Edinburgh: Highland Cow Hike

Taking a walk through Edinburgh often conjures images of historic castles, cobbled streets, and lively pubs. But if you’re after something a bit different — combining nature, city views, and a touch of Scottish wildlife — the Highland Cow Hike from Mountain Marcus might just be worth considering. This tour promises an approachable escape into the Scottish Borders with the chance to see those iconic, hairy Highland Cows in their natural setting, all while enjoying some impressive panoramic views of Edinburgh.

What truly appeals to us are two things about this experience: first, it’s a rare chance to spot Highland Cows outside of the Highlands, right here in the city’s outskirts, and second, the hike up to a mountain viewpoint near 500 meters high — a solid trek that makes the reward of the view even sweeter. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the need for good walking shoes and weather preparedness since the route can change depending on conditions.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of light hiking, wildlife spotting, and striking cityscapes, especially if you’re open to a modest outdoor adventure that’s not overly strenuous. If you’re comfortable with a 3.5-hour outing and want to get a feel for the Scottish landscape beyond Edinburgh’s urban core, this could be just right.

Key Points

• Unique wildlife experience: See Highland Cows in a natural environment outside their usual Highlands habitat.
• Impressive views: Reach a mountain viewpoint overlooking Edinburgh, Arthur’s Seat, and the sea.
• Guided hike: Led by a qualified mountain guide, ensuring safety and local insights.
• Flexible route: The itinerary adapts to weather and group, promising a tailored experience.
• Quality finish: End with refreshments or a meal at Swanston Brasserie, with booking recommended.
• Practical details: Small group (max 8), 3.5 hours, moderate walking, and a focus on authentic scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Highland Cow Hike

The experience kicks off at Lothianburn, a convenient spot just a short bus or taxi ride from Edinburgh city center. The meeting point is easily identifiable—look for the orange rucksack and the ///linen.swift.lovely location on what3words. From here, you’ll follow a route that takes you up into the Pentland Hills, a popular escape for locals seeking fresh air and good views.

The hike itself is around three hours long, with the main highlight being the ascent to a nearly 500-meter-high summit that offers a sweeping vista of Edinburgh, the historic castle, Arthur’s Seat, and the distant sea. The views are quite different from what you’d get wandering the city streets—they’re expansive and give a real sense of the Scottish landscape.

Throughout the walk, you’ll pass through grazing areas inhabited by Highland Cows. These creatures are used for conservation grazing, helping restore natural Scottish ecosystems. The experience is more than just spotting them — you get to see these iconic, shaggy beasts in their natural habitat, often wandering freely in scenic fields. As one reviewer put it, “We loved the way the cows were just hanging out in their natural environment; it felt authentic rather than touristy.”

The guide, who is a qualified mountain leader, will share insights about the local environment, the Scottish Highlands’ ecosystem, and the cattle themselves. Their expertise helps make the hike more engaging, especially if you’re interested in nature and conservation.

Finishing up at Swanston Brasserie, you have the option to sit down for a meal or just enjoy a drink. The suggestion to book ahead is smart, as it’s a cozy spot popular with locals and visitors alike. Afterward, it’s a short walk back to the starting point, making the whole experience quite manageable in terms of time and effort.

Detailing the Itinerary

Starting Point: Lothianburn

The journey begins here, just on the outskirts of Edinburgh. The location is accessible via bus or taxi, making it a practical starting point. The selection of this meeting spot ensures that you’re away from the city hustle but still close enough for convenience.

The Hike up the Pentland Hills

The main hike is a scenic ascent through the Pentland Hills, giving an authentic taste of the Scottish landscape. The trail’s moderate difficulty makes it suitable for most people in decent health and with some hiking experience, although the actual route can adapt based on weather conditions.

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The Viewpoint

Reaching the summit, almost 500 meters high, is the highlight. The views are as stunning as they are diverse, with sights of Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat, and the sea all visible on a clear day. As one participant shared, “The scenery changes throughout the year, and it’s a different experience each season—from bright yellow gorse in spring to snow in winter.”

Passing Highland Cows in their Habitat

Descending through grazing areas, you’ll get a genuine look at Highland Cows. These animals are used as conservation grazers, not for production, making their presence here environmentally meaningful. The cows are friendly enough to look at but are not to be ridden or approached too closely—an important point to remember.

Finishing at Swanston Brasserie

The tour concludes here, where you can unwind with a meal or refreshments. Booking ahead is recommended, especially during busy times. It’s a cozy spot that complements the outdoorsy vibe of the hike perfectly.

The Practical Side

The tour costs $101 per person, which, considering the guided nature, the scenic views, and the unique wildlife encounter, is quite reasonable. The price includes the guide but not transportation to the start point or the meal itself.

The group size is limited to 8 participants, which is ideal if you’re looking for a more intimate experience. The small group allows for personalized attention from the guide and plenty of room for questions.

Weather can influence the route, so it’s wise to be prepared with suitable clothing, hiking shoes, water, and snacks. The entire experience lasts about 3.5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity without feeling rushed.

Real Voices: Reviews and Feedback

Multiple reviews emphasize the authenticity of the experience. One participant remarked, “Seeing the Highland Cows grazing in their natural environment was the highlight for me.” Others appreciated the flexibility of the route, noting that the guide tailored the hike to the weather.

Some mentioned the importance of good footwear, especially as the terrain can be uneven or muddy at times. The views, according to most, are worth the effort — a panoramic mix of city, sea, and mountains.

One reviewer pointed out, “The guide was knowledgeable and friendly, making the whole walk informative and enjoyable.” The focus on natural ecosystems and conservation also appeals to those interested in Scottish wildlife and environmental efforts.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits those who enjoy a bit of outdoor activity mixed with wildlife viewing and scenic vistas. It’s perfect for travelers who don’t mind a moderate walk and want to see a different side of Edinburgh—beyond the historic streets. If you’re an animal lover, especially Highland Cows, you’ll find this particularly charming.

However, it’s not suited for children under 12 or those with mobility issues, as the route involves some uphill walking and uneven terrain. Weather-dependent, it’s best for those prepared for Scottish conditions—layered clothing, waterproofs, and sturdy shoes are a must.

Final Thoughts

The Highland Cow Hike offers a genuine taste of Scotland’s natural beauty and wildlife, just a short trip outside Edinburgh. It balances light trekking with the chance to spot iconic Highland Cows and enjoy sweeping views over the city and beyond. With a knowledgeable guide, small group size, and a cozy finish at a local café, it’s a relaxed yet rewarding outing for those who love nature and scenic landscapes.

If you’re after a day that combines gentle exercise, wildlife, and spectacular vistas, this tour ticks those boxes nicely. It’s especially suitable if you’re keen to experience the Scottish countryside without venturing too far from the city or if you enjoy wildlife encounters in authentic settings.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not typically, as it’s recommended for participants over 12 years old due to the moderate hiking involved.

Do I need to bring my own food?
Yes, bringing water and snacks is advised. You can enjoy a meal afterward at Swanston Brasserie, but booking ahead is recommended.

How long is the hike?
The hike lasts about 3 hours, with a total experience of roughly 3.5 hours including the start and finish.

Is transportation to the starting point included?
No, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to Lothianburn, which is reachable via bus or taxi.

What should I wear?
Weather-appropriate clothing, waterproofs, and sturdy hiking shoes are essential, as conditions can change quickly.

Are Highland Cows dangerous?
No, they are used to humans and are generally friendly, but they should not be approached closely or ridden.

What if the weather is bad?
The route may change depending on conditions, and the guide will adapt accordingly. The hike can be rescheduled or canceled with full refund if severe weather occurs.

Can I book this tour as a group?
Yes, but note that the group size is limited to 8, so it’s best to book early for small group experiences.

Whether you’re after a quick outdoor escape, a fun wildlife encounter, or just a way to see Edinburgh from a different angle, this Highland Cow Hike offers a practical and authentic way to spend part of your Scottish adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: