Three Scenic Hikes in the Fife Hills

Situated around 45 minutes to an hour from the famous city of Edinburgh, this group of small hills provide an excellent day out into some fresh air for those looking to explore the local area.

The Lomond Hills may not have the steep couloirs of Chamonix or the towering spires of the Dolomites – but what it does have is a touch of ‘wee’ Scottish charm, and the Bunnet Stane.

This area is covered in history and wildlife, from the picturesque town of Falkland to the shores of the Loch Leven nature reserve to the local ‘Romeo and Juliet’ like story surrounding the Bunnet Stane. The area is there to explore and this FATMAP guidebook to the local hills will help you in reaching its more towering peaks.

The two main summits seen from miles around in the 25 square miles of regional park are East (448m) and West (522m) Lomond. These two peaks sit prominent on the landscape and offer fantastic 360-degree views of Fife and lands beyond. Although not inherently challenging for the average hiker, they pose sections of steep terrain that get the legs burning and calories burnt. Furthermore, Bishop Hill (461m) circular provides a nice ‘wee’ day out encompassing some of the area’s reservoirs and forests.

As with any Scottish guidebook, its important that readers understand the terms and conditions of Scottish hiking. The weather changes quicker than British Prime Ministers so be prepared for any eventuality and check the local weather before setting off. Food and water are an important part of everyday life and it’s no different in the hills so take some with you.

Take only photos, leave only footprints. Be respectful to local wildlife and animals. And finally, if you see a man in a kilt, just assume he’s got nothing on underneath.