Scotland is a beautiful country with stunning landscapes, from rugged coastline and beaches to towering mountains and rolling hills. This breath-taking setting makes it the ideal place for outdoor activities, attracting people from around the world for just this reason. Hiking, cycling, fishing and a range of water sports are just a few of the outdoor activities Scotland has to offer people of all ages. Here, we’ll explore the best outdoor activities you can enjoy in Scotland, along with some hints and tips for your next outdoor adventure.
Hiking
One of the best ways to enjoy Scotland’s incredible scenery is to get in amongst it on one of the country’s many hiking trails. From sauntering walks to challenging mountain climbs there’s a hike for everyone in a range of stunning settings. The West Highland Way is one of Scotland’s most popular long-distance hiking trails, spanning 96 miles between Milngavie and Fort William. The trail journeys through some of Scotland’s most breath-taking landscapes, including Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park and the wild beauty of Rannoch Moor. Of course, you don’t have to walk the entire route, you’ll find plenty of convenient points to take up the hike for as long, or short, as you please.
Scotland’s Munros (mountains over 3,000 feet) provide a challenge of varying degrees and there are 282 of them to choose from, meaning you can find one that suits your ability level. Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the UK, making it a popular choice, however, there’s no Munro that should be taken on lightly, the proper preparation and care should be taken. The weather in Scotland can be unpredictable throughout the year so it’s important to pack warm, waterproof clothing and check the weather forecast before heading out.
Cycling
With a network of dedicated cycle paths and quiet country roads, Scotland is a great destination for cycling enthusiasts looking to clock up the miles while enjoying spectacular scenery. The National Cycle Network is a great way to explore the country, offering over 2,500 miles of traffic-free cycle paths and quiet roads. The Lochs and Glens cycling route is particularly popular, taking you from Glasgow to Inverness while passing through some of the country’s most beautiful scenery.
If you like to take your bike off-road then you may be interested in Scotland’s many mountain biking trails. The 7stanes mountain biking centres are located in the south of Scotland and include a range of trails for riders of all abilities. A particularly popular destination for mountain bikers is Glentress Forest, near Peebles.
Fishing
Scotland is famous for its angling opportunities, with some of the best salmon and trout fishing in the world to choose from across thousands of lochs and rivers. The River Tweed is one of Scotland’s most well-known fishing spots, known for large salmon and trout populations. Another popular choice is the River Spey in the north-east of Scotland, with fast-flowing water and large runs of Salmon.
If you’re looking for a more unique fishing experience then you want to consider fly fishing for Pike, a predatory fish that is found in many of Scotland’s lochs and rivers. Fly fishing is a challenging and exciting form of fishing, if you haven’t tried it before then there are many guides and outfitters in Scotland that can provide you with the guidance and equipment to get started.
Kayaking
Scotland’s rugged coastline and inland waterways can best be explored by Kayak, whether you bring your own or rent locally, it’s a great way to see the country from a different perspective. The west of Scotland is particularly popular with Kayakers, with sheltered bays, sea caves, and rocky outcrops to navigate. A more challenging kayaking experience is provided by the many whitewater rivers in Scotland, such as the River Findhorn in the north-east of Scotland.
Explore the Outdoors in Scotland by Motorhome
We’ve only scratched the surface of the possibilities for outdoor activities in Scotland, there’s so much more to choose from. If you love the great outdoors and want to indulge your spirit of adventure then exploring Scotland in a motorhome is the perfect choice. Check out our range of motorhomes for hire and contact us if you have any questions.
