Ever been sunset hiking an extinct volcano? Arthur’s Seat last erupted some 350 million years ago and is the highest point of Holyrood Park. The name origin is much debated with some saying the name derives from the legendary King Arthur. Whatever the name origin, it makes for a great spot in walking distance from the city centre to marvel at the yellow and orange sunset whilst enjoying an impressive panoramic view of Edinburgh and the surrounding area.
Here is where I’ve heard of Haggis for the first time, leaving me wondering why anyone would want to try the Scottish dish. Sorry, Scotsmen and women! You will get a chance on your way back to the city centre to stop at a cafe and make up your own mind. Trying to figure out which path to take, how to get there, where to stay, and what on Earth Haggis is? Read on to find out.
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 45 Minutes to 2 Hours
Cost: Free
Post Contents
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM SUNSET HIKING THE EXTINCT VOLCANO ARTHUR’S SEAT
Arthur’s Seat is any nature lovers highlight when visiting Edinburgh. The non-strenuous hike takes 45-minutes to 2 hours return. This depends on the paths you choose, and how much time you spend admiring the view of the Scottish capital and glistening ocean.
The incline is only minor until you reach the last stretch where you might have to make use of your hands and knees to climb the rocks. Although, two alternative paths are bypassing this tricky section.
The scenery of nature along the way is beautiful, even in winter. The yellow and green meadow moving in the wind and the harsh rock formations cropping out of the ground make the hike fly by. Arthur’s Seat is a popular tourist attraction and crowds can be expected.
Be prepared for strong winds at the top. At times it felt like the gusts were going to take me away. Make sure to explore the extinct volcano before enjoying the yellow and orange sun slowly disappearing behind the mountains. Take care to leave at least 45-minutes before the sun completely sets.
THE DIFFERENT TRAILS FOR SUNSET HIKING EXTINCT VOLCANO ARTHUR’S SEAT
There are five different hiking trails leading to the top of the extinct volcano. I recommend taking different trails up and down to make the most of your experience. There are two different starting points. The shortest trail starts near Dunsapie Loch Car Park and the four longer hiking paths can be found on Queen’s Drive near the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
To boulder or free-climb Arthur’s Seat, more specifically Salisbury Crags South Quarry you will require permission.
The Shortest Route.
This route is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the sunset with minimal effort, or is in a rush to descend after watching the sundown. Although, the 15-minute walk itself doesn’t offer scenic views. This path starts on the opposite side of Holyrood Park to all the other trails. It can be accessed from near Dunsapie Loch car park making it ideal for drivers.
The Easy Scenic Route.
The most popular trail begins near the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Simply follow the scenic route on the far right for 40-minutes guiding you past the cliffs of Salisbury Crags. Once you reach the trail fork you can either descent another route or continue the most difficult trail to Arthur’s Seat peak.
I took this route up and descended on the path situated on the opposite side. After a while we reached a path fork. Continue left for an easy downhill walk past Saint Anthony’s Chapel Ruins.
The Direct Path To Arthur’s Seat.
The best way to reach Arthur’s Seat is by following the trail to the far left when accessing Holyrood Park near the Palace of Holyroodhouse. This path guides you through meadows past Saint Anthony’s Chapel Ruins on top of a rocky outcrop and offers glistening ocean views. The trail is a steady and easy 30-minute walk. If you continue following the trail to your left at the path forks you bypass the tricky section.
The Hike Along Cliffs.
Anyone wanting more of a hiking experience and a different view to what Arthur’s Seat has to offer? This is the trail for you. Simply follow the path to your left when accessing the park from near Holyroodhouse Palace. After a short walk, you will reach a path fork. From here continue right for around 36-minutes. The trail can be muddy guides you along the edge of vertical cliffs.
The Relaxed Walk Through Holyrood Park.
This path can be accessed through the far-left path near Palace of Holyroodhouse. Once you have reached the second path split follow the easy relaxed walk through Holyrood Park to your right.
At the third path fork near the top, you can continue left for an easy walk for around 20-minutes, or right for more of a challenge. The route on the right takes twice as long and guides you to the steepest trail to the top of Arthur’s Seat.
HOW TO GET TO ARTHUR’S SEAT
Wondering how to get from Edinburgh’s city centre to Arthur’s Seat? The extinct volcano is a 30-minute walk along the Royal Mile to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and 20-minutes from Edinburgh Train Station.
Holyrood Park can be accessed by Bus 30 or 33. The ride from the Old Town takes 15-minutes to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. A single bus ticket costs £1.80. Purchase a day-ticket for £4.50 if you plan on taking three or more busses.
The closest free car park to Arthur’s Seat is Dunsapie Loch inside of Holyrood Park.
IN NEED OF A REFRESHMENT?
In need of a post-hike bite to eat? Head to the Café at the Palace for afternoon tea, soups, baked potatoes with haggis, or a snack. The cafe can be found in the courtyard of the Queen’s Gallery. The Royal Mile, 98 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DX
WHAT TO PACK FOR SUNSET HIKING THE EXTINCT VOLCANO ARTHUR’S SEAT
The hike is unchallenging, and hiking shoes aren’t required. During rainy season paths can be muddy, maybe don’t wear your favourite trainers. It tends to be tremendously windy at the top. I suggest taking layering pieces to keep warm, especially in winter. 1 L of water is enough.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The driest month of the year is May. Yes, there are dry periods in Scotland. The best time to visit Edinburgh is June to August when days are long, and the sun is most prominent. August to early September is when festivals bring the city to life making this the most expensive time to visit.
I visited in December when the Christmas market lights were shining bright. Although cold there is no reason why you couldn’t hike Arthur’s Seat in winter.
WHERE TO STAY
There are many hostels and hotels conveniently located. We stayed in an Airbnb in Leith a 20-minute walk from the city centre. Centrally located affordable hostels are the pod hostel CoDe Pod, and the social party hostel Safestay.
Did I do a good job of sharing the experience of sunset hiking the extinct Volcano Arthur’s Seat? Still wondering what Haggis is? It is a mix of minced heart, liver, and lungs bulked out with oatmeal, onions, and spices. I haven’t tried it. I think you can understand why.
Now go ahead and explore! Try not to lose your towel.
