The Ramblers’ Festival of Winter Walks
As the cold weather takes hold, the Ramblers’ annual Festival of Winter Walks will provide walkers with the chance to leave footprints in the snow as they explore the country’s beautiful wintry landscapes.
During the Festival of Winter Walks, which runs from December 20 until January 4, Ramblers Scotland groups will be leading free walks across Scotland – from short festive strolls involving carol singers and Christmas markets to rambles to walk off the mince pies and kick-start New Year’s resolutions.
The Festival also features more than 400 circular walking routes which walkers can download from Ramblers Scotland’s Medal Routes App at www.medalroutes.org. These Medal Routes, which are also available online, each have bronze, silver and gold levels, allowing walkers to choose how long they want to walk for.
‘Explore Scotland at its wintry best’
“Walking is great at any time of the year but there’s nothing quite like wrapping up warm and heading out with family and friends to explore Scotland at its wintry best,” said Ramblers Scotland Convener David Thomson.
“Our walks during the Festival are free, fun and open to everyone. Put on your hat and scarf and join us as we head out into the crisp, clear winter to enjoy the season the way we know best – on our feet.”
For lots more ideas about getting out and about across Scotland, pick up a copy of this month’s Scots Magazine. Available in the shops now – or sign up for a subscription by clicking here.
Our Pick of The Walks
Glenrothes Circular
Date: Sunday December 21
Distance: 8 miles
Start: 10.30am, Riverside Park, Glenrothes
Circular walk on woodland and farm tracks, stopping at Holl Reservoir for lunch.
Moffat Circular
Date: Saturday December 27
Distance: 8 miles
Start: 10am, Annandale Arms Hotel, High St, Moffat
An easy walk using the highways and byways round Moffat.
Kelpies, Canal and Carron
Date: Sunday December 28
Distance: 6 miles
Start: 10.30am, Kelpies Visitor Centre Car Park, Helix Park
A walk down the new canal extension, circling the Saline Lagoons, a winter habitat for visiting birds.
To find out more about these walks, and a full list of the guided walks taking place during The Ramblers’ Festival of Winter Walks, click here.