The 2025 Scottish Adventure Bucketlist
I was recently told that 91% of people fail their New Year’s resolutions! So we’re all either really bad at sticking to our goals, or, our goals aren’t exciting enough! Instead of setting yourself up for failure with resolutions like cutting out all sugar (because let’s face it, come Saturday, you’ll be eating Chocolate like the rest of us). So, why not make resolutions that you actually want to follow.
Scotland is known for its stunning landscapes and adventurous spirit, making it the perfect destination for those looking to tick off some bucket list adventures in 2025. While popular spots like the Isle of Skye and the Highlands are must-visit destinations, there are plenty of lesser-known gems waiting to be discovered. Here are nine hidden adventures to add to your Scottish bucket list for 2025:.

Bucketlist Hikes in Scotland
The Quiraing Circuit
Located on the Isle of Skye, this circular hike offers breathtaking views of the iconic rock formations and lush green landscapes. The 4.5-mile loop takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. Nearby activities include exploring the Fairy Pools and visiting the Old Man of Storr. Accommodation options on the Isle of Skye range from cosy bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels, and public transport is available from major cities like Inverness and Glasgow.
Ben A’an
Tucked away in the Trossachs National Park, Ben A’an offers panoramic views of Loch Katrine and the surrounding mountains. The 2.5-mile hike takes around 2-3 hours to complete and is suitable for all skill levels. Nearby activities include boat trips on Loch Katrine and exploring the nearby town of Callander. Accommodation options in the Trossachs range from campsites to charming guesthouses, and public transport is available from Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Located near Dunkeld in Perthshire, The Hermitage is a tranquil woodland walk that leads to the stunning Black Linn Falls. The 2-mile loop takes approximately 1-2 hours to complete and is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Nearby activities include visiting the historic Dunkeld Cathedral and exploring the nearby town of Pitlochry. Accommodation options in Dunkeld range from cozy cottages to boutique hotels, and public transport is available from major cities like Edinburgh and Perth.

Bucketlist Swimming spots
Nestled in the Cairngorms National Park, Loch Morlich is a picturesque freshwater loch with sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The perfect spot for a refreshing swim on a hot day, the loch is surrounded by scenic hiking trails and opportunities for water sports. Nearby activities include visiting the nearby town of Aviemore and exploring the Cairngorms National Park. Accommodation options in Aviemore range from campsites to luxury lodges, and public transport is available from Inverness and Aberdeen.
Located on the Isle of Skye, the Fairy Pools are a series of crystal-clear rock pools fed by waterfalls from the Cuillin Mountains. The pools are a popular spot for wild swimming and are surrounded by stunning mountain views. Nearby activities include hiking in the Cuillin Mountains and exploring the nearby town of Portree. Accommodation options on the Isle of Skye range from cozy cottages to luxury hotels, and public transport is available from major cities like Inverness and Glasgow.
Scotland’s largest freshwater loch, Loch Lomond offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The loch is surrounded by picturesque villages and stunning mountain views, making it the perfect spot for a day of water-based adventures. Nearby activities include hiking in the Trossachs National Park and exploring the nearby town of Balloch. Accommodation options in Balloch range from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels, and public transport is available from Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Bucketlist Easier walks:
Located near Fort William, Glen Nevis is a beautiful valley surrounded by towering mountains and cascading waterfalls. The 3-mile loop takes approximately 1-2 hours to complete and offers stunning views of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain. Nearby activities include hiking to Steall Falls and exploring the nearby town of Fort William. Accommodation options in Fort William range from cozy guesthouses to luxury hotels, and public transport is available from major cities like Glasgow and Inverness.
Stretching from Ardrishaig to Crinan, the Crinan Canal is a scenic waterway lined with charming villages and peaceful countryside. The 9-mile walk along the canal takes approximately 3-4 hours to complete and offers plenty of opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Nearby activities include visiting the nearby town of Lochgilphead and exploring the Knapdale Forest. Accommodation options in Lochgilphead range from cozy bed and breakfasts to self-catering cottages, and public transport is available from Glasgow and Oban.
Loch an Eilein
Located in the Cairngorms National Park, Loch an Eilein is a tranquil loch surrounded by ancient pine forests and historic ruins. The 4-mile loop around the loch takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete and offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting and photography. Nearby activities include visiting the nearby town of Aviemore and exploring the Rothiemurchus Estate. Accommodation options in Aviemore range from campsites to luxury lodges, and public transport is available from Inverness and Aberdeen.

Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike, a refreshing swim, or a leisurely walk, Scotland has plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in 2025. From the rugged landscapes of the Isle of Skye to the tranquil waters of Loch Lomond, there’s something for every adventurer to enjoy in this beautiful country. Start planning your Scottish bucket list adventures now and get ready for an unforgettable journey in 2025.
Intrepidus Outdoors is an adventure tours and outdoor experience providers, based in Edinburgh, Scotland, that specialises in private and open canyoning, coasteering, mountain biking and hill walking tours.
My Adventure Edinburgh (Part of the Intrepidus Group) is an outdoor tours provider that specialises in canyoning, coasteering, canoeing and hillwalking tours. As well as delivering these adventurous experiences across Scotland, My Adventure is also a provider of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Expeditions where we run bronze, silver and gold level awards for young people.
If you are looking for additional information about adventures from Edinburgh, we have published a number of blogs:
- Open Coasteering guide here
- Adventures in Edinburgh here
- A guide to Wild Swimming in Scotland here
- SUP’ing in Scotland – 8 Best Spots here
- Top 10 Vegan Restaurants in Edinburgh here
- Top tips for backpacking Scotland here
- Best Budget Hotels and Hostels Edinburgh here
- Hen Party Adventures Edinburgh: here
- Stag Party Outdoor Adventures Edinburgh Essentials: here
If you haven’t already seen it, check out the our Trip Advisor, Youtube channeland check us out on Visit Scotland.