Take a perch on Arthur’s Seat

Few towns can claim to be home to an old volcano, but Edinburgh can. Arthur's Seat, a grassy, jagged summit 351m above sea level, can be seen from practically anywhere in the city and is only a short walk from the Royal Mile in the city center. Begin your ascent in Holyrood Park. Even though it's a short trek, it'll get your heart racing. Rest at the summit and take in views of Edinburgh Castle, the Scott Monument, and further beyond.

The highest point in Holyrood Park is Arthur's Seat, which is part of the Salisbury Crags (the remnants of an extinct volcano that last erupted 350 million years ago). The top is 251 meters high and, for a hill in the heart of a huge city, surprisingly rugged and untamed. Despite its popularity, it still seems like a true get-away spot.

This natural structure is the subject of an ancient Celtic tale. It is claimed to be the abode of a sleeping dragon from the past. Originally, the beast would fly around terrifying people and devouring their cattle. The dragon ate so much one day that he landed near the towns and fell asleep, never to be awakened again. Arthur's Seat is also sometimes connected with King Arthur, the mythical British leader, as the location of Camelot. However, the term might also relate to the potential of an archer's seat, with the elevation serving as a perch.