Edinburgh: Highland Cow Hike

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the Scottish Borders without leaving the city behind, the Highland Cow Hike offers a charming blend of wildlife, scenic vistas, and local flavor. This 3.5-hour guided adventure takes you from Edinburgh’s outskirts up into the hills, where you’ll get close to Scotland’s most beloved hairy cattle and enjoy breathtaking views over the city and sea.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you’re not just sightseeing—you’re hiking through real Highland terrain with a qualified guide who knows the area inside and out. Second, the chance to see Highland Cows in their natural environment adds an authentic touch many city tours miss. Third, the journey culminates at a cozy café, perfect for relaxing and soaking in the atmosphere.

One thing to consider is that this tour involves some uphill walking, so good hiking shoes and a bit of stamina are recommended. It’s best suited for active travelers who love nature, animals, and panoramic views, and is ideal for those wanting a taste of the Scottish Highlands without venturing too far from Edinburgh.

Good To Know

• Authentic Highland Cows: See these iconic furry animals grazing peacefully.
• City & Nature Combo: Enjoy views of Edinburgh, Arthur’s Seat, and the sea from nearly 500m high.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a qualified Mountain Guide ensuring safety and local insight.
• Scenic Changing Landscapes: Experience seasonal scenery—from spring blooms to winter frost.
• Local Flavor: End at Swanston Brasserie for a meal or refreshments, adding a local touch.
• Family Friendly: Not suitable for children under 12, but perfect for active outdoor lovers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Meeting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at Lothianburn, just a 30-minute taxi or bus ride from central Edinburgh. The meeting spot is straightforward — look for the orange rucksack and the location marked ///linen.swift.lovely on what3words, right after The Steading pub. We loved the convenience of the meeting logistics, especially since it avoids the hustle of the city center and puts you right into nature right away.

The Hike Begins: Into the Pentland Hills

Once assembled, the group is led by a qualified Mountain Guide, an important detail that ensures safety and local knowledge. The first leg is about hiking up into the Pentland Hills, where the terrain is varied but manageable. The total hike covers approximately three hours before reaching the high viewpoint.

Up to Nearly 500 Meters: The Viewpoint

The highlight of the trek is reaching a mountain summit close to 1600 feet (around 500 meters). From here, you’re rewarded with sweeping views over Edinburgh’s skyline, including the iconic Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat, and even the sea stretching into the distance. We appreciated how the guide shared insights about the landscape, weather variability, and seasonal changes—spring’s bright yellow gorse, summer’s purple heather, or winter’s white frost all transform the scenery.

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Highland Cows in their Element

Later in the hike, you pass back through grazing areas where Highland Cows roam freely. These cattle, with their distinctive long horns and shaggy coats, are not just tourist icons but an important part of conservation efforts. They’re used as “conservation grazers” to restore ecosystems, not for meat or milk. A reviewer noted, “It was amazing to see the Highland Cows in their habitat, just chilling and munching away like they owned the place.”

Ending at Swanston Brasserie

The tour concludes with a short walk to Swanston Brasserie, where you can opt for a meal or just a drink. Booking ahead is recommended, as this is a local favorite that adds a warm, inviting end to your outdoor adventure. From here, it’s a quick stroll back to the starting point, and some might choose to visit nearby attractions like the snowsport center or head straight into Edinburgh’s lively streets.

The Details: What’s Included and What to Know

Included in the price ($101) is the expertise of a qualified Mountain Leader who keeps the focus on safety, storytelling, and local insights. The small group size—limited to 8 participants—ensures a more personalized experience and plenty of opportunities to ask questions or get tips.

Not included are transportation to the start point and meals at the café, so plan accordingly. The tour duration is set at 3.5 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability. Remember to bring:

• Good hiking shoes for varied terrain
• Water and snacks to stay energized
• Weather-appropriate clothing, including a jacket
• Your own food if you want to snack on the trail

It’s important to note that riding the Highland Cows is not permitted, respecting the animals’ wellbeing.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s straightforward itinerary is designed for maximum scenic and wildlife viewing with minimal hassle:

• Start at Lothian Burn: Easy to reach, with clear signage and the meeting spot just after The Steading pub.
• Hiking through the Pentland Hills: About three hours of steady elevation gain, passing through seasonal landscapes.
• Summit and Viewpoint: Nearly 500 meters high, offering panoramic views of Edinburgh, Arthur’s Seat, and the sea.
• Pass by Highland Cow Grazing Areas: Spot these iconic animals in their natural habitat, often grazing peacefully.
• Finish at Swanston Brasserie: Optional meal or refreshment, then a short walk back to the start.

Authentic Insights from Past Participants

Participants have praised the expert guidance and well-paced hike. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide was fantastic—knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience even more enjoyable.” Another appreciated the seasonal scenery, remarking how the landscape changes dramatically from spring to winter, adding variety to each visit.

The opportunity to see Highland Cows in a natural setting resonates especially well with animal lovers. One traveler shared, “It was lovely to see the cows just grazing peacefully—something you don’t get to experience in typical farm visits.”

Though the hike involves some uphill terrain, several noted that sturdy hiking shoes and a good attitude make all the difference. The small group size was also highlighted as a benefit, allowing for a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and Scotland admirers wanting a genuine taste of Highland life just outside Edinburgh. It’s suitable for active travelers comfortable with walking, but less so for those with mobility issues or very young children under 12.

If you’re seeking a blend of wildlife, outdoor scenery, and local culture, this tour ticks all those boxes. The ending at a cozy café adds a social element that makes the whole day feel relaxed and fulfilling.

Final Reflection: Is It Worth It?

For the value, $101 feels quite reasonable considering the guided nature walk, the scenic views, and the chance to encounter Highland Cows in their habitat. The small group size and expert guiding ensure safety, personalized attention, and storytelling that enriches the hike. While it’s a physically active tour, the payoff—the sweeping vistas and authentic Highland animal sightings—is well worth the effort.

This tour suits those who love outdoor adventures combined with cultural and wildlife experiences. It’s an accessible way to enjoy some of Scotland’s best landscapes without straying far from Edinburgh, making it perfect for a day trip that feels both invigorating and relaxing.

FAQ

Is transportation to the starting point included?
No, you’ll need to arrange your own transport, typically by bus or taxi, to Lothianburn, which is about 30 minutes from central Edinburgh.

How long does the hike last?
The hike is approximately 3.5 hours total, with most of that time spent ascending, enjoying views, and passing through grazing areas.

What should I bring?
Bring hiking shoes, water, weather-appropriate clothing like a jacket, and some snacks or food if desired.

Can children participate?
This tour isn’t suitable for children under 12 years old due to the physical nature of the hike.

Are animals allowed to be ridden?
No, riding Highland Cows or other animals is not permitted, respecting their natural behavior and wellbeing.

Is the tour suitable in winter?
Yes, the scenery changes with the seasons—from snow and frost in winter to blooming gorse in spring—making it a year-round option.

What’s the maximum group size?
Limited to 8 participants, which helps ensure a more personalized experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially for the restaurant at Swanston Brasserie, and to secure your spot on this small-group tour.

What if the weather is bad?
The route may be adjusted depending on weather conditions, and it’s advisable to dress appropriately for rain or cold.

In essence, the Edinburgh Highland Cow Hike offers an authentic slice of Scottish countryside, wildlife, and panoramic city views—all in less than half a day. Whether you’re an active traveler craving fresh air or a culture enthusiast eager for intimate encounters with Highland life, this experience delivers a memorable, scenic, and genuine adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: