Edinburgh: Highland Cow Hike

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Edinburgh’s bustling streets and step into the tranquil Scottish Borders, the Highland Cow Hike offers a refreshing mix of nature, wildlife, and breathtaking vistas. This 3.5-hour adventure combines a scenic hike with the charm of spotting those iconic hairy Highland Cows in their natural habitat, topped off with panoramic views over Edinburgh and beyond. Led by a qualified Mountain Guide, this experience promises both an authentic outdoor excursion and a bit of Scottish countryside magic—all starting just a short bus or taxi ride from the city center.

What makes this tour stand out is the chance to see Highland Cows in their natural environment—something you won’t get in a typical city tour. We especially love the balance between an active hike and relaxed sightseeing, capped with a cozy finish at a local café or restaurant. However, it’s worth noting that the walk involves some elevation and uneven terrain, so good hiking shoes and preparation are recommended. This tour is best suited for those who love fresh air, stunning scenery, and a taste of rural Scotland, even if they’re based in Edinburgh.

Key Points

• Authentic Highland Cows: Spot these iconic animals grazing in their natural surroundings.
• Panoramic Views: Reach nearly 500m high viewpoints offering sweeping city and sea vistas.
• Guided Experience: Led by a qualified Mountain Guide, ensuring safety and local insights.
• Flexible Finish: End at a cozy café or restaurant, with optional meals.
• Short Commute: Starts just a 30-minute bus or taxi ride from Edinburgh’s center.
• Seasonal Scenery: Experience changing landscapes throughout the year, from spring blooms to winter frost.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

We loved the way this hike combines accessible outdoor activity with iconic Scottish scenery, making it perfect for anyone wanting a quick nature escape without leaving Edinburgh. The route offers a genuine taste of the Scottish Borders, complete with grazing Highland Cows that seem almost posed for photos. The nearly 500-meter summit provides spectacular views of Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat, and the surrounding sea—an impressive backdrop for photos or just soaking in the scenery.

A standout feature of the experience is the guidance from a qualified Mountain Leader. This ensures not only safety during the hike but also meaningful insights into the landscape, local ecology, and the Highland Cows’ role in habitat restoration. Several reviews note how knowledgeable and friendly guides help make the experience feel personalized and relaxed, especially since the group size is limited to just 8 participants.

However, it’s important to prepare for the outdoor nature of the tour. The route’s terrain can be uneven, and weather in Scotland can change unexpectedly. Bringing suitable hiking shoes, water, and a jacket is essential, especially in colder seasons. The total cost of around $101 per person reflects a good value, given the guided nature, scenic views, and the chance to see rare Highland Cows in a natural setting.

Meeting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at the Lothianburn Bus Stop car park, a convenient 30-minute journey from Edinburgh’s city center by bus or taxi. The meeting spot is easy to find—look for the orange rucksack of your guide, and the location is precisely marked with the what3words ///linen.swift.lovely. The proximity to the city means you can enjoy a peaceful escape without the hassle of long travel times.

The Hike and Views

Once assembled, your guide will lead you along a route into the Pentland Hills. The initial hike is primarily uphill, but it is manageable for most fitness levels, especially with scenic rewards along the way. As you ascend, the landscape shifts from urban outskirts to rolling hills and open fields, setting the perfect backdrop for wildlife spotting.

The summit, almost 500 meters high, offers exceptional views. You’ll see Edinburgh Castle perched on its volcanic rock, Arthur’s Seat in the distance, and the sea stretching beyond the city. The changing colors through the season—bright yellow gorse in spring, purple heather in summer, fiery autumn foliage, and winter frost—make each visit unique.

Highland Cows and Grazing Area

Descending through the grazing land, you’ll have the chance to see Highland Cows in their natural habitat—a sight not often available in urban environments. These creatures are used as conservation grazers, helping restore the natural Scottish mountain ecosystems. Several reviewers mention how unexpectedly charming and gentle these animals are, with many capturing photos of cows with their long, shaggy hair and impressive horns.

The guide emphasizes respecting the animals—riding is strictly prohibited, but observation and photography are encouraged. It’s worth noting that the cows live outside year-round, so weather conditions can influence the experience. During colder months, expect frost and snow, adding to the rugged charm of the landscape.

Finish and Refreshments

The hike concludes at Swanston Brasserie, a cozy venue where you can enjoy refreshments or a meal—booking ahead is recommended. Many appreciate this relaxed end to the adventure, giving them time to reflect on their day while savoring local flavors. From here, a short walk takes you back to the starting point.

Additional Activities and Context

For those interested, some reviews mention nearby attractions like the Alpine Rollercoaster at the snow sports center, providing a fun add-on for families or thrill-seekers. The entire experience is designed to be flexible; weather and group preferences may lead to slight itinerary changes, but the core highlights—viewpoints, Highland Cows, and scenic landscapes—remain central.

Price and Value

At $101 per person, this tour offers good value for a guided outdoor experience of this scope. It includes a qualified guide, the scenic hike, and access to some of the most striking viewpoints around Edinburgh. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, and the opportunity to see Highland Cows in the wild adds an authentic touch that many city-based tours can’t match.

Considering the cost of comparable outdoor experiences, the mix of nature, wildlife, and city views makes this tour a worthwhile investment for those seeking a break from urban sightseeing—especially if you’re keen on light hiking and learning about Scottish rural life.

This experience is ideal for outdoor lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those wanting a scenic escape from Edinburgh’s busy streets. It’s suitable for travelers who are comfortable walking on uneven terrain and are prepared for a hill climb. While children over 12 will enjoy the walk and animals, the tour isn’t designed for very young kids or those with mobility issues.

It’s also perfect for visitors who appreciate guided experiences with local insight—your guide shares not just the landscape but the story behind the Highland Cows and conservation efforts. If you’re looking for a straightforward, well-organized outdoor adventure that ticks scenic, wildlife, and local culture boxes, this hike fits the bill.

Is transportation to the start point included?
No, the tour recommends taking a bus or taxi to the Lothianburn Bus Stop, which is about a 30-minute journey from Edinburgh city center.

What should I bring with me?
Bring food, water, hiking shoes, and a jacket. The weather can change quickly, so layered clothing is advisable.

Are the Highland Cows domesticated?
No, these cows live outside all year and are used as conservation grazers. They’re generally gentle but should be observed respectfully and not ridden.

How long is the hike?
The entire experience lasts about 3.5 hours, including hiking, sightseeing, and finishing at the café.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 12, likely due to the outdoor terrain and walking involved.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for plans or weather concerns.

This Highland Cow Hike offers a rare chance to combine active exploration with authentic Scottish wildlife and panoramic city views. Perfect for those who enjoy gentle hikes, wildlife spotting, and scenic landscapes, all within a manageable distance from Edinburgh’s historic streets. Whether you’re a nature lover or just want a different perspective of the city, this experience delivers a genuine taste of rural Scotland with a comfortable, guided approach.