km

Average Grade

Moderate

Why do this walk?

A pleasant meander through the peaceful Scottish Border's countryside with lots of historical interest.

Take it easy and enjoy the quiet paths on this generally well waymarked route.

Crossing the tidal causeway to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, with the dramatic setting of the castle and priory, makes a memorable end to the trip.

The classic Scottish long distance route from the edge of Glasgow along the shores of Loch Lomond and into the heart of the West Highlands, finishing at the foot of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, at Fort William.

The West Highland Way was the first long distance footpath to be established in Scotland and has gone on to earn its place as one of country’s most iconic routes. The trail begins in Milngavie near Glasgow and for 95 miles unfolds against the breathtaking backdrop of Scotland’s rugged landscapes, finishing in Fort William, in the shadow of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain.

From the off, the West Highland Way guides you through tranquil lowland plains and ancient woodlands as it makes its way onto Conic Hill where you are rewarded with stunning views over Loch Lomond, the largest body of fresh water in Britain. The line of small islands along the loch mark the direction of the Highland Boundary Fault and the start of the Scottish Highlands.

Venturing onward, the West Highland Way propels you into the heart of Rannoch Moor, a vast and wild expanse whose beauty lies in its untamed nature. All eyes are drawn to the magnificent Buachaille Etive Mòr, one of the most recognisable mountains in Scotland. Ascending the impressive Devil’s Staircase, you skirt the edge of the iconic Aonach Eagach Ridge, gaining fine views of Glen Coe, and on a clear day, Ben Nevis and the Mamore mountains.

Continuing its grand narrative, the trail descends into the peaceful town of Kinlochleven, before a delightful final stretch through the picturesque Glen Nevis to Fort William.

Celebrated for its challenging terrain and unparalleled beauty, the West Highland Way beckons adventurers from around the world. This remarkable route has become a pilgrimage for those seeking the very essence of Scotland’s wilderness.

Length

4 - 10 nights

Full Route Length

95 miles / 152 km

Shortest Break Length

46 miles / 74 km

Average Grade

Moderate to Challenging

Why do this walk?

A tremendous route joining the Scottish lowlands with stunning Highland scenery.

Walk along the “Bonnie Banks” of Loch Lomond with great views of the mountains.

Cross the remote wilderness of Rannoch Moor, with its unique landscape.

Savour the excitement & achievement as you near Fort William, with Ben Nevis towering above.

Client Feedback

This was a self-guided walking tour in the English Lake District. Very well organized — great communication from the Mickledore Team, really clear information for each days walking stage. All of the places we were booked into were first rate and we had good local information about each stop.

Coast to Coast, June 2024
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Everything went smoothly. The walk and accommodation was beyond our expectations.  We had a fabulous and a memorable life experience. Thank you for making it a reality.

Coast to Coast, August 2024
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We just returned from doing the Cleveland Way and are so appreciative of all that Mickledore did to make this a fabulous walking trip! From the prompt emails to the excellent accommodations to the helpful advice – this is a wonderful company, and one we’ll book with again!

Cleveland Way, July 2024
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