Scottish hiking tours are sure to be popular this year as staycations are set to be a big trend in 2020.
This is due to a number of reasons, whether it is uncertainty over the impact of the UK leaving the European Union or concerns over the environmental impact of holidays.
Pinterest has released its trend predictions for 2020, and among them are more eco-friendly travel. One trend is for train travel, and as many parts of Scotland are accessible by train.
One of the most romantic ways to travel to Scotland the Caledonian Sleeper train is a great option for people travelling up from London. There are two routes, the lowland and the highland route. The Caledonian Sleeper Lowland route runs between Glasgow Central or Edinburgh Waverley and London Euston while the Highland route runs between Fort William, Inverness or Aberdeen and London Euston.
Here are some of the best places in Scotland you can travel to by train:
Fort William
Easily accessible from London, Edinburgh and Glasgow Fort William is a town in the Highlands that is frequently referred to as the outdoor capital of the UK. At the end of the highly scenic West Highland line it is perfect for train lovers.
Perfect for hikers it is within easy access of Ben Nevis for Munro baggers, and the Glen Nevis Valley and Steall falls. It is one of the few places in the UK where skiing is possible if you head up in the winter.
Canal lovers will be interested to visit the infamous Neptune’s staircase, a series of locks found just 4 miles north of Fort William town centre.
Oban
Not as far along the West Highland line is Oban, a perfect stop for sea farers. It is considered ‘the gateway to the isles’ and both the inner and outer Hebrides can be reached from here.
People looking to explore the islands should head here before taking ferries or even sailing across to the islands to explore them.
Arbroath
Arbroath is a town 15 miles north of Dundee with a lot of history. It has famous cliffs and beaches for people wanting long stretches of sand. There is also a harbour and an historic abbey.
Arbroth is famous for its ‘smokies’ a smoked haddock that is smoked in small batches in traditional smoke houses.
The sandstone cliffs are perfect for people looking for an adventure among its inlets, caves and arches.
Edinburgh
‘The Athens of the North’ as it is known, Edinburgh is a world-famous destination and highly accessible by train from all around the UK.
Famous for its history, its castle, food culture and much, much more, Edinburgh is a city with a lot going for it. Whether you want to climb Arthur’s Seat for a peak into the Highlands, or you want to roam the small old streets of Edinburgh in search of some Harry Potter-style inspiration, all are available here.
Don’t mis out on the city’s fantastic food and drink offerings which are varied and many and found across the city.