Adventure in Edinburgh

There is no better city in the whole of the UK for grabbing a taste of adventure than Edinburgh.

Quite apart from the rugged countryside and towering mountains that surround the city, the aspiring Lara Croft or Indiana Jones will find a whole host of activities to get the blood pumping, and there's a fair amount for the casual adventurer too.

Edinburgh Boat Charters Ltd
Run by a highly experienced, dedicated and above all passionate skipper who will make sure you get the best out of your sailing experience, Edinburgh Boat Charters is a fantastic choice for those looking to take to the high seas on their visit. Situated a mere 20 minutes outside of the city centre, they offer a bespoke day out, tailor-made to suit your needs.

Participants can relax and enjoy the salty sea air or take the opportunity to be part of the crew, under expert supervision of course. The company takes groups of up to eight people at a time, and to make the day extra special, you'll be sailing past landmarks of national importance and Lothian's famous rural beauty. 10 Constitution Street, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 7BT, 0131 554 9401.

Trike Tours Scotland

A truly unique way to experience the city, Trike Tours allows visitors to zoom around Edinburgh on a custom three-wheeled motorbike while enjoying traditional Scottish food and drink … although not at the same time, of course.

There is a huge range of tours to choose from depending upon the interests of the party, with popular destinations including Holyrood, Grassmarket and Edinburgh Castle. On the menu, you'll find the best fish and chips in town, bacon butties and single-malt whisky, so it's just as well that you won't be driving the trike. The tours allow up to two people per vehicle and last for up to two and a half hours. Swanston, Edinburgh, 0131 319 1199.

Arthur's Seat

If you fancy striding through some Lord-of-the-Rings-esque scenery (humming the dramatic music under your breath, no doubt) then take a stroll up to Arthur's Seat, the highest point in Edinburgh. Only a mile east of Edinburgh Castle, it offers fantastic panoramic views of the city.

One of the possible locations for Castle Camelot of the Arthurian legend, Arthur's Seat has a fascinating history, including the discovery of seventeen miniature coffins containing wooden figures, now on display in Edinburgh's Royal Museum. Why not pay them a visit after adventuring on the hill?

Edinburgh International Climbing Arena

Edinburgh's International Climbing Arena (EICA) is the largest centre of its kind in Europe, challenging budding mountaineers from all over the world to reach the top of its gigantic climbing wall every single day. The arena also houses a fiendishly tricky assault course which begins with a death-defying zip-wire ride, guaranteed to get the adrenaline flowing.

Climbing is a physical and mental game which anyone can play provided they're willing to accept the challenge. People who have never climbed before can sign themselves up for a taster session, while experienced climbers are free to use the wall unsupervised after a short assessment of their capabilities. Ratho, South Platt Hill, Newbridge, Edinburgh, EH28 8AA, 0131 333 6333.

The 37-hour challenge

All right, this one's cheating a bit because for the majority, Edinburgh will be your destination rather than your location. The concept behind the 37 hour challenge is simple – calling on your fitness, determination and mental stamina, you and a friend will attempt to cycle from London to Edinburgh in – you guessed it – 37 hours.

Dealing with the journey in shifts, you'll battle physical exhaustion and the unpredictable British weather in your endeavour. Of course, after your triumphant arrival in the Scottish capital, you'll need somewhere to sleep. So head to Euro Hostel Edinburgh, get your head down and take a well-deserved rest. www.discoveradventure.com, 01722 718444.

Mountain Biking

If you're into cycling but not up to the 37-hour challenge then you might be interested in some of the off-road biking that the surrounding countryside offers. One of the best areas is the Pentland Hills Regional Park, which features something for everyone on its 60 miles of winding paths and tunnels.

Biking guides to this beautiful area are in abundance; ask a professional biking company or simply go online. Whether you're into steep rough hills or smooth roads, Lady Scotland will provide. The Edinburgh RC offers regular rides for those who are interested in cycling with a group. These last for three hours and leave from the corner of Westgarth Avenue and Colinton Road every Saturday at 10am. www.edinburghrc.co.uk. 

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