best road trip in scotland

5 of the best road trips in Scotland

Mar 6, 2024 • 7 min read

Be inspired by these stunning road trip routes in Scotland © iaminut / Shutterstock

The cities of  Scotland  may be full to the brim with history and atmosphere, but it's the countryside in between that captures most visitors' hearts.

Quintessentially Scottish landscapes of lochs, glens and mountains begin right on the limits of Edinburgh, Glasgow and other major cities, setting the scene for road trips to rival James Bond's flight across the Highlands in Skyfall (2012).

Scottish roads are generally well-maintained, and driving is a great way to get off the beaten track and escape the crowds who mob the most famous sights. En route, you can stop off in charming country pubs, drop into ruined castles and ancient kirks (churches), wander on windswept beaches and find solace in silent glens far from the maddening crowds. 

These five road trip itineraries take in the epic grandeur of Skye, culture-packed Edinburgh and the whisky distilleries of Speyside, amongst other classic Scottish experiences. Along the way, you'll pass rolling farmland, heather-burnished hillsides, ruined castles and eerie lochs, as the stories of Scotland unfold right in front of you.

1. An Isle of Skye driving loop

Best for making family memories Fort William–Fort William; 310 miles (498km); allow 4 days

So long as you’re not after guaranteed sunshine, Skye has it all. This atmospheric island off the west coast is a riot of craggy peaks, towering sea stacks and waterlogged shorelines, famed for its Gaelic culture and vibrant food scene. This round-trip route from Fort William allows you to take the bridge to the island in one direction (passing grand Eilean Donan Castle en route), returning to the mainland via the ferry to Mallaig.

Once you’re on the island, a classic counterclockwise loop starts with a visit to Skye’s largest town, Portree , with its pretty harbor, before roaming over the volcanic cliffs of the Trotternish Peninsula . Next, the Duirinish Peninsula offers wild hiking country and some excellent restaurants, while the jagged ridges of the Cuillin Hills are a destination in themselves for hikers and photographers.

In between, there are castles , almost Caribbean-looking beaches and some of Britain’s best wild swimming spots, plus side trips by ferry to the surrounding Small Isles, which offer great bird-watching, particularly in spring and autumn.

2. North Coast 500

Best for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure Inverness Castle–Inverness Castle; 516 miles (830km); allow 7 days

Scotland’s wild northern coastline is the star of the country’s most famous driving route. The North Coast 500 begins and ends in Inverness , the likable capital of the Highlands , making a giant loop around the north end of Scotland along the deeply indented coast.

If you follow the route counterclockwise (saving the best scenery till last), you’ll head past the moors and sandy beaches of the east coast before hitting John O’Groats and nearby Dunnet Head – mainland Britain’s northernmost point. The north coast has a windswept beauty that gets increasingly rugged as you continue west past bogs, cliffs and crofting villages. The views as you head down the loch-strewn west coast are perhaps Britain’s finest, with sweeping vistas of mountains and islands.

Taking the route at a more leisurely pace will give you the chance to seek out fine local foodstuffs such as venison, smoked fish and craft beer, while activities such as sea kayaking on the west coast or scrambling up the lonely peaks of Assynt are a great way to throw yourself into Northern Scotland’s epic landscapes.

Planning tip:  When planning a road trip in Scotland, be aware that many places to stay on popular routes, such as the North Coast 500, will only accept bookings for two or more nights in the summer peak season. Book accommodations well ahead of time.

3. North East 250

Best for whisky distillery touring Spittal of Glenshee–Spittal of Glenshee; 257 miles (414km); allow 4 days

Northeast Scotland is famous for its whisky distilleries, Braemar (the home of the Highland Games ) and Balmoral Castle (the Scottish home of the British Royal Family) – so yes, it's as Scottish as it gets. The North East 250, a route inspired by the success of the North Coast 500, takes in these big-ticket attractions, but also shines a light on an often-overlooked region of photogenic glens, farmland and wave-lashed shorelines.

The village of Spittal of Glenshee (a popular base for skiing in winter) is a good starting point and easily accessible from Edinburgh and Dundee. Taking the route clockwise, you’ll head through the Cairngorms National Park , the biggest national park in Britain, which includes some of the UK’s highest peaks and offers phenomenal hiking opportunities.

The North East 250 then cuts through Speyside before hitting the Moray Firth coastline and the oil-rich city of Aberdeen . It’s a route lined with castles, beaches, small villages and historic estates; stop along the way to sample local delicacies such as Cullen skink (a thick, warming fish soup) and sweet, peaty whiskies.

Local tip:  Do your research when choosing which whisky distilleries to tour – if you try to hit them all, you’ll be here for months.  Balvenie in Dufftown is a good choice: its small-group tours visit one of Scotland’s last remaining malting floors.

4. Borders Historic Route

Best for a short route through moorlands Carlisle–Edinburgh; 97 miles (156km); allow one day

There are more famous road trips than this easy itinerary that follows the A7 north from the English border past Hawick and Galashiels to Edinburgh , but there is plenty to engage body and spirit along the way. This rolling landscape of villages and farmlands was once a battlefield for cross-border raids, and it finishes at Edinburgh’s hulking castle .

The area’s industrial history is showcased by educational centers celebrating tweed, tartan and glasswork, as well as an interesting mining museum . The landscape provides opportunities for varied activities – anglers can cast flies in the hope of snagging salmon along the Tweed’s wooded banks, while mountain bikers can hit the trails at Glentress and Innerleithen.

Ruined abbeys and author Walter Scott’s fabulous country house, Abbotsford , are more cerebral highlights, although the undulating moorlands of the Scottish Borders are arguably the star of the show.

5. Clyde Sea Lochs and the Argyll Coast

Best for mountains and lochs Glasgow–Fort William; 240 miles (386km); allow 3 days

Visitors to Scotland are often surprised by how close the country’s most populous city is to the rugged terrain of the Highlands. Glasgow’s high culture and lively pubs are worth an overnight on any trip to the region, but don’t stay up too late – you'll want to be clear of the suburbs by mid-morning to see the hills turn to mountains and lochs eat into an increasingly rugged coastline.

This route (combining two official tourist trails ) winds north and west, taking in the popular walking country of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. En route, you can enjoy majestic views, excellent seafood, ancient standing stones, historic towns, kayaking on the lochs and whale-watching offshore.

But the biggest hitters come at the end: Glen Coe has aching natural beauty and a tragic backstory of Highland betrayal, while Fort William is the striking point for ascents of 4413ft (1345m) Ben Nevis, Britain’s tallest peak – a challenging climb of seven to eight hours from the visitors center.

Tips for driving in Scotland

Note that while some of the road trips follow major "M" or "A" roads, others rely on smaller roads for long stretches. These are often tight and hedge-lined, with few places to overtake, and they can be blocked by snow in winter (read our tips for getting around in Scotland ). The police in Scotland take speeding and drunk driving seriously, so stay below the limits. Petrol stations can be widely spaced in the Highlands and on the islands – fill up when you get the chance.

Be ready to take your time, pausing for a day or two to explore the local area at each overnight stop. Our route durations assume you'll be taking diversions to see more of the region and making regular stopovers, so the distances provided are not direct between the start and end points.

This article was first published June 2021 and updated March 2024

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Best Scotland road trip itinerary (10, 14 & 18 day options)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: September 9, 2023

Planning a Scottish road trip? Our detailed Scotland road trip itinerary includes many of the most popular destinations, scenic routes , landmarks and sights when touring Scotland . Over 18 days explore cities, Highlands, islands and part of the popular North Coast 500 route. Options to reduce to a 10 day or 14 day Scotland road trip itinerary are also included.

As road trips go one destination you are sure of an epic road trip is Scotland! In this article, we have shared our own epic Scotland road trip itinerary which includes some of our favourite destinations across the country.

The itinerary starts and ends in Edinburgh and includes our recommended route, highlights to see every day plus where to stay and travel tips along the way.

If you are planning to visit Scotland our ultimate Scottish road trip itinerary is an off-the-peg plan which means you can use as-is or if you prefer simply adapt it to suit your own interests and needs. Although planned for 18 days it is possible to shorten the itinerary to 10 days, 14 days or whatever length you require.

If you are planning to hire a car in the UK we recommend reading our practical guide to car rental (and driving in the UK) which has essential information, tips and points to consider.

Prefer to travel by train? Check out our best of Scotland by rail itinerary ! Everything you need to know to plan your Scotland rail adventure.

📝 What to see in Edinburgh

🏨 where to stay in edinburgh, 🚗 day 4 – edinburgh to callander (via the kelpies and stirling), 🏞 day 5 – day trip to killin & pitlochry, 🚗 day 6 – callandar to oban via the trossachs and loch lomond, ⛴ day 7 – tour to mull, iona and staffa (day trip), 🚙 alternative itinerary for those prone to seasickness, 🚗 day 8 – oban to fort william, 🚂 day 9 – the jacobite, ⛴ day 10 – fort william to skye via mallaig, 🏞 days 11/12/13 – exploring skye, day 13/14 – ullapool (1 night), day 14/15 – durness & tongue (1 night), day 15/16 – orkneys (1 night), 🚗 day 17 – inverness, day 18 – edinburgh, where to next, what is the best road trip in scotland, how long is a road trip around scotland, how many days do you need to tour scotland, plan your trip to scotland, scotland road trip map & itinerary – overview.

Click for our Scotland road trip map (Google maps)

SCOTLAND ITINERARY AND ROAD TRIP ROUTE

• Days 1/2/3/4 – Edinburgh
• Days 4/5/6- Callander
• Days 6/7/8 – Oban & Islands
• Days 8/9/10 – Fort William
• Days 10/11/12/13 – Isle of Skye
• Days 13/14 – Ullapool (North Coast 500)
• Days 14/15 – Durness/Tongue/Skail (North Coast 500)
• Days 15/16 – Orkney
• Days 16/17/18 – Inverness

Days 1, 2, 3 & 4 – Edinburgh 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 (3 nights)

On Day 1 arrive in the capital city of Scotland, Edinburgh, via train. If you are staying in London and plan to take a road trip around Scotland it is quick and easy to take the train between the two capitals. Read more about how to get from London to Edinburgh .

👍 Good to know – Journey time is around 4½ to 5 hours so if you leave London at 9 am you should get into Edinburgh at around 1 pm – 1.30 pm which is the perfect time to head to your accommodation to check-in.

Arriving in Edinburgh early afternoon leaves a decent amount of the day for sightseeing, particularly in summer. Day 2/3 days to explore Edinburgh. Below are the main highlights we recommend including in your itinerary.

Read our guide to things to do in Edinburgh which also includes suggested itinerary ideas.

✅ The Edinburgh hop-on hop-off bus stops at the main attractions and landmarks and is a great way to get around the city – book your tickets here .

✅ If your itinerary includes visiting Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Yacht Britannia and the Palace of Holyroodhouse we recommend purchasing a city card that includes entry to all 3 royal attractions plus the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour for 48 hours. (Note that Holyroodhouse is closed Tues/Wed).

• Edinburgh Castle – Tour and skip-the-line ticket
• Palace of Holyroodhouse (The Palace of Holyroodhouse is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays) – Buy your ticket here
• The Royal Mile – start at the Castle and walk down to Holyroodhouse
• Scott Monument
• The Real Mary King’s Close and Underground Vaults Tour – One of the most haunted places on earth apparently! 👻

• £ – Elder York Guest House – This is our choice of accommodation whenever we stay in Edinburgh – excellent breakfast, near the train station and nice rooms. * Note there are stairs to the accommodation so this is not suitable if you have any mobility issues.
• ££ – Ibis Syles Edinburgh St Andrews Square – With 24-hour reception, a bar and restaurant and free WiFi.
• £££ – The Balmoral Hotel – Edinburgh’s most famous luxury hotel offers guests a Michelin-starred restaurant, a pool and a gym.
• £££ – The Witchery – Lavishly furnished suites display gothic touches and 4-poster beds. Ideal location near Edinburgh Castle.

⭐️ Find more accommodation options in our guide to where to stay in Edinburgh

Days 4/5/6 – Callander (2 nights)

On day 4 travel from Edinburgh to Callandar. We recommend picking up your hire car at the point you are ready to leave the city to avoid any unnecessary parking expenses (or difficulties)

• Car hire options in Edinburgh include picking up at Waverley Train Station or Edinburgh Airport.
• The drive from the centre of Edinburgh to Callander takes just over 1 hour. Distance is 52 miles (83 km) via the M9. This route will take you past Falkirk and Stirling.
• The Kelpies
• The Falkirk Wheel
• Bannockburn
• National Wallace Monument
• Stirling Castle

🚗 Logistics

• Distance – 22 miles (35 km)
• Journey time – 35 mins
• Distance – 23 miles (36 km)
• Journey time – 38 mins (stop off to admire the views)
• Distance – 15 miles (24 km)
• Journey time – 25 mins
• Distance – 68 miles (109 km)
• Journey time – 1 hour 44 mins

⭐️ Highlights of the day

• Falls of Dochart
• Drive along the banks of Loch Tay
• The scenic beauty and picturesque views (don’t forget to charge your phone, pack memory cards for your cameras etc!)
• Blair Athol distillery
• Pitlochry Dam and Fish Ladder walk
• Afternoon tea at Crieff Hydro Hotel (Beautiful views)

Good to know – Highland cows can be seen in a field on the right-hand side of the road as you drive north out of Callendar .

🏨 Where to stay in Callander

• £ – Callander Hostel
• ££ – Highland Guest House
• £££ – Roman Camp Country House Hotel

🏞 Day 6/7/8 – Oban (2 nights)

Day 6 is a day spent exploring the Trossachs National Park, Loch Lomond National Park and Loch Katrine (Callander is located on the edge of the park) before heading for 2 nights in Oban.

Take a picnic and enjoy the views and scent of the forests. Head to the village of Balloch (a 45-minute drive from Callander) for a boat trip across Loch Lomond.

Oban is a 1 hour 45 mins drive from Balloch where you will check into your accommodation for the next 2 nights. If you wish to visit one of Scotland’s most beautiful castles at Inveraray it is possible to take a slightly different route via A83 and A819 which only adds around 10 minutes to the journey time.

• Mileage Callander to Balloch is 28 miles (45 km)
• Mileage from Balloch to Oban is 74 miles (119 km) on the A82
• The mileage from Balloch to Oban via Inverary Castle on the A83 is 77 miles (125 km).
• Loch Lomond (the Queen of Scottish lochs)
• Loch Katrine
• Scenic views
• Boat trip across Loch Lomond from Balloch ( Island Discovery 2-Hour Cruise )
• Inverary Castle

🏨 Where to stay in Oban

• £ – Oban Youth Hostel
• ££ – Greencourt Guest House
• ££ £ – No.26 By The Sea

Day 7 drive from your accommodation in Oban to join the 3 Isles tour of Mull, Iona and Staffa . This is an all-day tour departing from Oban at 9:55 and returning at 20:05.

Notes – If you are prone to seasickness this may not be for you as the trip from Mull to Staffa and then Staffa to Iona is in a small boat. There are no toilets on Staffa.

• Ferry to Mull and road trip of the island
• Duart Castle
• Iona and Iona Abbey
• Boat trip to the Isle of Staffa to see Fingal’s Cave

If one or more of your party decides they don’t want to do the day trip to the islands there is an alternative. As Doug gets seasick this is what he did when I was over exploring the islands.

Drive up the coast road A828 towards Ballachulish / Glencoe. This is an alternative route to the way you will drive to Glen Coe on day 8 but is an equally pretty drive.

Highlights along the way include

• Dunstaffnage Castle
• Castle Stalker
• Port Appin (tiny port)

Days 8/9/10 – Fort William (2 nights)

Today we drive from Oban to Fort William via Rannock Moor and Glen Coe on the A82. In our view, the drive through Glen Coe is one of the most spectacular drives in Scotland (if not the world) Rannock Moor is a barren and rugged landscape and is one of the most remote places in Britain.

Stop at the Rannock Moor viewpoint and enjoy the views over this incredible place.

Read – Fort William Travel Guide & Ultimate Guide to things to do in Fort William

• Distance – 83 miles (133 km)
• Journey time – 2 hours (but do plan to stop off and enjoy the views along the way)
• Rannock Moor Viewpoint at the Bridge or Orchy
• Glen Etive (James Bond Skyfall drive)
• Three sister’s car park
• Buachaille Etive Mòr car park
• Views of Ben Nevis (the UK’s highest peak)

Tip – Stop off at the Green Welly shop located between Tyndrum and Crianlarich.

🏨 Where to stay in Fort William

• £ – Garrison Cells
• ££ – The Garrison
• £££ – Victoria House B&B

Read – Area and accommodation guide for Fort William

🚂 Logistics

Riding the Harry Potter train (or the Jacobite to give it its muggle name) is every Harry Potter fan’s dream and is one of the most popular train journeys in the UK.

Read – How to ride the Harry Potter train in Scotland

⭐️ Highlights of the day 🪄

• Riding the train across the Glenfinnan Viaduct
• Observing the train from the Glenfinnan viewpoint crossing the viaduct later in the day
• Glenfinnan Church
• Neptune’s Staircase
• Read – Things to do in Fort William

Day 10/11/12/13 – Isle of Skye (3 nights)

Drive from Fort William to Mallaig which takes around 1 hour. Distance 43 miles (69 km) via A830. Cross over from Mallaig to Armadale on Skye via the CalMac ferry.

The ferry takes 30 mins. There are a number of departures per day. Book asap as this is a very popular route.

On arrival at Armadale, you will head to your accommodation. We recommend staying around Portree and exploring the island from there as your base.

Drive time from Armadale to Portree is around 1 hour via the A851 and A87. Distance is 42 miles (62 km)

• Scenic views on the drive from Fort William to Mallaig
• Ferry crossing
• Drive to Portree (depending on crossing time you can stop and enjoy the scenery along the way)

🏨 Where to stay in Skye

• £ – Sonas, Dundans
• ££ – Loch Eyre House
• £££ – Raasay House Hotel
• Guide to where to stay in Skye (areas and accommodation)

You have 2 full days to explore the Isle of Skye.

Drive the western driving loop on Day 10 and the northern driving loop on Day 11.

Many of the roads in Skye are narrow single-file lanes and you will need to pay attention to other road users (and animals!) as you drive.

Tip – Make reservations at restaurants prior to arrival as they can be busy and you may struggle especially during the summer months. We recommend the Edinbane Inn.

⭐️ Highlights of each day included

• Dunvegan Castle
• Neist Point Lighthouse
• Talisker Distillery
• The Fairy Pools
• Sligachan Old Bridge

• Old Man of Storr
• Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls
• The Fairy Glen

Read – One-day itinerary for the Isle of Skye

Read – How to get to the Isle of Skye from Edinburgh

Check out from accommodation today and drive across the Skye bridge to the mainland and the Kyle of Lochalsh. The distance from Portree to the Kyle of Lochalsh via A87 is 50 mins – 34 miles/55 km.

The destination for this evening is Ullapool but there are a couple of places worth exploring along the way.

1. Plockton – 14 minutes from Kyle of Lochalsh (6 miles/ 10 km)

2. Eilean Donan Castle – Drive from Plockton to Eilean Donan Castle is around 20 minutes via A87. (11 miles/18 km)

Tip – Manuela’s Wee Bakery is only a few minutes drive from Eilean Donan and is a must-visit for a tasty snack!

The last leg of the journey today is from Eilean Donan Castle to Ullapool. This takes around 3 hours via Poolewe on the A890 and A832.

Distance is 120 miles (193 km) You are now driving the famous North Coast Scotland route.

• Plockton – Beautiful village famously featured in the Hamish Macbeth TV series
• Eilean Donan Castle – £10 admission charge for adults
• Manuela’s Wee Bakery
• Driving over the famous Bealach Na Ba road from Kishorn to Applecross!

🏨 Where to stay in Ullapool

• £ – Dacama House
• ££ – Broomview Cottage B&B

• First leg – Ullapool to Durness via Scourie on the A835, A894 and A838. Distance – 67 miles/109 km. Time – 1 hour 45 mins.
• Second leg – Durness to Tongue on the A838 Distance – 29 miles/47 kms. Time – 1 hour

Accommodation for the night is in Skail (23 miles from Tongue) which adds another 30 mins to the day’s driving time but accommodation is available in Tongue too.

Plan longer for each leg due to stopping to enjoy scenic views, unscheduled delays such as traffic/wildlife/sheep and rest stops.

• Clachtoll Beach
• Clashnessie Beach
• Golden Eagle Zipline

🏨 Where to stay in Durness or Tongue

• £ – Wee Hoose Glamping Pod
• ££ – Farr Bay Inn
• £££ – Altnaharra Hotel

Drive from your accommodation to catch the ferry from Gills Bay to Mainland Orkney. The journey takes around an hour and arrives at St Margaret’s Hope.

There is enough time to explore some of the main highlights of the island. Make sure to book tickets for popular places such as Skara Brae and Maeshowe.

• Dunnet Head Lighthouse (the most northerly point of mainland Britain)
• Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar
• Maeshowe Chambered Cairn

Read – What to do and see on Mainland Orkney

Day 16/17/18 – Orkney to Inverness (2 nights) via John O’Groats

Catch the ferry from Orkney back to Gill’s Bay. Head south via John O’Groats to the last stop in the Scottish Highlands – the city of Inverness.

• Journey time from John O’Groats is 2 hours 40 mins via A99 and A9
• Distance from John O’Groats is 119 miles (192 km)

🏨 Where to stay in Inverness

• £ – Alba B&B
• ££ – Heathmount Hotel
• £££ – Bunchrew House Hotel

Read – Where to stay in Inverness (Area and accommodation guide)

Logistics of the day

Today is spent exploring the main sights and landmarks in and around Inverness. The itinerary for today includes visiting Culloden, the Clava Cairns, Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness.

Read – Day trips from Inverness

• Culloden Battlefield
• Loch Ness and cruise – there are a few companies that offer boat trips on Loch Ness or you can take a day tour from Inverness if you prefer
• Castle Urquart

Today drive back to Edinburgh from Inverness to return the rental car. The drive time is dependent on the option you choose. The 3 options are

• A9 3 hours – 156 miles (250 km)
• A9/M9 3 hours 30 mins – 179 miles (288 km) This goes via Stirling
• A93 4 hours – 171 miles (275 km) through the Cairngorms National Park and down via Perth to Edinburgh

If you have time we recommend option 3 through the Cairngorms as this is a beautifully scenic route.

Once back in Edinburgh you can connect with onward travel via the train station or airport.

For example, you could take the Caledonian Sleeper back to London which is a great way to get back to the UK capital and save time (as it is an overnight service) or you could take the train to York !

Frequently asked questions about planning a road trip in Scotland

The most famous road trip in Scotland is the North Coast 500 but there are many fantastic road trips in Scotland to choose from.

These include

• South West Coast 300 – Through Dumfries & Galloway and southern Ayrshire.
• North East 250 – Includes the Malt Whisky Trail, the Cairngorms National Park Aberdeen and the Moray Firth Coast
• The Borders Historic Route

As you can see from the above road trips they can vary. Some of Scotland’s road trips can be as little as 90 miles (the Snow Roads Scenic Route in the Cairngorms) to 500 kms for the North Coast 500.

