Scottish long walks – why they are for you...
We often get asked, why long walks in Scotland? To which, we of course respond – but why not long walks in Scotland?
You do not need to be some sort of triathlete, or an experienced mountain climber (unless you are planning on tackling some of the more difficult or steep Munro’s), to join in on the walking fun.
A basic level of fitness is all that is required to get outdoors on our beautiful walks of Scotland. Some of our walkers even do portions of these walks with their children, so it is certainly possible for just about anyone to tackle a few stages of a walk to start off with.
Plus, not only are you outdoors in the fresh air, but you will also be getting a chance to view some of the most breath-taking scenery – scenery that could not be spotted from the window of a car.
Beginners
For those that are just starting out, we suggest the basic items such as a decent pair of walking boots (ankle support and soles that will grip on to rock, grass, and mud) as well as a waterproof jacket and a good fleece jacket for chillier days, are a necessity.
Tackle some of the easier walks first – The Great Glen Way is a super way to start, this 117km relatively gentle walk offers superb views of Loch Ness (see if you can spot the mythical Nessie while you are there) and can be done over the course of 6 days.
This walk stretches from coast to coast, and you also get some great views of Ben Nevis (depending on if you are walking North to South or vice versa), while history lovers will be pleased to pop into Urquhart Castle, time permitting of course.
Intermediate – Advanced
One of our favourite multi-day walks must be The West Highland Way. Tackle it from the South and enjoy the geology and landscapes change as you progress more Northward bound along the trail.
Enjoyable views of Rannoch Moor and Glencoe await, as well as the beauty of Arklet Falls as they join Loch Lomond.
Rob Roy Way is also a great adventure in itself and takes its name from Rob Roy MacGregor, a Scottish folk hero and one of the most notorious outlaws of the early 18th century. The countryside that the path traverses was well known and travelled by MacGregor.
Keep an eye out for the Glen Ogle Viaduct as well as the Fonab Stone Circle, 4 large stones erected by the Clachan an Diridh, used for ceremonies many centuries ago, and still quite well preserved.
Experienced
Well, the Scottish Highlands are your oyster, friends. If you are looking to climb some of the highest peaks in the United Kingdom, then you are in the right place.
Our free app (available in your play store) lists each of the 282 Munro’s and some more info about them. Munro’s are mountains that are classified as taller than 914.4 kilometres high (or 3000 feet) and ‘Munro Bagging’ – or challenging yourself to climb as many Munro’s as possible is a regular pastime in Scotland.
Of course, all the walks and offerings are a great experience, and we recommend visiting our website to find out more about each stage of each walk, as well as whether it would match your skill level.
Even doing one or two stages of a walk is a great day out in the Scottish countryside and we look forward to welcoming you soon!
See you, The Walkers Club Team