The 8 Best Outdoor Activities in Edinburgh

Exciting outdoor activities await you in Edinburgh, from hill walking to cycling around the city - explore nature and Scottish history on every adventure!
The 8 Best Outdoor Activities in Edinburgh

Other popular activities in Edinburgh

More about: The 8 Best Outdoor Activities in Edinburgh

Loch Ness| ©Dave Conner
Loch Ness| ©Dave Conner

1. A trip to Loch Ness, between history and mystery

Loch Ness is one of the most enigmatic places in Scotland, surrounded by mountains and with dark waters that hide centuries of legends. Surrounded by mountains and with dark waters that hide centuries of legends, it is an essential destination for any traveller. Is it possible to spot Nessie? Although no one has been able to prove her existence, the atmosphere of the loch makes the imagination run wild.

On a trip from Edinburgh, you can take in the stunning Highland scenery, visit Urquhart Castle and enjoy a boat trip on the loch. A perfect combination of nature, history and mystery.

Book your Loch Ness tour

2. Outlander Scenery Tour in Scotland

If you're an Outlander fan, this tour is a real trip back in time. Tour the castles and landscapes that served as the setting for the famous series and discover the real story behind each location.

From Doune Castle (Castle Leoch in the series) to the breathtaking landscapes of Culross and Blackness, this tour is perfect for lovers of history, fiction and pure Scottish beauty.

Book your Outlander Scenery Tour

3. Scottish castles and lochs, a journey into history

Scotland is a land of castles and lochs, and on this tour you'll see some of the most impressive. From Kilchurn Castle, a ruined fortress with a Gothic fairytale feel, to majestic Loch Lomond, surrounded by mountains and forests.

This tour is ideal for those who want to soak up the essence of Scotland, with picture-postcard scenery and fortresses that tell stories of battles, clans and legends.

Book your tour to Scotland's lochs and castles

4. Three-day Isle of Skye and Highland adventure

If there's one place where the Scottish countryside is on full display, it's the Isle of Skye. Dramatic cliffs, mist-shrouded mountains and dreamy waterfalls await you on this three-day Highland adventure.

The trip also includes stops at Loch Ness, the imposing Eilean Donan Castle and some of Scotland's most breathtaking scenery. Ideal for those seeking total immersion in the wild beauty of this land.

Book your 3-day tour to the Isle of Skye, Loch Ness and the Highlands

5. A walk around St. Andrews and the Fife coastline

St Andrews is famous for its university (the oldest in Scotland) and for being the birthplace of golf. But beyond that, this coastal town has a special charm, with medieval ruins, an impressive cathedral and beaches where you can feel the North Sea breeze.

The tour also passes through the Fife region, known for its picturesque fishing villages and rugged coastline. A perfect tour for those seeking tranquillity, history and unforgettable coastal scenery.

Book your tour to St Andrews and Fife

6. History and nature in Stirling, Loch Lomond and the Kelpies

This tour combines history, nature and art. In Stirling, learn about the history of William Wallace and his fight for Scottish independence at the imposing Stirling Castle.

Afterwards, a walk along Loch Lomond, Scotland's largest lake, will allow you to breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the spectacular scenery. And to round off the day, a stop at the Kelpies, the gigantic horse sculptures that pay homage to Scottish tradition.

Book your tour to Stirling, Loch Lomond and the Kelpies

7. Exploring Holy Island and Alnwick Castle

If you want to cross the border and explore the history of England, this tour is a perfect choice. Holy Island, a small islet with a medieval monastery, is a place full of mysticism and natural beauty.

The tour also includes Alnwick Castle, famous for being one of the settings for Harry Potter. Its towers and ramparts will transport you to a world of knights and magic.

Book your tour to Holy Island and Alnwick Castle

8. Northumbria, a tour of cliffs and fortresses

The Northumbria region of northern England is a land of castles, cliffs and wild beaches. On this tour you can explore Holy Island, the impressive Alnwick Castle and other places that seem to be straight out of an adventure novel.

It's the perfect trip for those looking to combine stunning natural scenery with medieval history and pure British culture.

Book your trip to Northumbria

Reviews from other travellers

4.6
· 15016 Reviews
  • C
    C. B.
    5
    (0 Reviews)
    Stuart was brilliant, very funny and knowledgeable about all things Scotland. Would definitely be interested in doing another tour with him again!
  • M
    M.
    5
    (0 Reviews)
    The tour was quite enjoyable, the scenery is really breathtaking. Personally, I loved the stop in Pitlochry, it has a special charm.
  • M
    M.
    5
    (0 Reviews)
    An unforgettable tour full of breathtaking scenery, mystery and charm, Loch Ness and Pitlochry are simply magical!
  • N
    N.
    5
    (0 Reviews)
    What an amazing experience! The scenery is out of this world, and the visit to Loch Ness is simply unforgettable. Highly recommended.
  • L
    L.
    5
    (0 Reviews)
    I loved the natural beauty of the Highlands and the mysterious Loch Ness, but the bus journey was a bit long for my taste.