As summer comes to an end, one thing we have to look forward to is the absolutely gorgeous autumn scenery in Scotland. While Scottish summers are notoriously unpredictable, one thing you can rely on is that autumn will always look beautiful. From the gorgeous warm colours to the relative lack of midges, it is arguably a better time to explore the country than the summer months.
One of the best ways to spend a day out with the family is a walk in the Scottish countryside. While you really can’t go wrong anywhere in the country — from the tranquil Borders to the rugged Highlands — some walks are particularly special. Fortunately, the National Trust for Scotland has taken the guesswork out of picking a scenic walk. The conservation charity has rounded up the best beauty spots all across the country, and the Daily Record has taken a deeper look at the ones it called perfect for a family walk.
Castle Fraser Estate, Aberdeenshire
Castle Fraser is among the largest tower houses in Scotland, and its surrounding estate makes for a terrific walk. It is especially great for wildlife spotting, as all kinds of animals — from otters to badgers to dragonflies — call it home. Both of its two main walks are relatively easy and are just over a mile long, making them perfect if you’re not looking to spend a whole day hiking.
What a Tripadvisor user said: “Such a great castle. Guides in the main rooms and plenty of info in the other rooms. We even walked up to the top where you get excellent views of the grounds. “Nice tea shop and deck chairs in the walled garden a lovely touch to enjoy the sun.”
Corrieshalloch Gorge, Highlands
If it’s gorgeous and dramatic views you are after, meanwhile, then Corrieshalloch Gorge has exactly what you’re looking for. The highlight of the walk is undoubtedly the Victorian suspension bridge, where you can watch the magnificent Falls of Measach — just don’t look down if you’re afraid of heights.
The gorge itself and the surrounding woodland have been designated a National Nature Reserve, and are home to all kinds of amazing flora and fauna. What a Tripadvisor user said: “The gorge is amazing, if you get the chance stop and talk to Daniel the ranger, he has so much knowledge and is really passionate about his job, makes your time at the gorge so much better.”
Brodie Castle Estate, Moray
While Brodie Castle itself is well worth venturing into for a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history of the Brodie clan, the estate is also perfect for a family walk. There are two main walks at Brodie Castle, a pond walk and a green walk. The former will take roughly 45 minutes and is suitable for all abilities, while the latter is around 20 minutes long and has a more moderate difficulty. What a Tripadvisor user said: “The play garden is super for the children. The walk to the pond through the mature trees especially the beech is lovely.”
Culzean Castle Country Park, South Ayrshire
Lastly, Culzean Castle in South Ayrshire includes 120 hectares of mixed woodland that you could easily spend a whole day exploring. There are around 17 miles of pathways all in all, which will take you through tranquil glades and peaceful glens. Highlights include the five-hectare man-made Swan Pond — which as the name suggests is the perfect spot to sit and watch birds — and the Deer Park that is home to a small herd of red deer and llamas. What a Tripadvisor user said: “Beautiful place to visit the castle and grounds are amazing, we spent a whole day there and probably didn’t see everything, would definitely go back if in the area again.”
Source: DAILY RECORD
