Big days out
Connect the dots and experience a real snapshot of the varied terrain locally with these three looong and testing routes starting from Walkerburn, Traquair and Peebles
Minch Moor & Plora Craig, Walkerburn
Working up in distance and difficulty, this first route sees a circuit of Plora Craig that climbs from Glenbenna to near the summit of Minch Moor before returning first via a section of the Southern Upland Way and then by a forestry track through Plora Wood. Don’t forget to take an offering for the faeries at the Cheese Well! Starts and finishes by the river in Walkerburn.
15.5km | Ascent: 300m | Route details
The Glen and Birkscairn Hill, Traquair
Another varied route with a huge amount of interest, including the fairytale Glen House, views to hidden Loch Eddy and the steep sides of Glendean Banks, plus a lovely section of old drove road. Starts and finishes in Traquair (with a brief road section at the beginning and end).
15.5km | Ascent: 480m | Route details
John Buchan Way
Named after one of the area’s most famous figures, this long, linear route between Peebles and Broughton passes through some surprisingly wild hills and valleys. It provides a real flavour of the varied Tweed Valley landscape, with plenty of cultural history along the way.
22km | Ascent: 800m | Route details