My guest blogger loves walling in Scotland. He writes: Scotland, soaked in rugged natural beauty and Celtic charm, has some of the best walking routes in the UK. Having already delighted myself with a Highlands trek up Lairig Ghru, I decided to hunt down the top five destinations for more fabulous walking in Scotland.

Sandwood Bay, Sutherland

This stunning beach plonked in the middle of nowhere appears untouched by modern civilisation. Sat on the far north-west coast, there is no road access. However, the bay can be reached on foot by a four-mile, well-trodden and fairly flat path. Affiliated with tales of mermaids and sailors’ ghosts, it makes for a gorgeous, and not too strenuous walk.

Ben Nevis, Inverness-shire

Located at the western end of the Grampian Mountains and standing at 1,344m, Ben Nevis is Britain’s biggest mountain. A magnet for walkers, it attracts an estimated 100,000 ascents per year. If you plan to make your way to the top, you need some good footwear. Merrell shoes do a good man’s walking boot that will ensure many comfortable hours on your feet.

Iona

The burial place of many Scottish kings, Iona is a gorgeous, wind-swept island in the Inner Hebrides. Visitors flock to the tiny church Iona Abbey, to see the 9th-century St Martin’s Cross, one of the best-preserved Celtic crosses in Britain, and enjoy the perfect walking terrain.

Portmahomack, Easter Ross

A site of significant activity during the time of the Picts and Vikings, Portmahomack is a humble fishing village, built in the 1700s. Situated on a sandy bay, walkers can enjoy walking on the site of the first confirmed Pictish monastery, a spot of dolphin watching, fishing or a visit to the 16th century Ballone Castle.

Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh

Located centrally in the city of Edinburgh, about a mile to the east of Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat provides incredible views while being relatively easy to climb. A must visit destination for anyone exploring Scotland, the peak is very popular for hillwalking and can be climbed from pretty much every angle. Being central, you can always head into the city after talking in the scenery for a bit of shopping and a celebratory ale in one of the local taverns.

So there you have it. Five great options for exploring the Scottish countryside. I’m sure when I’ve walked them all, I’ll write about a couple more.

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