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Three people in wetsuits run towards a Scottish loch.

Three people in wetsuits run towards a Scottish loch.

© VisitScotland / Luigi Di Pasquale

  1. Home
  2. Things to do
  3. Outdoor Activities

Fun outdoor activities in Scotland

The possibilities for getting active in Scotland’s great outdoors are endless. Discover fun things to do in Scotland, including world-class watersports, incredible walking and unforgettable cycling. Outdoor adventures, fun days out, family activities - you'll find it all here!

Popular activities in Scotland

Try our most iconic activities - long walks up mountains, mountain biking down hills and cycling through forests.

Walking in Scotland

Walking in Scotland means mighty mountains to conquer and plenty of forest paths, coastal walks, and city routes to wander.

Your ultimate guide to cycling in Scotland

Planning a cycling trip? Here's your ultimate guide to cycling in Scotland, with cycle routes, tours, bike parks and more!

Mountain biking in Scotland

Test your skills in one of the best mountain biking locations in the world.

Scottish golf & the best golf courses in Scotland

Learn more about Scottish golf, including some of the best golf clubs and courses in Scotland now.

Scottish Munros - hill & Munro bagging

How tall are Munros? How do you go about climbing one? It's time to find out about Scotland's Munro mountains and the sport of Munro-bagging!

Try something new

Hot air ballooning

Hot air ballooning

Unusual activities

As well as our most popular activities, Scotland is home to unusual and exciting things to do that will add an extra special element to your trip.

  • Hot air ballooning
  • Microlight Scotland
  • Paragliding
  • Stunning wild swimming locations in Scotland
  • Lost Shore Surf Resort
  • Footgolf in Scotland

Surfing lesson with George Watt Surf School at Fraserburgh Beach

© Discover Fraserburgh / Damian Shields

Watersports

Make a splash on your holiday with a range of thrilling watersports that you can enjoy with the family.

  • Canoeing & kayaking holidays in Scotland
  • Stand-up paddleboarding in Scotland
  • Canyoning, gorge walking & coasteering
  • Surfing & windsurfing in Scotland
  • White water rafting in Scotland
  • Sailing in Scotland
Explore all watersports

Instructor at Glenmore Lodge ice climbing

© EdSmith

Snowsports

Hit the slopes during Scotland's winter months to learn new skills, enjoy a family break, and soak in the magnificent panoramic views that surround you.

  • Snowboarding & skiing in Scotland
  • Winter climbing

Family-friendly activities

We've got some great ideas for an active day out with the kids, suitable for all different ages.

7Days

Car

7 Days in the Highlands for Kids

Check out our 7-day itinerary for families in the Highlands and plan a break that the kids will remember!

13 Scenic short walks for families

Family walking trips are a great way to embrace the great Scottish outdoors.

7 Exciting bikes routes around Glasgow

Go on a cycling adventure in Glasgow with some of the best bike routes from the city.

The Killiecrankie Zip Park, Killiecrankie

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Adventure activities

If you need that little extra bit of adrenaline in your Scottish outdoor adventure, look no further!

  • Archery
  • Highland Fling Bungee & Zip Park
  • Go Ape - Glentress Forest
  • Zip lining
  • Basking Shark Scotland night snorkelling
See all adventure activities

Bucket list experience in the Highlands

Elena from VisitScotland at the Highland Fling Bungee Jump, Killiecrankie

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Elena from VisitScotland recently went on a bungee jumping experience in the heart of Perthshire with Highland Fling Bungee.

"Bungee jumping is definitely not for the faint hearted, however I've never thought I could have such a thrilling experience in the beauty of the Scottish Highlands. I think the autumn season is the best time to spend some time outdoors while experiencing the stunning changing colours of nature in Scotland."

So, is bungee jumping worth a try? Elena thinks so!

"Definitely recommended for the adrenaline lovers and for the ones looking to tick off something their bucket list!"

Find more bucket list activities

Islay Sea Adventures

© Wild Scotland / Stephen Sweeney

Other ways to enjoy the outdoors

Not sure what activity to try? Check out these guides for other ideas on making the most of Scotland's great outdoors.

  • 13 Iconic Scottish views
  • Scottish wildlife
  • 13 Scenic boat trips in Scotland
  • 10 Incredible things to do in East Lothian
Explore Scotland's landscapes

Explore Scotland safely

Make sure you read up on our safety advice and remember to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

A kayaker enjoying the River Findhorn.

As the weather gets drier, the risk of wildfire in Scotland increases. Fire can ignite easily, spread fast and burn with high intensity. We're all asked not to light a fire outdoors during prolonged dry periods, and to always fully extinguish cigarettes.

  • A guide to outdoor safety in Scotland
  • Scottish Outdoor Access Code
  • 10 Scottish Outdoor Access Code Tips
  • Heading to the Scottish hills - #ThinkWINTER!
  • Wildfire prevention

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