Hike highlights

Pilots’ Trail, Cademuir Forest

A recently extended waymarked trail through one of the smaller, and most attractive, forests in the valley. Named after two German pilots downed during the Second World War and who took refuge in the forest, the trail offers fabulous views, colourful history – including the remains of Iron Age forts – and plentiful wildlife.

9km round trip (although can be extended by walking from the centre of Peebles)

Ascent: 100m | Route details

Dun Rig (Glensax) horseshoe, Peebles

A stunning, full-day hill walk that takes in four peaks around Glensax, with sensational views in all directions. Much of the route from Gypsy Glen onto Dun Rig follows the path of an ancient drove road that was used to take livestock from the Highlands to the great trysts in England.

23.5km round trip | Ascent: 941m | Route details

Minch Moor circuit from Traquair

A lovely hill walk that follows the route of the Southern Upland Way to reach the summit of Minch Moor – with art installations, a natural spring and a site where travellers once left gifts for faeries along the way!

8.75km round trip | Ascent: 394m | Route details

Windlestraw Law circuit

For a different look at the Tweed Valley, this circular walk from Innerleithen to the highest point in the Moorfoots is rich and varied, with two high-level ridges offering striking views in all directions.

18.75km round trip | Ascent: 794m | Route details

Three Brethren from near Selkirk

Starting and finishing at Philiphaugh on the outskirts of Selkirk, this circular route strikes out to the Three Brethren – a trio of huge cairns dating back to the 16th century built to mark the boundaries of three estates. Although the cairns are located at only a modest height, the views in all directions are pretty special.

9.25km round trip | Ascent: 408m | Route details