Although the weather might not be ideal, January is nonetheless a great time to get out and take in some stunning Scottish scenery.
With Burns Night coming up, it's the perfect opportunity to complete a walking trail inspired by the iconic poet's life. Fitness and travel website AllTrails has shared a list of the seven best Burns Night walks around Scotland.
Every route included has a connection to Burns in some way, and so venturing out on one is a great way to celebrate the beloved Scot. From countryside hikes to city trails, there is bound to be a walk that suits your needs this Burns night.
AllTrails states that anyone planning on heading out on one of the trails should plan ahead and bring a flashlight or headlamp if walking in the evening. Additionally, hikers should also keep extra layers for warmth, as well as additional food and water, and should hike in pairs or groups.
Here are the seven best walks around Scotland this Burns Night, according to AllTrails.
The Birks of Aberfeldy, Perth and Kinross
Approximately 3.2 kilometres in length, this loop trail near Aberfeldy is considered reasonably challenging and usually takes just over an hour to complete. It is a popular route amongst walkers, hikers, and birdwatchers, and dogs are welcome so long as they are kept on a lead.
There are a number of historical markers on the trail, including one specifically where Robert Burns is said to have been inspired to pen The Birks of Aberfeldy. The song was written in 1787 and sung to the tune The Birks Of Abergeldie.
Holyrood Distillery and Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh
Like The Birks of Aberfeldy, this route is considered moderately challenging and is around 6 kilometres in length. All together, the loop should take you just under two hours to complete.
The pub walk starts and ends at Holyrood Distillery and near Tipsy Midgie, which will host an exclusive Burns Night event, 'Distillery Discovery', with drams from Lochlea Distillery— the home of Burns.
Wallace Road from Glenfarg, Perth and Kinross
Another moderately difficult trail, Wallace Road from Glenfarg is an out-and-back route located near Perth. It is a fair amount longer than the previous walks, taking around four hours to complete and being over 14 kilometres in length.
According to AllTrails, it is rich in history and has been linked to the Romans, William Wallace (after whom the road is named), Mary Queen of Scots, Oliver Cromwell, and Robert Burns himself.
Burns Circular, South Ayrshire
This reasonably challenging route near Ayr is a 5.5 kilometre loop that takes on average just over an hour from start to finish. It's perfect if you're looking for something a little quieter, as you are unlikely to run into other people while walking.
With Alloway in Ayrshire being the birthplace of Robert Burns, there are a number of connections to Burns on this route. What better way to celebrate Burns Night than by literally following in his footsteps.
Stonehaven and Cowie Chapel Ramble, Aberdeenshire
Unlike the other walks on this list, Stonehaven and Cowie Chapel Ramble is considered an easy route by AllTrails and so is perfect if you are looking for something a bit more relaxing. The 8.2 kilometre trail will take you around two hours to complete.
The highlight of the walk is the fascinating Robert Burns Memorial Garden on route to the historic market square. After that, you will ascend Bervie Braes for a memorable view of the harbour, old town, and bay.
River Ayr Way 3: Stair to Ayr, East Ayrshire
Another reasonably challenging route, River Ayr Way 3 is the longest trail here at 12.8 miles. It will take around five hours from start to finish, so is only recommended if you can dedicate an entire day to tackling it.
Those who do venture on the walk can treat themselves to a well-earned Burns Night supper of haggis, neeps and tatties at the nearby The Tam O'Shanter Inn at the end. The inn, which is Ayr's oldest pub and restaurant, also hosts an infamous annual Burns Night event.
Portsoy, Sandend and Old King's Road Circular, Aberdeenshire
Rounding out the list with a second easy route, Portsoy, Sandend and Old King's Road Circular is a lengthy walk near Banf. The loop is around 10.5 kilometres in length and will take you around two and a half hours to complete.
The quiet trail follows the old main coastal road that was used by Burns on his travels around the North-East of Scotland.
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