We recommend planning at least a week for your road trip – longer if you can! There is so much to see from historic castles to stunning coastlines, fishing villages, lochs and Munros, to islands and more!

Take your time – stop and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way!

Read more in our extensive guides to Scotland

• Scotland Travel Guide
• UK road trip planner
• 7 UK road trip itineraries
• Guide to the different regions of Scotland
• 19 beautiful places to visit in Scotland
• Guide to Scottish Islands
• Books to read about Scotland (or best movies set in Scotland )
• Best Outlander Tours in Scotland 2022

Scotland Road Trip: 8 Incredible Routes for an Epic Trip

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The Best Scottish Road Trips

Scotland is a place made for road trips. Sweeping roads wind their way through dramatic and moody landscapes, past historic castles, gentle lochs, and wild seas. Ancient myths and rich history thread through Scotland’s fabric, making the country a wonderfully diverse and fascinating place to visit.

A road trip in Scotland showcases the dramatic landscapes, historic cities, lochs and glens, and beautiful coastlines, like no other way to travel does.

As you road trip through Scotland, you’ll find yourself stopping regularly for Insta-worthy images, and along the way, you’ll find fantastic adventures to try like hiking Munroes, wild swimming in Scotland’s lochs and seas, exploring Scotland’s turbulent history, and spotting amazing wildlife.

In this Scotland travel guide, you’ll find a round-up of all the best road trips in Scotland, with Scotland travel tips and information to help you plan and prepare. Come with us as we share eight unmissable Scotland road trip itineraries and highlights.

Scotland Road Trip Map

Is this your first time visiting Scotland and the UK? Get all the information you need in our United Kingdom Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Scotland’s Top Eight Road Trips

Whether you’re driving in Scotland in a car, motorhome , campervan, or riding a motorbike, our Scotland roadtrip itineraries give you a basic route to follow and highlights to visit.

The highlights for each Scotland driving route can be followed with the map – they are in the order in which you travel.  Scotland is packed full of bucket-list things to do  along these routes and it will help to use a navigational app to explore each area in more detail.

Whether you’re planning a quick 7 day Scotland road trip itinerary, or have extra time for a leisurely ramble around several of these routes, there’s a Scottish road trip here for you!

The North Coast 500

Inverness – wick – john o ‘groats – thurso – durness – lochinver – ullapool – gairloch – applecross – inverness.

• Distance: 516 miles
• Duration: 10-14 days
• Drive Time: 15 hours

Considered by many to be one of the best road trips in Scotland , the North Coast 500 really is the ultimate Scottish Highlands road trip, taking in windswept beaches, ancient ruins, beautiful views, and historic castles in stunning landscapes.

The Highland Tourist Route is one of the few road trips in Europe that is as much about the destination as the drive, Scotland’s very own Route 66. If you don’t have much time, it is possible to do the NC500 in seven days, but there wouldn’t be much opportunity to stop and explore the deep and closely held history and raw nature of this visceral place. 

This Scotland Highlands road trip itinerary could be a 10 day Scotland road trip, but 14, or even 21 days gives you plenty of time to fully appreciate this special part of the country. 

You can tackle this Scottish highlands itinerary either way by starting from Inverness. Our itinerary assumes you will head north up the east coast. Check your map regularly for Scottish attractions, natural wonders, glorious beaches, and historic points of interest, some of which will require a detour from the route.

If you’re visiting in late autumn or winter, Applecross, Lochinver, and Ullapool are all top places to see the Northern Lights.

Top 16 Highlights

• Spend your first day in Inverness, finding your feet and shopping for souvenirs. Highlights in the city center include Inverness Castle, the 19th century Inverness Cathedral, and the mostly 18th century Old High Church. There is also a popular indoor Victorian Market and the contemporary Inverness Museum and Art Gallery traces local and Highland history.
• Follow the age-old tradition of hunting the famous Loch Ness monster. Hire a boat and head out onto the water with a picnic and camera. You might not see Nessie, but you’ll enjoy stunning scenery, clear air, and space to unwind in one of  Scotland’s most beautiful places .
• Visit the haunting battlefield of Culloden, the site of the final and bloody confrontation of the Jacobite rising and defeat of Charles Stuart’s army in 1745. You can learn more about this seminal time in the history of Scotland at the nearby  Culloden Visitor Center .
• Explore the dramatic 15th century ruins of Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, perched high on a cliff above the steely North Sea.
• Love the challenge of bagging any of the 37 Munros (mountains over 914m) along the route. If they’re a little too high, try bagging one of the 43 Corbetts or 38 Grahams (mountains over 762m), or just enjoy viewing them from the winding roads.
• Admire the lofty grace of  Dunrobin Castle , the historic home of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland, which dates from around 1275.
• See the mysterious Hill O’Many Stanes, where 200 thin stones were laid out in a radiating pattern over 4,000 years ago …and no one really knows why.
• Enjoy the sea air and a five mile hike from John o’Groats to Duncansby Head, the most north-easterly point on the British mainland, and continue along the spectacular coastal path to see the two dramatic pointed sea stacks.
• Visit the  Castle of Mey , which was restored by The Queen Mother when she bought it in 1952 and saved it from abandonment. A fascinating glimpse into a castle that served as a holiday retreat for the royal family, and with wonderful gardens, this is a truly beautiful place.
• Explore the various and fascinating brochs on the route. The broch is an imposing stone tower and ancient dwelling, built as early as 500 BCE, found only in Scotland. Dunbeath Broch and Nybster Broch are both excellent examples and are close to the  Caithness Broch Centre , where you can learn more.
• Take (another) bracing walk in the wild and untamed landscape of  Dunnet Head , the RSPB nature reserve and the most northerly point in mainland Britain. This is the perfect place to see puffins in this noisy sea-bird nature reserve, especially if you visit during the breeding season, from late spring to early summer.
• Enjoy visiting and tastings at the whisky distilleries on the route, including  Glenmorangie , famous for its single malt since 1843. You’ll find many more distilleries along the way, just one of the pleasures of touring the Scottish Highlands!
• Visit the beautiful beaches, bays, and coves of the north coast, including the most north-westerly point, the raw and wild Cape Wrath (only accessible  by ferry  or  minibus ) the Smoo Cave, a sea cave complete with its own waterfall, and  Sandwood Bay  (hike only, no vehicular access) for the incredible sight of the Am Buachaille sea stack, a remnant of when the Highlands and North America were connected, millions of years ago.
• Go whale watching from Gairloch, you might also see dolphins, porpoises, and sharks, as well as seals, otters, puffins, and perhaps even the white-tailed eagle. The best time to see whales on the west coast of Scotland is from mid-June to late September.
• Drive the legendary Applecross Pass, one of the best and highest roads in Scotland . Bealach na Bà is a narrow slip of a road, with hairpin sharp bends and steep gradients – not one for the faint-hearted, but absolutely worth it!
• Take to the sea in a canoe, in one of the many lochs and inlets along the route. Enjoy a different perspective and get up close with the local wildlife

RELATED POST: North Coast 500 Route Planner + Highlights, Map & Tips

2 Week Motorhome Itinerary Scotland

Let us do the planning for you and grab our Scotland motorhome itinerary, packed with campsites, off-grid spots, attractions, and insider tips.

Let us do the hard work for you! Get up every day knowing your trip is planned with driving routes, overnight stops, and attractions marked out for you on your interactive map.

The North East 250

Aberdeen – peterhead – fraserburgh – portsoy – spey bay – glenlivet – braemar – aberdeen.

• Distance: 259 miles
• Duration: 5-7 days
• Drive Time: 7 hours

If you have just one week in Scotland , the North East 250 is the perfect 7 day self-drive tour of Scotland for lovers of coastlines, mountains, and whisky.

Designed to be joined from Aberdeen Airport, you can go clockwise or anti-clockwise and wend your way through the dramatic countryside and towns of Speyside, Royal Deeside, Cairngorms, the east coast, and the Moray Firth coast. This route also picks up most of the major attractions from the  Deeside Tourist Route .

The most stunning bit of this route is the stretch from Tomintoul to Blairgowrie, which makes up a large part of the Snowroads scenic route . This stunning road through the eastern Cairngorms officially starts in Grantown-on-Spey, before traversing the highest public road in Britain, to Blairgowrie.

The Snowroads don’t need to be driven in a hurry. There are steep hills, blind summits, tight bends, and single-track roads with passing places – take extra care if you’re in a large motorhome.

This tourist route is fairly new, launched in 2017, and is not always signposted as such. As with all road trips, keep a close eye on whichever mapping and navigation tools you use to work out what’s on the route and what will require a little detour.

Our itinerary takes you north from Aberdeen towards Peterhead, but you can do the route whichever way you wish.  If you had a few more days, you could also pick up the Perthshire Tourist Route from the most southerly point of the NE250 and continue south for a short but spectacular drive.

Top 10 Highlights

• Admire the powerful architecture of the glittering city of Aberdeen and its rich maritime history.
• Enjoy the whisky distilleries along the NE250 route including Tomintoul, Glenlivet, Royal Lochnagar, and Strathisla.
• Partake in some dark tourism at the fascinating  Peterhead Prison Museum , which was an operational prison until 2013.
• Visit the truly brilliant  Museum of Scottish Lighthouses  at Fraserburgh, where you can tour Kinnaird Head Lighthouse, the very first lighthouse built on mainland Scotland in 1787.
• Love the bracing air and dolphin spotting from the clifftops near Portknockie, where you can also see the iconic Bow Fiddle Rock, and sometimes the Northern Lights.
• Enjoy Cullen Skink in Cullen! The thick Scottish soup made of smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions is a delicious local specialty.
• Visit the stunning ruins of  Elgin Cathedral . Built in 1224 and known as the ‘Lantern of the North’, it was one of the most spectacular medieval cathedrals in Scotland.
• Drive through the magnificent  Cairngorms National Park , home to deer, eagles, and atmospheric Corgarff Castle.
• Enjoy some of the best outdoor activities Scotland has to offer, including white water sports, climbing, hiking, cycling, and much more.
• Spend a day at the splendid royal  Balmoral Castle , home to the nation’s former Queen Elizabeth II and now King Charles III and their family since 1852.

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Scotland . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

The South West Coastal 300

Prestwick – ballantrae – cairngaan – isle of whithorn – kirkudbright – dumfries – lockerbie – moffat – dalmellington – prestwick.

• Distance: 302 miles
• Drive Time: 8 hours

The South West Coastal 300 is a one week Scotland road trip for nature lovers and history buffs. With stunning coastlines, lush forests that stretch over rolling hills, and dramatic moorlands, this quiet corner of Scotland will woo you until you fall in love with its gentle charms.

This is a well-located road trip in Scotland for those driving north from the rest of the UK and can be joined at Lockerbie, within a 20 minute drive of the Scottish border. 

The route is also easily accessible from Glasgow Prestwick Airport, or from Glasgow International Airport if you fancy a few days in the cultural and welcoming city at the start or end of your visit to Scotland. 

Our itinerary assumes you will travel south from Prestwick along the coast, but this route can be driven either way – at times it also crosses the  Galloway Tourist Route  which runs through the middle of Galloway Forest Park

• Dip into  Galloway Forest Park , the only Dark Sky Park in Scotland, and a top spot to see the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights.
• Our favorite beach on this road trip, the small but perfectly formed Dunure Beach has dark sand and shingle with great rock pooling and stunning views of Ailsa Craig from the ragged ruins of Dunure Castle.
• Admire the dramatic clifftop  Culzean Castle , designed by Robert Adam in the late 18th century and full of treasures, opulence, and history.
• Climb to the Robert Louis Stevenson-designed  Mull of Galloway lighthouse , at the southernmost tip of Scotland on the wild Rhins of Galloway peninsula. Go at dusk for spectacular sunsets.
• Visit the charming Isle of Whithorn (no longer an island) to see the ruins of the chapel built by St Ninian, who founded the first Christian church in Britain around AD390.
• Spend a day in lively  Kirkcudbright  (pronounced kir–coo–bree) and follow the Arts and Crafts Trail. Home to generations of creatives, ‘the artist’s town’ has a flourishing community of painters and craftworkers. You might also hear bagpipes here as they have lots of parades.
• Head for Kirkbean to walk on the vast empty expanse of Southerness beach, with breathtaking views across Solway Firth to the Lake District. Visit Southerness Lighthouse at the western end of the beach, one of the oldest in Scotland.
• Find your inner child at  Moat Brae , the inspiration for JM Barrie’s famous character, Peter Pan. The author lived in Dumfries from 1873 to 1878 and called the gardens ‘enchanted lands’.
• Stop off in Moffat for a spot of hiking on the scenic Southern Upland Way or the most northerly point on the Annandale Way, both of which pass through this pretty and historic town.
• Visit the  Scottish Dark Sky Observatory  at Dalmellington to use their powerful telescopes to observe the night skies – stargazing without light pollution is an incredible experience.

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts and road trip songs for the journey!

The Argyll Coastal Route & Loch Ness

Glasgow – tarbet – inverary – lochgilphead – oban – glencoe – fort william – glenfinnan – inverness.

• Distance: 263 miles
• Duration: 7-10 days

The official Argyll Coastal Route ends in Fort William, but we couldn’t leave you there, with the magnificent Glenfinnan to the west and the superb A82 to the east, waiting to take you to Inverness. 

From sea shores, loch-sides, and mountain tops, the ultimate west coast of Scotland road trip is for seafood gourmets, sunset lovers, and those who want to get under the skin of Scotland and feel its turbulent history in the air and glens of the incredible landscapes. 

Starting in Glasgow and finishing in Inverness allows you to make the most of this linear west coast Scotland route as you cross the Highland Boundary Fault and enjoy the gentle lowlands giving way to the dramatic and wild highlands.

• Be intrigued by the gritty, yet cultured, Victorian city of Glasgow. Must-sees include medieval Glasgow Cathedral and Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, for a dose of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the Scottish artist and designer.
• Visit the viewpoint at  An Ceann Mor , in the  Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park , to get a sense of the sheer size and incredible beauty of Loch Lomond.
• Enjoy fresh seafood at some of the best restaurants in Scotland along this route. Of particular note, the original  Loch Fyne Oysters Ltd  have been selling fresh oysters at the roadside since 1978 and you can now enjoy them in the bar or to take away from their delicatessen.
• Stop off at Inveraray to visit the  Inveraray Jail  and  Inveraray Castle , home to the Duke of Argyll and Chief of Clan Campbell.
• Learn about Scotland and some of the Highland’s darkest hours at  Auchindrain , a living museum and Scotland’s last inhabited Highland farming township before the Highland Clearances, which took place between 1750 to 1860.
• Visit  Kilmartin Museum  to find out about the 800 cairns and monuments that dot the landscape of Kilmartin Glen and see fascinating 2,000-year-old artifacts from local archaeological digs. In the glen itself, you can enter some of the cairns, see carved gravestones, and reach the top of what remains of  Dunadd Hill Fort , where the first kings of Scotland were inaugurated.
• Spend a fantastic day wildlife watching from Easdale Island. With whale spotting trips, excursions to the Corryvreckan Whirlpool, and a tour of a local seal colony there’s lots to do, as well as keeping your eyes peeled for porpoises, dolphins, eagles, and otters along the way.
• Oban Distillery  is one of the smallest and oldest distilleries in Scotland and makes whisky that reflects the character of its coastal location – definitely worth a stop!
• Stopping to take photographs of  Castle Stalker , from the shores of Loch Linnhe. Located on a tidal island to the north of Port Appin, this iconic castle and its surroundings make for atmospheric and moody photographs.
• Explore  Glen Coe , the site of the Massacre of Glencoe in 1692, when members of the Campbell clan murdered members of the MacDonald clan on the orders of the English Crown. Or follow the Glen Coe Geotrail to learn more about the ancient volcanic history of this other-worldly place. Shaped by glaciers and fiery volcanic explosions millions of years ago, Glen Coe is a landscape full of natural wonders.
• Spend some time in the  Lochaber area , dominated by Ben Nevis and known as the outdoor capital of the UK. Activity lovers will be in their element here; you can mountain bike, hike, climb, abseil and enjoy all manner of water sports on the loch.
• Be in awe of  Neptune’s Staircase , the longest staircase lock flight in Scotland. This flight of eight locks on the Caledonian Canal is an amazing feat of engineering that raises the canal by 19m over 1/4 mile. It takes around 90 minutes for a boat to travel the locks. This is the perfect spot to practice your ‘gongoozaling’ – the activity of watching boats and activities on canals for pleasure!
• Visit the magical  Glenfinnan Viaduct . Made famous by the Harry Potter films, this railway viaduct has carried trains on the West Highland Line since 1897. Glenfinnan is also the spot in which Bonnie Prince Charlie called for the local clansmen to assemble in 1745, proclaiming the throne of Great Britain to be denounced and rightfully returned to his family, the Stuarts.
• Head east and pick up the legendary A82 road. Around the Bridge of Orchy, you’ll drive a section of the infamous Skyfall road, from the Bond film of the same name, and one of the most dramatic and scenic drives in Scotland. Time for a photo opportunity!
• Make a stop at the very pretty village of Fort Augustus, the gateway to Loch Ness and the most southerly tip of this famous body of water. It is also the point where the  Caledonian Canal  leaves Loch Ness, cutting through the small village on its way south.
• Visit Urquhart Castle at Drumnadrochit, halfway up Loch Ness. Once one of Scotland’s largest castles, Urquhart saw much conflict during its 500 years as a medieval fortress, especially during the Wars of Independence. 

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Isle of skye, ardelve – broadford – portree – trotternish – duntulm – dunvegan – armadale – mallaig.

• Distance: 276 miles
• Duration: 3-5 days
• Drive Time: 6 hours

Surrounded by sparkling seas where towering cliffs defend the island from crashing waves, Skye is a real balm for the soul and one of the best places to visit in Scotland by car.

This road trip surely has to be one of the most picturesque in Scotland, with jagged mountains, heather-carpeted moors, and myths and legends aplenty. There are lots of  things to do on Skye  too, so expect to be busy on this road trip, even though it’s a short route!

You can drive to Skye from Inverness in around two and a half hours. From Glasgow, it will take five to six hours. Just getting to Skye is an incredible trip in its own right, maximise your time by flying into Inverness and out of Glasgow (or vice versa). 

Check out the Argyll Coastal Route and North Coast 500 itinerary for ideas of what to do on the way to the Isle of Skye.

Use the  Skye Bridge  to cross Loch Alsh, or go over the sea to Skye the old-fashioned way and get a  CalMac ferry from Mallaig . Our itinerary assumes you will drive from Inverness over the bridge and get the ferry back to the mainland, but you can follow the route in either direction.

Skye has to be one of the busiest places in Scotland in summer, so go out of season or head out of the main tourist areas of Portree, Trotternish, and Dunvegan to find solitude and space.

Top 11 Highlights

• Not on Skye, but just a few miles before the Skye Bridge, is  Eilean Donan Castle , one of Scotland’s most iconic images and one of the most photographed castles in the country. Situated on an island at the point where the three great sea lochs of Alsh, Duish, and Long meet, the striking castle is surrounded by magnificent scenery and is full of history.
• The 2.3 mile hike up to the  Old Man of Storr  on the Trotternish peninsula is one of the must-dos on Syke. The ‘Old Man’ is a large spike of rock that stands high and can be seen for miles around. Created by an ancient landslide, the Storr is one of the most photographed places in Scotland.
• Off the beaten track and much less known, but no lesser for it, is Rubha nam Brathairean (Brothers’ Point), a dramatic headland that marks the easternmost point of Trotternish. Not far from here, you’ll also find Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls – epic views that you can get to within a few minutes of walking from the free parking.
• Visit  The Quiraing  for a great 4.5 mile hike with spectacular landscapes and beautiful views, or get a feel for this strangely named area from the car park.
• The Fairy Glen is a curious rock formation just inland from Uig. Formed by an ancient landslide and shaped by glaciers over thousands of years, the Fairy Glen is best photographed from above to fully appreciate the weird and wonderful shapes of the landscape.
• Visit Skye’s most famous historic building,  Dunvegan Castle , the seat of the chief of Clan MacLeod. In a beautiful position at the edge of Loch Dunvegan, the castle gardens are a hidden oasis of beautiful plants.
• Catch an amazing sunset from  Neist Point , where there is also a lighthouse of the same name. The most westerly point on Skye, this beautiful spot also affords fantastic views of the Outer Hebrides.
• Stop off at the world-famous Talisker Distillery for a tour that finishes with a wee dram of their peaty single malt.
• Try a spot of wild swimming (we would advise a wet suit!) in the bracing Fairy Pools, beautiful crystal clear pools, and waterfalls at the foot of the Cuillin mountains, on the river Brittle. Take the 1.5 mile walk from the small parking lot to find this series of magical pools, formed 50-70 million years ago!
• Take one of the most scenic Scotland roads from Broadford to the village of Elgol, for incredible views of the dark and brooding Cuillin mountains.
• Get out on the water in a canoe or take a boat trip to get acquainted with local wildlife. You’re likely to see seals, dolphins, porpoises, and lots of different species of sea birds, as well as find hidden coves, cliff waterfalls, and sea caves.

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Borders Historic Route

Edinburgh – dalkeith – galashiels – selkirk – hawick – langholm – gretna green.

• Distance: 88 miles
• Duration: 2-3 days
• Drive Time: 3 hours

This Scotland road trip from Edinburgh will take you through the lush and hilly countryside of the lowland Scottish Borders, through charming villages and small towns to famous Gretna Green, and the border with England. 

Learn about Scottish industrial heritage and the vibrant arts and crafts scene, still alive and kicking in this mostly rural region. 

This road trip is the best option if you plan on spending time in historic Edinburgh and want to see a bit of Scotland as part of your trip. If it’s a one-way drive, Newcastle Airport is an hour and a half away by car from Gretna Green, making this an ideal linear route. 

• Visit historic Edinburgh , the capital city of Scotland. With wonderful medieval and neoclassical architecture and a great vibe, this is a city in which to spend at least a full day. Take a city center guided tour to see Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill, the National Museum of Scotland, and the famous Royal Mile, the main road through Edinburgh’s old town, where you can shop for tartan and enjoy locally made fudge.
• Harry Potter fans will want to visit Victoria Street. With its unusual shape and collection of quirky shops, it’s said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the J.K. Rowling books. 
• Enjoy a locally brewed craft beer at  Stewart Brewing , an independent craft brewery on the outskirts of Edinburgh. You might even see the team hard at work brewing while you enjoy your beer!
• Stop at  Dalkeith Country Park  for easy walks and bike rides on the trails through the natural beauty of the 1,000-acre estate and working farm. You might spot Roe deer, otters, buzzards, foxes, badgers, hares, and rabbits here.
• Visit Lady Victoria Colliery, one of the best and last surviving Victorian collieries in Europe, and now the  National Mining Museum of Scotland . Explore the machinery used to mine and take coal to the surface, imagine what a miner’s life was like, and experience the sights and sounds of a working pit on a fantastic tour of the pit head.
• Go back in time to Robert Smail’s Printing Works in the pretty village of Innerleithen. Try your hand at typesetting, and discover the origin of everyday phrases such as ‘mind your Ps and Qs’ as you discover how printing was carried out by highly skilled printers, with individual letters of type set by hand, presses operated with foot treadles and power generated by a waterwheel.
• If you love gardens, then  Harmony Garden  in Melrose is a horticultural delight and a tranquil escape from life on the road. With colorful borders, beautifully manicured lawns, and a thriving kitchen garden, Harmony is perfectly in tune with nature. An added bonus is the superb views of Melrose Abbey and the nearby Eildon Hills.
• Admire the creativity and skill of the glassblowers at work in  Lindean Mill Glass . This innovative glass studio was established in 1978 by David Kaplan and Annica Sandström, whose work has been exhibited at the National Museum Scotland in Edinburgh and the V&A in London.
• Take a mill tour, a great way to see Scottish tartan being woven from scratch, at Lochcarron of Scotland in Selkirk, one of the biggest names in the Scottish Borders’ textile industry, which has been weaving high-quality tartan for over 100 years. The Dress Act of 1746 attempted to bring the warrior clans under government control by banning the tartan along with other aspects of Gaelic culture.
• Continue your textiles education at the  Borders Textile Towerhouse  and discover more about the area’s role as a producer of sought-after fabrics. Designers such as Chanel, Dior, and Vivienne Westwood have used fabric produced in the Borders in their designs for many years. The gift shop here is perfect for finding a unique present or Scottish souvenir.
• Discover exciting and tumultuous borderlands history at  Gilnockie Tower , a fine example of a defensive peel tower that dates from the 16th century. Located on the River Esk, it’s home to the Clan Armstrong Centre, the ancestral home of the Armstrong Clan, and is packed with fascinating clan heritage.

