National Parks in Scotland an experience as breathtaking and diverse as the land itself

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Scotlands first National Park

Situated in the west of the country, 40 minutes from Glasgow and 90 minutes from Edinburgh, the Park covers 1,865 sq km of some of the country’s most spectacular and diverse scenery. Centred on the enigmatic Loch Lomond, the largest expanse of freshwater in Great Britain, the park ascends from the grassy lowlands of the south to the towering mountains of the north, encompassing parts of Scotland’s wild and rugged west coast. The Park houses forests and woodlands, moorland and farmland. In addition to Loch Lomond there are 21 other lochs, over 50 rivers and a unique marine and coastal environment within the boundaries of the Park.

The Cairngorms National Park, 'Land of the Giants'

To the north east lies the Cairngorms National Park, the largest in the UK; at 3,800 sq km it is double the size of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs. The Park boasts the largest area of mountain landscape in Britain, housing an Arctic wilderness and four of Scotland’s largest peaks as well as heather clad moorland, woodlands, rivers and lochs. The lowlands are formed by the beautiful Spey, Dee and Don Valleys.

Both parks are easily navigated by public transport. Buses, coaches, ferries and trains can be accessed without difficulty. Provisions are made on buses for outdoor equipment such as bikes.

Scotlands National Parks - A wealth of outdoor activities on offer

From a gentle stroll to extreme sports, the activities on offer at Scotland’s National Parks are as diverse as the landscape itself. Whether hill walking or trekking, there are trails and paths for all abilities. Cycling is an ideal way to see the natural splendour of the Parks and is actively encouraged. The varied terrain and natural single track within the Parks mean that Scotland is fast becoming one of the must-ride destinations on the world mountain biking circuit cemented by Fort William hosting the Downhill Mountain Biking World Cup. During the winter months, skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the Cairngorms brings the winter sport circuit to Scotland. Watersports of all kinds: fishing, sailing, canoeing and waterskiing offer chances to explore the lochs and rivers of the Parks. With some of the oldest and most beautiful courses in the world, no trip to the birthplace of golf would be complete without a round or two.

The founding of the National Parks of Scotland

The National Parks were established between 2001-2003 following a decision to protect these national treasures for today and tomorrow. The management of the Parks is vital for the fragile, natural environment, and for the rich resource that the Parks provide for visitors and local communities alike. However, the idea of preserving these areas for current and future generations is not a contemporary one. One man, Scottish by birth, has been globally acknowledged as a pioneer for environmental awareness and preservation.

John Muir 'The Father of the National Park Service'

John Muir was born in Dunbar, East Lothian, in 1838. At the age of 11 his family emigrated to rural Wisconsin, USA. From his Scottish coastal roots John Muir developed a lifelong passion for the natural world. He studied botany, biology, geology and glaciology and wrote comprehensively about his subjects. Through his writing John Muir raised awareness of the desecration of the great American wilderness. His foresight and philosophy was an inspiration to many; he was on personal terms with three presidents and advised on the establishment of National Forests and the U.S. Forest Service. His influence on Theodore Roosevelt shaped the environmental movement of America and had a direct influence on establishing five National Parks – including Yosemite and The Grand Canyon. John Muir’s influence has spanned continents and in the year of Scotland’s Homecoming, his life and robust legacy was celebrated. ‘The John Muir Odyssey’ gave visitors a chance to experience first-hand the beautiful coastal region in which he was born. Various events took place throughout 2009 between Dunbar and neighbouring North Berwick including lectures and guided trips on land and sea, to walk in his footsteps and witness the landscape that inspired a lifetime’s work.