The most beautiful hikes in the Highlands

The Highland hikes They are among the most beautiful in Europe. Between mountains, wild valleys, lochs, and cliffs, the Scottish Highlands offer trails for all levels. Whether you're looking for an easy stroll or a real summit challenge, you'll find a route that suits you.

In short: Top hikes in the Highlands: the Quiraing on Skye, Ben Nevis, and Buachaille Etive Mòr. Family-friendly: the Fairy Pools on Skye and the Loch an Eilein loop in the Cairngorms. A Munro is a Scottish peak over 3,000 feet (approximately 914 meters). Best time to go: May to September, with May, June, and September being a good compromise.

Here is our selection of ten hikes, each with its level rating and our advice. At Brightside Travel, we incorporate them into tailor-made trips, choosing trails according to your fitness level and the season.

UP TO YOU

What kind of traveler are you for? The most beautiful hikes in the Highlands "?

5 quick questions to see what suits you best.

Question 1 of 5

You're walking rather...

To enjoy the sceneryTo challenge you a little

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Which setting appeals to you the most?

Mountains and large valleysLochs, coasts and forests

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A few hoursThe whole day

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On a trail, you favor…

The pleasure and the viewsThe elevation gain and the effort

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After the walk?

A cozy pubPeace and quiet and a beautiful view

Highland hikes on the Isle of Skye

Old Man of Storr

First, head towards the Trotternish peninsula. The trail then climbs gradually towards one of Scotland's most famous rock formations. From the viewpoints, the panorama extends over the lochs, the hills and the sea.

The hike takes a few hours, but the terrain becomes slippery after rain. So leave early to avoid the crowds.

Quiraing

Still on Skye, the Quiraing is often considered one of the most beautiful hikes in the country. Cliffs, rocky peaks, and plateaus create an almost surreal landscape. A loop trail allows you to hike around it, while travelers in a hurry can already enjoy beautiful views from the road.

Fairy Pools

At the foot of the Black Cuillin mountains, this trail follows a series of waterfalls and pools of clear water. Easily accessible, it's also suitable for families. However, the water remains cold year-round. Find these three walks among the... must-sees on the Isle of Skye.

Highland hikes around Glencoe and Fort William

Ben Nevis

At 1,345 meters, Ben Nevis is the highest peak in the United Kingdom. However, climbing it via the main trail requires a long day and a good level of fitness.

On a clear day, the view from the summit is truly breathtaking. However, the weather there changes very quickly, even in summer, and the summit is often shrouded in clouds. Therefore, pack warm clothing and check the mountain forecast before you set off.

The Lost Valley in Glencoe

In the heart of Glencoe, this trail leads to a hidden valley where the MacDonald clan is said to have once concealed their cattle. Between streams, rocks, and silence, the atmosphere is truly unique. The route does, however, include some rocky sections. To understand the valley's history, read our guide on the history of Scottish clans.

Buachaille Etive Mòr

Recognizable by its pyramidal shape, Buachaille Etive Mòr guards the entrance to Glencoe. Its ascent is challenging and therefore suitable for experienced hikers. Photographers also greatly appreciate this summit, visible from the Rannoch Moor road.

Steall Falls

In the Glen Nevis valley, the trail crosses a gorge before opening onto a meadow surrounded by mountains. At the far end lies one of Scotland's highest waterfalls. The more adventurous can even cross a bridge made of steel cables.

Highland hikes in the Cairngorms and north

The Cairngorms National Park

The UK's largest national park offers hundreds of kilometers of trails. Around Aviemore, you can walk through ancient Caledonian pine forests. Loch an Eilein, for example, offers an easy loop, ideal for families. For more ideas, see the most beautiful lochs in Scotland.

Sandwood Bay

To the northwest, Sandwood Bay can only be reached on foot. After a few kilometers of heathland, a vast sandy beach finally opens up facing the Atlantic. The feeling of being at the edge of the world is particularly striking. This region can also be explored along the North Coast 500.

The Cobbler

Near Loch Lomond, The Cobbler is a favorite mountain among Scots. Its ascent is accessible to experienced hikers and offers beautiful views of the surrounding lochs. It's therefore an excellent first hike after arriving from Glasgow.

The great hikes of the Highlands

For example, the West Highland Way connects Milngavie, near Glasgow, to Fort William in several days of walking. It notably follows the shores of Loch Lomond and crosses Rannoch Moor and Glencoe. Meanwhile, those who love summits aim for the Munros, Scottish mountains that rise to over 3,000 feet, or approximately 914 meters.

When is the best time to go hiking in the Highlands?

From May to September, the days are long and the trails are more accessible. May, June, and September often offer the best balance, with fewer people than in the height of summer.

In summer, midges, tiny fruit flies, can also be a nuisance in damp, sheltered areas: a suitable repellent is usually sufficient. In winter, however, high mountain terrain requires proper equipment and experience. Our guide when to go to Scotland details each season.

Our safety tips for hiking in the Highlands

• Always check the mountain weather forecast before setting off.
• Bring a waterproof jacket, a warm layer, and good shoes.
• Also bring water, food and a map, as mobile network coverage is often unreliable.
• Let someone know your route and expected return time.
• Finally, respect the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which governs access to nature in Scotland.

Also read: Glencoe: hikes, viewpoints and tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most beautiful hikes in the Highlands?

The Quiraing, on the Isle of Skye, comes up very often. For a summit, Ben Nevis and Buachaille Etive Mòr are the most iconic.

Which Highland hikes are suitable for families?

The Fairy Pools on Skye and the tour around Loch an Eilein in the Cairngorms are easy and accessible for children.

Do you need to be athletic to climb Ben Nevis?

Yes, good physical condition is necessary. The climb requires a long day, and the weather at the summit can become difficult.

What is a Munro?

It is a Scottish mountain over 3,000 feet high, or about 914 meters. Ben Nevis is the highest of them.

What is the best time to hike in Scotland?

From May to September. May, June and September often offer a good compromise between weather, light and crowds.

Plan your Highland hikes with Brightside Travel

At Brightside Travel, we create tailor-made trips adapted to your level. We choose the trails, accommodations close to the starting points and, if necessary, a mountain guide.

To move from one step to the next, take inspiration from our road trip itineraries in Scotland, or discover our tailor-made holidays in Scotland. For weather and official advice, see also VisitScotland.

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