Top 10 Fairytale Forest Walks in Scotland

1. Puck’s Glen

Argyll and Bute

Said to be home to the mischievous spirit the Ghillie Dhu, this magical family-friendly trail winds along a Victorian walkway up a dramatic rocky gorge, passing along several waterfalls and towering Douglas firs along the way. 

The route is known for its stunning beauty where you can take a leisurely walk or hike through the glen. Don’t forget to bring your camera too for photographs of the waterfalls and its surrounding scenery.

Getting there: Puck’s Glen is located on the east side of the A815, 5 miles north of Dunoon and 1 mile south of Benmore Botanic Gardens.

Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa Hotel is a great local base in which to explore Scotland’s West Coast  including Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park and Argyll & Bute. 

 

2. The Enchanted Forest 

Pitlochry

Wander through the illuminated pathways and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Pitlochry’s Enchanted Forest Walk. Held every year in October, watch Faskally Wood be transformed into a wonderland of light, sound, and imagination with a dazzling display of colourful lights, enchanting music, and captivating installations. 

Tickets are available via the event’s official website, where you can also catch a preview of what’s in store for this year.

Getting there: The Enchanted Forest Walk can be reached via the main A9 road which runs through the heart of the area and Pitlochry, or reached by public transport links. 

The event is a short five-minute drive away from Fonab Castle on Foss Road via the A9. 

 

3. Glencoe Lochan Trail

Glencoe

A popular hiking route that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, the Glencoe Lochan Trail and woodland is a relatively easy walking route, making it suitable for hikers of all levels. As you follow the path, you will be treated to breathtaking views of redwoods and wild mountain peaks. The lochan itself provides a tranquil setting for a picnic or simply a moment of peace and reflection.

Getting there: Head through the centre of Glencoe village and over the hump-back bridge. Take the second left then through the barrier after the bridge to get to Glencoe Lochan Trail. 

If you’re heading to the trail from The Glencoe Inn, the drive is less than 5 minutes away. You can find driving instructions via Google Maps. 

 

4. Glen Tanar

Aberdeenshire

Nestled in the eastern Cairngorms National Park, Glen Tanar is a working Highland estate that has been cared for by four generations of the Coats family since 1905. 

The estate is best known for its rugged heather moorland and Caledonian pine forests, where it has a range of activities available including salmon fishing and wildlife photography sessions. Glen Tanar offers walking and hiking trails suitable for all levels, ranging from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes.

Getting there: Glen Tanar can be reached from Ballater or Aboyne by car, or you can take a train to Stonehaven or Aberdeen, and go by taxi. The Glen Tanar website details full travel instructions from any of these destinations. 

Reaching Glen Tanar from The Balmoral Arms in Ballater takes around half an hour by car. You can find full driving instructions on Google Maps. 

 

5. The Hermitage

Perthshire

The Hermitage is a magical Perthshire forest that offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and historical charm. 

Walk through towering Douglas firs to the folly of Ossian's Hall, where you can gaze over the thunderous Black Linn Falls. Explore the peaceful woodland paths, admire the totem pole, and spot red squirrels darting through the trees. In autumn, witness the spectacular sight of salmon leaping up the falls. This enchanting forest, originally designed as a pleasure ground for the Dukes of Atholl, provides a perfect escape into nature.

Getting there: Head north along the A9 from Dunkeld and find the Hermitage car park signposted to the left.

Driving to The Hermitage from Dunkeld Country House Hotel in the heart of Perthshire takes around 20 minutes via the A9. You can find full driving instructions via Google Maps.

 

6. Grizedale Forest

Lake District

Nestled in the heart of the Lake District World Heritage Site, Grizedale Forest offers an enchanting escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its breathtaking views, stunning artwork, and endless forest trails, you can explore the forest on foot, by bike, or even on horseback. 

As you wander through the woodland, keep your eyes peeled for the unique sculptures scattered throughout the forest. For a thrilling experience, test your nerve on one of the Go Ape courses, swinging through the trees high above the ground.

Getting there:  Grizedale Forest is a short drive away from Grasmere, around 30 minutes from The Daffodil Hotel & Spa on Keswick Road. Find full driving instructions via Google Maps.

7. Scallastle Forest

Isle of Mull

A moderately challenging hiking route near Craignure on the Isle of Mull, Scallastle Forest offers a peaceful and scenic spot for walking, hiking, and wildlife spotting. The route includes stunning views to the hills and across the Sound of Mull and can be easily reached from the village. Just be sure to have your sturdy walking boots on as some parts of the trail can get a little steep and muddy.

Getting there: Scallastle Forest can be reached via bus from Craignure or via car where you’ll find the trail route begin from the Scallastle Forestry and Land Scotland car park, on the south side of the A849 just northwest of Craignure.

The forest is a short distance away from the Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa via the A849. Find full driving instructions on Google Maps. 

 

8. Culbin Forest

Nairn

A diverse coastal forest located just north of Nairn, Culbin Forest offers a variety of walking trails, including the Culbin Forest Trail which takes you through ancient pinewoods and dune landscapes. 

It’s also a popular hotspot for bird watching activity, with most of the forest being an RSPB reserve, and there’s a few places to look for other local wildlife too, including otters at Otter Pool and dragonflies at Dragonfly Pond.

Getting there:  There are car parks located at Wellhill, Cloddymoss (both near Kintessack) and Kingsteps (near Nairn).

To get to Culbin Forest from The Golf View Hotel & Spa in Nairn is around a 25 minute drive. You can find full driving instructions over on Google Maps.