5 Romantic Spots For Outdoor Dating In Scotland

Enjoy a fairytale day at Drum Castle

The National Trust for Scotland boasts plenty of stunning castles, gardens and nature reserves, but one of the most magical destinations is Drum Castle. The castle itself is a piece of medieval history dating from the 13th century. The castle's grounds make a great place to spend a day exploring. The site is surrounded by an ancient oak forest, filled with an inspiring array of wildlife. 

The grounds also include the Garden of Historic Roses, which comes alive in the spring and summer months in a beautiful explosion of colour and scents. The site has picnic facilities so make sure you pack a tasty lunch to enjoy in the magnificent surroundings. 

Experience ancient history at the Orkney Isles

To immerse yourself in rugged timeless landscapes and ancient history, head to the Orkney Isles. Walking through these islands, you'll experience a different way of life, as they are culturally more in tune with their Norse neighbours than with the British Mainland. 

The isles are steeped in history, and the shattered cliffs and wild shoreline reveal how they have been sculpted over the years by the sea. Go to Yesnaby for a chance to spot puffins, seals, dolphins and whales along the shore line. The Yesnaby Coast Walk also takes in Skara Brae – Europe’s best-preserved Neolithic village, which is over 5,000 years old. 

Get adventurous at Cairngorms National Park

To get your heart pumping and adrenaline rushing, take your date on an adventure at Cairngorms National Park. The park is a beautiful wilderness made up of imposing mountains, enchanting forests and stunning rivers and lochs. 

There are plenty of activities on offer. You can spend a day kayaking with your partner across the water, canyoning along the rugged landscape, or mountain biking down the tourist trails. If you need a break from the adventurous activities, you can visit Speyside and explore the Malt Whisky Trail, which contains more distilleries than any other area in Scotland. 

Take a coastal walk along Great Glen Way

If you and your date are looking for an extended outdoor adventure then navigate your way through the impressive 73-mile-long Great Glen Way. The walk begins at the foot of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain, and meanders along the shores of four spectacular lochs before reaching the highland capital of Inverness. Generally the route is flat and easy to hike along, but there are some high sections of track that offer stunning views across the shores of Loch Ness. 

If you want to add an extra challenge to your trip, you can climb to the top of Ben Nevis for breathtaking views of the landscape. As well as wonderful wildlife, the walk will take you past castles and forts steeped in Scotland’s turbulent history. 

Take a cruise across Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond is the single biggest expanse of inland water in the British Isles, and the ferries and cruises that operate from the loch-side communities are the perfect way to explore the area. 

Loch Lomond is an area of dramatic contrasts, bringing together two very different sides of Scotland. One side offers adventurous walks across the dramatic mountains rising from the shoreline, as well as nature reserves and beautiful woodlands. The other offers the chance of a gentle stroll along the elegant promenades of the local villages and the beautiful sandy bays. 

Scotland is the perfect place to take your date on a romantic outdoor adventure.