View of Loch Leven from Benarty Hill

Epic hikes to heady peaks absolutely have their time and place but sometimes the most exquisite views can be had with surprisingly little effort. Hikes up Benarty Hill take advantage of this unusual and abrupt Marilyn, rising out of comparatively low land, half in Fife and half in Perth and Kinross. 

You can approach this hill from the north, south or east easily although the north certainly harbours a steepness you might want to think through first if your energy levels are on the low side. The summit is a long and grassy heathland with a trig point at the peak of 1,168 feet (356 m).

Watch as Scotland unfolds before you

Several hiking trails up Benarty Hill begin in forests, a delightful start to any expedition. Benarty Forest places you under conifer trees whilst Loch Leven Nature Reserve’s birch woodland is peaceful and offers a wonderful opportunity to spy tree sparrows and adorable pied flycatchers. 

No hiking trail on Benarty Hill lacks steep sections but southerly approaches are gentlest. Once out of the woods, you’ll hike across heathland to the wide summit, where you can roam around, hunting for the best views. 

Loch Leven commands the immediate northern view, with the Lomond Hills rising to the east. The Southern Highlands loom on the far northwestern horizon whilst to the south, look over the Firth of Forth to the Pentland Hills. 

This charming hill offers far more reward than the effort required and you can ascend throughout the year, being mindful of any severe weather that would make a cafe a better option. Food and accommodation can be had in Kinross, Glenrothes, Dunfermline and widely throughout the region.