Arthur's Seat in Edinburgh

I was staying in the Edinburg University in Edinburgh, Scotland and I had this magnificent view of a hill nearby called Arthur’s Seat.

Arthur's Seat

It was too tantalizing for me and I therefore decided to go hill walking on it as I knew I could get spectacular 360 degree views from the top and also it would be a good small trek as well.

View of Edinburgh Castle from Arthur's Seat

Now one can make this trek an easy hill walking one or if one desires then can take a straight route up make it a moderate trek and that is what I decided. Though while coming down I took a circuitous route along this 640 acre Holyrood Park.

A Water body inside Holyrood Park , the City in the middle and the North Sea in the background

The hill is a dormant volcano and has wide range of flowers and plenty of bird life as well..

Flowers in Holyrood Park

Also I could see two fresh water bodies inside the park. The Duddingston Loch had several water birds in and around it.

Duddingston Loch

The Arthur’s Seat rises 251 meters above the city and therefore also visible from Arthur’s Seat is the North Sea as well as the Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace which is the official residence of the Queen of England and  the Scottish Parliament building.

Holyrood Palace

From the Holyrood Park I could also see clearly the the Calton Hill considered as the Athens of the North and therefore I decided to go to that volcanic hill also the next day.

Calton Hill from Arthur's Seat

If one is a rock climbing enthusiast then the Salisbury crags can throw some good challenges at you. As the rocks are loose be careful and do wear protective gear.

Salisbury Crags

It is advisable to carry your own water bottle and eatables as these are not available anywhere inside the Holyrood Park. Also do carry additional layer of clothing if you intend to stay on the top for some time as it becomes quite windy on the top.

Also Read:
Edinburgh's Calton Hill - Athens of the North
Old Calton Cemetery