Maipsie Den is a firm favourite of ours to visit in any season- there is something very magical about a walk up here. The way the light shines through the trees is something we comment on every time we visit, its enchanting.
Maipsie Den is nestled up near Falkland in Fife and provides lots of walking options of varying distances. There is so much to see on any of the routes you chose from forests full of tall trees, waterfalls and burns, tunnels and bridges.
The area can be accessed from two different car parks. The Maipsie Den carpark is accessed through Falkland Estate and is a good base for some of the shorter walks up and down to the waterfalls. Parking in the Forest of Falkland Gateway Car Park (beside Pillars of Hercules cafe) gives you a longer walk taking in more of the forest and fields in the area.
We have visited the area at different times throughout the year and there is always so much to see. In the summer the waterfalls and burns are perfect for little legs to paddle in (spare clothes in a rucksack is usually a good idea!) This summer my kids took a clothed shower under one of the waterfalls! In autumn or winter the faster flowing water is perfect for some pooh-sticks or stone throwing- we have whittled away hours here throwing stones in!
Walking through the forest paths you are surrounded by huge tall trees, instantly forcing little eyes to look upwards and lots of little bridges to cross over as you wind your way through the forest. There is also a long dark tunnel cut into the land to walk through which always provokes a squeal of delight!
It is easy to come back here time again and explore a new route. The paths aren’t signposted but they are clear footpaths and its fairly easy to follow the trails. The kids really love the exploring and adventuring aspect of a walk here, following our noses and seeing what we can find.
Key info
Parking:
You can park for free at either the Maipsie Den carpark or the Forest of Falkland Gateway carpark
Toilets:
Available at both carparks in the cafes
Cafe:
The cafe at the Maipsie Den carpark has an inside area and a large outside area and serves lunches as well as cakes and ice cream.
Pillars of Hercules cafe serves vegetarian and vegan cuisine and is located beside the Gateway carpark.
Top Tips
Be prepared to wander and explore- a walk here isn’t for following a map, it’s for adventuring and seeing where you end up
If visiting in the warmer months bring spare clothes for any impromptu waterfall dips!