For its culture and architecture, tourists frequently visit Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, also known as the “Athens of the North.” Natural settings like Arthur’s Seat and the Pentland Hills shouldn’t be disregarded, yet the city’s eponymous castle and historic Old Town rate highly on itineraries. When you return to Edinburgh, bring some good walking boots and make hiking a part of your itinerary.
1. Pentland Hills
The greatest hiking track in Edinburgh is thought to be Pentland Hills, which is located to the south of the city. Visitors can enjoy fantastic ridge walking in Pentland. Turnhouse Hills, Carnethy Hills, Scald Law, and East and West Kip are the five summits that make up the mountain range known as the Pentland Hills. The Hills’ undulating peaks and crimson slopes are perfect for a jam-packed day of family activity.
2. Arthur’s Seat
The best hiking in Edinburgh is found on Arthur’s Seat, which rises to a height of 250 meters and is Holyrood Park’s highest point. A dormant volcano, Arthur’s Seat last erupted about 350 million years ago. This hill covered in grass provides breathtaking panoramas of the city. The park at Arthur’s Seat offers walks, peace, wildlife, and volcanic geology in addition to its unmatched views and rich cultural legacy.
3. Calton Hill
Calton Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the best spots to hike in Edinburgh, Scotland, because it offers some of the most energizing views over the Firth of Forth and the city. The National Monument, Dugald Stewart Monument, Nelson’s Monument, Old Royal High School, Robert Burns Monument, and Political Martyrs’ Monument are only a few examples of Scottish classical architecture found here. The photographers don’t pass up this opportunity!
4. Scald Law
Scald Law, the highest mountain in the Pentland Hills National Park, rises to a height of 579 meters (1,900 feet). When combined with Turnhouse Hill, Carnethy Hill, East Kip, and West Kip, this makes for a 16 km (10 mi) circuit that includes all five peaks of the Pentlands.
The five-hour trek starts in the parking lot of the Flotterstone Inn and offers expansive views of the surrounding landscape and reservoirs. Even experienced walkers may find the East and West Kip hills tough. By approaching West Kip from the east, you can escape the steepest incline.
5. Traprain Law
Traprain Law is a popular destination in Edinburgh and is situated 6 kilometers east of Haddington. Traprain Law boasts a large Hills fort at the summit and takes only 30 to 60 minutes to hike. The Hills (law) is situated near a burial site that is also known for holding the largest treasure of chopped silver. Stones from an old Hills fort are scattered throughout the Hills’ peak.
6. Garleton Hills
East Lothian’s Garleton Hills are a collection of molten hills that offer a range of landscapes. The range’s highest peak is called Skid Hills, and carboniferous rock makes up the entire range. One of Edinburgh’s premier hiking paths, Garleton Hills, also has a 95-foot-tall structure known as the Garleton Monument.
7. Cockleroy Hills
Cockleroy Hills, which has a height of 278 meters, is one of Edinburgh’s top hiking routes. A leisurely stroll through the Bathgate Hills and Beecraigs Country Park. You’ll encounter some of the most beautiful views of the forest and surrounding area during its journey. An essential hike for any hikers visiting Edinburgh.
8. North Berwick Law
Next on the list is North Berwick Law, another well-known hiking trail in Edinburgh, Scotland. Any naturalist would find North Berwick Law, which is on the Law Road, to be the ideal location to be. The area is well-known for the environment it offers and the breathtaking view from the summit. If you’re in Edinburgh, you must climb North Berwick, which has some breathtaking vistas.