RELATED POST: Edinburgh One Day Itinerary – Map, Tips & Guide

Stirling – Trossachs Pier – Killin – Blair Athol – Pitlochry – Perth – Kinross – Crief – Stirling

• Distance: 232 miles

The new kid on the Scottish road trip map is Heart 200, a two-hundred-mile-plus romp around the center of Scotland. This route offers the best of all the other routes combined as you travel through Scotland’s iconic, ever-changing landscapes.

Chuck in the historic cities of Perth and Stirling, and you’ve got a road trip perfect for first-time visitors to Scotland, or those that want to see the best of this glorious country. 

Divided into six sections, this road trip covers the forests of the west, the Highlands to the north, the rivers of the east, and the historic south, along with Stirling and Perth.

Along the route are places of historical interest, world-class golf courses, ancient castles, loch and river-based water sports for adrenalin seekers, and a few whisky distilleries, of course!

You’ll explore the remarkable history and culture of the region, from antiquity to the modern day, and learn more than a few surprising insights along the way.

Over millennia, Scotland has made its mark on history thanks to famous figures ranging from the ancient Celts and the Roman Empire to King Robert the Bruce and Mary Queen of Scots, via Bonnie Prince Charlie, Rob Roy MacGregor, Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Queen Victoria, all of whom have connections to the heart of Scotland.

For a longer trip pick up the Fife Coastal Route, which follows the shore of the Firth of Forth from Kincardine to Dundee, where you can head back inland to Perth. This route takes in pretty fishing villages, historic golf courses, castles, and distilleries along 77 miles of meandering coast road – well worth adding to your itinerary

Top 13 Highlights

• If you fly into Edinburgh Airport, make a quick stop to see the magnificent Kelpies at Helix Park in Grangemouth. The Kelpies are 30-metre-high horse-head sculptures depicting kelpies, a mythical shape-changing aquatic spirit of Scottish legend, and will start your Heart of Scotland road trip off on the right note.
• Whilst in the area, explore the Falkirk Wheel, the world’s only rotating boat lift that connects the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal in a half-turn that takes only five minutes!
• Stirling is the first stop and at the heart of the old town is medieval Stirling Castle, dominating the city from its craggy volcanic rock. Other attractions not to be missed are the 19th century National Wallace Monument that overlooks the site of the 1297 Battle of Stirling Bridge, where William Wallace (famously played by Mel Gibson in the film Braveheart ) defeated the English, and the Battle of Bannockburn Experience has interactive 3D displays on the history of the 1314 conflict.
• Visit the imposing  Doune Castle , a popular film set. Used as a set for Monty Python and the Holy Grail, as Castle Leoch in Outlander, and as Winterfell in Game of Thrones, this medieval stronghold could tell a few stories!
• Find out everything you ever wanted to know about sheep and wool at The Scottish Wool Centre in Aberfoyle, with live sheep shows and hands-on demonstrations of spinning and working sheepdogs.
• Stop at Killin, a small village at the southern point of Loch Tay. Famous for the Falls of Dochart, a spectacular series of rapids where the River Dochart rushes towards the Loch at the confluence of the rivers Dochart and Lochay, the best view is from the Bridge of Dochart in the village. This is also a great place to base yourself for local hiking.
• Take in the iconic Queen’s View along Loch Tummel, which is named after Queen Victoria, who visited the region in 1866. The vantage point at the  Forestry Commission’s Visitor Centre  offers a breathtaking vista of Schielhallion, one of Scotland’s most famous mountains.
• Visit in August for the Kinloch Rannoch Highland Games, which always take place on the third Saturday of the month. Hosted by the local community, you can watch caber tossing, hill racing, and lots more traditional Highland games events, as well as listen to the bagpipes being played.
• Aberfeldy makes a good base for exploring local attractions including the Tay Bridge, Black Watch Monument, 16th century Castle Menzies, Cluny House Gardens, Lundin Farm Stone Circle, and Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery.
• A mecca for thrill-seekers, the white water rapids on the River Tay at Grandtully offer opportunities for kayaking, rafting, and canyoning, with lots of local companies providing access and equipment, whatever your level of skill or knowledge.
• Historians should stop at the Gorge of Killiecrankie, the site of one of the bloodiest battles during the Jacobite Risings in 1689. Take a walk up to the viewpoint at Soldier’s Leap, where a Redcoat soldier is said to have jumped 18 feet across the ravine to escape the pursuing Jacobites.  Salmon can often be seen jumping around the falls here and keep an eye out for red squirrels and woodpeckers which are quite prolific during fall , when the colors are spectacular.
• Admire the listed historic house of  Scone Palace , situated near the village of Scone and the city of Perth. Scone Palace was the crowning place of Scottish kings where Macbeth, Robert the Bruce, and Charles II were once crowned. Nowadays, this red sandstone palace is among the very finest surviving examples of the late Georgian Gothic style in the United Kingdom. 
• Visit the wildlife at Blair Drummond Safari Park, near Stirling. Widely acknowledged to be one of the  best safari parks in the UK  for breeding and conservation (and the only one in Scotland), the park is set across 120 acres and is home to 350 animals including lions and southern white rhinos.

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip, or check our our favourite Europe road trips for ideas and inspiration!

Kennacraig – Tayinloan – Isle of Gigha – Machrihanish – Mull of Kintyre Lighthouse – Campbeltown – Carradale – Kennacraig

• Distance: 115 miles
• Drive Time: 5 hours

Another newcomer to the Scottish road trip scene is Kintyre 66, or K66, as it’s becoming known. If you’ve ever watched Paul McCartney and Wing’s video of the song ‘Mull of Kintyre’ and been inspired by the landscape, then this road trip in Scotland is for you.

An easy hop from Glasgow Airport, the K66 is perfect for a long weekend. Start in Tarbert, a pretty village at the top of Kintyre. Just a narrow strip of land a mile wide connects the peninsula to the mainland, making Kintyre Scotland’s only mainland island.

The landscape and beaches are pristine and unspoiled, the seas huge, the night sky clear and the wildlife abundant – this really is a trip for outdoor lovers. Kayaking in the turquoise waters is a popular pastime and hiking some of the incredible trails, with their spectacular views, is a must.

Local produce and food are also a highlight of this trip, with seafood at the top of the list. You’ll also find whisky and gin distilleries and several breweries in Kintyre, making sure that local food and drink sustain all your activity!

The official K66 is, unsurprisingly 66 miles long, but we’ve added on the far south of Kintyre to include the iconic Mull of Kintyre lighthouse.

The single-track route there meanders over the rolling moors before helter-skeltering down a steep cliff to the lighthouse – don’t be put off, it’s an amazing drive with breathtaking views right across to Ireland.

• A visit to the Beinn an Turc Distillery near Torrisdale to sample their Kintyre gin is a must! This sustainable distillery, which uses its own power generated by a hydroelectric plant, creates a delicious gin using botanicals and water from its own land.
• Head to Saddell Bay to see GRIP, a cast iron sculpture created by British artist Antony Gormley to mark the Landmark Trust’s 50th anniversary. The human form stares out over the Kilbrannan Sound to Arran from the rocks below Saddell Castle. Originally, the sculpture was placed for just a year, but thanks to a generous donation, it will remain indefinitely.
• Visiting the glorious beaches of the peninsula is a real treat. Unspoiled and often with no one else around, some of the best beaches in Scotland can be found here. Our favorites are Carradale Bay and close-by Torrisdale Bay.
• At the very north of Kintyre is the colorful and lively harbor town of Tarbert. With plenty to do, including Tarbert Castle, which sits high above the town, this is a great place to spend a day
• The enchanting Isle of Gigha can be reached in just 20 minutes on a ferry from Tayinloan and is a fantastic day trip destination. Kissed by the gulf stream, the beautiful Achamore Gardens feel exotic, whilst in contrast, a hike up Creag Bhan, the highest point on the island, showcases the best of the raw and wild landscape.
• Westport boasts a sandy beach, perfect for surfing. There is a surf school in the village where you can hire equipment and take lessons if this is your first time on a board. You’ll need a wet suit, whatever the weather – the water in these parts is pretty chilly!
• The next stop just down the coast is Machrihanish, a village most famous for its iconic beach-side golf course.
• An absolute must-do is a visit to the Mull of Kintyre Lighthouse, on the very far southwest tip of the peninsula. The views are pretty special and the drive there is dramatic, but not for the faint-hearted.
• The ruins of Skipness Castle lie at the far north of the peninsula. The castle was originally built in the early 1200s by the MacSweens. It later fell to Clan MacDonald and has been rebuilt several times over the centuries.
• The seafood caught, prepared, and served on Kintyre is out of this world. Fresh from the boat in the morning, you’ll find scallops, mussels, lobsters, crabs, langoustines, and clams on every menu. Another local taste is Gigha halibut, which you can enjoy in the West Loch Hotel, on the A83 out of Tarbert.

Scotland Practicalities

When to take a scottish road trip.

Scotland’s weather is generally moderate but changeable. As the topography of Scotland varies greatly, you’ll notice differences between highland and lowland weather, as well as coastal influences.

Late spring is a great time for planning a trip to Scotland. The countryside comes alive with wildflowers and baby animals as the warmer weather beats back winter.

With good weather and summer averages of around 20°c, this is one of the best times for touring Scotland. The downside is that popular routes, attractions, and hotels will be busy, so a road trip of Scotland in the summer months will require a little more advance planning. 

July and August are also the worst months for the infamous biting midges, especially if you’re planning on camping in a motorhome or tent on the West Coast, where they are generally at their worst.

A wonderful time for driving holidays in Scotland, the fall colors are some of the most dramatic in the world. Autumn is also deer rutting season, with lots of opportunities around the Highlands to see this mighty display.

Plan trips to Scotland during the colder months for winter sporting opportunities, dramatic scenery, and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights, or ‘Mirrie Dancers’ as they are sometimes called in Scotland.

There are an average of 15-20 snow days a year, rising to over 100 snow days in the Highlands – head to Aviemore in the Cairngorms if you’re looking for the white stuff, or just enjoy this fantastic winter destination for the scenery.

Scottish Outdoor Access Code

Whenever and however you visit Scotland, always follow the  Scottish Outdoor Access Code . The code helps you to get the best from your Scotland itinerary and ensures that the flora and fauna of this beautiful country are not harmed.

Getting to Scotland

Scotland has six main airports, and the good news is that one of them will be the perfect starting point for your ultimate Scottish road trip itinerary. We recommend booking through  Skyscanner  for live deals and the best prices.

• Edinburgh Airport (pronounced Ed-in-bruh if you want to sound like the locals!) for the Borders Historic Route  and Heart 200 .
• Glasgow International Airport for the South West Coastal 300 ,  Argyll Coastal Route , Isle of Skye and Kintyre 66 .
• Glasgow Prestwick Airport for the  South West Coastal 300 .
• Aberdeen Airport for the  North East 250 .
• Inverness Airport for the  North Coast 500 ,  Isle of Skye  and  Argyll Coastal Route .
• Dundee Airport for the  North East 250 .

You can hire a car  at any of these airports and be on your chosen Scotland driving tour route within a one hour drive. Book your rental car well in advance and use a car hire booker like Rentalcars.com  who will provide the best deals from all the top car hire companies.  How?  Because they have such a large market share, they’ve got way more buying power than individuals and can negotiate much harder on price.

For a real adventure , hire a motorhome or campervan in Scotland. We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

For those planning a  Scottish staycation from the rest of the UK, get public transport like the train or even coach from  London  to Edinburgh and hire a car from there, or drive yourself to Scotland.

Driving in Scotland

Whether you roadtrip Scotland in a car, camper, or motorbike, make sure you’ve got all your documents handy and your spare tire is in good condition.

If your Scotland road trip itinerary is longer than a few weeks and you’re planning on using your own vehicle, you may want to consider a service before you go, and breakdown cover is probably a good idea. 

• Remember to drive on the left during your UK trip!
• Drivers from non-EU countries may require an International Driving Permit. The general rule is that if your license is not in English, then an IDP will be required. Check with your hire company or embassy if you’re in doubt.
• If you’re not a British citizen, you should carry your passport or ID card at all times as you road trip around Scotland.
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle. Update August 2021 – you no longer require a green card to prove you have vehicle insurance cover when if your vehicle is registered outside the UK.
• Your car must be considered legal and roadworthy in the country in which it is registered.
• Your headlights must be adapted for driving on the right if your vehicle is registered outside the UK.
• Unlike France, the UK does not have laws that require you to carry certain equipment in your car, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t. Being prepared in the event of an accident or a breakdown is invaluable. The best way is to carry a reflective jacket, a warning triangle, a first-aid kit, and a fire extinguisher.
• If you’re hiring a car, book well in advance and use a care hire booker like  Rentalcars.com  who will provide the best deals from all the top car hire companies. How? Because they have such a large market share, they’ve got way more buying power than individuals and can negotiate much harder on price.
• Understand insurance options, mileage limits, and fuel policies before booking.
• Check the car for damage on collection and make sure anything you spot is noted, and the same again when you drop it off.

RELATED POST: Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know

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18 Best Road Trips in Scotland You Can’t Miss

February 21, 2024

Scotland is one of the world’s best road trip nations.

The country has countless scenic drives, a massively diverse landscape, stunning lochs , endless remote adventures, and lots of charming towns, cities and villages . But more importantly than that, Scotland’s road trip infrastructure is great, with a surprising number of well-planned and perfectly-waymarked official road trips .

So in this article, I’ve brought you the best of them, along with a small few other routes I like.

I’ve included in my list both short trips and long trips, so there’s an adventure you can enjoy no matter how much time you have.

For each road trip, I’ve recommended some top things to do and see along the way, and a guideline for how long each one should take.

Anyway, enough of all the introductions. Here they are: the top 18 road trips in Scotland.

1. The North Coast 500

2. north and west highlands route, 3. the heart 200, 4. the south west coastal 300, 5. highland tourist route, 6. argyll coastal route, 7. deeside tourist route, 8. the arran ring road, 9. perthshire tourist route, 10. the trotternish loop, 11. galloway tourist route, 12. the snow roads scenic route, 13. moray firth route, 14. forth valley tourist route, 15. fife coastal route, 16. angus coastal route, 17. borders historic route, 18. clyde valley tourist route, before you go.

The big boy. The top dog. The number 1.

The North Coast 500 is by far the most famous Scottish road trip. If you’re only going to do one road trip in the nation, make it this one. The other ones are great, they’re just not this great.

I love the North Coast 500. I’ve done it twice, and I’d be happy to tackle it ten more times. A 500 miles (800km) loop through the most northern parts of the Scottish Highlands, the route includes some of the best mountains, lochs , beaches, cliffs, scenery and villages you’ve probably ever seen.

Most people tell you to do this in 2-5 days. Don’t listen to those people. You could probably spend a month on the NC500 , and still want to spend more.

If you like walking, you should be particularly slow. Along the way, there are loads of beautiful hiking spots. All of my favorites are the hikes along the northern part of the west coast, in and around places like Ullapool, Torridon and Gairloch. If you only do one hike along the NC500, make it Stac Pollaidh.

• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in Inverness (or Applecross)
• Distance: 500 miles/800km
• Time: 5-21 days
• Highlights: Ullapool, Torridon, Lochcarron, Durness, the Bealach na Bà and much, much more

If you don’t have time to do the entire North Coast 500, but want to enjoy (most of) the best bits, ride the North and West Highlands Route instead.

That said, because this route isn’t a loop, it’s nearly as easy to just complete the entire North Coast 500. So my advice is, unless you have some huge reason to not do the NC500 instead, you should do the NC500 instead.

But the North and West Highlands Route is still great.

You start in Ullapool, one of the world’s most endearing port towns, and you end in the iconic John O’Groats. Along the way, you still get all of the northern coast, most of the best bits of the western coast, and plenty of hikes, hills, beaches and tiny towns.

• Itinerary: Ullapool to John O’Groats
• Distance: 158 miles/254km
• Time: 4-10 days
• Highlights: Ullapool, Durness, the mountains and the beaches

One of the newest official road trips in Scotland, the gimmick here is that the route goes right through the so-called heart of the nation.

This road trip itinerary takes drivers in and around Perth, Stirling, the southern tip of the Cairngorms, the eastern tip of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, and some other lovely places.

It’s a pretty unique route, because it takes drivers through a remote, rural and unexplored area sandwiched between lots of massively popular places. It’s a weird little no-man’s land where few tourists go, but way more should.

The Heart 200 narrowly misses Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee and some of the nation’s most popular hiking spots, but it hits lots of under-the-radar stuff. So if you want to see the hidden gems of a relatively accessible area of Scotland, the Heart 200 is a really good choice.

And as a sweet little bonus, the route passes through loads of lovely towns and villages including Pithlochry, Callander and Bridge of Allan.

• Itinerary: Loop starting and ending in Perth or Stirling
• Distance: 158 miles/320km
• Time: 3-7 days
• Highlights: Perth, Striling, Bridge of Allan, Loch Tay, Loch Tummel, and the eastern tip of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

Another loop, this one takes drivers through the southwest of Scotland, and to some of the most underrated parts of the nation. You probably haven’t heard of Stranraer, Moffat and Ayrshire-but after tackling this scenic drive, you’ll wonder why.

It’s a good choice if you don’t want to be surrounded by lots of other tourists. Rides such as the North Coast 500 and the Trotternish Loop, though brilliant, are always ridiculously busy. But the South West Coastal 500 is exactly the opposite. So if you like quiet drives, undiscovered terrain, and secluded experiences, you’ll absolutely love it.

It’s also a good option if you don’t have time to head too far north-the most easterly point of the loop is right beside the English border.

The relatively straight stretch of coast between Ayr and Stranraer is lovely, while just south, you’ll find Mull of Galloway lighthouse, the most south westerly point in Scotland. Other highlights include towns and villages Girvan, Portpatrick and Whithorn, and the hikes and hills of Galloway Forest Park.

• Itinerary: Loop starting and ending in Dumfries
• Distance: 300 miles/482km
• Time: 7-14 days
• Highlights: Ayr, Stranraer, Mull of Galloway, Moffatt, Galloway Forest Park, and huge stretches of coastline

The name of this route is sort of misleading.

The most famous tourist spots in the Highlands are Loch Ness, Fort William, Glencoe, and all the other places you’ve already heard of.

So you’d assume this drive goes through all of them.

It doesn’t. It actually runs from Aberdeen to Inverness, on an inland route through some of the lesser-known parts of the Highlands.

You cross through some of the Cairngorms, the biggest national park in the UK, where you can get involved in loads of hiking and nature-spotting.

But the real highlight here is all the historical stuff. You drive past four brilliant castles (including Cawdor Castle and Fort George), and you hit Culloden Battlefield, an immersive experience unpacking a massive battle between the British and the Jacobites.

If you want insights into Scottish history and heritage, this is one of the best road trips in Scotland.

• Itinerary: Aberdeen to Inverness
• Distance: 116 miles/187km
• Time: 3-5 days
• Highlights: Cawdor Castle, Fort George, Culloden Battlefield, Aberdeen, Inverness and Grantown-on-Spey

This route runs 129 miles (208 km) between Fort William and Loch Lomond, two of the most popular spots in the Highlands.

But it doesn’t go inland. As you probably worked out from the name of the route, it hugs the western coast for the majority of its length.

The Argyll Coastal Route is a good choice for foodies, as it takes drivers past some of Scotland’s best (and most famous) seafood eateries, including Loch Fyne Restaurant & Oyster Bar, Iverary’s Samphire, and the Green Shack in Oban.

A huge highlight is the town of Oban itself. One of the most popular tourist spots on Scotland’s west coast, the crescent-shaped settlement is ridiculously pretty.

Considering how short the route is, it’s unbelievably diverse. You get lochs, coasts, tourist towns, some of Scotland’s biggest mountains, and several of its most well-known spots. If you want an introduction to all that Scotland’s famous for , it’s brilliant.

• Itinerary: Tarbet to Fort William
• Distance: 129 miles/208km
• Time: 4-7 days
• Highlights: Oban, Fort William, Ben Nevis, Loch Lomond, Tarbet and all the food

This inland ride from Perth to Aberdeen, like a lot of the routes we’re featuring, takes you through some of Cairngorms National Park.

But because it travels through one of the more remote regions of the Cairngorms (and that’s saying something), you get to see lots of the area’s lesser-known sites. There’s also a huge amount of wildlife-so take your time and you might see deer, eagles, pine marten and more.

You’ll pass through Blairgowrie (most famous for its fruit-growing fields and farms), hit the two lovely cities of Perth and Aberdeen, and drive through and beyond loads of mountains and forests. If you want a remote inland adventure on the eastern side of Scotland, the Deeside Tourist Route is a brilliant little solution.

• Itinerary: Perth to Aberdeen
• Distance: 108 miles/174km
• Highlights: Braemar, Ballater, Perth, Aberdeen, and the quieter Cairngorms

This drive around the island of Arran is one of my favorite Scotland experiences.

Arran is the perfect size for an island adventure. And even better, it’s like someone took all the best bits of Scotland, squashed them together, and shipped them off to an island.

Not too big, not too small, you can do all of Arran’s best bits, hidden gems and everything in between in around a week. So if you’re a pedantic completionist (like me), you’ll find the place appealing.

And luckily for us, there’s a big ol’ ring road that basically runs around the entire perimeter of the island. The road is only 56 miles (90 km), but you’ll see plenty to stop and explore.

Important: this route is actually part of a 5-drive collection of road trips called ‘The Coig.’ Making up the 5, you have the Arran route, a route running around the perimeter of Bute, a route running around the perimeter of Great Cumbrae, a 138-mile (222km) circular trip around the western coast of Scotland, and another 55-mile (88km) loop just north of its bigger brother.

• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in Brodick
• Distance: 56 miles/90km
• Time: 2-7 days
• Highlights: Brodick, Goatfell, Lochranza, Eas a’ Chrannaig, and all the coastal views

The Perthshire Tourist Route is a tiny trip that runs through a similar area to the Heart 200. So if you want a flavor of the ride without committing to the full thing, it’s a great option.

Running in a near-straight line just west of Perth, it clocks in at only 43 miles (69km), so it’s a lovely little option for a day trip. That said, it still packs lots of excellent highlights into its relatively diminutive dimensions, so you can easily stretch it out to two or three days (or even more!) if you want to.

If you like woodlands and forests, you’ll love this one-there are loads of easily-accessible wooded trails you can explore on excellent hikes. In and around these woodlands, you can often spot deer, squirrels, golden eagles and mountain hares.

If you want to feel remote without really being remote, this is one of the best road trips in Scotland.

• Itinerary: Greenloaning to Ballinluig
• Distance: 43 miles/69km
• Time: 1-3 days
• Highlights: Gleneagles, Innerpeffray Library, Highland Safaris near Aberfeldy, and all the woodland

This isn’t an official road trip, but it’s one of my absolute favorite on-road Scottish adventures.

The Isle of Skye is made up of a little central portion along with lots of explorable peninsulas. The most famous of them, the Trotternish peninsula, is the most northern part of Skye. It’s home to some of the most iconic places on the island, including the Quiraing, the Old Man of Storr, Mealt Falls and more. And at its southern tip, there’s the colorful capital of Portree.

So if you want to see some of Skye’s most famous attractions (and loads of other lovely places too) , the Trotternish Loop is a perfect solution. Even better, the drive itself is absolutely phenomenal.

Most people complete this in a day, but I recommend longer. The well-known highlights are brilliant, but the other stuff is even better.

• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in Portree
• Distance: 50 miles/80km
• Time: 2-4 days
• Highlights: The Quiraing, the Old Man of Storr, Mealt Falls and Portree

Just like the South West Coastal 500, which we’ve already covered above, this ride is in the massively underrated region of Dumfries and Galloway. But while it’s in the same area as its longer neighbor, it’s a slightly different experience.

Firstly, it’s not a loop. Secondly, a large part of the ride runs along the eastern perimeter of Galloway Forest Park, one of the least-explored adventure areas in Scotland. If you like woodland walks, you can access loads of them via this route. While the South West Coastal 500 is mainly coasts, seas and shores, the Galloway Tourist Route is all hikes, hills and secluded woods.

One of the least-populated regions in southern Scotland, you get lots of peace and seclusion along this route.

The ride starts in the elopers’ paradise of Gretna Green, and ends with an endearing coastal finalé in Ayr.

• Itinerary: Gretna to Ayr
• Distance: 92 miles/148km
• Time: 3-4 days
• Highlights: Gretna Green, Galloway Forest Park, Robert Burns Birthplace Museum and Ayr

The Snow Roads Scenic Route takes drivers through the highest public road in Britain. It’s named so because this road is usually the first in Britain to be covered in snow . So, inevitably, the route is packed with snow-capped peaks, lofty mountains, heathery moors and wide-open bogs.

The vast majority of the ride is in the Cairngorms National Park. So you get loads of forests, Scottish heather , endless peaks and summits, and lots of cute towns and villages. The infrastructure along the Snow Roads Scenic Route is also great: there are designated ‘photo-posts’ along the way, offering the best views, and the best places to watch the landscapes change.

Because you drive over lots of passes, you hit lots of tight switchbacks, blind turns and towering summits. If you like driving on (relatively) challenging roads, you’ll love this ride. The highest point is Cairnwell Pass, which measures in at around 670 meters.

For lofty panoramas, this is without doubt one of the best road trips in Scotland.

• Itinerary: Blairgowrie to Grantown-On-Spey
• Distance: 90 miles/144km
• Highlights: Cairnwell Pass, Braemar, Tomintoul, Corgarff Castle, and all the lofty roads

If you’re staying in Inverness (or if you live in Inverness!), this is a great option for a short but beautiful trip. The semi-circle route starts (or ends) in the city, and takes drivers through some of Scotland’s least-explored Highland landscapes.

What’s great about the route is that it heads north, in a similar area to the North Coast 500. But instead of following the same route, it instead heads inland, offering a more remote part of an already-remote part of the world. Two highlights are Easter Ross and Sutherland, a pair of rural, rugged, untouched Highland regions.

If you visit between May and November, make sure you go to the Falls of Shin. You’ll see loads of salmon diving upstream.

Considering its short length, The Moray Firth Route is a pretty diverse ride, offering coastlines, lochs, great waterfalls , and lovely towns.

• Itinerary: Inverness to Loch Fleet
• Distance: 80 miles/128km
• Highlights: Inverness, Beauly, Rogie Falls, Falls of Shin, Easter Ross and Sutherland

If you don’t have much time to explore and you’re looking for an easy road trip out of Edinburgh, the Forth Valley Tourist Route is a great choice. It takes drivers between Edinburgh and Stirling on a relatively remote ride which avoids the direct M9 motorway route.

Measuring in at only 43 miles (69 km) you can easily do this as a day trip if you’re short on time.

If you like architecture and engineering, you’ll love this route. You come across lots of famous buildings, statues and monuments, including the Forth Bridge and Antonine Wall, a pair of UNESCO-listed heritage sites . The second is one of Scotland’s most significant Roman sites, sort of like a mini Hadrian’s Wall.

You end your ride in Stirling, a friendly city bustling with charm and dominated by a huge castle.

• Itinerary: Edinburgh to Stirling
• Distance: 43 miles/69 km
• Time: 1-2 days
• Highlights: The Forth Bridge, Antonine Wall, The Falkirk Wheel, Edinburgh and Stirling

An excellent option for people who like beaches, under-the-radar adventures and slightly shorter road trips, the Fife Coastal Route is a lovely ride along one of Scotland’s most underrated coastal spots.

And because the southern tip of the route is just north of Edinburgh, it’s a good choice if you want an adventure close to Scotland’s capital-or if you don’t want to travel very far north.

Starting just short of Stirling and coming really close to Dundee, the route runs along a pretty populated part of Scotland. So if you like fishing villages, beautiful houses, coastal towns and lots of conveniences, you’ll probably prefer this drive to some of the country’s more remote and rural road trips.

Elie, Crail and Pittenweem are all pretty cosy and alluring, while Kirkcaldy, Anstruther and St Andrews are three of the bigger settlements along the way. The last of them, you’ve probably heard of-it’s one of the world’s most famous golfing destinations.

For an accessible adventure, this is one of the best road trips in Scotland.

• Itinerary: Kincardine to Newport-on-Tay
• Distance: 77 miles/124km
• Highlights: Elie, Crail, Pittenweem and St Andrews

Another short coastal option, this ride runs between Dundee and Aberdeen.

It starts just north of the most northern point of the Fife Coastal Route (which we just covered above). So if you want to combine those two smaller routes into one longer route, you can!

Even if you don’t, you’ll love the Angus Coastal Route. When they’re looking for bigger settlements, most tourists visit Edinburgh, Glasgow or Inverness. But both Dundee and Aberdeen are beautiful, and not enough tourists visit them-or the towns and villages between them, such as Stonehaven and Montrose. It’s an underrated part of Scotland, and it’s a lovely route.

For the majority of this ride, you have mountains to the west and the sea to the east, so you get lots of brilliant views and vistas.

• Itinerary: Dundee to Aberdeen
• Distance: 68 miles/109km
• Highlights: Dundee, Aberdeen, Arbroath Abbey, Stonehaven, and the Grampian Mountains

When most people visit Scotland, they head to the Highlands, the coast, or the big cities, but Scotland’s border region is brilliant. Nowhere near enough people explore the most southern stretches of Scotland.

On the Borders Historic Route, you start in Northumberland, in the very north of England, and make your way to Edinburgh via an inland route taking in some of southern Scotland’s least-explored areas.

The coastal stretch between Edinburgh and Northumberland is great, but the inland stretch (which this route follows) is way less busy. So if you want remote, rural and southern, you’ll absolutely love the Borders Historic Route.

Some highlights along the way include the small towns of Hawick, Selkirk and Galashiels. And Edinburgh is pretty good too.

Because I’m from Northumberland, I might be biased, but I think this route is incredible.

• Itinerary: Scots Dyke to Edinburgh
• Distance: 89 miles/143 km
• Highlights: Hawick, Selkirk, the remote rolling hills, and Edinburgh

If you’re in Glasgow and you’re looking for a short and speedy road trip from the city, the Clyde Valley Tourist Route is a great choice.

A quick-one day adventure, the ride is perfect if you’re traveling with kids. It’s not Scotland’s most rural or intrepid adventure, but it’s a lovely drive south of Glasgow that takes you past loads of excellent day trip destinations .

The route runs (almost) parallel to the M74 motorway, so it’s a good way to see secluded spots in a busy, built-up area.

Stop-off options along the way include ancient castles, forests, country parks, a bird of prey center, waterfalls, wildlife reserves, and much more.

• Itinerary: Abington to Hamilton
• Distance: 38 miles/61 km
• Time: 1 day
• Highlights: Lanark Loch, Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve and West Forth Forest

Thanks for reading my guide to the best road trips in Scotland!

If you want to know anything else about one of my favorite nations on the planet, we have plenty more stuff on our site. Check out our guides to the best road trips from Edinburgh , the best road trips from Glasgow , the best hikes in Scotland , the best cliffs in Scotland , and the best coastal walks in Scotland .

And again, if you want to explore Scotland’s best road trip, here’s my full guide to the North Coast 500 .

For more road trips in the UK head over to my selection of the best road trips in England , the best road trips in Wales , and the best drives in Northern Ireland .

And don’t forget to check out my extensive list of the best road trips in the UK .

About the author

Senior Travel Reporter

Paul is a handsome and hilarious travel writer and travel journalist from the UK. He's hiked, hitchhiked and laughed his way through more than fifty countries, and he's always looking for a new place to call home. Originally from Newcastle, he's lived all over the UK, spent more than three years in Asia, and most recently lived in Vietnam and then in Georgia.

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The 12 Best Road Trips in Scotland

Iain Masterton / Getty Images

Because Scotland is so vast, the country is perfect for a road trip. Whether you're interested in exploring the small towns of the Scottish Highlands or seeing the beaches of the southwestern coast, there's a road trip for every traveler. Scotland has several official road routes, including the South West Coastal 300 and the Borders Historic Route, which makes things easier on travelers who are looking for a pre-set itinerary (although, of course, you can always deviate from the route). Many visitors opt to rent a camper van to camp out along the way, but Scotland is also filled with great small hotels and B&Bs. So grab a map and start planning your next great road trip in Scotland.

Glasgow to Glencoe

Jon Douglas / Getty Images

Head out of Glasgow to Glencoe, a route that stretches about 90 miles and travels along the banks of the famous Loch Lomond. The drive, which takes around two hours, brings you first to Glencoe, the main town in the Glencoe National Nature Reserve, which boasts one of the most famous driving roads in Scotland. For more, continue on to Fort William, where you'll find Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the U.K.

Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail

iweta0077 / Getty Images 

The Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail stretches for 165 miles, offering the opportunities for a four- or five-day road trip along the coastline. Start in St. Cyrus, in southern Aberdeenshire, and wind your way up past scenics spots like Cruden Bay, the Forvie National Nature Reserve and Banff, which is home to the historic Duff House. It's a great way to experience the beaches of Scotland, as well as eat great seafood and see some of the country's smaller towns. You'll pass through Aberdeen itself, but consider staying in the more remote spots along the trail before you finish near Spey Bay.

Isle of Skye

Cédric Lopez / EyeEm / Getty Images

Fly into Inverness or Glasgow and rent a car to experience the wild beauty of Scotland's Isle of Skye. Once on the island, which is about five hours from Glasgow by car, there's a lot to explore, so you can make your trip as long or short as you prefer (and then potentially extend it with a drive around the western Highlands). Don't miss the iconic fairy pools, near the Black Cuillin Mountains, and, of course, every visitor needs to hike to the Old Man of Storr. A lot of Skye is wilderness, so this road trip is best for outdoorsy explorers, although there are several small towns worth visiting as well. Be sure to bring a good map as cell phone service on Isle of Skye can be spotty.

Snow Roads Scenic Route

munro1 / Getty Images

Get a glimpse of the Highlands on the Snow Roads Scenic Route , a 90-mile drive through Cairngorms National Park. Start in Blairgowrie and wind your way north through the park, stopping Braemar and Ballater before you reach Grantown-on-Spey. There's a lot to see and do along the way, including for families with kids. The roads on the Snow Roads Scenic Route can be narrow and winding, so use caution when driving and be sure to bring a good map.

South West Coastal 300

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Explore southern Scotland via the South West Coastal 300, a 300-mile circular route that takes travelers along the coast as well as through the countryside. It's best done over several days, with stops in picturesque destinations like Port Logan, Whithorn, and Ballantrae. There's a lot to fit into your itinerary, from hiking along the coastline of Solway Firth to seeing historic spots like Dundrennan Abbey and Caerlaverock Castle. At the center of the route is Galloway Forest Park, which offers opportunities for hiking, cycling, camping, and horseback riding, and is even well-known for stargazing.

North Coast 500

One of Scotland's most epic roadway adventures can be found on the North Coast 500, which loops around the northern part of the country from Inverness. It includes the rocky coastline of Caithness, the castles of Sutherland, and the lochs of Wester Ross. It's a route for serious road-trippers, especially since many of the roads are small and require some precision driving (which may be why it's known as "Scotland's Route 66"). Give yourself a week, at least, to explore the different regions and towns, and be sure to book hotels in advance (or consider camping). Be sure to include Ardvreck Castle, Dunrobin Castle, and Smoo Cave on your itinerary.

Borders Historic Route

Antonel / Getty Images 

Explore the Scottish Borders region with a drive around the area, found south of Edinburgh and Glasgow. There are many historical sites to discover along the way, from Abbotsford, the former home of Sir Walter Scott, to the National Mining Museum of Scotland. Start your journey in Edinburgh and follow the route, which extends for 89 miles south. Don't miss Melrose, the home of Melrose Abbey, and consider stopping off at several small towns along the way. The route can take as long or as short as you prefer, but consider making it into a full weekend before it comes to end outside Carlisle.

Argyll Coastal Route

Cavan Images / Getty Images

Pick the Argyll Coastal Route if you want to stay close to the water and see some of Scotland's most beautiful sights. The official route runs from Tarbet to Fort William over 129 miles, passing along Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, through Inveraray and into Glencoe, where you can spot Ben Nevis. It's a windy, remote drive, with lots of opportunities to get out and walk along the beach, and it's best done over several days at a leisurely pace. Plan to spend a few nights in Glencoe at the end, especially if you're into hiking and camping.

The Malt Whisky Trail

K Neville / Getty Images

Eight malt whisky distilleries make up Scotland's Malt Whisky Trail , a route that can be found in the Highlands. The trail takes visitors through the Moray Speyside region and is best accessed from either Aberdeen or Inverness. A drive to all of the distilleries spans about 70 miles, so give yourself a few days to fully experience everything, from Glenlivet to Craigellachie to Glenfiddich. It's not all about the booze, either: the Trail also is great for seeing small towns, historical sites, and beautiful countryside. Be sure to drive responsibly when tasting the whisky.

Royal Deeside Tourist Route

Ossiridian / Getty Images

The Royal Deeside Tourist Route runs from Perth to Aberdeen via the southwestern region of the scenic Cairngorms National Park. The route, which stretches 108 miles, also includes Blairgowrie and the Royal Lochnagar Distillery, which is located within the park. This is a good choice for visitors who want to see the Cairngorms, as well as several of Scotland's cities, and can be easily paired with a visit to Edinburgh or Glasgow (where you'll likely fly in and out of). Be sure to stay in the park at least one night, whether it's in a camper van, campsite or hotel.

Highland Tourist Route

 Chris Crafter / Getty Images

Cross the eastern part of the Scottish Highlands with the Highland Tourist Route, a 116-mile trek that takes visitors through Cairngorms National Park. Kick things off in Aberdeen and then drive west towards Inverness, passing by destinations like Culloden Battlefield, the Glenlivet Distillery and Cawdor Castle, which has ties to Shakespeare's "Macbeth." This route is a good way to get a sense of the Highlands and Cairngorms without committing to a long drive, making it a great pick for families. Consider stopping off in the national park to camp for a few days and don't miss Loch Ness, located near Inverness, at the tail end of the journey.

Fife Coastal Route

Courtesy of St. Andrews Links

Those who don't want to venture too far from Edinburgh or who are looking for a quick weekend getaway should consider the Fife Coastal Trail, which includes St. Andrews. Head north from Edinburgh to explore the towns around the northern edge the Firth of Forth, including Buckhaven and Crail. The route continues past St. Andrews up to Dundee, offering opportunities to see historic sights like Aberdour Castle and Dunfermline Palace & Abbey, as well as St. Andrews Links. The official route is 77 miles long, but travelers should opt to do it in two days to fully experience everything.

The Scottish Highlands: The Complete Guide

The Best Time to Visit Scotland

The Top 15 Places to Visit in Scotland

Cairngorms National Park: The Complete Guide

A Guide to Airports in Scotland

Glencoe: Planning Your Trip

Weather in Scotland: Climate, Seasons and Average Monthly Temperature

The 10 Best Day Trips From Glasgow

12 Best Beaches in Scotland

A Complete Guide to Every National Park in the UK

One Week in Scotland: The Perfect Itinerary

Top 20 Most Popular UK Cities for International Visitors

The 10 Best Day Trips From Edinburgh

The 8 Best Multi-Day Hikes in the United Kingdom

Top 10 Great Scenic Drives in Britain

The Top 20 Things to Do in the UK

Join our Adventure: Get all my insider tips for motorhoming & road trips

Scotland Road Trip: The ONLY itinerary you need (29 unmissable places)

Planning a Scotland road trip? Trying to figure out where to go and what to do during your visit? Here are the best Scotland itinerary ideas for variety of durations, including long weekends, 4-5 days, 7-10 days and 14+ days, although you can mix, match or extend as you wish!

Don’t forget to grab your free guide to the best places to see on a Scotland road trip below- to help you plan your perfect road trip.

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If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)

JUMP AHEAD TO...

Scotland Road Trip- why visit?

Put simply- Scotland is just magical.

It’s one of those incredible places where you turn corner after corner and each is more breathtaking than the last! (Exactly the same as  Norway ) .

You can expect to say ‘wow’ a lot and stop frequently to take a million photos of the scenery. And the Highland cows. And sheep.

Did I mention the scenery?

The problem is there is SO MUCH to see.

Planning a Scotland road trip can be DAUNTING. Trying to squeeze a visit to a country into just a few days is tough, but it IS possible to plan a Scotland travel itinerary with the best places to visit, as well as some places off the ‘beaten track’.

In this post, we’ll show you the best scenic routes & driving roads in Scotland , lochs, castles, towns you definitely should visit, plus how to visit the Scottish Highlands .

Whether you’re touring Scotland by car on a self-drive holiday, motorhoming or campervanning in Scotland or exploring by motorbike (or any other vehicle!), our map of our Scotland road trip will help you plan your own adventure.

How to plan a Scotland Road Trip

So, how DO you narrow down all the ‘must-visit’ places into a reasonable itinerary, especially if you only have a few days for your Scottish road trip? 

Do you focus on visiting beautiful cities like Edinburgh, seeing the history of Scotland, like Culloden, visiting HARRY POTTER sites , hiking in the Highlands, driving the North Coast 500 ? Or a bit of everything??

In this blog post of Scotland Itinerary ideas , we’ve included a bit of everything to allow you to create your perfect Scottish Road Trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful country.  

The Wandering Bird Scotland Road Trip Planner

Feel overwhelmed? Wish someone could do all the hard work for you?

You’re in luck!

If you want to enjoy a Scotland road trip without the weeks of planning and struggling to figure out where to visit first, consider using our Scotland Road Trip Planner.

Planning a trip to Scotland?

We’ve done the hard work for you!

Grab our complete Scotland travel planner and get:

• 80+ ideas for places to visit
• Maps and itinerary suggestions
• Routes and things to see along the way
• Tips, customs and much much more!

Complied after years of experience touring and exploring Scotland, it contains all the best things to see and do, plus everything you need for incredible Scottish road trips for years to come.

It helps you compile a day-day plan for your trip, removing the stress whilst leaving you plenty of time to enjoy yourself, both before and during your trip!

Where should I go on a road trip in Scotland?

As you’ll see below, there are many (many!) beautiful places to visit in Scotland.

Your exact itinerary will be created from the things you enjoy. We plan our UK road trip itineraries like this and it’s not let us down yet!

For us, we prefer to stay away from big cities when we’re travelling in our motorhome and instead focus on areas like national parks, nature reserves, mountains, waterfalls… you get the idea.

‘Scenic Scotland’ does not disappoint- we’ve seen some of the most breathtaking places on our trips to Scotland, which I share with you in this itinerary.

Having said that, Edinburgh is an incredible city and well worth visiting if you can. So are several others. So don’t write off all towns and cities on your Scotland Road Trip itinerary just yet!

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What is the best road trip in Scotland?

The ‘best road trip in Scotland’ is going to be subjective based on what you enjoy and also what the weather is like!

Certainly, the most famous road trip in Scotland is now the NC500 (North Coast 500 route), which is 516 miles of pure magic around the north of Scotland.

I’ve driven the NC500 in my motorhome and it was fantastic- highly highly recommend it (although NOT in the school holidays as it gets very crowded.)

The NC500 also includes John o’Groats, which has to be one of the most famous points in Scotland. The 10 day Scotland road trip itinerary we’ve included below also includes this landmark.

However, there are several incredibly scenic roads in Scotland which we highly recommend you explore- some of them are perfect for just a few days, while some require a little more time to drive.

How long does it take to road trip Scotland?

Oh, that’s an open question! How long do you have?

Whether you have a weekend, 5 days, 7-10 days or longer, you can absolutely fill your time. I know people who’ve spent 3 months exploring the Scottish Highlands and STILL didn’t see everything they wanted to.

The Scotland road trip itinerary below took us 10 days, but there are some bits you can miss if you only have 7 days for your trip. See our alternative 7-10 day North Coast 500 itinerary here.

Likewise, if you have longer, you can either travel more scenic routes around Scotland (especially on the Highlands tourist route), see more incredible places,  do some more tours around Scotland, taste more whisky or just take your time and linger a while over your favourite places.

When I drove the North Coast 500, I took just under 14 days to do most of the loop. This was just the part in Scotland- it also took me a week to get up there!

TOP TIP for Scotland Road Trips: Be sure not to plan too much into your itinerary, as many of the roads are narrow and slower and you won’t be able to travel as far or as fast as you might expect.

How to travel around Scotland?

Scotland is very well connected to the rest of the UK; at least, the lowlands are. You can easily reach Glasgow and Edinburgh by road, train or air.

If you’re hiring a rental car or renting a motorhome , these are the two cities to aim for as there is so much choice.

Want to rent a vehicle for your road trip?

These might help:

• Discover incredible deals for motorhome/ camper rentals
• Find the best deals for car rental

READ: 10 essential questions to ask before you rent a motorhome

Of course, if you’re driving your own vehicle up via England, there are plenty of motorways near the border, so it’s easy to travel around.

