Forest Trails In Scotland

Forest Trails In Scotland

There are a few forests in particular we have found we highly recommend are worth a visit on your next Scottish Tourer Motorhome Trip. 

• Culbin Forest stretches from Narin to Findhorn Bay. It really is quite a vast forest to explore, however with the gravel tracks it makes it much easier. The Hill 99 Trail at Wellhill car park is the best starting point for first timers here. You can begin your walk and head up to the Viewpoint Tower where you can take in the views and take some photos. There is a dragonfly pond here and if you can spot them they are beautiful. We made a treasure hunt for our children the first time we went here to spot different animals such as dragonflies, red squirrels, birds and it kept them entertained whilst walking. There is a shorter walk we like at the Gravel Pit Ponds which may be an easier start especially for little legs. Culbin - Forestry and Land Scotland gives all the routes and what the ground is like. You can then head to the beach for a well earned picnic, sand castle building and a sip in the water if you are brave enough. 
• Roseisle is next on my list of visits for forests. Again here you have the benefits of the forest but also the beach. There is also a small play park, BBQ area, toilets and it is really quite sheltered spot. Here the woods are primarily pinewoods which have an enchanted aroma when you take a deep breath in and admire your surroundings. On the beach you may spot some seals and you can see the concrete remains of the British defenses from the war. They make excellent wind breakers and climbing frames! Although there are no specific cycle routes you can choose form any of the paths, most are flat and its not a strenuous cycle. You can make the walk to Burghead from here and there is a fabulous old sweet shop to be found. 

• Torrieston is a fantastic place to pitch up overnight, located just over 4km from Elgin it really isn’t far out of the hustle but feels a million miles away for some wild camping. Some of the Douglas Firs are among first trees planted by the Forestry Commission in the 1920s and today they stand at over 40metres high! Here you can potentially spot salmon and otters if your lucky and there is a lovely loop to be walked by the whole family. Its a gravel path which makes it easy for walking. The Blackburn Trail is accessible by all, even for buggies and small legs or balance bikes and there is a little bridge crossing which makes it a bit interesting. There are lots of places to stop for picnic and snack stops. 
• Weem wood isn’t far from all of the above forests, however it has a different scenery and features steep rocky hills. It is the backdrop of Menzies Castle who supported our own Robert the Bruce and helped to shape the forests that we see today in Scotland. There is a cave to explore in the forest, sculptures and fine views. This is a strenuous walk and isn’t for little legs!

• Achnabreac is just outside of Lochgilphead and the woodland here has a fantastic ring trail. Here you can learn about the ancient symbols and follow them through the forest, stopping for a picnic mid way. Kilmartin House Museum is a great place to learn and expand knowledge of this areas history. There is a mountain bike trail here which we have never ridden but going by the guidance it is not for beginners. Worth a look though if your an experience mountain biker and don’t mind some surprises along the way. The rock art trail is a great, accessible for all route including for buggies. There are lots of views over Loch Gilp and to the hills of Arran. There are places to cycle as a family and the towpath beside the Crinan Canal is perfect for a family cycle. They have recently opened this car park up to stay overnight in a motorhome with a cost of just £7 payable by ringo which is a great base if you want to really explore and on the first night dont want to venture to far from the Scottish Tourer Base. 
• If you are over on the Isle of Arran we would highly recommend Brodick Castle. Not only the castle itself but the grounds and forests that surround it. There are lots of biking trails and we walked the path to Goatfell which trails through the forest into the open rugged mountain. It is  quite a strenuous hike,not really suitable for children and be prepared for all weathers. 
• Callendar woods is the last on our list for today’s blog. It has different paths that lead to amazing views, oak trees, yews and tree lined avenues that make a wonderful photo backdrop. There is Victorian kennels to be spotted, mining remains and also a hill fort here. Both the walking routes here are relatively easy although the high road route does have some steeper climbs so may be harder work pushing the buggy or for little legs, small bikers. Of course you don’t have to walk an entire route sometimes it nice to just explore as far as you want and head back to the comforts of your hotel on wheels.

There are thousands of woodlands to visit in Scotland. We have just shared a few we have been to as a family and a couple. If you come across any others that would be good for other customers please do share with us on your return to the depot so we can share with future customers.