The Fairy Swimming pools. Picture courtesy of Daniela Frendo
By Daniela Frendo
Scotland is a hiker’s playground. Because of its beautiful lochs and rugged mountains, this evergreen land has lengthy been a favourite vacation spot for journey journey.
Laced with a community of climbing trails, the Scottish Highlands make it doable for trekkers to discover the nation’s unspoiled wilderness with out compromising their security. Having stated that, the nation’s terrain could be unforgiving and the climate unpredictable, so commonsense security precautions shouldn’t be neglected.
Whether or not you’re planning the subsequent bodily problem or a stress-free strolling journey, the next climbing trails go well with various health ranges. So pack your waterproofs, fill up on midge repellent, and take a stroll alongside a number of the most spectacular landscapes in Scotland.
The forest surrounding the tiny village of Balmacara. Picture courtesy of Daniela Frendo
Desk of Contents
- 1. Balmacara Woods
- 2. The Previous Man of Storr
- 3. Glennfinnan Viaduct
- 4. Ben Nevis
- 5. Sligachan to Glen Brittle
1. Balmacara Woods
Nothing beats a stroll by means of the woods for some peace and quiet. Hovering over the banks of Loch Alsh, the luxurious inexperienced forest of Balmacara is the stuff of fairy tales. The paths chopping by means of the forest are secure and clear — and should you’re fortunate you would possibly spot some deer!
From Balmacara you’ll be able to comply with the trail that takes you to the attractive seaside village of Kyle of Lochalsch. You’ll come throughout a couple of bogs alongside the way in which, and swarms of midges on nonetheless days, nevertheless it’s a simple stroll with nice vistas of the Isle of Skye.
The Previous Man of Storr. Picture courtesy of Federica Violin through Shutterstock
2. The Previous Man of Storr
Probably probably the most stunning a part of the Isle of Skye, The Storr is a rocky hill topped with a big pinnacle of rock — the “Previous Man” — which could be noticed from miles away.
A little bit of warning although; this place tends to be busy. The trail to the Previous Man of Storr is probably the most overwhelmed observe on the Isle of Skye, so neglect about being the one soul within the wilderness; nonetheless, this stroll affords unmatched views of the island and mainland Scotland, and subsequently each match trekker ought to put it on the itinerary.
The gravel path from the automobile park is well-maintained, however it includes some steep uphill strolling for about twenty minutes earlier than leveling out. Put together to trudge by means of some deep bogs, however don’t neglect to soak up the view of the cliff face up forward. The final a part of the stroll requires some strenuous effort and a little bit of scrambling, which may be difficult on a moist day.
When you get to the foot of the Previous Man, give your self a well-deserved break within the presence of one among probably the most stunning sights in Scotland.
Try the following tips for taking beautiful panorama pictures.
Glennfinnan Viaduct. Picture courtesy of Daniela Frendo
3. Glennfinnan Viaduct
Appears to be like acquainted? Glenfinnan Viaduct rose to worldwide fame when it appeared within the Harry Potter movies. Should you occur to be there in the summertime months you’ll be able to truly get on a steam locomotive named The Jacobite. Make certain to sit down on the left aspect of the prepare to get pleasure from a panoramic view of Loch Shiel and the encircling hills.
After getting off at Glenfinnan Station, take a stroll right down to the foot of the viaduct, passing beneath the arches and climbing up a wee hill for a chicken’s eye view of the bridge. Earlier than heading again to the station it’s value popping right down to the Glenfinnan Monument, which was erected on the shore of Loch Shiel to commemorate the Jacobite Riot began by Bonnie Prince Charlie on the exact same spot.
The view midway up Ben Nevis. Picture courtesy of Daniela Frendo
4. Ben Nevis
The best mountain in the UK at 1,344 meters (4,409 ft) above sea stage, Ben Nevis is the final word strolling problem if you’re in Scotland.
The stroll as much as the summit doesn’t entail any clambering. There’s a clear path all the way in which to the highest, and the ascent might take between 3-5 hours, relying on the climate and frequency of breaks.
You don’t have to be a seasoned mountaineer or trekker to finish this stroll, nevertheless it helps to be bodily ready for it. Regardless of being labelled ‘child-friendly,’ the stroll could be slightly exhausting at occasions.
Do take a couple of breaks to admire the vary of mountains at your ft. There additionally loads of freshwater streams on the way in which, so take some empty bottles with you.
The Fairy Swimming pools. Picture courtesy of Daniela Frendo