The 12 Most Amazing Peaks around Southside

The region around Southside offers several popular peaks. Arthur's Seat is a highly favored ancient volcano dominating Holyrood Park, providing commanding views. Another must-see is the View from Allermuir Hill, known for its superb panoramic views of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth. Visitors also appreciate Caerketton Hill, offering tremendous views from the eastern edge of the Pentland Hills.

Yes, there are options for easier walks. While Arthur's Seat has routes suitable for 'little legs,' requiring stable shoes, the climb up Blackford Hill is relatively easy and accessible for most fitness levels, leading through the picturesque Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Nature Reserve.

Each season offers a unique experience for hiking around Southside. For Blackford Hill, there's no wrong time to visit, with spring offering fresh greenery, autumn warm colors, and winter quiet beauty. However, sunrise or sunset visits are particularly magical. For other peaks like Corstorphine Hill Tower, morning is often recommended to avoid crowds.

The mountain peaks around Southside offer diverse and spectacular views. From Arthur's Seat, you get commanding views across the Edinburgh region and the Firth of Forth. Allermuir Hill provides panoramic views towards Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and on clear days, even Fife and the Scottish Highlands. Blackford Hill offers breathtaking views of the Edinburgh skyline, including Arthur's Seat and the east coast.

Yes, several peaks feature historical significance or man-made structures. Arthur's Seat is an ancient volcano with historical ties to the capital city. Corstorphine Hill Tower, also known as Clermiston Tower, is a memorial to Sir Walter Scott built in 1871, offering incredible views when open to the public.

For peaks like Arthur's Seat, stable shoes, water, and something warm are recommended due to uneven paths, strenuous climbs, and potential wind/cold. For Blackford Hill, sturdy shoes are advised for uneven paths, and a windproof jacket is recommended, especially outside summer. Binoculars can also enhance wildlife and city views.

Beyond hiking, the Southside region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore mountain hikes, such as the 'Haggis Knowe – Arthur's Seat loop' or the 'Caerketton Hill loop,' which can be found in the Mountain Hikes around Southside guide. There are also options for gravel biking and MTB trails, with routes like 'Auld Reekie ride out from Edinburgh' in the Gravel biking around Southside guide and 'Blackford Hill loop' in the MTB Trails around Southside guide.

Yes, some peaks offer more challenging sections. While the walk to the summit of Allermuir Hill is generally moderate, it includes more rugged and rocky sections near the top, making it a challenging option for those seeking a more strenuous climb within the Pentland Hills.

Absolutely. Corstorphine Hill is a designated Local Nature Reserve. The Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Nature Reserve, accessible via trails to Blackford Hill, is a gem for nature lovers, offering a wealth of flora and fauna and numerous bird species to observe.

Visitors consistently praise the incredible panoramic views and the accessibility of these natural landmarks from the city. The blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and diverse landscapes, from ancient volcanoes to prominent hills, makes the region a popular destination. The community has shared over 800 photos and given more than 1200 upvotes, highlighting the visual appeal and rewarding experiences.

For visiting Corstorphine Hill Tower, it's recommended to go in the morning as the hill can become very busy after midday. As it's a Local Nature Reserve, visitors are asked not to light fires, remove plants, disturb wildlife, or ride bicycles in a way that causes erosion or prevents others from enjoying the amenity.