Of course, you can use public transport or even a guided tour if you prefer not to drive yourself, but for the purposes of this blog post, we’ll assume you have your own vehicle.

When is the best time to visit Scotland?

If you want to road trip Scotland and would like to increased your chances of enjoying good weather, then the best time to go is either late Spring/ early Summer (May or June) or in early Autumn (September/ October).

This way, you avoid the high crowds AND the midges, which are mostly around in July and August.  

I did my NC500 tour in September/ October and the roads were fairly quiet, I had some fantastic weather (plus a couple of storms) and there were only a few patches with really bad midges. All in all, Autumn is usually a wonderful time for a Scottish adventure!

Want some more ideas for places to see in Autumn? Here are 27 of the best places to experience Autumn in Europe .

Scotland Road Trip Map and Itinerary

The map below shows our 10-day driving route for our tour of Scotland.

We travelled from the Isle of Skye to John o’Groats using the main driving roads (which are quicker), but otherwise, we tried to take scenic roads where possible (although that’s not always easy in a Motorhome!)

Because we only had 10 days, our itinerary missed out the beautiful west coast of Scotland. If you have extra time, I highly recommend doing this coastline (part of the NC500 route) as it contains some of the prettiest views in Scotland.

Our Scotland Itinerary is around 800 miles (1300km), with around 23 hours of actual driving over a 10 day trip.

The map starts on the west coast of Scotland, but, of course, you can do the drive in reverse if you prefer. 

Our Scotland Itinerary planner:

Scotland itinerary ideas- day one.

Start your Scotland tour in either Edinburgh or Glasgow. Of the two, I much prefer Edinburgh…

(That sound you hear is me being skinned alive… one of my best friends comes from Glasgow. Sorry hon xx) 

Edinburgh is the perfect city to dip in and out of. There’s always something going on.

If you’re looking for a relaxing long weekend in the UK, you could fly up to Edinburgh. Similarly, if you only have 3 or 4 days in Scotland, it’s a wonderful start to get a taste of the country.

Don’t miss visiting Edinburgh Castle, which has spectacular views over the rest of the city and Arthur’s Seat.

I also recommend a visit to George Street (grab a cocktail from the Dome) and enjoy the atmosphere, especially around Christamas.

Rose Street and Cockburn Street have wonderful independent boutiques where you can find great gifts (for others or yourself!)

Driving in Edinburgh

Before we go any further… DO NOT DRIVE YOUR MOTORHOME INTO THE MIDDLE OF EDINBURGH.

No. Really.

Let me repeat that so it sinks in.

DO NOT DRIVE YOUR MOTORHOME INTO THE MIDDLE OF EDINBURGH!!! 

We tried it. With a Motorbike trailer on the back.

It did not go well. There are NO Motorhome parking spaces near the City Centre. And the streets are narrow and not designed for lorries, let alone Motorhomes!

We stopped in Edinburgh for a few hours and, honestly, the only thing we did was see Edinburgh Castle- which is beautiful but left us wanting more. I was gutted as I’d already planned a self-guided Harry Potter tour of Edinburgh – yes, really. 

We’re already planning a trip back up sometime… just not with the motorhome!! But from what we saw, there are at least 3 days worth of activities in Edinburgh if you have the time.

If you enjoy food- you’re in for a real treat- Edinburgh has some FANTASTIC eating places. Here are 10 vegan-friendly restaurants in Edinburgh for everyone to enjoy.

Where to stay

There are plenty of places to stay in Edinburgh. If you’re in a motorhome, stay outside the city and get public transport in. I recommend the Edinburgh Caravan and Motorhome club site.

If you’re driving a car, book a hotel with parking, as it can be difficult to find in the city centre. The Sheraton Grand Hotel, which has rooms overlooking Edinburgh Castle, is a brilliant option if you want to treat yourself.

There is PLENTY of things to see and do in Glasgow and you can easily spend a couple of days enjoying the city before you set off on your driving holiday.

TOP TIP – If you’re not from the UK and you don’t really understand football (soccer!), don’t mention football in Glasgow.

The rivalry between Celtic and Rangers fans (both clubs are based in Glasgow) is HUGE and openly supporting the wrong one could end in tears- for you.  Different pubs support different teams and it frequently gets… heated!!

Scotland Road Trip DAY 2- LOCH LOMOND and the Trossachs National Park

Loch Lomond National Park

Ok, now that you’ve enjoyed a couple of days in Glasgow or Edinburgh, let’s head up into the ‘real’ Scotland. Loch Lomond is one of my favourite spots,  and is definitely one of the must-visit places in Scotland.

Loch Lomond is actually part of the Trossachs National Park, which has 22 lochs! Loch Lomond is the biggest. You can kayak, paddleboard, canoe and even hire jet-skis in the summer. There are 30 islands on Loch Lomond alone to explore- plenty to keep you occupied if you want to stay for a few days.

The loch is absolutely breathtaking, especially if you’re lucky enough to see it on a sunny day.

Don’t believe me? See it for yourself:

WATCH VIDEO of us at Loch Lomond (and seeing the Harry Potter sites!)

Motorhome Tour Scotland - Wild Camping - Family tours Europe in a Motorhome

Wild camping in scotland.

Wild Camping is regulated within the Trossachs National Park, so be careful where you park up for the night if you’re in a camper. You need to have a permit between March and September and can only stay in approved areas.

Find out more about wild camping in Scotland here

Road Trip Scotland DAY 3- Oban and Fort William

If you have time while you’re touring Scotland, detour to Oban . I LOVE this town- it has the prettiest harbour and in Summer you can do a ferry tour out to some of the islands- well worth the trip on a calm day.

We stayed here in a log cabin a few years ago (before we got our motorhome) and the views were spectacular- especially at night.

I remember standing outside our log cabin and gazing up at the stars in absolute amazement- they were so bright and clear. Magical.

Another detour worth the effort is to Devil’s Pulpit – a hidden waterfall between the rocks. Full directions can be found here .

Fort William is known as ‘the gateway to Ben Nevis’ , which is the UK’s highest peak. It’s also close to Steall Falls – the second highest waterfall in Scotland at 120m and the waterfall in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, in case you’re wondering!! (Check out these other beautiful waterfalls in Europe)

Getting there is about a 2.5 miles walk and takes about 1.5-2 hours depending on how often you stop. It’s suitable for kids, as you can read here.

Scotland Itinerary DAY 4- Harry Potter Time!

Scotland is full of places used in the Harry Potter films. We visited a few of them, all on the way to Mallaig (where the ferry is for the Isle of Skye. In one day we saw:

Glenfinnan Viaduct

This is the viaduct made famous in the Harry Potter films. You can walk right up to the base of it.

You can also ride on the Jacobite Steam train, which is the one used for the film and which goes straight over the viaduct! The train goes from Fort William to Mallaig and does get booked up well in advance, so be sure to book early!

We got our favourite travel drone out and took some amazing shots of the viaduct and Loch Sheil, as you can see in the video above.

This is the loch used as Hogwarts Lake, along with Loch Morar. This is where Buckbeak dips a happy toe (claw?) in the waters in Prisoner of Azkaban.

We parked in the visitor centre on the shores of Loch Shiel, which also allowed a walk up the slope for incredible views of the viaduct, even in the rain!

Dumbledore’s Grave

Loch Eilt, along the same road as the viaduct and Loch Shiel, is where the little island of Eilean na Mòine lies, which played the starring role as the site of Dumbledore’s Grave.

We sent the drone up to get a picture of this beautiful island… but alas, Mr WB is NOT a die-hard Harry Potter fan (boo!) and therefore had no idea which island he was meant to be filming. Bless him, at least he tried!

It’s about an hour drive from the western end of Loch Ness to Mallaig, which is where the ferry to Skye goes from. You can also drive over the bridge to the Skye- but it’s much further north.

Scotland Road Trip Itinerary DAY 5 & 6- Isle of Skye

Search “Isle of Skye” on Google and you’ll get pages and pages of blog posts and itineraries, all waxing lyrical about the beauty of Skye. And they’re right- it is beautiful. And there is loads to see and do.

As long as it’s not raining!!

Our Isle of Skye itinerary contains things to do in the sunshine, but also things to do in the rain- as it rained for 48 hours when we visited!

We are not ‘hike whatever the weather’ people and we really don’t enjoy getting sopping wet climbing a mountain when there’s no view anyway, so you might find that itinerary useful if the weather is looking… unpleasant. 

Having said that, Skye is beautiful and well worth a trip if you’re touring the west coast of Scotland. 

Driving Scotland Day 7- Eilean Donan Castle, Loch Ness and up to Thurso

Eilean Donan

This was one of our longest driving days- about 5 hours and 350km. Leave Skye and head up towards Thurso, stopping at the incredible Eilean Donan Castle on the way.

We didn’t go inside, as we knew we had a long day ahead of us, but it’s beautiful from the outside. There’s also a little cafe at the carpark here which does a great coffee!

DECISION TIME

At Eilean Donan, you need to make a decision. Do you keep driving up to Loch Ness, or start on the NC500 route ? If you’re going up the western coast, this is where you turn off and start the slower (but probably prettier) roads. If you don’t have the extra time, stick to the faster roads via Loch Ness.

Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle

You can’t come to Scotland and not stop to search for the Loch Ness monster-especially if you have young children.

Loch Ness village itself is VERY touristy. It’s ok for young kids, but it’s pretty expensive, so if you’re on a budget you might want to keep driving and stop at one of the many laybys alongside the loch.

You can also visit Urquhart castle , which are impressive ruins along the shore of Loch Ness. There is parking here, but it can be limited for Motorhomes, so be prepared to have to park some distance away in high season.

Alternatively, why not treat yourself to a boat trip on Loch Ness and be taken there in style!!

Driving Tips for Scotland

Be aware of your fuel levels on this part of the trip- we passed very few fuel stations.

We did debate going all around the western edge and completing the NC500 (there are some beautiful campsites on the North Coast 500 ), but we only had 10 days for touring Scotland, so we decided to cut across to save time, plus see Loch Ness and to escape the rain!

We used the A87, which passes down the side of Loch Clunie, a hydroelectric dam. It’s a beautiful place for a picnic if the weather is pleasant.

If you have time, Inverness is definitely worth a visit. Again, we made a compromise and chose to visit Orkney instead- we’ll get to that shortly!

Highlands Road Trip Day 8 – John o’Groats and Duncansby Stacks

John o’Groats

John o’Groats is one of those places which is a bit tacky but you need to go just to tick it off the list!

It was great to make it and see the famous post, but the place is a little underwhelming! There are a few tourist shops, a harbour and a snack shack- that’s about it!

We waited for the John o’Groats post to be empty so we could take photos with our motorbikes… and then we felt a little lost.

That’s the weirdest thing about travelling- when you finally get to your destination, it can sometimes feel a little hollow. But we were blessed with INCREDIBLE weather at John o’Groats- definitely made up for the misery of Skye!

Duncansby Stacks

Whilst we were at John o’Groats, we saw a postcard of the Duncansby stacks, which were apparently just down the road! We’d never heard of them before, but they looked pretty, so we decided to pay them a visit.

They’re a little tricky to find but well worth the effort! Basically, head for Duncansby lighthouse and park right next to the lighthouse. Then walk (with the lighthouse on your left) over the field and keep going- you’ll see them from the bottom of that field. PLEASE be careful with kids and dogs… it’s a sheer cliff and a long drop.

Here’s the first EVER video where we flew our drone over the sea… the views of the shoreline and the rocks are incredible.

NC500 - SCOTLAND road trip - Duncansby Stacks - DJI mavic pro drone

Dunnet head.

We stayed at Dunnet Bay campsite near John o’Groats for a couple of nights, which allowed us to ride our motorbikes and leave the motorhome somewhere safe. If you’re looking for a beautiful spot to stay, we highly recommend this campsite- lovely wardens, great little shop and stunning location right on the beach!! Just look at this view!!

Day 9 – One day trip to Orkney

We didn’t plan to visit Orkney during our Scotland road trip- and we definitely didn’t plan to visit Orkney on our motorbikes.

However, the day after we visited John o’Groats, the weather was still beautiful and we learnt we could get to Orkney by ferry for just the day- so we did! It is a beautiful place, although VERY busy in July and full of tourists.

Still, if you have the time, you should try to add Orkney into your itinerary. If you don’t want to drive, there are guided tours by coach which go all day, so book yourself onto one of them. 

Scotland Road Trip Itinerary Day 10- Dunrobin Castle and Aviemore

Dunrobin Castle

Dunrobin Castle is possibly one of our favourite castles . It’s about a 90-minute drive south from Thurso. It’s the largest castle in the Northern Highlands- and set in the most breathtaking scenery! You can pay to walk the gardens, but we decided to press on and head south before the rain closed in.

Aviemore & The Cairngorms

If you enjoy hiking and national parks, you need to put the Cairngorms onto your bucket list. It’s the largest National Park in the UK and was voted as one of the top 20 places to visit IN THE WORLD by National Geographic.

The park is 4500 square kms and contains a fantastic mixture of mountains, scenic views, castles, whiskey distilleries and outdoor pursuits.

One of the most popular reasons to visit is hiking.  There are multiple trails and walks within the park (you can purchase guidebooks at the tourist offices), or you can just turn up and wander wherever you fancy.

Dog walking is allowed, but the area is full of wildlife, so please be cautious and obey local signage. A word of caution – the weather can change VERY quickly in this area, so please carry appropriate equipment/ clothing.

If hiking isn’t for you, how about another sport? Within the Cairngorms you can enjoy cycling, skiing (in winter), golf, fishing, kayaking, rafting, swimming, windsurfing or gorgewalking. There are several watersports centres in the park and they offer lessons and gear hire.

Aviemore is in the Cairngorms National Park and is Scotland’s winter sports mecca, but there’s plenty to do in the summer too, including a visit to the famous Speyside Distilleries.

Restaurants and shops were open, as were many outdoor activities for all ages. The Aviemore website is a great place to find out more. 

If you’re not wild camping in Scotland in a motorhome or camper, there are plenty of places to stay within the park, including local B & Bs, hotels, hostels, campsites and log cabins.

The Perfect Scotland Itinerary idea

As you’ve seen, this Scotland driving itinerary can be adapted to suit all tastes, vehicles, abilities and durations.

If you’ve only got a few days in Scotland, don’t cram too much in- you’ll get overwhelmed and exhausted.

Conversely, if you’re retired and have no deadline, take your time to really explore the culture and heritage of this wonderful country.

Some things you need to know about Scotland before you go.

• Scotland is part of the UK, so they speak English * I really want to insert a bad Scottish joke here… but I’ll be good! ;)*
• British Pound is the currency. Don’t worry if you get notes saying ‘Bank of Scotland’ instead of Bank of England- they are all Pound Sterling (although some places in England get funny about taking Bank of Scotland notes- there’s no reason for this; it’s perfectly legal tender.) 
• There is another language in Scotland called Gaelic (pronounced GAH-LICK) which is technically the National language, but only 1% of the population speak it. You might see some signs in Gaelic around the country, but there will always be an English version too! (It’s the same in Wales- see our Wales road trip itinerary ideas here )
• Driving in Scotland isn’t any scarier than anywhere else with mountains. They drive on the left, just like the rest of the UK.
• There is no proper border between Scotland and England, so you can explore Scotland from England without taking a passport. We drove right up after our England Road Trip
• Scotland has an amazing law called Right to Roam. It allows you much more freedom to wild camp in your vehicle (with certain restrictions of course.)

Weather in Scotland- is it suitable for a driving holiday?

For us, it rained solidly for 3 days on the west coast- the Isle of Skye was a complete washout, even in July, but up at John o’Groats it was beautiful weather- so we detoured and went up there instead!

My suggestion is to plan your itinerary on Google Maps , and then be as flexible as possible to work around the weather. This is obviously easier if you are touring Scotland in a camper, instead of driving in a car and using hotels, but do the best you can.

The weather in Scotland can change very quickly, so please dress appropriately and take suitable clothing if hiking etc.

What is the best month to visit Scotland?

If you’re driving in Scotland, the best months to visit are April- October. Roads should be free of snow then and the temperature is warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities. Our favourite time to visit Scotland is June or October. (Want more ideas for October travel? Here are 15 of the best places to enjoy Europe in October )

When is peak tourist season in Scotland?

UK school holidays are July and August. I would try to avoid these if you possibly can.

Where is the most beautiful place in Scotland?

There are too many to pick just one and a lot will depend on the weather. Personally, I love Loch Lomond and Glen Coe, Loch Shiel and the Glenfinnan viaduct- but that was because I’m a Harry Potter nerd.

I also love the Cairngorms and the Scottish highlands are always breathtaking- you need to include them on your Scotland road trip!

But some of the most beautiful places on mainland Scotland have to be on the western coast- the beaches are stunning. So are the fairy pools on Skye if you get them on a sunny day.

Don’t forget to grab our free list of 57 best (and secret!) places in Scotland (which includes the pyramid in Scotland!

What is the best way to travel around Scotland?

In my opinion, a road trip holiday is the best way to see Scotland- and by that I mean a self-drive holiday, not a tour. Having your own vehicle allows you to set your own itinerary, plan your visits, pick the best roads in Scotland and generally be more in control.

Having a motorhome or campervan will further increase your flexibility and allow you to choose the scenic route based on weather or interest, not on hotels you’ve booked. 

How far are the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh?

Did you know there is actually a place called Highland in the Scottish Highlands?? Driving time from Edinburgh to Highland is 3 hours and 15 minutes (157 miles)

How long does it take to drive to Scotland?

Well, this obviously depends on where you’re starting from (!) but driving to Scotland (from London to Edinburgh) takes about 7 and a half hours.

If you’ve been road tripping in Cornwall and want to drive from Lands End to John o’Groats, it will take you about 15 hours non-stop.

How long does it take to tour Scotland?

As long as you have- or as long as you let it!! 🙂 If you are lucky enough to have longer than a couple of weeks to explore Scotland, there are LOADS of places to visit you can add into your itinerary. 

Have you visited Scotland? Where was your favourite place? If you haven’t, where would you like to go first?

How else can I help you today??

Planning a Scotland road trip? You might find these posts useful:

• How to get to Orkney (and what to do when you’re there!)
• The PERFECT Isle of Skye Itinerary
• How to plan the perfect UK road trip
• Scotland- complete Travel Guide

See all our Scotland tips and ideas

See all our UK travel itineraries and tips

Want to save this list for later? Here’s the pin.

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

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28 comments.

Love love love this itinerary (and all the Harry Potter references). Scottland has been on my list for a while and this post just organizes everything beautifully. Love the pictures! That Isle of Skye does look amazing but I hear you, when it’s raining and miserable outside, just give me a hot bowl of soup or something and a cozy place to sit in and watch the rain… Great itinerary! hope I’ll get to explore Scottland soon.

Hi Maya- thanks for your lovely comments. And yes- having somewhere to hide away is so useful!! That’s why we love touring Scotland by motorhome or camper- you have your own cozy space to relax in. Hope you make it there soon! 🙂

Thanks for sharing an incredible amount of things to do and see in your Scotland driving itinerary. I would really love to get to the Isle of Skye, the Duncansby Stacks and Dunnet Head for those incredible coasts and views. Have added these to my list of “must-dos” for a future driving trip to Scotland!

Yes! Driving tours of Scotland are the best! 🙂 Let me know how it goes

Loved this post. A motorhome/motorbike combo sounds perfect for a trip like this. We keep meaning to go to Scotland (we only live in Manchester ? but never make it – this itinerary might just be the push we need to hire a camper and do it!

I know- we were the same!! It’s almost too close… but totally worth the effort.

Wow that’s a very comprehensive post! I’ve done a similar trip to Scotland so can relate. Thanks for sharing!

This is a wonderful itinerary— especially intrigued by Dunrabie Castle which I’ll aim to see next time I’m in scotland. Even though I don’t ride a motorcycle this itinerary is clearly one to keep.

Hope you get to see it- it’s a beautiful castle. And any form of transport works- car, motorhome, campervan, cycle! 🙂

This is an epic trip! Scotland has been on our list for too long, and this post may just be the thing that finally gets things moving.

Awesome! I hope you make it to Scotland one day 🙂

Wow I had no idea Scotland was this beautiful ! I am doing some Europe travel next year – I’ve never been ! Your pics are amazing ! Valetie

WOW. You have just skyrocketed Scotland up to the top of my bucket list! What a beautiful country and your photos are just divine. I’m now trying to see if I can squeeze it into my 2019 travel plans 🙂

I knew Scotland was gorgeous but WOW is it gorgeous. Sadly I’ve only ever been to Glasgow and Edinburgh (like you I prefer Edinburgh) but haven’t had the opportunity to explore the countryside. But, it’s something I would love very much to do. thank you for such a wonderful guide. I’ll certainly be referencing it when I finally have time to explore.

What would be an expected rental rate for a Motor home for two weeks?

What would be a rental rate for a Motor home for two weeks?

Hi Mike, that will depend on a lot of things, like time of year, destination, group size and driver experience.

So assume I would be there in the Summer months and would be there with a party of two. Little experience with an RV but have been driving for 40 + years. What would be a ball park number to use for the cost of the RV rental for a two week period?

That is easy enough to find on your own. Just search/google for “motor home rentals Scotland”. There are several vendors. Find one that will be near where you are arriving. Then search for the right size, etc, and enter your travel dates. You can easily get quotes.

I recently searched for the larger motor homes that sleep 5-6( or in my case, 4 adults/teens). For one week out of Edinburgh, it was going to run me about 1100 GBP before adding any extras (like insurance, bedding, etc).

I am seriously considering camping through Scotland. It would be one week out of a possible 3 week itinerary. Camping seemed like a great way to experience it.

Brilliant post! We’re off to Scotland in August so have already saved this pin to help us with our planning. Need to watch the Harry Potter films again I think! 🙂 Thanks for sharing Kat.

Fantastic! Have a wonderful time- let me know how it goes!

We drove much of the same itinerary and found Scotland to be more beautiful than any photos we have ever seen. I would like to go back and see more. One highlight of our tour was the Applecross Penninsula. No tourbuses fit onto those roads, so a large motor home would be a bit challenging. Bikers seemed to abound out at the Applecross Inn. We did spend a few days in Edinburgh. It is delightful. I returned for a few days the next year and spent all of my time without a car exploring the city centre. Warning. Parking spots are ridiculously difficult to find near Edinburgh Castle. Also, a mound is not like an ant hill as I thought. A mound is between the height of a hill and a mountain and steep for walking.

Really great Scotland itinerary covering all the highlights. We spent 7 days just covering the North, a kind of adapted NSC500. We had the most glorious weather. We even got sunburnt!! I have to say though, the photos just don’t look as good in bright sunlight! The only day we had a bit of mist and wain was the day we got the best photos. It actually looked like we were in Scotland!!

Thanks for sharing all the tips. We want to go back to continue adding to our Scottish photography portfolio and we’ve now got inspiration for extra places!

really awesome posts about Scotland travel

Thanks so much- glad you enjoyed it.

Brilliant Scotland guide!! If anyone ever gets the chance to pass through Gretna Green then the Famous Blacksmiths Shop is a brilliant stop-off point They’re a 5-star tourist attraction with a museum, shopping and food, plus their own hotels. Really handy to break up a journey if you’re travelling on the M6, especially with family. 🙂

Glad you liked it Lou. And thanks for the tip.

