Highland Cow Hike in Edinburgh

5.0 (19 reviews) 2–3 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

19 reviews

5.0

Highland Cow Hike in Edinburgh — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Highland Cow Hike in Edinburgh, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

See the famous Hairy Cows in their natural environment in Edinburgh. They can be difficult to find on the hill, so choose this guided experience to make this easier.

Join an Edinburgh-based Mountain Guide on a hike in the hills on the outskirts of the city

Experience the rugged beauty of some of Scotland's mountains as we hike through some of the country's most amazing landscapes.

This hike takes us up into the hills, where we often see rare wildlife, spectacular cityscapes, and incredible mountain views.

We meet at Hillend, which is about 30 minites from the city centre.

Getting up high allows us to find the cows more easily.

We descend down the hillside where we can look for the local herd of Highland Cows grazing in their natural mountain environment. The cows live out on the hill 365 days a year and are kept as conservation grazers, helping to restore the natural ecology.

We finish at Swanston Farm (lunch can bee booked) where a few more cows can be seen in a field.

Hiking Tours Private and Luxury Historical Tours Walking Tours Nature Walks Small Group Excellent Quality Low Supplier Cancellation Rate

At a glance

Duration: 2–3 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 12 people
People per booking: 1–12
Guide: English
Operated by: Mountain Marcus

Ages: Youth (11–17 years) · Adults (18–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Qualified Mountain Leader

Not included

Not included: Footwear: Please bring suitable shoes/boots for hiking
Not included: Clothing: Please bring warm clothing and a waterproof coat. In Summer bring a hat and/or suncream

Itinerary

Edinburgh

Passing by

We meet just 30 minutes from the centre of Edinburgh
Pentland Hills

2 hours

See the cows roaming freely on the hillside, sometimes they are easy to find, sometimes we have to search for them

We hike up to a view point to see over the city, Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, and the sea
Edinburgh Castle

Passing by

Views of Edinburgh Castle and the city skyline
Swanston Farm

30 min

See more cows at Swanston Farm

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

We meet by the map at the top of the car park.

Look out for my orange rucksack.

The nearest bus stop is Lothianburn Golf Club, a short walk from our meeting point