Nothing beats a refreshing winter walk and there's no better time for it than New Year's Day.
Whether you need to shake off a Hogmanay hangover or simply want to start 2023 on a positive note surrounded by Scotland's unparalleled scenery, there are countless walks and trails you can head to.
While walking through the country's cities while they are cloaked in frost can be a uniquely scenic experience, sometimes you just want to get out into nature and breathe in the fresh countryside air.
Here is a rundown of five winter walks in Scotland that are perfect for a walk today, whether you're after a relaxing stroll or an invigorating hike.
Cardrona Forest
Cardrona is an expansive forest that covers the hillsides on the south side of the Tweed Valley in the Scottish Borders. When you're done, it's worth visiting the quaint nearby town of Innerleithen, famous for its wool and knitwear.
Among the top walking trails are the Burn Trail and the Pen View Trail. The former is a short and tranquil route though spruce and larch trees, while the latter offers one-of-a-kind views of Lee Pen.
Aldie Burn
Located around 30 miles north of Inverness, the serene forests of Aldie Burn offer gentle and photogenic walking trails suitable for all skill levels. They are also wheelchair and pushchair-accessible and the perfect spot for a family day out.
The Pond Trail is gorgeous when the weather drops, with frost decorating the conifers and pines, and there is even a picnic spot to sit down and warm up with some coffee or hot chocolate. Meanwhile, the Aldie Burn Trail is a slightly longer route with some moderate slopes.
Killiecrankie
If you're interested in Scottish history as well as gorgeous landscapes, then you should head to Killiecrankie in Perthshire.
You wouldn't know it looking at the peaceful scenery, but one of the most violent battles of the Jacobite rebellion took place at the picturesque wooded river gorge.
These days, Killiecrankie is a popular beauty spot and is especially dramatic during the winter months. There are a variety of walking trails that are easily accessible, all of which are rich in wildlife, though the Garry Bridge — the most photographed bridge in Perthshire— is a particular highlight.
Sutherland's Grove
With gigantic Douglas fir trees, a rocky gorge, and even waterfalls, if you're looking for a pretty New Year's walk you couldn't ask for much more than Sutherland's Grove.
Located near Barcaldine in Argyll, the walk is under half a kilometre long, making it perfect for those who don't want to spend all day hiking.
It is also suitable for all walkers regardless of experience, offering a suitably gentle riverside stroll. If you wrap up warm, there are even some picnic spots scattered around where you can rest for a while.
Mar Lodge Estate National Nature Reserve
Owned and managed by the National Trust for Scotland, Mar Lodge Estate in Aberdeenshire is considered among the most important nature conservation landscapes in the UK. Covering 29,340 hectares and occupying almost 8 per cent of the Cairngorms National Park, there is no shortage of walking routes.
It's the perfect spot to relax and take in some of the most stunning natural scenery that Scotland has to offer, as well as the chance to see rare wildlife including red deer and golden eagles. For those looking for something a bit more challenging, four of the five tallest mountains in the UK are located here.
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