Your access rights You can access most land and inland water in Scotland for recreation, as long as you do so responsibly. Find out what Scotland’s access rights mean for you.
Volunteer in the outdoors Nature conservation work in Scotland relies on volunteers. Give a little time and gain a whole lot in return – skills, friends, satisfaction and a great workout.
Communities and landscape You and your community have a big part to play in safeguarding your local place and wider landscape. Find out how to get involved.
What to see in your area From north to south and west to east, Scotland varies hugely in its nature and landscapes. Use our guides to discover the attractions of each area.
Get active outdoors Give yourself a health and well-being boost. Being in the outdoors and getting active can raise your physical fitness and help you to de-stress.
Scotland's National Nature Reserves Be inspired by the magic and beauty of National Nature Reserves (NNRs). These reserves protect an amazing range of wildlife and landscapes and each one is waiting to be discovered by you.
Routes to explore Discover paths and trails suited to walking, cycling and horse riding. Stay close to home or take to our hills and glens on 6,000 miles of paths – and counting.
Under the sea Dive in and explore some of Scotland’s remarkable marine life through these virtual dives.
NatureScot nature reserves You’re welcome to visit any of our nature reserves, where you might uncover fossil fish, spot an otter or see a plant that’s unique to Scotland.
Find a country park Escape urban life for a day – or even just an afternoon. Scotland has 40 country parks to discover and one of them is probably near you.
Discover your Local Nature Reserve Nature is right on your doorstep. Scotland currently has 75 Local Nature Reserves, many of them are close to our cities and towns. Where is your nearest wild place?
Explore a regional park Get out and about in the Pentland Hills. Follow a themed walk in the Lomond Hills. Or try one of the outdoor activities at Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park.
Discover our National Parks One of Scotland’s National Parks has 22 lochs in which to swim, sail and paddle. The other contains 55 Munros – including five of the UK’s six highest peaks.
Explore Scotland Get more out of your next day trip. Our Explore for a day guides reveal the best places to enjoy nature, landscapes and history in 14 areas of Scotland.
Visit a geopark Visit any of Scotland’s three geoparks to discover how deserts, seas, volcanoes and glaciers all had a role in shaping the landscape we see today.
Scots pledge to head outdoors Scots are now spending more time outdoors, and many want to take positive action to help the nation’s wildlife. News - 27 January
The Golden Ducks Winter is the best time to see these striking birds, visit Loch Leven NNR. Learn more about this fascinating and striking duck. Blog - 20 January
New General Licence restriction We have restricted the use of general licences on Lochan Estate in Perthshire based on evidence provided by Police Scotland. News - 26 January
Celebrating our machair It's fitting that even English speakers use a Gaelic word for a habitat that is such an icon of the Gàidhealtachd. Blog - 17 January
Chair of Board reappointed Lorna Slater MSP today announced the reappointment of Dr Mike Cantlay as Chair of the Board for NatureScot. News - 24 January
A cosy brewery The stinking hellebore, a favourite of many gardeners, can be a life saver for emerging bumble bee queens. Blog - 17 January
