John Muir Way
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a 12-day journey through Scotland's rich history and breathtaking landscapes. This multi-day tour takes you from the coastal town of Helensburgh to the historical town of Dunbar, traversing through charming villages, ancient sites, and stunning natural landscapes. Discover the architectural marvels of Helensburgh, the scenic trails of John Muir Way, the historical significance of Falkirk, and the royal charm of Linlithgow. Explore the coastal beauty of South Queensferry, the vibrant city life of Edinburgh, and the quaint fishing village of Port Seton. The tour concludes in Dunbar, the birthplace of John Muir, the father of National Parks. Each day is packed with unique attractions, comfortable accommodations, and unforgettable experiences.
Included
11 breakfasts
11 nights twin share accommodation in B&Bs / pubs and small hotels, with ensuite facilities where possible.
The 11 nights of the tour are spent in a variety of accommodations: B&Bs and Inns. The accommodations described are our normal choice, however if these are not available then alternatives are used and you will be informed at the time of booking. Baths / showers: Many rooms with ensuite or private facilities have a shower rather than a bath usually because of limited space. Some accommodations may have a separate room in the building where a bath is available to guests. We will try to accommodate double room requests however the majority of rooms booked will be twin share.
hotel: 11 night(s);
Digital information pack including route notes & maps
Emergency Hotline
Luggage transfers
Map
Attractions
Tower Hill ParkDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Helensburgh
Day 1: Arrival in Helensburgh
Begin your journey in the picturesque coastal town of Helensburgh, known for its handsome buildings and wide tree-lined streets. Explore the town's rich history as a spa resort and its role in operating the world's first steamship ferry service. Spend the night in a charming B&B near Central Station, offering a blend of aged character and modern comfort.
Day 2 – Day 2: Helensburgh to Balloch
Day 2: Helensburgh to Balloch
- Tower Hill Park
- More
Embark on a steep climb up the John Muir Way, passing through the forest track and around Ben Bowie. Enjoy the scenic descent onto the Stoneymollan Road, offering views over Loch Lomond and The Highland Fault. Arrive at the tourist village of Balloch, where you can enjoy a cruise on Loch Lomond. Spend the night in a comfortable B&B in the heart of the village.
Day 3 – Day 3: Balloch to Strathblane
Day 3: Balloch to Strathblane
- Dumbarton Castle
- More
Experience the hardest and highest day of the tour, traversing through moor and woodland towards Loch and Ben Lomond. The highlight of the day is the Burncrook reservoir and the views from the southern side of the Highland Fault. End the day in the village of Strathblane, where you'll stay in a small, comfortable hotel with a rich history.
Day 4 – Day 4: Strathblane to Kilsyth
Day 4: Strathblane to Kilsyth
Head off to Clachan of Campsie and then onto Kirkintilloch's historic town centre. Join the first canal stretch, enjoying flat walking on the old towpath before encountering the ancient Bar Hill Roman Fort. End the day in Kilsyth, where you'll stay in a well-appointed hotel.
Day 5 – Day 5: Kilsyth to Falkirk
Day 5: Kilsyth to Falkirk
Enjoy an easy stroll largely on gravel and woodland trails to the large town of Falkirk. Much of the distance is on the Forth and Clyde Canal, which leads to the Falkirk Wheel, a unique engineering feature. Explore Falkirk's rich history before settling down for the night in a centrally located hotel.
Day 6 – Day 6: Falkirk to Linlithgow
Day 6: Falkirk to Linlithgow
Walk through Callandar Park and woodland, on the Union Canal and beside the beautiful River Avon. Explore the old part of Linlithgow, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, and the magnificent Stuart Palace. Spend the night in a gorgeous B&B located in a quiet area above the town centre.
Day 7 – Day 7: Linlithgow to South Queensferry
Day 7: Linlithgow to South Queensferry
Travel through wonderfully rural countryside until you arrive at the Firth of Forth. Enjoy superb views from the Fisher row walk and explore the delightful town of Bo'ness. Visit the remarkable Blackness Castle before entering South Queensferry, passing under the three Forth bridges. Spend the night at a historic inn that inspired Robert Louis Stevenson's 'Kidnapped'.
Day 8 – Day 8: South Queensferry to Edinburgh
Day 8: South Queensferry to Edinburgh
Enter the outskirts of Edinburgh, passing through the attractive coastal Dalmeny Estate before turning inland. Walk beside the Water of Leith before joining the Union Canal into the city centre. Spend the night in a charming B&B near the end of the Union Canal.
Day 9 – Day 9: Edinburgh to Port Seton
Day 9: Edinburgh to Port Seton
Walk out of town on the Union Canal and follow quiet valley walking routes to the seaside near Joppa and Musselburgh. From there, take a coastal walk to the old fortified sea town of Prestonpans before reaching the attractive fishing village of Port Seton. Spend the night in an attractive fisherman's house just behind the harbour.
Day 10 – Day 10: Port Seton to North Berwick
Day 10: Port Seton to North Berwick
The walk is a coastal affair dodging around golf courses. Appreciate the beautiful village of Aberlady and its bird reserve. The final couple of hours walking brings you into North Berwick, a town enriched by golf. Spend the night in a gorgeous B&B on the seafront.
Day 11 – Day 11: North Berwick to Dunbar
Day 11: North Berwick to Dunbar
Leave North Berwick southwards and take time to walk up the volcanic plug called North Berwick Law. After a few miles on country tracks and quiet lanes, reach the popular village of East Linton. Follow the River Tyne for a while, until you reach the coast and beaches of the John Muir Country Park, before reaching Dunbar. Spend the night in a nice old fashioned style pub hotel towards the cliffs of Dunbar.
Day 12 – Day 12: Departure from Dunbar
Day 12: Departure from Dunbar
Your journey ends after breakfast. Take this time to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories you've made during this 12-day tour.
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