Natural Beauty
Scotland has 40 National Scenic Areas which cover 13% of the land. One such area just 10 miles to the south of Edinburgh is the Scottish Borders. From its rolling hills, adrenaline-fuelled mountain biking trails, distilleries and historic castles and abbeys, there’s so many reasons why the Scottish Borders makes for a memorable day trip.
Even closer to home, not officially counted as an NSA, but nevertheless scenic it most certainly is, are the Pentland Hills. Laying just beyond the Edinburgh bypass the Pentland Hills is a beautiful area to explore by foot or bike. Hikers and bikers can expect some tough hills, reservoirs and awe-inspiring views back towards Edinburgh.