Summer is usually the season to plan a walking holiday in Scotland. There is a good chance of good weather, nature is in bloom and all amenities are open. Autumn offers a completely different experience, but can be just as inspiring for indoor and outdoor activities. Engaging in Autumn activities in Scotland is a great way to avoid the crowds (and the midges).
It is true that it can rain more often during the Scottish autumn, but this season also has its advantages. Breathtaking fall colors in the woods of the Scottish Highlands and cozy evenings in local pubs, for example. And let’s face it: a good whisky really tastes best when it is a bit colder outside!
So whether you prefer to sit by a fire or go on an autumn hike in the Highlands, check out our favorite fall activities in Scotland here.
Whiskey tasting
There is hardly a better way to warm up the body than with a smoky Scotch whisky. One of the most popular autumn activities in Scotland is therefore taking part in a whisky tasting. While it starts to get colder and darker outside, you are cozy and warm inside.
Learn how the whisky distilling process works and how it can be tasted in the final drink. After that, of course, you will have to try the whisky itself – can you taste the difference between a whisky from the famous Speyside region and a drink distilled in the Lowlands?
You can also combine whisky tasting and hiking on the Speyside Way – a uniquely Scottish whisky trail!
Air balloon
Would you like to see the Scottish landscape from a completely different perspective? This autumn activity is suitable for those who really want to pull out all the stops for a unique experience in Scotland: a trip in a hot air balloon.
Scotland’s wildlife looks stunning from the ground up, but there is little more impressive than Scottish landscapes from bird’s eye view. Those who really want to pull out all the stops for a special autumn activity can experience Scotland from a hot air balloon.
Autumn walk through the forest
The weather is not always cooperative in Scotland during the fall, but this season is perfect for walks. The forests in the Scottish Highlands turn red, orange and yellow during the autumn months, making this nature reserve look breathtaking. Take an autumn walk through the woods around Loch Lomond on the West Highland Way or north of Loch Ness on the Great Glen Way.
Warm up by the fire
This can be perfectly combined with one of the other autumn activities in Scotland. After a brisk autumn walk, there is nothing more inviting than a good meal and delicious whiskey in a traditional Scottish pub.
Follow the smoky scent of a log fire to get to the coziest pubs and inns. Look for the irresistible log fires and the most intimate pubs in Edinburgh, Glasgow or any of the smaller towns along our Scotland walks.