Great post! Thanks for the info, can’t wait to visit 🙂

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Six of Scotland’s Best Road Trips

One of the best ways to discover Scotland’s stunning scenery, rich heritage and culture is to get behind the wheel and set off on a scenic self-drive tour.  

Here are just some of the road trips you can take around Scotland. Whether you choose to spend a few days just cruising around or weeks really exploring the length and breadth of the country, the possibilities are endless.

1. Snow Roads Scenic Route

  Have you stopped at #connectingcontours on the @snowroads yet? A beautiful view point at the Devil’s Elbow as the road climbs high up to the Glenshee Ski centre through the Glen of the Faeries ����‍♂️�� #snowroads . . . . #visitcairngorms #scotlandisnow #scotland #scotspirit #cairngorms #cairngormsnationalpark #nationalpark #snowroads #devilselbow #glenshee #scottishighlands #roadtrip #discoveringscotland #instatravel #instagood #photooftheday #viewpoint #beautifulplaces #exploring @visitscotland @insta_scotland @scotland.shots A post shared by VisitCairngorms (@visitcairngorms) on May 17, 2018 at 12:57pm PDT

Spanning 90 miles of snow-capped peaks, rugged glens, outdoor adventures, cycling and delicious food and drink; the Snow Roads Scenic Route is a distillation of the finest elements of the Cairngorms National Park.

Running through the eastern portion of this magnificent landscape, the route owes its name to the highest public road in Britain, and boasts some of the wildest, most dramatic Highland scenery imaginable. Steep climbs, 'blind' summits, and sharp twists and turns makes this one of the slower driving routes, and the gentler pace allows you the time to soak in the extraordinary views at ‘Instagram-ready’ vantage points and explore the various attractions along the way.

From whisky distilleries including Royal Lochnagar and fairytale castles such as Corgarff, to the jewels of Royal Deeside and the winter sports playground of Glenshee Ski Centre and The Lecht; the Snow Roads offers plenty of short, easily accessible detours during the course of your journey.

You can even extend your journey by an extra day or two and get out and really explore this lesser-known corner of the Cairngorms National Park.

Discover more about the Snow Roads Scenic Route .

2. South West Coastal 300

  Passing the time of day at the Mull of Galloway. Scotland’s most southerly point and the most southerly point in the South West Coastal 300. Start planning your trip today - you know you want to #southwestcoastal300 #swc300 #visitscotland #visitsouthwestscotland #mullofgalloway #benchwithaview #relaxation A post shared by Visit South West Scotland (@visitsouthwestscotland) on Mar 9, 2018 at 1:31am PST

After a leisurely drive over a long weekend? The South West Coastal 300 is a joy to drive. Enjoy over 300 miles of quiet roads through the beautiful countryside of Dumfries & Galloway and south Ayrshire.

Along the way, encounter wonderfully secluded stretches of beach and rugged clifftops, colourful towns and villages, and gently rolling hills purple with heather. Soak in postcard-perfect beauty spots like Sandyhills Bay, browse handcrafted artworks in the creative hotspot of Kirkcudbright, and delve into a world of Vikings, saints and Iron Age life at Whithorn, the earliest known Christian site in Scotland.

With the romantic ruin of Sweetheart Abbey and gorgeous gardens, as well as the dazzling starry skies visible from the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory on the edge of the Galloway Forest Park; the South West Coastal 300 boasts splendid locations and rich heritage in equal measure.

Hit the South West Coastal 300 .

3. North Coast 500

  Riding from Gairloch towards Torridon. The biggest problem when travelling in Scotland is the need to stop every 5 minutes to snap photos. Honestly, a 30 min route can turn into 2 hours. But with a light like this expect some epic shots. Tip: Extra SD cards and batteries are a must. . . . #visitscotland #thisisscotland #scottishhighlands #scottishspirit #travel2018 #travelmore #exploretocreate #exploreeverything #neverstopexploring #riding #motorcycletrip #roadtrippin #motorcyclediaries #motorcycleculture #thedailybite #ourplanetdaily #theoutbound #stayandwander #staywild #solotravel #wanderlusting #optoutside #letsgosomewhere #discoverearth #visualsoflife #visuallyinspired #travelphotography #landscapephotography #NC500 A post shared by The Vintage Adventurer (@royalenfieldudette) on May 29, 2018 at 11:17pm PDT

Scotland’s answer to America’s legendary Route 66 has swiftly established itself as one of the world’s most iconic driving routes. It follows a sweeping loop around the whole northern tip of Scotland; from Inverness all the way to John O’Groats in the north east, along jagged coastline overlooking the North Sea to Durness, then down the west coast before returning inland at the Applecross peninsula.

The Scottish Highlands are synonymous with untouched wilderness and when it comes to awesome scenery the North Coast 500 does not disappoint. Discover the dazzling white sands of deserted beaches like Balnakeil, endless views of the Atlantic, tantalising islands scattered just off shore, geological marvels like the mysterious Smoo Cave, and lofty heights along the single-track roads through the mountains.

Set against this glorious natural backdrop are a great deal of historic sites and other attractions. Along the way you’ll encounter the French-style chateaux of Dunrobin Castle, countless ancient standing stones at Hill O’ Many Stanes, drams of the finest malt at distilleries Glenmorangie and Old Pulteney, and the occasional free-roaming Highland coo.

See more about the North Coast 500 .

4. North East 250

  Looks like the whole of Scotland is in for some nice weather over the weekend and nowhere better to capture the sunrise than the beautiful Balmedie Beach earlier this morning. A post shared by Neily39 (@neily39) on May 24, 2018 at 10:51pm PDT

The North East 250 is Scotland’s best-kept motoring secret, encapsulating everything that makes Scotland so enchanting. Much like the North Coast 500, this is a circular route that winds through such captivating regions as Speyside, the Cairngorms, Royal Deeside, Aberdeen, the East Coast and the Moray Coast. Its condensed length makes it perfect for those who want to spend less time driving and more time exploring the attractions that are all within easy reach of the route.

Spanning the Malt Whisky Trail, the route offers the opportunity to visit some of the most famous distilleries in the world such as Glenlivet. Dozens of Munros – mountains over 3,000 ft (914.4 m) – also line the route.

 Along the route you can tee off on world-class golf courses including Braemar Golf Club, which is known as the highest course in the country. And don’t forget the castles. The North East is positively brimming with them with Braemar, Ballindalloch and Balmoral just a few of the magnificent properties you can visit on your route.

Just off the route lies the Banffshire coast, home to some of the finest beaches in Scotland. Feast on freshly caught seafood in delightful fishing villages.

Explore the North East 250 .

5. The Argyll Coastal Route

  Completed the Edinburgh half marathon for Macmillan this weekend but not before relaxing for a few days here. #view #beauty #lochlomond #charity #fundraising #active #fitness #healthy #halfmarathon #challenge A post shared by Amy (@amygraceangel) on May 30, 2018 at 3:25am PDT

Starting just north of Glasgow, the Argyll Coastal Route is like discovering the romantic Scotland of bygone age.

Spanning Tarbet to Fort William, it follows a coastal fringe of tranquil bays and fjord-like inlets on one side with soaring mountains on the other. Iconic castles, the bonnie banks of the Loch Lomond, wildlife sightings and an oyster bar line the route.

You can extend your journey by taking a detour off the main route to discover Scotland’s ‘Secret Coast’. The route follow the road to the Kyles of Bute and Loch Fyne. A relatively undiscovered corner of Argyll, it features miles of natural splendour. Soak in dramatic Highland vistas, romantic glens and lush forests, and get out from behind the wheel to explore charming historic villages, empty beaches, and plenty more surprises along the way.

Follow the Argyll Coastal Route.

6. The Borders Historic Route

  As soon as the sun broke through today, the house and gardens once again looked their very best. If only you could smell the lovely roses... ________ #abbotsfordscott #abbotsfordhouse #historichouse #literaryhouse #HHA #HHA2017 #lovegreatbritain #capturingbritain #visitbritain #OMGB #scotland #visitscotland #scotspirit #explorescotland #somewhereinscotland #scottishgarden #scottishborders #scotlandsbeauty #theviewfromhere #fromwhereistand #postcardplaces #beautifuldestinations #embracingtheseasons #thisisscotland A post shared by Sir Walter Scott's Abbotsford (@abbotsfordscott) on Jun 15, 2017 at 10:18am PDT

Heading to Edinburgh? Follow the generations of eloping couples before you to Gretna Green and continue onwards into the heart of the Scottish Borders, Sir Walter Scott country.

Weave through a beautiful countryside strewn with immense ruined abbeys, castles and country houses which hark back to a storied and sometimes turbulent past filled with fierce clashes, fair damsels and daring heroes.

Swing by Scott’s beloved home of Abbotsford, watch as authentic tartan and tweed is woven from scratch at Lochcarron of Scotland and the Borders Textile Towerhouse, and make a very worthwhile stop at a special independent craft brewery on the outskirts of Edinburgh

Explore the Borders Historic Route .

Discover more about Scotland’s driving routes on VisitScotland.com

VisitScotland

Scotland's road trips.

Nothing beats the freedom of exploring a new place on your own personalised road trip. Stop off where you like, see what you like and enjoy the route at your own pace – the perfect holiday!

These spectacular driving routes are all scenic alternatives to the main roads, with a range of great attractions en route. Check out our suggestions for what to see and do on each of the routes and plan your ultimate Scottish road trip.

Get started

VisitScotland have produced this information in good faith and have taken reasonable steps to confirm the accuracy. We recommend that all information is checked with the businesses prior to visiting/booking. These 13 suggested routes are intended as a guide to help you plan your Scottish road trip. Please check exact directions and traffic conditions before you begin your journey. You can find more information and advice on driving in Scotland . 

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5 Best Road Trips in Scotland : A Local Expert's View

Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime with our pick of the best Scottish road trips.  Driving through Scotland offers you the opportunity to experience the country’s natural beauty, meet welcoming locals and explore at your own pace.

You could see majestic castles that once housed Scottish royalty, visit renowned museums to learn about our history, and view spots where famous battles took place. 

If you’re planning a Scottish road trip, read on for our guide on the 5 best driving tours in Scotland, as recommended by our Edinburgh-based consultants. It may help you choose which route to take and get the most out of your Scottish trip!

The best routes:

• 6 days on the North Coast 500
• 3 days along the Argyll Coastal Route
• 3 days on the Royal Deeside Tourist Route
• 2 days on the Road to the Isles
• 16 days across Scotland with the Grand Tour

Route 1: North Coast 500 & Islands - 6 days

Best Scottish road trip for: castle-spotters, trendy travellers and coastal views.

As one of Scotland’s newest routes, the North Coast 500 (or NC500 if you love a good acronym) has become increasingly popular with travellers, and for good reason. It runs along the north coast of Scotland, taking in clifftop castles, beaches with white sands and turquoise waters, famous film locations, and much more.

Unsurprisingly, it’s ranked by independent sources such as Condé Nast as  perhaps one of the best road trips in the world .

What’s the drive like?

The traditional circular loop covers over 500 miles (830 km) of iconic scenery, historic villages, castles and coastline.  You can drive the North Coast 500 route in just a few days, or you can stretch it over a week or two while doing some sightseeing.

Our recommended route takes in Orkney and Skye as well - both should not be missed if you are in this neighbourhood! You can still "close the loop" but via a slightly different route.

Recommended itinerary for the North Coast 500

Day 1: inverness to orkney.

Kick off your route at the iconic Inverness Castle, crossing the Black Isle Peninsula in early morning. After an hour or so, you’ll be near the fairytale-like Dunrobin Castle. We recommend setting aside a couple of hours for a look around, before heading on to seaside Scrabster.

In the early afternoon, catch the ferry from Scrabster to Stromness, Orkney. You'll enjoy spectacular views of the Old Man of Hoy during your crossing.

Day 2: Orkney Exploration

Get acquainted with Orkney, with its jaw dropping scenery and ruins dating back to the Stone Age. The UNESCO-listed Heart of Neolithic Orkney, including Skara Brae, should be on any travel-lover’s wish list. Spend your whole day exploring before getting some well-earned rest in Kirkwall.

Day 3: Orkney to Ullapool via Scrabster

Wake up early and catch the ferry to Scrabster, before rejoining the famous North Coast 500 route and heading for Ullapool. Expect rocky cliffs, golden beaches (perhaps a surprise?) and beautiful mountains. Along the way, visit the beautiful Smoo Cave, the largest and most dramatic sea cave in Britain.

“I highly recommend stopping off at Knockan Crag and following the scenic trail around the nature reserve. There are fantastic views over the otherworldly landscape of Assynt with its remarkable mountains, such as Stac Pollaidh. Some of the world’s oldest rocks can be seen here - over millions of years, ice, weather and erosion have shaped what rocks you see today.” - Chris Glauche, Travel Consultant

Day 4: Ullapool to Skye

After breakfast, start by visiting the breathtaking mile-long Corrieshalloch Gorge. Next, head along the west coast, stopping at Inverewe Garden. The 2500 exotic plants and flowers within manage to flourish thanks to warmth provided by the Gulf Stream, which nuzzles against the coastline here. Before you reach Skye, we suggest a pit stop at the photogenic village of Plockton, near the shores of Loch Carron.

Day 5: Skye Exploration

Today take full advantage of your day on Skye, a haven for nature lovers. Visit the colourful village of Portree, then drive around the northern part of the island and take in the impressive Trotternish Peninsula along the way. From there, walk up to “The Old Man of Storr” and witness the beautiful Kilt Rock Waterfall.

Day 6: Skye to Inverness via Loch Ness

On your way to "closing the loop", stop by picturesque Eilean Donan Castle, made famous by many appearances on the big and small screen alike. Next, head for the dark and enigmatic Loch Ness, perhaps keeping an eye out for Nessie along the way. Don't forget to explore Urquhart Castle, resting on the loch shore.

• Drive this route and more on the Classic Scotland & the Orkney Islands package
• Read more about "Scotland's answer to Route 66" in our detailed NC500 guide
• See where kings, queens and clanlords ruled with these castle tours in Scotland

Route 2: The Argyll Coastal Route - 3 days

Best Scottish road trip for: seafood lovers, wildlife watchers and Munro baggers.

Sample seafood, explore the ancient kingdoms and admire the Scottish Highlands on the Argyll Coastal Route. You’ll travel along the peaceful banks of Loch Lomond, past the rocky seashore of Scotland’s west coast, and through the mighty mountains of the Scottish Highlands before arriving in Fort William, Scotland’s adventure capital.

Covering only 129 miles (208 km), you can easily drive this route in one day. But the better option, in our opinion, is to take your time and stretch it across a long weekend, making sightseeing stops along the way.

The best itinerary for the Argyll Coastal Route

Day 1: tarbet to auchindrain .

Start in Tarbet, where you can explore the many highlights of Loch Lomond and the  Trossachs National Park . Head west to Inveraray, a charming village known for its whitewashed houses, historic jail and fairytale castle, before continuing to Auchindrain. 

Day 2: Auchindrain to Oban 

Start at the Kilmartin Museum and then drive to Carnasserie Castle, a 15th-century tower house that played a role in Argyll’s rebellion against James VII. Make a detour to Easdale Island, where you could go on a whale-watching trip and visit a local seal colony.

Day 3: Oban to Fort William

Start the day visiting Oban, known as the “Seafood capital of Scotland” and the “Gateway to the isles”. Visit historic sites like McCaig's Tower or Dunollie Museum, sample fresh seafood or whisky at Oban Distillery. On the way to Fort William, you could stop off at Castle Stalker, Ardchattan Priory Gardens, and the Scottish Sealife Sanctuary.

Route 3: Royal Deeside Tourist Route - 3 days

Best Scottish road trip for: nature lovers, golfers and history buffs.

Travel through the enchanting landscape of the Cairngorms National Park on your drive from Perth to Aberdeen on the Royal Deeside Tourist Route. This charming and relatively short route takes in the farmlands of Blairgowrie, mighty mountains of the Highlands, and rich rolling landscape of Royal Deeside.

One of the shortest routes, the Royal Deeside Tourist Route is only 108 miles (174 km) so can easily be driven in a day or two.

The best itinerary for the Royal Deeside Tourist Route

Day 1: perth to blairgowrie .

Spend the day exploring Perth’s charming old town, where you can visit the Perth Museum and Art Gallery and the Black Watch Museum located in the Balhousie Castle. Nearby you’ll also find the historic Scone Palace, where Scottish kings used to be crowned upon the stone of destiny.

Day 2: Blairgowrie to Aboyne

Today, you’ll spend the day driving through and exploring the stunning scenery of the Cairngorms National Park, a haven for hikers, bird watchers, nature lovers and in winter, skiers.

You can also learn about Scottish history at Braemar or Crathes castles, sample local spirits at the Royal Lochnagar whisky distillery, or discover the art of cheesemaking at Cambus O’May creamery.

"The Burn O’Vat near Dinnet in Royal Deeside is one of Scotland’s best natural wonders. It was carved out by glacial melt at the end of the last Ice Age, more than 10,000 years ago. You have to creep through a narrow crack in the rock to stand in this atmospheric cavern. It may look like a difficult undertaking but this was a favourite hideaway of Queen Victoria, who managed it in her many skirts! It was also used as a hideout from authorities by Patrick Gilroy MacGregor, a notorious 17th-century Scottish outlaw and cattle rustler." - Sarah McLachlan, Travel Consultant

Day 3: Aboyne to Aberdeen

On the final day, check out the medieval Drum Castle with its charming Garden of Historic Roses and ancient woodlands. Then continue on to Aberdeen, the “Silver City”, where you can admire its granite architecture, and visit museums like the Gordon Highlanders Museum and the Aberdeen Maritime Museum.

• To do the Royal Deeside Route and the Argyll Coastal Route together, plus trips to the beautiful isles of Iona and Mull and more: view the Scottish Highlands & West Coast tour
• Browse our self-drive packages and don't hesitate asking to customise your itinerary 

Route 4: Road to the Isles - 2 Days

Best Scottish road trip for: sea lovers, beachgoers and Harry Potter fans.

Discover dramatic coastlines with sandy tropical-looking beaches, Harry Potter film locations, and rich Highland history on the Road to the Isles. At the end of the road, you then have the option to sail off to the Isles of Rum, Eigg, Muck, or even Skye, to continue your Scottish adventure.

Stretching from the west coast of north Scotland to Mallaig, the Road to the Isles covers the short distance of 42 miles (67 km). If you drove it straight, without detours, the drive would only take 1 hour, but, if time allows, we recommend breaking it up into two days.

• If you’re planning to discover Scotland at your own pace, check out our Scotland self-drive tours
• When you want to enjoy focusing on the scenery outside, rather than the driving experience, it's time to look at our  Scotland private tours

The best itinerary for the Road to the Isles

Day 1: fort williams to glenfinnan .

Start the day exploring Fort William, where you could pop into the Ben Nevis Distillery Visitor Centre. Then drive past the Caledonian Canal and Great Glen with a quick stop at the Treasures of the Earth in Corpach, to see Europe’s finest private collection of gemstones.

End your day in Glenfinnan , along the shores of Loch Shiel. Here you can walk through the Great Glen, visit the Glenfinnan Monument, a tribute to those who died fighting the Jacobite cause, and admire the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter film series.

Day 2: Glenfinnan to Mallaig 

As you leave Glenfinnan, stop at Camusdarach beach to admire its silver dunes. Consider making the detour along the banks of Loch Morar to try to spot the infamous Morag monster, or continue directly to the quaint fishing village of Mallaig.

Many ferries leave from here, making it the perfect starting point for island hopping.

Route 5: Grand Tour of Scotland - 16 Days

Best Scottish road trip for: seeing it all, history buffs, nature lovers, whisky connoisseurs, and those with a deep Scottish pride.

Ready for the ultimate road trip? The grand tour of Scotland takes you to all of the country’s best sights and places. You’ll drive through the mighty Highlands, past rumbling rivers, travel to iconic islands like Orkney and Skye, and have plenty of opportunities to stop off along the way.

After this epic 16-day drive, you’ll feel like you’ve genuinely seen our beautiful country.

From Edinburgh, you’ll drive into the Highlands and up to the most northerly part of mainland UK to take a ferry to Orkney. Next, you'll head west to explore the Isles of Harris and Lewis before going down to Skye. Covering 2580 miles (4152 km), this route is the ultimate Scottish road trip.

The best itinerary for a Grand Tour of Scotland

Day 1: edinburgh.

Today, explore the Scottish capital. Walk through Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage site of the Old Town and New Town. We also recommend walking the Royal Mile from the Palace of Holyrood House all the way up to the top of the road, where you’ll find Edinburgh Castle atop ancient crags.

Day 2: Edinburgh to Aberdeen

Drive north into the Kingdom of Fife where you can first stop at the quaint village of Falkland, with its Renaissance palace and beautiful gardens. We also recommend visiting the town of St Andrews, famously known as the “Home of Golf”.

Driving north, stop to visit the UNESCO City of Design, Dundee, before heading up to Aberdeen. You can either drive the direct route, or head along the scenic coastal road.

Day 3: Aberdeen to Inverness

Today, you’ll explore the stunning Scottish Highlands by driving the Deeside Tourist Route through the Cairngorms National Park (like in route #3). Along the way you could also visit the Scottish residence of the British Royal Family, Balmoral Castle.

Please note that Balmoral is only open for a few weeks a year. If you'd like to see it, ask a travel consultant for more information.

The last section of the drive takes you through Speyside, which is home to over half the whisky distilleries in Scotland.

Day 4: Inverness to Kirkwall

This morning, hit the road early, so you have enough time to explore the Black Isle Peninsula and fairytale Dunrobin Castle, before catching the ferry to the Viking village of Kirkwall on Orkney’s mainland.

Day 5: Orkney

Spend the day exploring the Orkney Isles , with their stunning scenery and Stone Age ruins. Make sure to check out the UNESCO World Heritage listed “ Heart of Neolithic Orkney ”, which includes Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, the Standing Stones of Stenness and Maeshowe.

Day 6: Orkney to Ullapool

Take the ferry back to mainland Scotland and join the famous North Coast 500 route (see route #1). Some of the highlights include the eerie Smoo Cave, the stunning beaches of Durness, and the 15th-century ruins of Ardvreck Castle.

Day 7: Ullapool to the Outer Hebrides

From Ullapool, catch the ferry to the Isle of Lewis and Harris. Here you’ll be able to learn about its Gaelic culture and history. We recommend visiting the museum of Black Arnol Museum, and don’t miss the mysterious Callanish Standing Stones.

Day 8: Isle of Lewis to Harris

Spend the day exploring the Isle of Harris to the south, including the quaint village of Tarbert and the dramatic scenery along the Golden Road. Here you’ll also find tropical-looking beaches with white sand and turquoise waters.

Day 9: Hop to the Isle of Skye

Catch the ferry to the Isle of Skye and then explore the northern part of the island, the beautiful Trotternish Peninsula. Stretch your legs with a walk up the Old Man of Storr and admire the stunning Kilt Rock and Mealt waterfall. Other highlights include the Quiraing, An Corran Beach and the Fairy Glen.

