Scotland’s “most romantic walk” has been named ahead of Valentine’s Day. With February 14 just one day away, it may be too late to book a dinner at a fancy restaurant or a peaceful getaway in the Scottish Highlands.
However, one easy and romantic Valentine’s Day activity is a simple walk with your partner. On Tuesday, hiking specialists at AllTrails shared their list of the best romantic walks across the UK.
Coming in at number three, and the only Scottish hike to feature, is the Loch an Eilein Loop. Situated in the Cairngorms National Park, the Loch an Eilein Loop is a 5.6-kilometre loop trail near Aviemore.
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Considered a “generally easy” route by the experts, the hike takes an average of 83 minutes to complete. The walk offers gorgeous views out over Loch an Eilein, with plenty of scenic spots where you and your other half can sit and admire the scenery.
Ancient pine trees, mountains, and the 13th century island castle in the middle of loch are just a few of the highlights. The Loch an Eilein Loop is a popular spot amongst hikers, fishers, and birdwatchers, so your best bet is to head there early if you want peace and privacy.
Dogs are also welcome, so you can bring your four-legged friend along with you, but they must be on a lead.
Although the route is generally easy to follow, there are some rougher sections that you will need to take care on. Appropriate footwear and warm layers are both recommended, especially with the cold weather that is currently hitting Scotland.
AllTrails wrote: “This beautiful woodland trail takes you round Loch an Eilein and through the Rothiemurchus Forest. There are great views over the lochan, to the castle on its island.
“This castle dates to the 13th century and was perhaps once connected by a causeway to the bank. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you make your way through the forest, including red squirrels, and deer.”
The Loch an Eilein Loop currently has an average score of 4.7 out of five on AllTrails based on reviews from hikers. Visitors have described the walk as “stunning” and “wonderful”, praising its “amazing views” and “beautiful backdrop”.
Elsewhere, topping the experts’ overall list is the Chew Magna and Sacred Heart Circular in Somerset. AllTrails praised the hike as a “pleasant village and field trail” that allows visitors to “enjoy some solitude”.
Integrative medicine specialist and Chief Medical Advisor at AllTrails Dr. Suzanne Hackenmiller commented: “Research shows that walking can strengthen intimacy by improving communication. Walking side by side in a natural setting, with reduced eye contact and comfortable silences, can significantly lower stress levels—allowing us to be more present in the moment with our partners.”
Read on for the full list of the 10 most romantic walks for Valentine’s Day in the UK. More information can be found on the AllTrails website.
10 most romantic walks for Valentine’s Day
- Chew Magna and Sacred Heart Circular, Somerset
- Valentines Park Circular, London
- Loch an Eilein Loop, Cairngorms National Park
- Castle Ward – Shore Trail, Strangford and Lecale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
- Dovedale and Lover’s Leap Circular (Via Milldale), Peak District National Park
- Lover’s Lane, West Sussex
- Pistyll Rhaeadr, Y Berwyn National Nature Reserve
- Moydamlaght Forest and Eagles Rock, Sperrins National Landscape
- Llyn Llydaw and Glaslyn, Eryri National Park (Snowdonia)
- Sugar Loaf and Mynydd Llanwenarth Circular, Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)