Arthur's Seat - Best panoramic view in Edinburgh?

Are you tempted to take a step?

If you take that step, a fulfilling journey and an astonishing view of the natural beauty of Edinburgh awaits you at the Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano and the peak of the formation of mountains in Holyrood Park.

Since I booked a plane ticket 3 days prior to my trip to Edinburgh, I didn’t have the time to meticulously plan what I would be doing. As such, I erroneously brought along a pair of heeled booties instead of sneakers or hiking boots. Nonetheless, when I arrived in Edinburgh and looked into what I wanted to do, seeing the sunset from Arthur’s Peak became one of my top picks.

Please take a moment to appreciate and acknowledge these boots that supported my trip to Arthur’s Seat.

The last labour before reaching Arthur’s Seat

Anyways, something I didn’t realize before climbing to the peak was that there are multiple paths up the mountain. Again, I erroneously picked the difficult way up, which was definitely rough in improper shoes + carrying a large tote bag. Nonetheless, determination to not miss seeing the sunset paid off, and I benefitted greatly with spectacular panoramic views of the Scottish capital.

If you don’t want to be forced to walk up steep and uneven stones and stairs for most of the journey, I suggest you research some of the alternate openings to Arthur’s Peak to have a more pleasant journey up the mountain. I walked down a less steep way that actually had - gasp! - flat surfaces on which to step.

Do note that whichever path you choose, the last bit right to the summit will be more strenuous to reach. I have inserted a photo to show you what I had to “climb” up to reach Arthur’s Peak. It is worth it, though - take it slow, and you’ll be fine! In terms of hiking in general, I’d say it’s easy - moderate difficulty, in which adults, kids, and our fine-wine seniors alike can partake.

If you are not up for difficult hikes, perhaps choose to walk along Salisbury Crags to still witness some beautiful views of Edinburgh.

As you can see though, reaching the summit is worth it!

And now, time for some photos of the steep route up:

As you can clearly see, it’s worth reaching the peak by The Golden Hour:

As I mentioned previously, I took the easier route on my descent (mainly because I felt my poor shoes had been tested enough, especially since I still had another day of exploring left in them).

Although it doesn’t offer the same panoramic views as the “difficult” trail I hiked up, there is still lot’s of beauty to be found on the longer, but less steep route.

See the photographic evidence for yourself:

That sunset seemed to last forever, and it was magnificent.

Anyways, I do think that if you’re physically capable, Arthur’s Seat is well worth the hike up the mountain. Whether you pick the more difficult or the less strenuous route, or whether you even reach the peak or not, you will turn out a winner in each case by the fantastic nature and beautiful panoramic views that are offered all the way up the mountain.

As a general tip: pack good shoes when going to Edinburgh, and bring along a cereal bar or some snacks and a re-usable bottle of water to make your trek easier. Do not do it in heeled boots.