Day 10 and 11: Isle of Skye

Devote two entire days to exploring everything Skye has to offer, walking its many trails and learning about local history. Sip coffee in Portree, marvel at Dunvegan Castle, walk along Claigan Coral Beach and drive to the dramatic Neist Point. You can even sample whisky at Talisker Distillery.

Day 12: Isle of Skye to Fort William

Swap the Isle of Skye for the Scottish Highlands. Stop along the way at the picturesque Eilean Donan Castle, drive along the mystical shores of Loch Ness (try to spot the famed Loch Ness monster!), and explore the lakeside ruins of Urquhart Castle.

Day 13: Isle of Mull

Today drive down to Oban and take a ferry across to the Isle of Mull, where you’ll find white sandy beaches, towering mountain peaks and stunning nature. Highlights include Duart Castle, Ben More, Calgary Bay and the quaint village of Tobermory.

Day 14: Isles of Iona and Staffa

Located just off the Isle of Mull, today we recommend visiting the tiny islands of Iona and Staffa. The boat tour will take you to Iona, where you can visit Iona Abbey, before sailing off to Staffa. Here you can explore Fingal’s Cave, and try to spot dolphins and minke whales.

Day 15: Into the Trossachs National Park

Back on the Scottish mainland, head south through Kilmartin Glen, an area rich with Neolithic and Bronze Age sites. You may wish to stop by Inveraray, a lovely village on the banks of Loch Fyne. Drive along the shores of Loch Lomond to the enchanting village of Luss.

Day 16: Back to Edinburgh

Make your way back to Edinburgh by driving along the shores of Loch Lomond and through the Trossachs National Park. On the way, visit Doune Castle , take a boat trip along Loch Katrine, and, if time allows, explore Stirling Castle.

Get help planning your road trip

Our dedicated travel consultants, based in Edinburgh, are here to help you plan the perfect road trip, including booking accommodation, arranging ferries and activities, and much more.

You’ll even be able to call them 24/7 on our emergency helpline in case a ferry is delayed or you otherwise need assistance during your trip.

Check out our Scotland self-drive tours for more information.

Greg Perkins is from Edinburgh, Scotland, but he adopted Iceland as his second country when Scotland (typically) managed not to qualify for football's Euro 2016 tournament. His passions include travel, English literature, and board games. Among his top travel experiences are sailing along Geirangerfjord with classically trained singers providing the soundtrack, seeing Sólheimajökull glacier up close in South Iceland, and witnessing the unspoiled beauty of New Zealand's Doubtful Sound fjord.

Find Greg on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

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Ultimate Scotland Road Trip Itinerary: What To See in Scotland in 4 Days

I am going to let you in on a little secret, I grossly underestimated Scotland’s beauty. Like throw away everything you thought you knew about Scotland. This place will truly leave you SPEECHLESS! Whether you are spending a few days here or a few weeks here, this Scotland road trip itinerary will cover some of the best there is to see.

This Scotland road trip itinerary will cover how to make the most of your 4 days in Scotland including hidden gems, the coolest accommodations and spots you simply cannot miss on your Scotland road trip! I’ve got the BEST Scotland road trip itinerary that I can guarantee will make all your Scotland dreams come true!!

Stay until the end, because I have included a printable itinerary to make your travels much easier!

Scotland Road Trip Itinerary (VIDEO)

We were totally blown away by Scotland and loved every minute of our road trip through this beautiful country! We visited in late November, and managed to catch a glimpse of the last remaining fall colors. I can confirm that Scotland is a whole new level of stunning!!! Don’t believe me? Just check out the video below!

@herjoliejourney Visit herjoliejourney.com for full travel guide! #scotlandtravel #scotland #traveldiaries #beautifuldestinations ♬ Simply The Best by Billianne - Billianne

What is the Best Way to Get to Scotland?

Looking to go to Scotland without breaking the bank? No need to swim across the ocean, just hop on a plane! You can choose from three major international airports: Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Aberdeen. Rumor has it that Glasgow takes the cake for the most nonstop flights from North America, while all three offer a wide range of flights within Europe. Plus, you’ll avoid getting pruney fingers from swimming across the Atlantic.

*We flew in to Edinburgh, and that is where this Scotland road trip guide begins.

How to Rent a Car in Scotland As An American

Driving through the Scottish mountains was unbelievably amazing and definitely a major highlight of our trip! I have to confess driving a car in Scotland as an American can be quite the challenge. But I am sharing some quick tips on how to rent a car in Scotland and what to expect. 

To save you from the chaos of renting a car in the city center, the best place to rent a car is from the airport, even if you aren’t arriving in Scotland by plane.

You’ll need a valid driver’s license that you’ve had for at least a year. Most rental companies will ask for some ID and a credit card for identification. Don’t worry though, if you’ve got an active license back home, you can legally drive on the Scottish roads for up to a year. 

Keep in mind, you will need to get use to driving on the left-hand side of the road and have the steering wheel on the right side of the car. That’s a total reverse from the norm. And I highly suggest splurging for an automatic car. Trust me; it’s worth the investment, especially when driving in unfamiliar territories on the opposite side of the road.

And you can rest assured there are no tolls or pay-bridges in Scotland. 

We had such a pleasant experience with Hertz that we were tempted to extend our road trip.

But if you’re seeking other car rental options, Avis, Enterprise, and Sixt bring some fire to the table. Enterprise offers quality, but can be quite expensive. On the other hand, Sixt has a great selection of vehicle options to suit your taste but the service is often lacking.

How to Use My Scotland Road Trip Itinerary

This guide starts and ends in Edinburgh. I have included details on driving distance and the time recommended at each stop. Keep in mind that the time alloted to drive to each spot is subject to change based on when you visit. You’ll need at least 4 days for this Scotland road trip itinerary and you’ll want to start early. We hit the road by 8 am. Let’s dive in!

*We traveled to Scotland in late November, so our window of daylight was very limited. We managed to cover as much ground as we could, so don’t get discouraged if you are visiting late in the season.

Scotland Road Trip Itinerary In Four Days at a Glance

Day 1: edinburgh, day 2: craigievar castle, braemar and inverness, day 3: isle of skye, day 4: glenfinnan viaduct, trossachs woollen mill and culross, day 1: helping you tackle edinburgh in one day.

Scotland’s capital city is bursting with SO much to see! You won’t be able to conquer it all in just one day, but I’ll give you a sneak peek of the top must-see sights. Trust me, walking around the city beats driving any day — not only do you get to avoid the hassle of parking, but you’ll also get your steps in for the day.

I’m about to help you squeeze every drop out of your day! Check out the exciting lineup of stops I’ve got for you below.

• Circus Lane
• Dean Gardens
• Dean Village
• Princes Street Gardens
• Edinburgh Castle
• Victoria Street
• The Writer's Museum

Keep reading to find some secret stops I have included in the descriptions below!

Explore Edinburgh’s Most Charming Street: Circus Lane

This charming street has everything a fairytale lover could dream of – cobblestone paths, picturesque homes with lush foliage, and enough whimsy to make you feel like you’re walking into a storybook. Bring your camera because you’ll want to snap a shot at every corner. In just 30 minutes, you can escape the city’s hustle and bustle and step into a magical world.

• ESTIMATED TIME: 15 Minutes

BONUS: There is a cute home off of Circus Lane that has steps lined with beautiful potted plants, 33 NW Circus Pl

Look For Hidden Gems in Dean Gardens

Stroll through the fabulous gardens nestled along the Leith waters and discover some hidden gems en route to Dean Village. This scenic path is the ultimate spot for a leisurely walk filled with awe-inspiring views.

• ESTIMATED TIME: 15 minutes

Take a Peek at the Iconic Dean Village

Forget reality, step into a fairytale at Dean Village – where the stone houses will make you feel like you’re dwelling in a storybook. Explore the cobblestone streets and admire the picturesque views; you might even spot a unicorn or two!

And do we even need to mention that enchanting little bridge over the river? Too cute for words! The best part? It’s only a hop, skip, and jump away from the city centre! Whether you’re a local or a tourist, make sure to add Dean Village to your must-see list or you’ll regret missing out on this magical gem! And if you’re in the area on Sunday make sure to visit the Stockbridge Market nearby. 

• ESTIMATED TIME: 30 Minutes

Don’t Miss the Pretty Fountain in Princes Street Gardens

Princes Street Gardens is the beating heart of this city and trust me when I say, it’s anything but ordinary. It’s like the Mona Lisa of public parks. Oh, and have you seen Ross Fountain? It’s beyond beautiful – it deserves its own Instagram account. So take my advice, add Princes Street Gardens to your itinerary and prepare to be wowed.

• ESTIMATED TIME: 20 Minutes

Book a Memorable Meal At The Dome

Think Gossip Girl with a sprinkle of Harry Potter, this restaurant screams both luxury and magic. Although enchanting all year round, the Dome is truly magical at Christmas time. Make a reservation in the Georgian tea room in advance, it’s absolutely stunning and the food is divine! The price is reasonable for the quality and quantity.

• ESTIMATED TIME: 1 Hour minimum

See What All the Fuss is About At Edinburgh Castle

I have a confession, I didn’t step foot inside this castle. We had some local friends as our tour guides and we were told by multiple sources it’s not worth the admission price. I had to include it on this list, because it’s both iconic and provides amazing views of the city!

Bonus: Pop into the Witchery if you want to experience an unforgettable dining experience. Reservations are highly encouraged. 

Catch The Best Views of Edinburgh Here: Vennel

Looking for a charming, mysterious and enchanting alleyway in Edinburgh that’ll leave you spellbound? Look no further! It’s hidden away for those who seek adventure, and the best part is the breathtaking view that’s worth every step. Make sure to count your way up and don’t miss out on the beauty that awaits you on the 50th step, where you can catch the most stunning view of Edinburgh castle that’ll knock your socks off! This little alley is not your regular spot and is surely the definition of “hidden gem.”

You can locate this spot through google maps or here .

Bonus: You will find the CUTEST ice cream shop just around the corner from this alleyway. Everything found inside Mary’s Milk Bar is locally made daily and the flavors change both daily and seasonally!

Do Some Shopping At Royal Mile

This cobblestone street was once graced by royalty through Scotland’s history, so it’s no wonder it’s the most famous street in Edinburgh! The mile begins at Edinburgh Castle and ends at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Pop into St. Giles Cathedral and admire all the history found there. 

• ESTIMATED TIME: 1 hour minimum

Catch a Glimpse of Diagon Alley: Victoria Street

Get ready to be charmed by this burst of colors on this street that will undoubtedly steal your heart away! It has a rich history, and to top it all off, it’s connected to Harry Potter films! You won’t be able to handle the cuteness of shops that adorn the street, and did we mention it’s where Diagon Alley got its inspiration? Yup, you read that right! You’ll find loads of Harry Potter themed shops, but the one that takes the cake is Diagon House. Don’t miss out on this magical experience!

If You Have Time Visit The Writer’s Museum

A cute little museum for all you lit fans out there. They’ve got the big guns on display, from Rabbie Burns to Sir Walter Scott to R.L. Stevenson. And let me tell ya, this place has got more old books and manuscripts than you can shake a quill at! If you’re in the market for a brainy adventure, this hidden gem is the real deal. The museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM. 

• ESTIMATED TIME: whatever time you have left over

Bonus: Additional spots we wish we would have had time to visit in Edinburgh: 

• Calton Hill
• The Elephant House
• Arthur's Seat
• Greyfriars Bobby's Bar

You can find my full Edinburgh Travel Guide here . 

Day 2: Prepare to Explore the Cutest Towns and Castles

As soon as we hopped on that Scotland-bound flight, I could practically feel the adorable spots calling my name. And let me tell you, this road trip was chock-full of cuteness, I almost couldn’t handle it! I mean, seriously, every single place we saw was just downright amazing. I kinda felt like shouting “OMG IS THIS REAL LIFE?!” at every stop, but you know, I didn’t want to freak anyone out. All in all, it was a day to remember and takes this Scotland road trip itinerary to a whole other level!

Although the list may appear small, there is a lot of ground to cover and you will want to start early! 

• Kincardine O'Neil
• Craigievar Castle

Perfect Pit Stop on the Way: Kincardine O’Neil

This cute little town is a true hidden gem and is a perfect little pit stop on the way to the Craigievar Castle! You’ll find some cute shops, a cemetery with graves that date as far back as the 1700’s and a charming little church. We spent about 30 minutes here exploring and picking up some lunch. 

• ESTIMATED TIME: 30 minutes

Discover Scotland’s Pink Castle: Craigievar Castle

This castle is closed for renovations until 2024. Craigievar Castle is said to be the inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella Castle and it is just as dreamy in person as it is in photos! Although not originally pink back in 1576, this cream colored castle has turned pink overtime.

• ESTIMATED TIME: 1 hour

During normal operating hours, the interior of the castle is open to the public from April to October. Sadly, we missed that window visiting in November but we still enjoyed visiting the beautiful grounds! You can book tickets here . 

You Will Not Recover From the Cuteness of Braemar

This little slice of heaven, nestled near the Cairngorms National Park, is easily one of the prettiest villages in all of Scotland.

Its claim to fame? Oh, just the world-famous annual Highland Games, no biggie. You may even catch the Royal Family in attendance. The Highland games take place every first Saturday of September, not to mention the best of the best when it comes to pipe bands, pipers, Highland dancers, and athletes.

Go Hunting for the Loch Ness Monster

Iconic for a reason, and popular since the alleged sighting of a long neck monster in the 6th century Loch Ness has become the most popular Loch in Scotland! You can easily spend an entire day here exploring, but if you explore anything make sure to stop at Urquhart Castle . 

• ESTIMATED TIME: 30 minutes minimum

Get a Good Night Sleep in Inverness

We stumbled in after dark, too exhausted to even contemplate exploring Inverness. Inverness is considered the perfect home base for exploring some seriously stunning Highland scenery. And let’s not forget its array of iconic castles, majestic mountains, and unique wildlife. Trust me, you won’t be bored. Check out this list of things to see and do in Inverness, just in case you need some inspiration.

Day 3: Prepare to Be Blown Away By Isle of Skye

This is the best part of the post, so listen up! Isle of Skye is absolutely MAGICAL and you are going to want to squeeze every last minute out of the day exploring the most stunning area of Scotland! You can also check out my full Isle of Skye travel guide here . 

Scotland’s Celebrity Castle: Eilean Donan Castle

Located just 34 miles east of Isle of Skye and one of the most recognizable castles in Scotland. It has even been featured in several films ! You can explore the grounds for free or pay an admission price to go inside. We wanted to get to Isle of Skye ASAP, so this was a quick pit stop. 

Most Adorable Cafe in Scotland: Manuela’s Wee Bakery

Looking to live out your fairytale fantasies? Look no further than Manuela’s Wee Bakery! This hidden gem, nestled in the shadow of Eilean Donan Castle, is run by a family of German bakers who fell in love with Scotland’s charm (and food!). In 2013, they created a foodie haven that sounds like something straight out of a storybook.

And let me tell you, the baked goods, pizza, and hot chocolate are worth writing home about! Don’t just take my word for it; the rave reviews speak for themselves. Trust me, you don’t want to skip out on this charming bakery.

• ESTIMATED TIME: 20 minutes

First Stop in Isle of Skye: Old Man of Storr

I live for a good photo, which is why I wanted to head here first because it’s one of the most photographed landscapes in the world! You may be wondering how it got its name? The iconic rock pillar found here is said to resemble an old man. 

Here are some tips for Old Man of Storr:

• The hike is 3.8km (2.4mi) and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. It is rated as medium in difficulty. We spent closer to 2 hours here taking photos and admiring the views.
• We were here in November and the weather was less than ideal, making the hike just a little more difficult with high winds, rain and mud but we still enjoyed it! Don't let rain deter you from going on this hike.
• Parking lot can be found just in front of the trail marker, but it fills up fast in the summer so get here early if you can!

Don’t Miss the Stunning Mealtfalls

The second I laid eyes on this place I went into a state of instant shock, because this waterfall was a dream! It’s a quick pit stop, and when I mean quick I mean we spent about 15 minutes here but it was totally worth the stop!!

This waterfall is definitely a crowd-pleaser and conveniently accessible making it an easy pit stop through Isle of Skye. With a 164-foot plunge and a concrete platform for safety, you can’t deny that this spot is a winner. So, why settle for an average waterfall view when you can savor the breathtaking Mealt Falls?

Isle of Skye’s Most Scenic Route: Quiraing

Another popular spot in Isle of Skye that provides breathtaking views! I have a feeling you’re going to faint when you see this incredible landscape and no amount of photos can do it justice.

There is a parking lot located at the highest part of the single track road ( you are going to want to remember that, because google maps does not take you there ). Follow the single track road all the way up to the top where you will see a parking lot. 

• ESTIMATED TIME: 20 minutes minimum

A 4.2 mile hike can be found here and takes 2 hours to complete with no stops. Given the weather conditions and the time of year we were here we just stopped to enjoy the spectacular views!! 

Wander the Mystical Fairy Glen

A magical little place known for its folk tales about fairies Legend has it fairies are hidden in the crevices of these rocks! It can be challenging to find Fairy Glen, because there are no signs to get to this spot.

IMPORTANT: Google maps will take you to a parking lot that is not conveniently located near Fairy Glen. Instead continue to drive and you will pass a pond on the right. You will want to park right past the pond on the north side. You will find a trail to the right of the pond and it will take you to Fairy Glen. Keep in mind we visited in November and did not have to deal with crowds, so there is a possibility parking will not be an option here if you go during the peak of summer. 

The Colorful Capital of Isle of Skye: Portree

The Isle of Skye may be small in size but it’s big on charm, especially with its major town Portree. This village, born from humble fishing roots over two centuries ago, has got it all – from colorful facades to quirky shops, and oh-so-tasty food joints making it the perfect way to end your day!

Other places we wish we could have visited in Isle of Skye:

• Fairy Pools
• Neist Point Lighthouse
• Armadale Castle
• Dunvegan Castle
• Coral Beach

Day 4: Harry Potter, Highland Cows and Historical Towns

Feeling some type of way now that this trip is coming to a close, but day 4 is filled with some truly amazing spots to wrap up this Scotland road trip itinerary in the best way possible. There is a lot of ground to cover, and the driving time between each stop can be quite lengthy so don’t hit snooze on that alarm and get an early start! 

Home to the Fabled Hogwarts Express: Glenfinnan Viaduct

If you are a fan of Harry Potter you will immediately recognize this spot famous for the Hogwarts Express. Located 100 feet off the ground this train track is still used today. If you are visiting Scotland between April and October you don’t want to miss taking the Jacobite Steam Train through these tracks. Details can be found here . 

Pet Some Highland Cows at Trossachs Woollen Mill

This place was highly recommended by locals in Edinburgh, so we knew we had to check it out for ourselves! If you’re wondering what makes this place so popular, let me introduce you to this cute guy:

That’s right, these cute fuzzy cows can be found here! Highland cows are an iconic symbol of Scotland. Trossachs Woollen Mill lets you feed and interact with three beautiful Highland Cows. You will also find a cute gift shop and restaurant here. 

*IMPORTANT: These cute cows are not found here year round, so make sure to check before you visit!

Roam The Beautiful, Historical Culross

This quiet little seaside town is located 24 miles north of Edinburgh and is the closest thing to a 16th century time capsule dating back to the 1500s. The National Trust for Scotland has poured a lot of resources and effort into restoring and caring for this little village and it shows. 

We made our way back to Edinburgh to catch our flight the following morning, but here are some additional spots we wish we would have had time to visit:

• Castle Stalker
• Drummond Castle and Gardens
• Duntrune Castle
• Benmore Botanic Garden
• Loch Lomond

I hope this Scotland road trip itinerary helps you make the most of your time to see in Scotland in 4 days.

I have included a printable Scotland road trip itinerary below to make your travels much, much easier! Fill out the form below to get this free itinerary delivered straight to your inbox!

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The Best 7 Day Scotland Road Trip For First-Timers (2024)

Interested in taking a 7 day Scotland road trip? You won’t be disappointed!

Scotland is my favorite place in the whole world.

I know that’s a pretty bold statement considering I haven’t seen the whole world, not even close.

But there’s just something about the country that makes me feel like I’m home and I never want to leave.

The fog and mist while driving through the Highlands, the friendly people, the wildlife, the history, and the folklore – all of it bundled together makes Scotland like nowhere else I’ve ever been.

Planning your trip? Use our favorite resources!

For accommodations –   Hotels.com  |  Expedia  |  VRBO ​ For car rentals –   Discover Cars ​ For tours & excursions –   Viator ​ For cheap flights – FareDrop ​ For travel insurance –   Safety Wing

While Scotland deserves as much time as you can manage, you can easily get a good feel for the country in just 7 days.

From the magical city of Edinburgh to the mysterious Loch Ness to the mesmerizing Isle of Skye , this self-drive tour of Scotland will get you around to a lot of the highlights and more!

Here’s the map and route and a breakdown of the best one-week Scotland road trip for first-timers:

• Day 1 – Edinburgh

Day 2 – Edinburgh to Stirling to Pitlochry

• Day 3 – Pitlochry to Cairngorms to Inverness

Day 4 – Inverness to Isle of Skye

Day 5 – isle of skye, day 6 – isle of skye to glencoe.

• Day 7 – Glencoe to Loch Lomond to Edinburgh

Are you getting excited? Let’s dive in!

PPST! Looking for an easy way to reference all this great info? I’ve got a free, summarized version of this itinerary available to download so you can refer back to it at any time!

Best 7 day scotland road trip for first-timers.

Today you’ll be exploring my favorite city, Edinburgh. Ideally, you’ll either be able to arrive the night before or early this morning so you can make the most of your day here.

Edinburgh is insanely beautiful and has so much history and character. There is so much to explore, so you’ll have to pick and choose what to see based on your interests, but if you only have one day, this is what I’d recommend.

Arthur’s Seat

If you arrive the night before, I’d highly recommend getting up early and hiking up Arthur’s Seat for sunrise.

Arthur’s Seat is a grassy hill that is the remnants of an ancient volcano. It offers one of the best views of the city and is not to be missed if you enjoy hiking. It is the highest point in Holyrood Park.

The hike up to the top isn’t long, but it can be strenuous, so you should be prepared before you make the hike.

If the weather is very windy, foggy, or rainy, you should probably skip this as the views won’t be good and the rain will make the route very slippery. This is definitely a hike that should be done in decent weather to get the most out of the experience.

You can start and end the hike at various places within Holyrood Park, but I’d recommend beginning by St. Margaret’s Well in the northwest part of the park and taking the path by Saint Anthony’s Chapel Ruins before making your way up to the top. You can then hike back down the way you came or take another path to explore a different section of the park.

The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile lies in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. This is where many of the attractions, museums, and shopping opportunities are located. It starts at the Palace of Holyroodhouse to the east and stretches to Edinburgh Castle to the west.

You should spend the majority of your day in this section of the city. There is so much to see and do in this part alone that you would need several days to really see it all.

Assuming you are coming from Arthur’s Seat, you’ll be starting your exploration of the Royal Mile from the eastern side by Dynamic Earth and Holyroodhouse , but if you skipped this, you could start anywhere you wish.

St Giles’ Cathedral

Take a few minutes to explore this stunning cathedral that predates most of the Old Town of Edinburgh. Step inside and appreciate the beautiful stained glass and architecture.

