7 of the Best Circular Walks in Scotland

Circular walks in Scotland offer the perfect opportunity to experience some of the country’s most impressive sights whilst exploring the great outdoors.

Take in the sights of beautiful lochs, towering mountains, dramatic valleys and much more whilst on a Scotland circular walk. From the rural Highlands to the bustling and historic cities, there is a circular walk in Scotland to suit all.

Discover the 7 best circular walks in Scotland…

1. Glenfinnan Viaduct Walking Trail

Distance: 2.5 miles

Duration: 1 – 2 hours

Starting Point: Glenfinnan Monument Car Park, PH37 4LT

Those looking for astounding views with little effort should strongly consider the Glenfinnan Viaduct walk, allowing you to experience the Scottish Highlands in all its glory. You are greeted by the sights of the imposing viaduct rather quickly; Harry Potter fans relive the journey of the Hogwarts Express as the Jacobite Steam Train chugs past. This amazing UK walk is one of the many reasons to visit Scotland.

Be sure to take some time to admire the panoramic scenery from the Glenfinnan Trail View Point, overlooking the serene River Finnan leading towards Loch Shiel. Towards the end of this Scotland circular walk, come across the Glenfinnan Monument commemorating the actions of Bonnie Prince Charlie at the beginning of the Jacobite rebellion. You may even spot one of Scotland’s unusual animals along the way!

View the full directions of the Glenfinnan Viaduct walk.

2. Loch Venachar Walk

Distance: 4 miles

Duration: 2 hours

Starting Point: Glen Figlas Car Park, FK17 8HR

Certainly a Scotland walk for those seeking a slower-paced outdoor adventure, stroll the banks of this stunning loch and experience magnificent rural scenes along the way. A steady ascent allows you to see the surrounding area in its finest form, filled with luscious green hills, forest and glimmering bodies of water.

As well as unrivalled scenery, also stumble across a choice of high-quality spots to quench your thirst or re-charge your batteries with a hearty meal. Head to Loch Venachar for one of the most picturesque circular Scotland walks.

View the full directions of the Loch Venachar circuit walk.

3. Smugglers’ Trail

Distance: 7.5 miles

Duration: 3 – 4 hours

Starting Point: Gunsgreen House, Eyemouth, TD14 5SD

This signposted Scotland walk from Eyemouth teaches you of the area’s interesting past, as well as showcasing some of the finest coastal scenery around. Part of this circular walk in Scotland heads to the shores where you can re-trace the footsteps of smugglers in the 1700s, before heading to the charming village of Coldingham.

You may decide to spend some time exploring the assortment of independent shops and eateries throughout the pretty streets of Coldingham before heading back towards Gunsgreen House. You can even learn more about the famous smuggling spots by browsing the museum.

View the full directions of the Smugglers’ Trail walk.

4. Lost Valley, Glen Coe

Distance: 2.5 miles

Duration: 2 – 3 hours

Starting Point: Hidden Valley Car Park, Ballachulish, PH49 4HX

This mesmerising circular Scotland walk allows you to see Glen Coe at its beautiful best, offering views simply impossible to beat. Steep and uneven paths present a challenge that is certainly rewarded by the idyllic surrounded scenery.

Walk in and around magnificent gorges, glens, peaks and valleys throughout this challenging Scotland walk. You will also discover a series of enormous fallen rocks and boulders, before retracing your steps to complete this circular walk in Scotland.

View the full directions for the Lost Valley walk.

5. Loch Oich Walk

Distance: 10.5 miles

Duration: 4.5 – 6 hours

Starting Point: Invergarry Post Office, Invergarry, PH35 4HG

More of a marathon than a sprint, take your time to amble around the banks of the picture-perfect Loch Oich in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. As well as this tranquil body of water, spot a whole host of other sights and landscapes across this Scotland loch walk.

Take in a disused railway line, an abandoned cottage and a swing bridge along with much more throughout this stunning Scotland walk. A number of spots for a picnic, or to simply take in your idyllic surroundings promise to make this a day out to remember.

View the full directions of the Loch Oich Circuit walk.

6. Ness Islands Walk

Distance: 3 miles

Duration: 1 – 2 hours

Starting Point: Canal Park, Inverness, IV3 5SS

For those looking for a spot of natural beauty within a stone’s throw of the city, the Ness Islands walk is the perfect opportunity, available on the doorstep of our Inverness cottages. This short walk in Scotland is suitable for people of all ages and abilities, set among a tranquil park, boasting a number of suspension bridges originating from the Victorian era.

Take in some of Inverness’ most popular attractions throughout this easy Scotland walk, including Whin Park, the Inverness Botanic Gardens and the imposing Inverness Cathedral. A stunning Scotland walk for all the family to enjoy.

View more information about the Ness Islands walk.

7. Arthur’s Seat

Distance: 3 miles

Duration: 2 – 2.5 hours

Starting Point: Holyrood Palace Car Park, Edinburgh, EH8 9UL

The renowned landmark of Arthur’s Seat presents a challenging hill walk, rewarding you with simply unbeatable views across Edinburgh and beyond. The various hills that form Arthur’s Seat were created by the remains of a volcano, stretching some 250m into the Edinburgh skies.

Look out across historic Edinburgh, the River Forth and the luscious parkland that surrounds this natural attraction. A Scotland walk showcasing some of the finest views imaginable. While here in Edinburgh, be sure to check out one of Scotland’s hidden gems.

View the full directions of the Arthur’s Seat walk.

Make full use of our Scotland Walking Guide for inspiration on which other Scotland walks to tick off your list. Don’t forget to share your adventures with us by tagging us in your snaps on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

Image Credits: Alasdair – CC BY 2.0; gordon.milligan – CC BY 2.0