The Most Beautiful Countryside Walks To Take Around Edinburgh

Whether you’re on a mission to get fit, seeking a spontaneous spot of adventuring, or planning an epic power walking session, a touch of fresh air on your cheek and a stunning backdrop makes matters all the more manageable. Embrace the elements, enjoy the serene sounds and sights of nature, watch the leaves twirl, and choose your path with the most beautiful countryside walks to take around Edinburgh.

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Roslin Glen

After witnessing the ambiguous secrets of Rosslyn Chapel, made ever so famous by The Da Vinci Code, a walk around Roslin Glen is just the place to start pondering, with the hope of reaching that epiphany. The woodland walk and castle ruins make the area all the more enchanting and the sounds of the River Esk are verging on therapeutic. The lack of way-finding markers makes it that bit more exciting.

If you can peel yourself away from the most epic game of hide and seek in the utopian playground and wooden fortress, a walk at Dalkeith Country Park is always a joy. Countless tribes of majestic trees guard the meandering paths and flowing rivers. Amongst the magnificent flaura and fauna is a myriad of routes and cubbyholes inhabited by wildlife. Part of the Buccleuch Estates, it was during the Jacobite Rebellion in 1745 that Bonnie Prince Charlie stayed at Dalkeith Palace, which is located on the grounds.

Borthwick And Crichton Castles

One of the many positive things about Scotland remains that, wherever you are, a castle never seems to be lurking too far away. A pleasantly arduous journey, those dead-set on witnessing both Borthwick and Crichton castles will delight at the walking in store. Beware of marshy terrain and rough paths, made all the better by exploring the old railway line and determined River Tyne. Crichton Castle played host to the likes of the third husband of Mary Queen of Scots. Don’t let the vegetation – which undeniably has a mind of its own – get the better of you.

Cardrona Forest

Absolutely worth the miniature road trip, Cardrona Forest is a mystical woody walk near Peebles. Guarded by the Forestry Commission, those who get the heebie jeebies from ever-watching trees may not be in their element. From Scots pine and firs to deciduous trees, this forest appears truly magical. It is easy to see why avid cyclists and dedicated walkers flock to this spot like ducks to water. Those with a penchant for raising the stakes can meander off to Gypsy Glen, a walk that comes hand in hand with a brisk climb at the finish line.

Gosford Estate

A snippet from a Monet painting or a Jane Austen novel, Gosford Estate is a truly transformative and sensory experience. From the lily pond with the trickling waterfall and the graceful swans resembling paintings to the rickety bridges, over arching trees, inquisitive herons, the curling hut comprised of sea shells, oh, and the stately home exuding ineffable charm, Gosford Estate is the kind of spot that sparks a reluctance to share it with anyone else. The Bothy, which won the hearts of Nicole Kidman and Colin Firth when they were filming in East Lothian, is a fine spot for local produce and hearty soups.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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