Edinburgh is full of art, culture, and excellent sight seeing. But few visitors take the opportunity to take in some of the sights and activities located within a mile or so of this city, but which offer a much more memorable experience. Scotland is a beautiful country with a rich history, and the attractions surrounding Edinburgh can immerse visitors in these things like nothing else. What follows are some of the attractions and activities most visitors miss, all within easy access of most Edinburgh hotels.

Arthur’s Seat

Take a walk down the hill from Holyrood Park and you’ll find yourself at the edge of the Salisbury Crags. This offers a dramatic change of scenery right near the city. Get a taste of the Scottish countryside, particularly in the early morning or twilight hours. Arthur’s Seat is a prominent hilltop in this area that’s as monumental as it is picturesque. Don’t forget to bring your camera. You might even dare to climb Arthur’s Seat. The reward is a stunning view of the city or the sunset, if you’re game.

Water of Leith Walkway

This 11-mile walkway runs from Balerno to the Port of Leith and takes visitors past some of Edinburgh’s most interesting neighborhoods and out into the picturesque green spaces just outside the city. Convenient to several Edinburgh hotels, the trail has plenty of entrances and can be taken as a daylong adventure or a Sunday afternoon stroll. At peak hours this can be a great way to meet and make friends with local residence if you’re brave enough to strike up a conversation. You might even get a good tip on where to find good cheap hotels or restaurants in the city.

Pentland Hills Regional Park

This beautiful park located just south of the city is the perfect place for the outdoor enthusiast staying in Edinburgh. Plenty of cheap hotels are located nearby for those unwilling to rough it. The range of activities includes almost anything from fishing to paragliding.

Rosslyn Chapel

Many visitors take the opportunity to visit Rosslyn Chapel south of the city. This 1446 church was featured in the film The DaVinci Code, and the symbols in the church figure prominently in the plot of the book that film was based on. This is a great chance to take in some of the rich history, culture, and architecture that’s made Scotland an international tourist destination.

Author: Max Brockbank. Max is an author, writer and editor. He is married with two children and a cat and lives in south east London.

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