From fathomless lochs and wild coastlines to historic woodlands and the mighty Munros, Scotland has it all when it comes to awe-inspiring landscapes.
And what better way to see them than by tackling one or more of these spectacular and invigorating walks?
It’s also a great way to mark the 25th anniversary of the National Trust for Scotland’s annual Footpath Fund appeal.
It’s thanks to the charity's work that much of this epic landscape can be explored and enjoyed throughout the year.
Research carried out for the Trust offers a timely reminder of just how important these natural wonders are, with 97% of Scots saying that getting outside is essential for their mental health. Almost the same number said that spending time outdoors was effective at reducing their stress levels.*
It’s why the National Trust for Scotland works so hard to maintain the 76,000 hectares of countryside, 300 miles of footpaths, and eight national nature reserves under its care.
And to shine a light on the amazing work done by its footpath team, the charity is highlighting a selection of magical walks that showcase the very best of Scotland’s natural beauty.
For those seeking a bit of adventure, here are 10 recommended spots. And if you’re inspired by the idea of some “Munro-bagging” – conquering the peaks that rise above 3,000ft – we’ve included some breathtaking summits for you to tick off your list.
Beinn Alligin, Torridon
The mountains of Torridon contain some of the most spectacular scenery in Scotland, and five of the Trust’s 46 Munros are located within the West Coast estate.
Take on the challenging 10.5km hike to the summit of Beinn Alligin – known as the Jewelled Mountain – which includes a 1,180m climb. Keep an eye out for pine martens and golden eagles along the way.
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Beinn Fhada, Kintail
Climbing Beinn Fhada is a rewarding journey, offering incredible views of the northwest Highlands. On a clear day, you can even see across to the Isle of Skye.
The 18km trail begins at Morvich, taking hikers through a picturesque glen and up to the Bealach an Sgairne mountain pass.
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Meall Corranaich, Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve
Meall Corranaich is one of seven peaks in this Central Highlands nature reserve, all of which offer superb views over Loch Tay.
It’s covered in rich Arctic-alpine flora and is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including red deer, ravens, skylarks and black grouse. Visit in summer and you may get a glimpse of the mountain ringlet butterfly.
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Ben Lomond
At over 3,000ft, the summit of Ben Lomond offers panoramic views across the Trossachs National Park.
Gaze as far as Ben Nevis to the north, the Ochils and Pentlands to the east, the uplands of Galloway in the south, and Mull, Islay and Arran in the west.
You’ll also spot plenty of wildlife on the 13km return trip, including ptarmigan and ravens, skylarks and even pine martens.
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Goatfell
Towering above Brodick Castle, Goatfell rises 2,866ft, making it the tallest peak on the Isle of Arran.
Visit on a clear day and you’ll be able to see the coastline of Ireland. Climb it in winter and you might find snow at the summit.
Reaching the peak takes between two and five hours, so lace up your best walking boots and pack plenty of supplies.
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Loch Skeen, Grey Mare’s Tail
Grey Mare’s Tail is a stunning 60m-high waterfall that plunges into Dumfriesshire’s Moffat Valley. Take a few minutes to gaze at this natural wonder before heading on to explore the dazzling Loch Skeen.
The walk is also a wonderland for wildlife lovers, with ospreys, ring ouzels, feral goats and peregrine falcons all regular fixtures in the nature reserve.
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Crofting and coastline circuit, Balmacara
This moderate 3km walk in the crofting estate of Balmacara passes through grasslands bursting with birdlife and butterflies.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many spots where you can look out over Applecross and the Isle of Skye. See a huge variety of Scottish wildlife, including red squirrels, otters and Highland cattle.
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Kernsary Path, Inverewe
Inverewe is renowned for its wild landscape and is home to Scotland’s Big Five: the golden eagle, red deer, otter, red squirrel and harbour seal.
Visitors can enjoy a walk along a mountain path that meanders through woodland and along the edge of Loch Kernsary. On clear days, there are excellent views of the Torridon mountains, as well as the remains of a prehistoric roundhouse covered in heather.
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Linn of Quoich, Mar Lodge Estate
Covering more than 29,000 hectares, the Mar Lodge Estate is Britain’s largest National Nature Reserve. It features heather-covered moorland, Caledonian pine forests and the Quoich wetlands, making it a remarkable haven for wildlife.
Enjoy a 5km circular walk around Glen Quoich, which takes you past the historic Earl of Mar’s Punchbowl and Queen Victoria’s Picnic Lodge.
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Corrieshalloch circuit
Corrieshalloch, an impressive gorge just an hour’s drive from Inverness, offers a 3.4km circuit that includes crossing Sir John Fowler's 25m Victorian suspension bridge.
The views are amazing, with a waterfall cascading into the 60m-deep gorge. A second viewpoint delivers views over Loch Broom and Ullapool.
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Enjoy one of the National Trust for Scotland's featured 25 walks in 2025, discover more at nts.org.uk
*Survey for National Trust for Scotland, 2023/24.
