Sometimes, the best way to get through university is to take a break and get away from it all. In Stirling, you’re surrounded by some of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes, cities, and towns to explore. Whether it’s for a day trip or a weekend break to reset your brain. Here is a rundown of Brig’s favourite quick getaways to inspire your term time mini-breaks.
Kingsbarns sauna
Kingsbarns sauna is found on Kingsbarns beach on the Fife coastline. Only a two-hour drive or bus away (a standard travel time in Scotland) is a refreshing trip into the icy North Sea followed by sitting in a steamy sauna. It has to be one of the best ways to get your mind off of that essay. Tried and tested by the Wild Swimming Society. It is a beautiful, comfortable day trip that is very affordable when booked with a group of friends.
The Trossachs National Park
The Trossachs National Park lies very close to Stirling and is the perfect place for a spot of hiking and/or wild camping. One of the best ways to access the park is via the nearby town of Callander, which you can get to on the 59 bus from Goosecroft bus station. From here, there are waterfalls, mountains, natural pools, and woodlands to explore to your heart’s content. Pick up an OS map of the area and ensure you’ve got the right gear (prepare for rain!) to stay safe in the outdoors.
Oban
The seaside town of Oban is only a direct bus journey away from Stirling. Book the Citylink service (which runs directly once a day) and you’ll be there in less than 3 hours. It’s the perfect place for a night or two away from it all, with cheap hostel accommodation available, some of Scotland’s best fish and chip shops, white sand beaches, and links to many Hebridean Islands. What better way to run away from your responsibilities?
If this doesn’t inspire you to explore the amazing country that we study in, then the direct trains to Edinburgh and Glasgow are a perfect starting point. Each direction takes less than an hour, and both cities have their own unique and fascinating history to explore. If you fancy heading further afield, the cities of Inverness and Aberdeen both have direct links to Stirling. There’s no excuse to avoid dunking a toe into what Scotland has to offer. Get off campus – there’s so much to a university experience beyond studying and partying.
You can read more about Brig’s travel ideas here.
Featured image: Alice Pollard
Journalism student at the University of Stirling & BRAW Magazine editor 24/25 and 25/26 🙂
You can see my portfolio here: https://www.clippings.me/alicepollard
