Favorite 5 Hikes in Scottish Highlands
- nancy9487
- Jul 17
- 3 min read
Scotland is truly a magical place! The scenery is so beautifully vibrant and rugged. With so much to explore among the cities, smaller towns, and the highlands, it definitely warrents several trips to fully experience everything.
These were my 5 favorite hikes in the Scottish Highlands during our first trip to Scotland.
Old Man Storr Hike - Isle of Skye
This 3.3 mile trek up and down the mountain is somewhat challenging - especially if you encouter the typical windy and rainy conditions common in the Highlands. I definitely recommend wearing hiking boots and a raincoat. During our hike, It was very windy and the rain made it quite slippery, so we had to proceed more slowly and watch our step.
Old Man Storr is extremely popular on the Isle of Skye, so be prepared to hike with a crowd. Despite its difficulties, this hike is a must do - the views from the top are spectacular!
Fairy Pools - Isle of Skye
Fairly easy, this 2.6 mile hike is up and back. As you walk along the River Brittle with the stunning Black Cuillin Mountains as a backdrop, you will see numerous enchanting small waterfalls, some with deep crystal blue pools at the bottom. These pools are the "fairy pools".
According to folklore, these pools were a gathering place for fairies and were used to travel between the human world and the fairy world. It is also believed that taking a dip in the Fairy Pools can bring you good luck and heal ailments. We made sure to splash some of this magical water on our faces to harness its magical powers, just in case!
Glenfinnan Viaduct Loop - Glenfinnan
Calling all Harry Potter fans - a chance to see the Hogwarts Express up close! The Glenfinnan Viaduct is the iconic railway bridge featured in every Harry Potter film, where the Hogwarts Express is traveling to Hogwarts.
This impressive 21-arched bridge is an absolute must-see when exploring the Highlands. The key is to time your visit for when the Jacobite Steam Train is crossing this magnificent viaduct. The train usually crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct at around 10:45am and 3:00pm - give or take about 10 minutes. Make sure you have reached a great vantage point before the train crosses!
We did the 2.6 mile Glenfinnan Viaduct Loop. This is an easy trail offering several viewpoints of the bridge and lovely views of the loch. Be prepared, this trek does get busy, especially when the train is expected to cross - but definitely worth it!
Hagrid's Hut - Glencoe
Continuing the Harry Potter theme, if you are a Potterhead, this is another must-see location. My daughter is a true Potterhead, so we made sure to check out where Hagrid's Hut was located in the enchanting Highlands landscape.
Hagrid's hut was located above Torren Lochan in Clachaig Gully. The actual structure is no longer there, but you can see the spot where it was located and the beautiful backdrop and scenery that surrounded it.
Location of Hagrid's Hutl 5. Signal Rock - Glencoe
We chose the Tom a' Ghrianain (Signal Rock), An Torr, and Hagrid's Hut Circular Trail. This 2.2-moderately easy hike takes you through An Torr, a region in Glencoe known for its woodlands, trails and Signal Rock.
The woodlands offer a beautiful forest carpeted with moss, and magnificent views of the Glencoe mountains nearby. Following the trail, you will first come across the Clachaig Inn. It has been hosting and serving travellers for the past 300 years. Take a look inside, we visited The Boots Bar and enjoyed the warm stone and wood decor while sipping a beer.
Continue straight ahead to follow the out-and-back path to Hagrid's Hut. After this worthwhile sidetrip, you will rejoin the loop to head towards Signal Rock. Signal Rock was a known gathering place for the Clan MacDonald, where people would meet to hear their clan chief and discuss matters of the day.
This woodland walk offers both a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, along with historical significance. Below is the trail map for this loop, featuring both Hagrid's Hut and Signal Rock.
I hope you plan an adventure to Scotland soon and enjoy these 5 favorite hikes in the Scottish Highlands. Our Scotland trip was amazing and it's a trip my daughter and I think about daily!
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