Rambling Around Scotland!

Walking is always popular, and we all have favourite routes, but it’s exciting to try something new.  We asked Rebecca Birrane, Head of Walking Experience at the Ramblers to recommend three walks for an amazing day out.

“Scotland offers so much variety - from challenging peaks and beautiful beaches to woodlands and rolling moorlands for bird lovers, it’s captivating”, says Rebecca. “There truly is something for everyone.”

Vital funds to support The Ramblers are raised by players of People’s Postcode Lottery and awarded by Postcode Active Trust.

Best for: tail-wagging adventures

Ravensheugh Sands and Seacliff, East Lothian (8.2 miles)

A great day out for you and your hound, between the quaint coastal towns of Dunbar and North Berwick, with great views of the distinctive Bass Rock and the Firth of Forth.

This captivating 8.2-mile circular route starts at Tyninghame Links car park, about 3km northeast of Tyninghame village, just off the North Berwick to Dunbar road - before meandering east through the enchanting Links wood.

Emerging from the woodland, open grassland unfolds before you, offering the perfect playground for your four-legged companion, while you take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The trail leads to the iconic jutting headland of St Baldred’s Cradle, the remains of a volcanic vent that happened around 340 million years ago.

Tip: The Ramblers recommend checking tide times before you set off, as a low tide will give you spectacular views of the beach and islands. And please take care to keep your dog under control during bird nesting season between now and end July.

Best for: bird spotting

Dunkeld and Loch of the Lowes, Perthshire (6.3 miles)

This six-mile circular walk begins in the historic and picturesque town of Dunkeld. Stretching along the serene banks of the River Tay beside Dunkeld Cathedral, it is renowned for bird-spotting, particularly along the shores of the stunning Loch of the Lowes - a wildlife reserve run by the Scottish Wildlife Trust.

The loch is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, as well as forming part of a Special Area of Conservation, where ospreys reign supreme, alongside sand martins, buzzards, and Canada geese.

Best for: mountain lovers

Stac Pollaidh, West Highlands (2.5 miles)

Prepare for breath-taking beauty as you take on one of Scotland’s most distinctive and popular mountains, Stac Pollaidh, whose steep ridge is often likened to a porcupine.

This circular route starts from Stac Pollaidh car park and guides you out onto an open moor. As you climb, you are rewarded with stunning views of Loch Lugainn and Cul Beag to the southeast – but keep your eyes peeled for golden eagles and red deer.

Tip:  Unless you have the appropriate gear and are an experienced climber, best stick to the ridge of the eastern peak, where you will be able to climb to a magnificent viewpoint.