Hill & Nature Hike – Discover Real Edinburgh With a Local

Explore the stunning natural beauty of Edinburgh’s surroundings on this guided hill and nature hike. Traverse through the majestic Scottish Highlands, taking in breathtaking vistas and enjoying the rich local flora and fauna. With an experienced guide leading the way, beginners and seasoned hikers alike can discover the real essence of this captivating city. What secrets and surprises await you on this unforgettable adventure? Uncover them as you delve deeper into the heart of the Highlands, leaving the bustling city behind.

Key Points

• Guided 4-hour hill and nature hike through the Pentland Hills, offering panoramic views of Edinburgh and the surrounding regions.
• Suitable for hikers of all fitness levels, with a maximum distance of 6 miles and an elevation gain of 1600 feet.
• Opportunity to spot local wildlife, including Highland cows, sheep, and deer, while learning about the region’s flora, fauna, and geology.
• Includes a free all-day Edinburgh bus ticket, allowing for further exploration of the city after the hike.
• Knowledgeable guides provide insights into Scotland’s captivating history and cultural heritage, enhancing the overall educational experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This guided Hill & Nature Hike offers visitors an opportunity to discover the real Edinburgh beyond the city center.

Priced at $113.67 per person, the 4-hour tour departs from the Kings Theatre and starts at 9:30 AM. Guests can enjoy a free all-day Edinburgh bus ticket, allowing them to explore the city further after the hike.

With a maximum hiking distance of 6 miles and an elevation gain of 1600 ft, the tour is suitable for beginners and experienced hikers alike.

Participants can expect to see stunning views of the Lothian region, Fife, and the Borders, as well as potential wildlife sightings of Highland cows, sheep, and deer.

Hiking Experience

The guided Hill & Nature Hike covers a distance of 4 to 6 miles, with an elevation gain of 493 meters (1600 feet). The hike is suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers, provided they meet the minimum fitness level. Participants should wear appropriate hiking footwear and dress for the unpredictable Scottish weather, as the hike proceeds even in rain. While the pace accommodates all group members, with breaks as needed, the tour offers the opportunity to spot local wildlife, such as Highland cows, sheep, deer, and nesting birds.

Hike Distance	Elevation Gain	Hiker Suitability
4 – 6 miles	493 meters	Beginners & Experienced
5 – 10 KM	1600 FT	Minimum Fitness Required

Scenic Highlights

Explorers on the Hill & Nature Hike can expect to enjoy the captivating Scottish Moorlands and Lochs (Lakes).

As they ascend the Pentland Hills, they’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over Edinburgh, the Lothian region, the Borders, and Fife.

Along the way, they’ll have the opportunity to learn about the native flora, fauna, geology, and Scottish history from the knowledgeable guide.

The tour pace accommodates all group members, allowing for breaks and ensuring everyone can fully experience the feel of the Scottish Highlands.

With the chance to spot Highland Cows, local sheep, deer, and nesting birds, this hike offers a truly unique and scenic adventure.

Learning Opportunities

Exploring the Scottish Moorlands and Lochs on the Hill & Nature Hike offers a wealth of learning opportunities for participants.

Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour provides insights into the region’s diverse flora, fauna, and geology. Hikers can learn about the native plants and animals, including the iconic Highland cows and deer.

The guide also shares fascinating stories about Scotland’s captivating history, bringing the landscape to life with their expertise.

Throughout the scenic journey, participants gain a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders and cultural heritage of the Pentland Hills.

This educational experience complements the stunning vistas, creating a well-rounded adventure for those seeking to discover the real Edinburgh.

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Included Amenities

Among the included amenities on the Hill & Nature Hike is a light snack selection, with energy bars and crisps provided to fuel hikers throughout their journey.

Plus, a bottle of water is included to ensure participants stay hydrated during the hike.

For those who need extra support, hiking poles are available to borrow.

The tour also includes an all-day Edinburgh bus ticket, allowing hikers to explore the city further after the hike or use public transportation to reach the meeting point.

These thoughtful inclusions enhance the overall experience and make the tour more accessible to a wider range of participants.

Participant Requirements

Participants for the Hill & Nature Hike must be adults between the ages of 14 and 75. Youth between 10-13 are also welcome, but the tour isn’t suitable for children under 10 or individuals with low fitness levels. The hike covers 4-6 miles with an elevation gain of 1600 feet, so a minimum fitness level is required.

Age Group	Minimum Age	Maximum Age
Adults	14	75
Youth	10	13

Scottish weather is unpredictable, so hikers should wear weather-appropriate clothing and footwear. The tour proceeds rain or shine, so participants should be prepared for potential inclement conditions.

Customer Reviews

The Hill & Nature Hike has garnered an impressive overall rating of 5/5 from 7 customer reviews, with hikers consistently praising the knowledgeable guides and stunning views encountered throughout the tour.

Reviewers highlight the guides’ deep understanding of the local flora, fauna, and history, which enhanced the educational experience. Many also note the tour’s accommodating pace, which allows all participants to enjoy the hike at their own comfort level.

Meeting Details

The Hill & Nature Hike departs from the Kings Theatre on Leven Street in central Edinburgh. Participants should arrive 5 minutes early to meet the local guide. The tour starts promptly at 9:30 AM.

Details	Meeting Point	Start Time	Duration
Hill & Nature Hike	Kings Theatre, 2 Leven St, Edinburgh EH3 9LQ	9:30 AM	4 hours

This 4-hour guided hike covers 4-6 miles through the scenic Pentland Hills, with stunning views over Edinburgh and the surrounding regions. All participants receive an all-day bus ticket to explore the city further after the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Dog on the Hike?

Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on this hike. The tour operator’s policy is to keep the group safe and focused, and the hiking terrain may not be suitable for pets. Participants are advised to leave their furry friends at home.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is not specified in the details provided. However, tour operators typically cap group sizes to ensure a personalized experience and allow for proper supervision on the hike.

Is the Hike Considered Strenuous for Someone With Knee Problems?

The hike may be considered moderately strenuous for someone with knee problems, as it involves an elevation gain of 493 meters. However, the tour pace is designed to accommodate all group members, with breaks provided as needed.

Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?

There’s no mention of student or senior discounts for this tour. The pricing seems to be a flat rate of $113.67 per person, regardless of age or student status.

Can I Store My Luggage at the Meeting Point Before the Tour?

Unfortunately, the tour operator does not provide luggage storage facilities at the meeting point. Participants are advised to make their own arrangements for storing any personal belongings before the tour begins.

Recap

This guided hike offers an unforgettable experience to explore the stunning Scottish Highlands and discover the real Edinburgh. With a focus on scenic views, local flora and fauna, and wildlife spotting, it’s perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers. The included bus ticket allows for continued exploration after the hike, making it a comprehensive adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: