Top Scotland Outdoor Activities

A visit to the Shetland Islands is incomplete without spotting the islands' adorable native ponies, but getting close to the privately owned animals can be tricky. This tour from Lerwick takes you around Shetland's Central Mainland to Scalloway to meet a herd of Shetland ponies, as well as their owner who can provide insights into the breed and their role in Shetlandic culture.

Join us on the Puffin Express, brand new for 2026, as we journey from Lerwick, Shetland's capital, to the very south of Mainland in search of Shetland's favourite birds. Every year, Puffins- or "Tammie Norries" as we call them- come ashore to breed after spending winter at sea. Loved for their black and white plumage, these cheeky birds have become a symbol of Shetland. Sumburgh Head, where the North Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean, is the best spot in Shetland to catch a glimpse of them up close. Plus, it's home to a 19th century Stevenson lighthouse, clifftop walks and a plethora of wildlife. When booking, please bear in mind that Puffin sightings can never be guaranteed. They are wild birds and on occasion may be out of view at the time of your visit. Please also note that there is a steep (but paved) walk from the coach park to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse. On arrival, your driver will inform you of the departure time. It is your responsibility to ensure you're back on time.

Seek out the Loch Ness Monster on a 2-hour cruise from Dochgarroch Lock. The boat is fitted with a special Nessie sonar, but if the elusive monster doesn’t show up, other sights will charm you instead. Pass along the Caledonian Canal into Loch Ness to see Urquhart Castle, Bona Lighthouse, and the site of a World War II bomber crash. Learn about the loch’s history and legends as you cruise.

See the famous Hairy Cows in Edinburgh Join an Edinburgh-based Mountain Guide on a hike in the hills on the outskirts of the city Scotland's mountains are world famous, so a trip to the hills should definitely be on your to-do list when you're in Edinburgh. Experience the rugged beauty of some of Scotland's mountains as you hike through some of the country's most amazing landscapes. This short hike takes us far into the hills, where we often see rare wildlife, spectacular cityscapes, and incredible mountain views. We meet at Hillend, which is about 30 minites from the city centre. Our hike then takes us up to a high viewpoint, where we can see over the city and to the sea. We descend down the hillside where we can look for the local herd of Highland Cows grazing in their natural mountain environment. The cows live out on the hill 365 days a year and are kept as conservation grazers, helping to restore the natural ecology. Finish at Swanston Farm (lunch can bee booked)

See castle ruins, rugged landscapes, and tranquil lakes during this full-day coach tour of the Western Highlands. Set off in the morning from Glasgow, and spot the picturesque Loch Lomond as you go. You’ll head to Inveraray, where you can explore its castle (own expense); Oban, where you can opt to taste fresh seafood; Glencoe, where you can take in the wild scenery; plus traditional pubs, viewing points, and more.

Cover plenty of ground and see the best of the Scottish Highlands—including the Isle of Skye—on this comprehensive 4-day, 3-night guided tour from Edinburgh. Skip the hassle of having to plan an itinerary yourself, and journey through the West Highlands to learn about Scotland's fascinating people, places, and history. See the impressive Glenfinnan Viaduct, spend time aboard the Jacobite Steam Train, visit Loch Ness—keep an eye out for its mythical monster—enjoy unbeatable photo ops in Glencoe, and so much more.

Our award winning cycle tours are carefully planned to avoid roads, small group sizes (max 10) and low impact, low carbon experiences. All our guides are qualified, passionate about history and will take photos of you throughout the tour - we always share with you at the end and adhere to all GDPR regulations. Our E bikes are suited to all heights and make this tour so easy round Arthur's' Seat. UK regulations mean age 14 is the minimum age to ride an E bike. We go in rain or shine. Rain does not affect the tour - please just bring a waterproof. All riders must be able to ride a bike safely and confidently. If you cannot, you may be refused entry to the tour for safety reasons. It will not be possible to refund you in this case.

Visit a bespoke whisky lounge right in the heart of Edinburgh for a journey through Scotland's past. Savor single malt whiskies from several esteemed distilleries to uncover the secrets of Scotch whisky-making, and experience the great Scottish tradition of storytelling on this tasting tour.

Conquer Edinburgh’s most iconic peaks on an intimate, small-group walking tour away from the crowds. Led by an expert local guide packed with fascinating folklore, this journey ensures a deeply personal experience. Your adventure begins at Calton Hill to marvel at famous national monuments and snap picture-perfect photos of the skyline. Next, pass the majestic Holyrood Palace before entering the wild expanse of Holyrood Park. Escape standard paths for our peaceful, scenic trail up the 251-metre summit of Arthur’s Seat. At the peak, enjoy breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views across the city and countryside. Your leisurely descent winds through hidden historic sites and vibrant local wildlife habitats, ensuring you see sides of the city most tourists completely miss. Perfect for individuals, families, and groups of all ages, this gentle-paced walk features plenty of rest stops. Book today to explore Edinburgh like a true insider!

Witness the mythical splendor of Loch Ness and the ruins of Urquhart Castle conveniently, without the hassle of having to rent a car, on this coach and boat trip from Inverness. Take a leisurely boat ride to Urquhart Castle—keeping your eyes peeled for the famed Loch Ness monster—where you’ll learn about the site’s bloody history and enjoy scenic views of the Scottish countryside.

Get both unrivaled views of Edinburgh and insight into local life on this hiking tour of Arthur’s Seat. A small group ensures you can walk at a relaxed pace, while trekking to the top of the capital’s highest hill with a guide ensures you don’t get lost and go off the path.

This walking tour of Edinburgh is a great choice for first-time visitors who want to get their bearings of the city and learn more about its history. By exploring the city with a guide, you’ll be able to stop looking at a map and focus on enjoying the sites around you. Your guide will teach you about secret places locals love, as well as the Old Town’s most famous sites. Highlights include St. Giles’ Cathedral, the Mercat Cross, Edinburgh Castle, and much more.

Set sail on Loch Linnhe and see the seals of the aptly named 'Seal Island." This cruise, departing from Fort William, is the perfect family-friendly activity for wildlife lovers, photographers, and more. As you cruise, your skipper and crew will keep you entertained and provide lots of fascinating information about local wildlife and history.

With a centuries-long history, the Scottish capital of Edinburgh has lots of different historic, cultural, and architectural hotspots for tourists to discover. Meet your guide at a central location near the Royal Mile and set out on a walk of the city’s storied streets on this half-day small-group walking tour.

Get out of the city and soak up the natural beauty of Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands on this day tour from Edinburgh. See wooded lochs and tucked-away villages as you journey through spectacular scenery en route to Glencoe and Fort Augustus. Enjoy a boat tour in search of the Loch Ness Monster and traverse the picturesque Cairngorms National Park. Travel in a top-of-the-range, 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach with a small group.

Beat the crowds of Edinburgh's city center and discover off-the-beaten-path locations and secret spots on small-group cycling tour. Traveling on two wheels (either on a traditional or e-bike), you'll be able to access places buses cannot reach. Cycle out of the city, around Arthur's Seat, and to the (sometimes) sunny seaside all while your guide fills you in on fascinating facts about the city.

your adventure begins in George Square, the pulsating center of the city, where the renowned slogan 'People Make Glasgow' comes to life with meaning. Delve into the past as you marvel at the architectural splendor of Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis, tracing the origins of this vibrant metropolis. Wander through the enchanting Merchant City, adorned with captivating murals, and unravel the tales of the Tolbooth Steeple, a historic landmark steeped in significance. Immerse yourself in Scottish traditions at St Andrews In The Square before unwinding amidst the serene ambiance of the People's Palace and Winter Gardens. Follow the meandering path along the River Clyde, delving into Glasgow's illustrious shipbuilding heritage, before admiring the Victorian grandeur of Buchanan Street.

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlights on this small-group tour from Edinburgh that takes you to Trossachs National Park, Glencoe, and Loch Ness. Soak up the scenery as you journey through dramatic landscapes, make plenty of photo stops, and enjoy the freedom to explore Fort Augustus, set on the banks of Loch Ness, at your own pace.

Sometimes just one day on the Isle of Skye isn't enough to truly take in all of its beauty, history and folklore. This 2-day small group tour to Skye with an overnight stay in Portree takes you to some of the most spectacular sites on the island whilst passing through some of the most beautiful highland scenery.

Limited time in port makes planning a day inland challenging, but this full-day shore excursion from Greenock Cruise Port is designed to help you see Scotland’s highlights without the hassle. Travel by comfortable, air-conditioned coach through scenic countryside, stopping at Stirling Castle to learn about its role in Scotland’s history before continuing to the traditional village of Aberfoyle in Trossachs National Park. Then, head to the shores of Loch Lomond to take in the views before returning to port.

There’s so much more to see in Scotland than just Edinburgh. On this private tour, get picked up from your Edinburgh accommodation for a full-day adventure exploring the Kingdom of Fife. Take in the Forth Bridge—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—visit the medieval town of St Andrews, hunt for sea glass on Fife beach, and explore fishing villages and historic sites.

Explore the stunning Scottish Highlands on a full-day excursion that includes Glencoe and Loch Ness. Set out from Edinburgh aboard a comfortable coach to experience some of the area's top sights and attractions. Visit Callander, the "Gateway to the Highlands," learn the fascinating history of Glencoe—a village made famous as a setting for movies in the “James Bond” and “Harry Potter” series—and see the world-renowned Loch Ness too.

Check a visit to John O’Groats, the northernmost point on British mainland, off your bucket list on a full-day tour through the Northern Scottish Highlands with convenient round-trip transport from Inverness. In addition to navigating, your guide provides live commentary and anecdotes about each stop on the itinerary, from Dunrobin Castle to lunch in the ancient Viking town of Wick (own expense).