Highland Cow Hike in Edinburgh

5.0
(7 reviews)
Edinburgh, Scotland

2 to 3 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

See the famous Hairy Cows in their natural environment in Edinburgh

Join an Edinburgh-based Mountain Guide on a hike in the hills on the outskirts of the city

Experience the rugged beauty of some of Scotland's mountains as we 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. Getting up high allows us to find the cows more easily.

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.

We finish at Swanston Farm (lunch can bee booked) where a few more cows can be seen in a field.

What's Included

Qualified Mountain Leader
Please bring you own food and water for the hike
Footwear: Please bring suitable shoes/boots for hiking
Clothing: Please bring warm clothing and a waterproof coat. In Summer bring a hat and/or suncream
If you would like to have a meal after the hike, please book directly with the Swanston Brasserie

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Take the bus (15 or 4) or a taxi to Lothianburn stop. This is about 30 minutes from the centre of Edinburgh Look out for my orange rucksack

End point

Swanston Farm has a cafe/restaurant (booking recommended) This is a short walk from where we met to start the tour

Itinerary

Duration: 2 to 3 hours (approximately)
  • Edinburgh (Pass by)

    We meet just 30 minutes from the centre of Edinburgh

    Admission ticket free
  • 1

    See the cows roaming freely on the hillside, sometimes they are easy to find, sometimes we have to search for them We hike up to a view point to see over the city, Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, and the sea

    2 hours Admission ticket included
  • Edinburgh Castle (Pass by)

    Views of Edinburgh Castle and the city skyline

    Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Swanston Farm

    Some more cows can be seen in a field at the farm

    15 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Supplied by Mountain Marcus

Tags

Hiking Tours
Private and Luxury
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Nature Walks
Small Group
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

5.0 Based on 7 7 reviews
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