Heading to Scotland, Sept 29-Oct 8. Will be flying into EDI, planning to spend a few days there (prob Air BnB). Would love to take a side trip into the Highlands for scenery, a bit of hill-walking. Is it possible to do this without a car? Do I need to take the train all the way to Inverness as a jumping-off point? I’m trying to minimize travel times (whether by bus, car, or train) as this trip is relatively short. Generally, I prefer to stay in one place for a longer stretch...but I’m traveling with ppl who will be disappointed if we only visit Edinburgh & its immediate area. They’re demanding hills and a bit of light hiking. TIA.
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New York City, NY, USA
5678 posts
Perthshire can offer you some nice walks without having to go all the way north to Inverness. You can take the train to Dunkeld/Birnam and there are some lovely walks in the hills or along the Tay. The TI in the square should have a flyer with maps. Check out Walkhighlands for other ideas. There is a taxi service in Dunkeld that might help you get to a walk a bit further afield. Google Taxi Service Dunkeld and you'll get the listings. Or contact the TI.
The Trossachs is another area that is closer to Edinburgh. It doesn't have the lovely train service, so you would need a car.
You can probably do the Dunkeld visit as a day trip if you're willing to get up early and arrive home late. The Trossachs might be a bit more challenging in that respect.
And don't forget the Pentland Hills south of Edinburgh. I've not visited them, but have read lots of novels that feature them!
Pam