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Region / Starts from: Edinburgh Travel method: Walking 11 hours 15 minutes

Scottish Highlands Walking Tour from Edinburgh

Today, you’ll wrap yourself in nature and breathe in the fresh mountain air as you set off on an adventurous day trip to the Cairngorms National Park. This is a land of rugged peaks, ancient pine forests, and shimmering lochs - and you’ll experience it all on a scenic hike through the hills, led by experienced mountain leaders who will ensure a safe and memorable journey through this breathtaking landscape.

Your day begins as you travel north through the rolling farmland of the Kingdom of Fife to the forested hills and mountains of Perthshire, where you’ll stop in the charming town of Dunkeld.

You’ll make a morning stop in the gorgeous cathedral town of Dunkeld, situated on the banks of the River Tay. You have the chance to explore the architecturally fascinating cathedral, tucked among ancient trees, or walk the quaint streets of this picturesque village. Grab some provisions for your picnic lunch you’ll enjoy later in the Cairngorms National Park.

Your route then continues north past ancient woodlands, Highland glens and the sparkling Loch Morlich, before arriving at the Glenmore Visitor Centre, nestled deep in the magical landscapes of the Cairngorms.

Tie your shoelaces, grab your outdoor gear and a bottle of water - it’s time to hit the trail! You’ll meet your experienced mountain leader at the Glenmore Visitor Centre to begin your hike, which will take approximately 2.5 hours and cover 5.5 miles (8.8km).

Along the way, you’ll wander through ancient Caledonian pine forest and gaze in wonder at An Lochan Uaine - the Green Lochan. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some local wildlife, such as ospreys, eagles, and red squirrels. Your guide will also share stories of local folklore, history, and geology as you make your way to the lush Allt Mor Forest.

Rejuvenated after your hike and with your camera full of photos of nature’s wonders, you leave the rugged Cairngorms and begin your journey south.

The route takes you through picturesque Perthshire towards the Victorian resort town of Pitlochry, where you’ll have time to get a well-deserved treat. As you travel south, the forested hills gradually give way to the gentle landscapes of the Lowlands in the Kingdom of Fife. To finish, enjoy the views of the iconic Forth Rail Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as you cross the Queensferry Crossing on your way back to Edinburgh.

You return to Edinburgh at approximately 7.15pm.



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5 Minimum age: 5 years
Moderate
What is included
    Qualified Mountain Leader from our partners, The HillgoersThe stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guideTransport by top of the range Mercedes mini-coachSmall Group (max 16 people) for a more personal experienceOff the Beaten Track Locations
Meeting point
  • Please meet your guide inside Edinburgh Bus Station, Gate J And Gate K, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ, Edinburgh Bus Station, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ
Attention
    All Edinburgh tours depart from Gate J And Gate K inside Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQMinimum age to participate is 5 yearsPlease arrive at least 15 mins in advance to check-in.To maintain the integrity of the tour and to ensure the highest quality experience for all participants, group bookings are limited to a maximum of 8 passengers. Please note that while the vehicle has a total capacity of 16 passengers and you will be sharing the tour with others, this group booking restriction is in place to preserve balance and comfort for all guests on board.There is limited space on our mini-coaches, so luggage is restricted. Each passenger is entitled to one 20kg (44lbs) bag - this should be one piece of luggage, similar to an airline cabin bag - plus one small bag for personal items. Please ensure you can lift and carry your own luggage without assistance.Pack your waterproof clothing and walking shoesThis tour is a 2.5-hour guided walk covering approximately 8.8 km (5.5 miles) with an elevation gain of 130 m (427 ft) on forestry-style gravel paths. It is suitable for participants with some hiking experience and a moderate level of fitness who are confident they can comfortably complete the hike. Walks are led by experienced Mountain Leaders from Hillgoers, an award-winning, family-run Scottish outdoor adventure company known for their local knowledge and passion for the mountains and nature. The pace will be set to suit the group as a whole; participants must be able to keep up, as splitting the group or altering the route for individuals is not possible. Waterproof clothing, proper hiking boots (not trainers), and sufficient water carried independently are required. Midges are generally minimal in the Cairngorms while walking, though they may be present near water or tree lines; insect repellent or a head net is optional.
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