There’s something special about a crisp winter walk — that mix of cold air, rosy cheeks and the promise of something delicious at the end. And while we love a good Munro, some days call for something gentler (and preferably near a great restaurant).
These five scenic routes combine Scotland’s natural beauty with its thriving foodie scene — from Highland beaches to lochside trails and city waterfront strolls. Lace up your boots, then reward yourself with something exceptional.
1. Dornoch Sands & MARA Restaurant, Links House at Royal Dornoch
Location: Dornoch, Sutherland
A wander along Dornoch’s award-winning beach is the kind of reset we all need. Stretching for miles along golden sand, it’s peaceful, wild, and perfect for blowing away the cobwebs. Keep an eye out for seals or even dolphins in the Firth.
Just a short stroll from the shore sits Links House at Royal Dornoch, a five-star retreat with world-class dining at MARA Restaurant. Head chef Theo Creton’s menu celebrates the Highlands’ finest produce — from wild Ardgay venison to Portmahomack lobster and herbs from the hotel’s own garden.
Upcoming supper club highlights:
- 10 & 12 October: The Joseph Perrier Anteroom Experience
- 25 October: Whisky & Storytelling at the Dornoch Whisky Festival
- 28 & 29 November: Game for the Table with Seafield Game
- 19 & 20 December: The Great Swap
Stay: Dinner, Bed & Breakfast from £400 per room
Website: linkshousedornoch.com
Instagram: @linkshousedornoch
2. Falls of Bruar & The Old Manse of Blair
Location: Blair Atholl, Perthshire
Described as the “greatest walk in Perthshire”, the Falls of Bruar trail offers forest paths, stone bridges and spectacular views. The 2.5km circular route starts behind the House of Bruar, following the burn upstream through dramatic woodland.
Afterwards, head to The Old Manse of Blair, a boutique hotel where Michelin-recognised chef Scott Davies delivers refined Scottish dining with a focus on provenance and seasonality. Expect foraged ingredients, local game and beautifully presented plates that change with the seasons.
Stay: Autumn Colours package from £399 (Dinner, Bed & Breakfast)
Website: theoldmanseofblair.com
Instagram: @theoldmanseofblair
3. Clach Thoull Walk & The Pierhouse Hotel, Port Appin
Location: Port Appin, Argyll
The Clach Thoull walk is a gentle 2.5km coastal trail that winds past cliffs, beaches and woodland with uninterrupted views over Loch Linnhe. Expect sightings of deer, seals and seabirds, plus a glimpse of the area’s striking geological archway.
Round off your stroll with lunch or dinner at The Pierhouse Hotel & Seafood Restaurant, one of Scotland’s most celebrated coastal dining spots. Head chef Michael Leathley creates menus featuring local shellfish — langoustines, oysters and lobster — all landed within miles of the kitchen.
Stay: Wee Winter Break, from £390 for three nights (B&B)
Website: pierhousehotel.co.uk
Instagram: @thepierhousehotel
4. Coral Beach & The Three Chimneys, Isle of Skye
Location: Colbost, Dunvegan
Just north of Dunvegan, the walk to Coral Beach is short but spectacular — 45 minutes along a 3.6km track overlooking turquoise water and rugged farmland. It’s one of Skye’s most photogenic spots and ideal for a winter wander.
Nearby, The Three Chimneys remains one of Scotland’s most iconic restaurants. Set in a crofter’s cottage overlooking Loch Dunvegan, it serves hyper-local dishes made with Orbost Farm beef, Iron Age pork and hand-dived scallops. Extend your visit with a stay in The House Over-By, where six elegant rooms offer sea views and breakfast to match the restaurant’s high standards.
Stay: From £275 per night (B&B) or £515 (Dinner, B&B)
Website: threechimneys.co.uk
Instagram: @thethreechimneysskye
5. Water of Leith Walkway & Fingal Hotel, Leith
Location: Edinburgh
Running 13 miles through Edinburgh, the Water of Leith Walkway is a peaceful city escape. Starting at Balerno and ending at the Shore in Leith, the path winds past the Botanic Gardens, Stockbridge and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art. Look out for Antony Gormley’s standing sculptures dotted along the river.
Finish your walk at Fingal, Scotland’s only five-star floating hotel. Once a Northern Lighthouse Board vessel, it’s now a world-class destination with elegant Art Deco interiors and The Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar serving refined Scottish dishes.
Stay: From £400 per cabin, per night (B&B)
Offer: Autumn Mellow Moments – stay three nights for the price of two (Sun–Tue, 5 Oct–27 Nov)
Website: fingal.co.uk
Instagram: @fingaledinburgh
