5 Stunning Walks & Hikes Around Edinburgh: Explore Scotland's Natural Beauty

Many people visit Edinburgh annually, but did you know you can also go on beautiful walks and hikes around Edinburgh? This way, you can experience more of the Scottish landscape and have a vacation full of adventures.

As a passionate walker and hiker, I always look forward to weekends spent exploring the diverse and stunning landscapes around Edinburgh. Sometimes, when I don’t want to sit in the car for hours to get to a beautiful and dramatic Scottish spot, I prefer to find something around Edinburgh and enjoy my day off. The best part is that there are so many options around this city that I feel spoiled for choices.

Spending time in nature helps you disconnect and reset. In my case, I completely forget about my day-to-day stress and just relax and be in the present moment. I love how nature makes you feel content.

If you’re planning to explore more of Scotland, I’ve got you covered with my comprehensive guide on the best hikes in Scotland. From the majestic peaks of the Highlands to hidden gems, this guide will help you choose your next hiking adventure. You can find the best hikes in Scotland here.

Without further ado, here are some of the most stunning walks and hikes around Edinburgh.

1. Water of Leith Walkway: Tranquility Through the City

One of my favourite go-to walks in Edinburgh is the Water of Leith walkway. It’s charming and full of nature, and instead of navigating the city’s hustle and bustle, you can take the Water of Leith to get to where you need to.

The whole route is 19 km (11.8 miles) and starts from Port of Leith and ends in Balerno. It’s a journey that takes you through a diverse range of Edinburgh’s neighbourhoods, each with its own unique charm, including Leith, StockBridge, the Royal Botanical Garden, and Dean Village.

It’s a versatile route, perfect for both walking and cycling. Whether you’re on foot or on a bike, you have the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. And don’t forget, you can always take a detour to visit a café or a pub. I highly recommend this route for anyone looking to experience Edinburgh in a unique way.

2. The Union and Forth Canal & Clyde Canal Towpath Walk: Edinburgh’s Scenic Urban Waterway Route

This path starts in Edinburgh and goes all the way to Glasgow. While it’s a substantial 100 km (63 miles) long, you don’t have to cover it all in one go. I’d suggest starting off and walking for a few hours, then treating yourself to a classic pub meal of fish and chips and a refreshing beer!

One of the most appealing aspects of this path is its popularity. You’ll see joggers, kayakers, and cyclists, all enjoying their chosen activities. I love this route because it combines city life and nature in equal measures.

3. Arthur’s Seat: Edinburgh’s Iconic Volcano Hike

It wouldn’t be a top hiking place around Edinburgh blog post without including Arthur’s Seat. I love hiking here whenever we have hot days. The best part is that it’s right in the heart of Edinburgh, making it a convenient and exciting spot to explore.

I recommend starting the circular path from Holyrood Park. The loop is 4.3 km (3 miles), so it should take you around an hour. It’s quite an easy hike, and at the end, you are rewarded with a breathtaking, panoramic view of Edinburgh that will surely inspire your next adventure. Overall, there are multiple trails on Arthur’s Seat, each with its unique charm.

4. Dalkeith Country Park and River Esk Circular: A Peaceful Woodland Escape Near Edinburgh

One of the most accessible scenic trails, open throughout the year, is Dalkeith Country Park. This picturesque trail is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. The circular path, spanning approximately 6.6 km, can be comfortably completed on foot in about 2 hours. Accessing this park is quite easy, whether you choose to drive, which is a quick option, or take a bus/train from Edinburgh.

Dalkeith Country Park is a personal favorite due to its year-round beauty. The park’s charm is not limited to a specific season, making it an ideal destination for a much-needed break from the daily grind. I’m an advocate for spending more time in nature since we are constantly glued to our screens.

5. Harlow Reservoir and Threipmuir Reservoir Circular: Peaceful Waterside Walks at the Foot of the Pentlands

Here’s another gem of a hike, designed for everyone and conveniently located near Edinburgh. The Harlow House Visitor Centre car park is less than an hour’s drive away, or you can take the bus to Balerno.

Once in the car park, follow the signs for the Threipmuir Reservoir. There are multiple routes to choose from, which are perfect for a day out. I recommend the circular path that covers both reservoirs. It’s about 5.5 km with approximately 100 m elevation gain, and it takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Don’t forget to pack some snacks for a delightful picnic!

These are only a few examples of leisurely walks and hikes around Edinburgh. Scotland has many many… many places to explore!

Until next time, unwind and explore.