Scotland’s “most beautiful winter walks” have been named in a new list compiled by experts from BBC’s Countryfile.
As we enter the last week of November, Christmas is closer than ever. With the temperature plummeting recently, it feels like winter is already here.
In honour of the start of the festive season, experts from the BBC television show and magazine Countryfile rounded up 30 of the best winter hikes across the UK. A total of seven Scottish trails are included on the list.
The first Scottish hike featured on the roundup is Loch Morlich in the Highlands near Aviemore. According to the experts, who describe it as a “compelling place for all nature lovers”, the walk should take around 90 minutes in total to complete.
The experts also named Steall Falls and Glen Nevis, describing it as an “unforgettable aural and visual experience”. Taking around 90 minutes, the two-mile route consists of a trek through the mesmerising Nevis Gorge.
Also in the Highlands, Countryfile included Glencoe Lochan on its list. The two-mile trail, which was described as “easy”, is a particularly good pick for Harry Potter fans — who will recognise the landscape from its various appearances in the film series.
For those after a more vigorous Highlands hike, Countryfile singled out Glenfinnan. The “challenging” route starts at the Glenfinnan Visitor Centre and is more than 10 miles in length — so should take around six hours.
Another tough route included on Countryfile’s roundup is Ben Lomond, which reaches a height of 974 metres. Taking between five and six hours to complete, the route up the Munro begins at Rowardennan.
Elsewhere, the experts named Bennachie in Aberdeenshire — describing it as a “moderate” hike. The 3.5-hour walk takes in spectacular views of the hills and rivers of Deeside as you make your way up to the dual peaks of Oxen Craig and Mither Tap.
Finally, over in the Inner Hebrides, Countryfile included Tobermory and Calgary Bay on its roundup. Perfect for those looking for an island escape this winter, Tobermory is home to a variety of charming pubs and shops.
BBC Countryfile wrote: “The cold days of winter transform the British countryside into a wonderland of frozen lakes, frosted hills and snowy, twinkling forests. Wrap up warm and it can be one of the most rewarding and festive times of the year to be out on the trail.”
More information and the full list of “the UK’s most beautiful winter walks” can be found on the BBC Countryfile website.
BBC Countryfile’s top Scottish winter walks
- Loch Morlich, Highland
- Glenfinnan, Highland
- Bennachie, Aberdeenshire
- Steall Falls and Glen Nevis, Highland
- Ben Lomond, Argyll and Bute
- Glencoe Lochan, Highland
- Tobermory and Calgary Bay, Inner Hebrides
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