Victoria Street

Any other Harry Potter fans out there? If so, you probably know that Victoria Street is said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley, and you can definitely see why! There’s even a Harry Potter-themed store here, which is worth checking out!

Even if you aren’t a Harry Potter fanatic, this two-storied colorful street is fun to explore and do a bit of window shopping – or actual shopping!

Greyfriars Kirkyard & Greyfriars Bobby Statue

More Harry Potter trivia! It is said that J. K. Rowling spent time wandering around Greyfriars Kirkyard and came up with some of the characters’ names here, like McGonagall, Scrimgeour, and Thomas Riddell. Spend some time wandering around and see how many you can find!

A little ways away from the kirkyard is the statue of Greyfriars Bobby, a Skye Terrier who became famous for spending 14 years guarding the grave of his deceased owner.

National Museum of Scotland

There are so many museums to visit in Edinburgh, but if you only have time for one, I recommend the National Museum of Scotland .

It has a little bit of everything here, and the building itself is quite stunning. You could easily spend all day here, so I’d recommend finding the exhibitions you are most interested in and concentrating on those first.

I especially liked the Kingdom of the Scots and Scotland Transformed, as well as Dolly the sheep, who was the first cloned mammal.

The Scotch Whisky Experience

I didn’t get a chance to do this when I was in Edinburgh, but if you like scotch or are interested in learning more about the process, this would be a great option for you.

There are various tour options available, and I’d highly recommend booking your tour in advance as they do often sell out.

Edinburgh Castle

If you only have time for one activity, this is the one you should do. Edinburgh Castle is the highlight of the entire city , perched on top of a rocky hill and can be seen from just about everywhere.

Tickets must be bought in advance, so keep this in mind when planning.

Bonus: Calton Hill

If you aren’t too tired and want a nice location to watch the sunset, Calton Hill is a great choice.

Wander around the various monuments and enjoy the panoramic views of the city.

Other Options

For more options of things to do in Edinburgh if you have additional time or would like to swap out some of the previous suggestions, read this post:

Free and Cheap Things To Do In Edinburgh

Where to Stay

While it will be more expensive to stay near the Royal Mile, if you want to get the most out of your time in Edinburgh, it’s probably going to be your best option.

We actually opted to stay at an apartment at Tytler Gardens which is near Holyroodhouse and it worked out really well for us. It no longer is available, but this apartment is similar and in the same location.

Some other highly rated budget options include CoDE Pod – The CoURT , ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge , and Aparthotel Adagio .

Total Distance: 102 miles Length of Drive: 2.5 hours

Pick up your car this morning and head out of Edinburgh towards Stirling. Your first stop will be Linlithgow Palace.

Linlithgow Palace

Linlithgow Palace is the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots and was the residence of the Stewarts for centuries. While now in ruins, it’s a fascinating place to explore and learn more about the Stewarts.

Spent an hour or two here and then continue to the Kelpies.

The Kelpies

The world’s largest horse sculptures are impressive and well worth a quick stop for a few pictures.

If you are interested, there are also tours that go inside the statue heads. We were content just walking around them and snapping a few photos.

This would also be a nice place to take a break and have a picnic if you packed a lunch. There is a cafe on-site as well if you want to get a quick bite to eat here.

Stirling Castle

I almost think I liked this castle better than Edinburgh’s…gasp! It’s hard to compare the two really, but Stirling Castle is a must-see regardless.

With its imposing position on the hill and sprawling grounds, you can spend a lot of time here exploring the castle inside and out.

Continue driving to Pitlochry where you will stay for the night.

Places to Stay

When we went to Scotland in 2017, we went during my 30th birthday. As my birthday treat, we stayed at Fonab Castle Hotel which was a highlight of our trip. It was luxurious and it was there I had the best meal of our entire trip.

If you want to splurge on a castle stay during your Scotland 7 day itinerary, I can’t recommend Fonab Castle enough. Or at least eat at the restaurant. It’s pricey but it’s worth it.

For budget stays, I’d recommend McKays Hotel Bar & Restaurant or Fisher’s Hotel .

Day 3 – Pitlochry to Inverness

Total Distance: 106 miles Length of Drive: 2.5 hours

Cairngorm Reindeer Centre

Start off your morning with a visit to the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre.

I had a blast here. We took a hill trip, which basically means we walked out to where the reindeer were and got to walk with them, feed them, and pet them while learning all about reindeer and the herd.

I felt like a little kid and had so much fun feeding them and snapping a bazillion photos. This was one of my favorite things during our entire trip.

If this doesn’t sound like something you’d like, I’d recommend taking some time to drive around  Cairngorms National Park . I wish we would have had more time to do so when we visited. The area is beyond beautiful.

Old Pack Horse Bridge, Carrbridge

This is a fun little attraction on your way out of the area. This post-medieval bridge over the River Dulnain is intriguing and worth a quick stop to take a few photos.

Clava Cairns

The Clava Cairns are bronze-age cairns, which are basically prehistoric burial grounds that consist of standing stones and rings of rocks.

It’s pretty fascinating to see something so old that is so well preserved. We wandered around the grounds for a while, taking photos and just marveling.

Culloden Battlefield

For any of you Outlander fans out there, the Culloden Battlefield is a must-see. The tragic end of the Jacobite uprising occurred here in 1745, and you can walk in the footsteps of the soldiers who fought.

Check out the visitor center first to get the lay of the land and see artifacts and a reenactment of the battle, and then wander the grounds, viewing the monuments and the clans.

Wrap up your day by checking into your accommodations in Inverness and then heading downtown for dinner and some shopping.

Where to stay

Your best bet is to find a place in Inverness or nearby. THE KEMPS Guesthouse and Darroch View B&B are highly rated budget options.

Total Distance: 113 miles Length of Drive: 2.5 hours

Urquhart Castle / Loch Ness

Drive along Loch Ness from Inverness to Urquhart Castle.

Urquhart Castle was my favorite castle ruin to explore. It sits right along the shores of Loch Ness and is incredibly picturesque. I loved climbing around the ruins and getting fantastic views from just about every angle.

Take some time to walk along the loch and see if you can spot Nessie!

Afterward, jump back in the car and head toward the west coast of Scotland and the Isle of Skye. You’ll probably want to stop and take loads of photos on the way, so go for it!

Eilean Donan Castle

Right before you cross the bridge to the Isle of Skye, you’ll come across Eilean Donan Castle. This is another highly photographed castle that you’ve probably seen loads of times.

It’s not a very big castle, but I thought it was worth taking the time to tour. The surroundings are what makes this castle so special, so even if you don’t want to go inside, take a few minutes to take some pictures.

If you want the best view of the castle, head up to the Eilean Donan Lookout. You’ll find it by taking a left out of the castle parking lot, and then taking the first right, and then the first right again. The road will take you up to an amazing viewpoint where you can see the castle and the stunning lochs and hills around it.

Once you’re finished at Eilean Donan, continue to the Isle of Skye and Portree. Take your time and stop at anything that strikes your fancy along the way.

If you’ve got some extra time once you reach Portee, take a walk around the town to see the colorful houses by the harbor.

If you’re up for a walk, hike the Scorrybreac Trail near the boathouse for some beautiful views of the boats and the loch.

Get to bed early tonight – you’ve got an early morning and a long day tomorrow!

Portree may be the main town on the Isle of Skye, but it’s still small and places to stay fill up fast, especially in the summer. Prices are a lot more expensive here too for that reason.

A few budget options include Tongadale Hotel and The Bosville . Renting a place with VRBO is also a great option.

Total Distance: 151 miles Length of Drive: 4.5 hours

Today is going to be the longest driving day, simply because if you only have one day to explore the Isle of Skye in your itinerary for Scotland, you will want to see as much as possible. You’ll want to get a very early start and will probably be out late.

I mean, if you’re going to tour Scotland, see everything you can, right?

But if this sounds like too much driving for you, feel free to cut out any of my suggestions that don’t strike your fancy. This is your trip, after all! But if you want to see as much of the Isle of Skye as you can in one day, this route should do the trick.

Fairy Pools

Aim to arrive at the Fairy Pools right around sunrise. We went first thing in the morning and had the place to ourselves for almost an hour!

The Fairy Pools are made up of blue, crystal-clear rock pools of mountain water that are fed by streams and waterfalls from the River Brittle.

It is an incredibly beautiful area to take a walk and maybe take a dip if you are brave enough – the water is frigid, even in the summer!

NOTE: If you have the time on Day 4, you could go to the Fairy Pools before heading to Portree for the evening. This would cut off about an hour of driving on Day 5 and might be a better option if you’d rather do the Fairy Pools than walk around Portree.

The Fairy Glen is a unique hilly landscape with various rock circles and outcroppings. It’s a beautiful place to take a walk and enjoy the scenery.

You will see lots of cairns and rock circles in the area. Please don’t add to them or create more…the locals try to keep the area clear of them and maintain the natural beauty.

The Quiraing is a famous landslip that is a great place to take a hike. You will be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding area.

The 3.9-mile circuit hike will take you about 2 hours to complete. Since this itinerary is pretty packed, I’d recommend only doing one hike on this day, either the Quiraing or Old Man of Storr (see below).

The day we did this drive, it was very rainy and cloudy, so we did not do any hiking. This hike would only really be worth it on a clear day since you won’t get the views otherwise.

If you aren’t interested in hiking, you can skip the Quiraing and continue to Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls.

Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls

Kilt Rock is a pleated rock formation along the cliffs, and Mealt Falls is the waterfall that plunges into the ocean over Kilt Rock.

It’s a neat location along the cliffs that’s worth a quick stop and a few photos.

Old Man of Storr

The Old Man of Storr is a famous rock formation on the Isle of Skye that you can either hike up to or simply admire from below (if it’s not too cloudy!).

As I mentioned earlier, your itinerary is pretty packed today, so if you’d like to hike, I would choose only one, either this one or the Quiraing.

The Old Man of Storr hike is 3 miles and will take about 1.5 hours to complete. As with the Quiraing, if it’s too rainy or cloudy, you might want to skip the hike since you won’t be able to see much. Also make sure you have good, sturdy shoes since the rocks and the incline can be slippery.

Neist Point

After admiring the Old Man of Storr, drive about 1.5 hours and head to the westernmost point of the Isle of Skye to Neist Point and its lighthouse.

Neist Point is a wonderful location to catch the sunset , so if you are able to make it here around that time, all the better.

Take the trail down to the lighthouse first, wandering among the sheep and exploring the area around the lighthouse. Be careful of the wind – the day we went it was insanely windy and we got blown around like crazy!

After, head up to the lighthouse viewpoint and admire the scene. It’s located up the hill to the right of the car park. Somehow I missed this spot on our trip and am kicking myself! Oh well, there is always next time!

You can either head back to Portree tonight or you can book a place closer to Neist Point so you don’t have as long of a drive.

We ended up staying at an Airbnb in Dunvegan (which is unfortunately no longer available) and thought the location and the room were nice. There aren’t many options though, so keep that in mind. Your best bet is probably Airbnb or VRBO .

Total Distance: 152 miles Length of Drive: 5 hours

Take the ferry from Armadale to Mallaig

The best way to get to Glenfinnan and Glencoe today is to drive to Armadale and take the ferry to Mallaig.

CalMac is the company that operates this ferry and many of the other ferries in the country.

Depending on the time of year you visit, there may only be one or two ferries a day, so check the ferry timetable to determine if this option will work for you.

We went in early December and had to take the 9:25 am ferry because the only other ferry was in the late afternoon. There are more options in the summer months (late March to late October) but just check ahead of time.

We enjoyed taking the ferry across the loch, even if the water was choppy and it was raining. It was still a great experience! You can buy ferry tickets on the CalMac website.

Once you get off the ferry, it’s only a short drive to Glenfinnan.

NOTE: If you cannot or do not want to take the ferry, it will take you approximately 2 hours 45 minutes to drive from Portee to Glenfinnan, so take that into consideration when planning.

St Mary & St Finnan Church

Take a few minutes to stop and peek into this tiny and beautiful church located just down the road from the Glenfinnan Visitor Center.

Glenfinnan Viaduct

Made famous by the Harry Potter movies, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is an amazing railroad structure that carries the famous Jacobite steam train and other trains from Fort William to Mallaig.

While the Jacobite steam train only runs in the summer months, if you are visiting at another time of year, you can try to catch another train crossing as we did, or just hike along the trail and enjoy the viaduct from several viewpoints.

Glenfinnan Monument

Take a quick walk across the street from the visitor center to see the Glenfinnan Monument, which was erected as a tribute to those who lost their lives fighting during the Jacobite cause.

I don’t think I could pick between Isle of Skye or Glencoe which is more beautiful and breathtaking.

This national nature reserve is the epitome of the Scottish Highlands. Dramatic scenery, loads of wildlife, and wonderful hiking all combine into one of my favorite places in Scotland.

Take your time here. Drive slow, soak up the beauty, and take lots of photos.

Our favorite place in Glencoe is Glen Etive , a stunning area that has been featured in several movies and is home to curious red deer.

There are also multiple hikes in the area if you have the time and want to get out and stretch your legs. A few options include Lost Valley, Buachaille Etive Beag, and Signal Rock.

You’ll have the best luck finding accommodations in the Fort William area. A few good choices include Loch Leven Hotel , The Garrison , and Highland Croft .

Day 7 – Glen Coe to Loch Lomond to Edinburgh

Total Distance: 140 miles Length of Drive: 3 hours 15 minutes

On your last day in Scotland, take it easy and explore Loch Lomond .

Walk along the loch and breathe in the fresh air. Pack along a picnic and eat along the banks. Soak up your last day in Scotland.

Stop by the adorable village of Luss and walk around. If you haven’t gotten to visit a distillery yet, check out Glen Luss Distillery.

In the mood for some hiking? Consider Devil’s Pulpit, a stunning gorge with a waterfall.

Rather spend the day in Glasgow? There are plenty of things to do there as well. We only had a few hours when we went and only had time to see the Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis , but it was beautiful and well worth it.

If you love museums, there are plenty of great ones in Glasgow. The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is a popular one as well as the Gallery of Modern Art.

I know you don’t want to, but you’ll have to eventually head back to Edinburgh to drop off your car and catch your plane. If you can, try to catch a flight for the next morning so you don’t have to rush, but a late evening flight tonight could work as well.

If you plan to drop off your car at the airport, pick a place near there to make it easier. If you are returning the car to a location in the city, you might want to stay downtown and then catch a bus or taxi in the morning to take you to the airport.

Want a downloadable version of this itinerary? I’ll send it right to your inbox!

If you have less than 7 days for a road trip in scotland….

If you don’t have a full week to road trip in Scotland, here are a couple of alternative itineraries so you can still make the most of your time.

3 Day Scotland road trip Itinerary

With 3 days, I’d recommend you stay based in Edinburgh and spend more time in the city. There is so much to see here that you won’t run out of things to do!

If you don’t want to spend all 3 days in Edinburgh, you could take a bus or train to Glasgow and spend one day there to see how different the two cities are.

I like to use Rome2Rio to find the best options when using public transportation.

If you want to get out and see the Highlands , consider a day trip with a group tour. It will be the easiest and most relaxing way to experience the wilds of Scotland.

I highly recommend finding your tour on Get Your Guide . You can find the highest-rated options for good prices, and I’ve had nothing but good experiences with them.

4 Day Scotland road trip Itinerary

If you have 4 days, use the first 3 days of the 7 day Scotland itinerary, and then on the fourth day, drive from Inverness back to Edinburgh via Glencoe.

5 Day Scotland road trip Itinerary

With a five-day itinerary, I would do something like this:

• Day 2 – Edinburgh to Isle of Skye (It’s about a 5.5-hour drive so stop and see a few things along the way if you’d like, such as the Kelpies and Eilean Donan Castle , or head directly there and spend more time on the Isle of Skye.)
• Day 3 – Isle of Skye (use the Day 5 itinerary)
• Day 4 – Isle of Skye to Glencoe (use the Day 6 itinerary)
• Day 5 – Glencoe to Edinburgh (use the Day 7 itinerary)

6 Day Scotland road trip Itinerary

If you have 6 days, skip Day 3 and drive directly from Edinburgh to Inverness. I’d recommend trying to see Stirling Castle and Culloden Battlefield along the way.

If you have more than 7 days for a road trip in Scotland…

Woo hoo! You’ve got more than a week for your epic road trip! There are so many ways you can extend this itinerary to explore some of these areas even deeper.

• With one extra day, you could choose to add an additional day in Edinburgh or the Isle of Skye, whichever one sounds more enjoyable to you.
• With 2 or 3 extra days , I’d do additional days in both Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye.
• St. Andrews (if you love golf)
• Glasgow (if you love cities)
• Oban & The Isle of Mull (if you love scotch or want to explore another isle)
• The North Coast 500 (This could be a whole separate trip, but if you have the time, I’d add this drive! This is on our list for our next visit!)

You can also check out this 10-Day Scotland Highlands road trip itinerary that includes time in Oban & The Isle of Mull plus two full days in Skye. Or, if you want to see more of the UK, here are 11 fantastic UK road trip itineraries for you to explore.

Best time to road trip in Scotland

In my opinion, there is never a bad time for Scotland travel! Each season has its pros and cons. Here are a few things to consider in order to pick the season that’s best for you.

Summer (July to August) is by far the most popular season to visit Scotland. The weather is the warmest, most attractions will be open, and you have really long days (the sun doesn’t set until after 9:30 pm for most of the season!). There are also lots of festivals, including the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Highland Games .

The downside is that things can get CROWDED. Everyone wants to take road trips to experience the beauty of a Scotland summer, so attractions will be packed and you’ll have lots of cars on the narrow country roads. Accommodations will be more expensive and harder to come by unless you book out months in advance. You also will have to deal with a higher chance of rain and the pesky midges (biting insects).

Spring (May-June) and Fall (September-October) are the shoulder seasons and are a fantastic time to experience Scotland. There are fewer crowds, prices are reasonable, and many attractions are open. There is also a lesser chance of rain.

There aren’t many downsides to visiting this time of year, other than the fact that the days are shorter than the summer and the weather can be a bit chilly and unpredictable. If you wanted to do any swimming, you probably wouldn’t want to come during these seasons.

Winter (November-April) is the low season for Scotland. Many attractions and accommodations are closed, it can be cold and snowy, and the days are quite short.

However, there are definitely some advantages to traveling to Scotland in the winter. You can experience the wonder of the Christmas markets in Glasgow and Edinburgh and see the country covered in the beautiful snow .

There is also the opportunity for skiing in the Highlands, and there are hardly any people at the attractions.

We went to Scotland in late November / early December and loved it so much. While we couldn’t see everything we wanted because certain things were closed, the places we did get to see were practically void of people. We got to experience so many things without another person in sight!

Plus I fell in love with Edinburgh and its Christmas market. It was one of my favorite things to do in the city and I tried to make it there every night to enjoy the hot food and drinks and walk the stalls.

No matter when you visit Scotland, you are bound to have an amazing time!

How to get to Scotland

Most likely you will either arrive in Scotland by plane, train, or bus.

The two major airports in Scotland are Glasgow (GLA) and Edinburgh (EDI) . If you are flying, you will probably arrive at either one of these. Depending on where you are coming from, it may be cheaper to fly in/out of one versus the other.

When we went, it was cheaper to fly into Glasgow and then take a bus to Edinburgh, so that’s what we did. Check both options to see which works best for you.

I use Google Flights to check flight prices and track them so I can get the best deal.

If you are already in Europe, you can also arrive in Scotland by bus or train. I like Rome2Rio to help me find the best, cheapest public transportation options.

If you have your own car, you can also drive to Scotland, although if you are coming from mainland Europe, remember that in the UK, they drive on the left side of the road.

It may be better to rent a car in this instance as you will be sitting on the wrong side of the car for this kind of driving.

How to get around Scotland

Personal vehicle.

In my opinion, taking a road trip around Scotland is the best way to see the country.

You can stop and look at whatever beautiful landmark you want.

You can eat at that cute cafe.

You can stay an extra hour or 5 if you fall in love with a particular place.

Being able to control your own schedule is fantastic.

But there are definitely some things to consider before you decide to rent a car and drive yourself.

The biggest thing is that if you are from the Americas, mainland Europe, and many other places in the world, you will be driving on the opposite side of the road than you are used to.

That’s right: you’ll be driving on the left instead of the right.

If you are not a confident driver, this is something you should definitely think about before deciding if you should rent a car.

related: the best car for a road trip in Europe

However, don’t let it freak you out too much. I found that after the first day (which was, honestly, a little nerve-wracking) it wasn’t too bad. Since you are sitting on the other side of the car, I found myself almost automatically being drawn to the left side of the road.

Just take it slow and you’ll get the hang of it.

I use Discover Cars to find and book my rentals. They search all the rental companies for the best prices and you always get free cancellation.

NOTE: most cars in the UK have manual transmissions. If you do not drive a manual car as a daily driver, I’d highly recommend spending the extra money to rent an automatic. You don’t want to be trying to learn to drive on the other side of the road AND remembering how to shift (with your other hand, I might add).

Public transportation

If you would rather not drive yourself around Scotland, you can rely on public transportation. You’ll be more restricted on where you can go and your timetable, but it’s definitely doable.

There is a pretty well-connected bus and train system in Scotland that you can use to get around. You’ll have a harder time getting out to some of the more rural attractions and towns, but public transportation can still get you to a lot of places if you’d rather not drive yourself.

I use the website and app Rome2Rio for all my public transportation planning and to purchase tickets.

If driving your own vehicle and taking public transportation sounds like too much stress for you, then a tour will be more up your alley.

There are plenty of great tour companies out there that will cover every option.

If you want to piece together your own plans and take a day trip or two, consider a site like Get Your Guide or Viator to find day tours that suit your budget and desired itinerary. You can also find multi-day tours too that may work for you.

However, if you want a complete package where you don’t have to plan a thing, check out Tour Radar . You can search all the tour companies that offer trips to Scotland and compare prices and destinations.

What to pack for your Scotland road trip

No matter when you decide to visit Scotland, your packing list will be pretty similar. The weather is always changing there and it can go from being windy and rainy one moment to sunny the next.

Here are some items and travel tips you should consider when packing for your trip .

Plug adapter/converter

Scotland uses a type G power plug. If you aren’t from the UK, you might need an adapter. I’d definitely recommend a plug adapter that is also a power converter so you don’t fry any of your electronics.

This is a given, but you are going to be so amazed by all the beauty around you, you’ll be kicking yourself if you don’t have a good camera to capture it all.

A good phone camera would work well for most landscapes, but if you want to get some awesome closeup shots, you might want something with a zoom lens.

Hiking shoes & good socks

If you plan on doing any kind of hiking, I’d recommend hiking shoes or boots rather than sneakers. The socks you wear with your boots will also make a huge difference in how your feet feel. I like Cloudline wool socks, but there are lots of great brands out there.

Rain jacket

I guarantee you it will rain at some point while you are in Scotland. Don’t let the weather ruin your trip – pack along a good rain jacket so you can still enjoy your activities.

No matter what season you travel to Scotland, you are going to need to be prepared for all kinds of weather and temperatures. Pack a variety of options, ideally items that can be layered. That way you’ll be comfortable no matter the conditions.

It’s always a good idea to have a day pack with you when you travel. Whether it’s to throw all your kids’ stuff into it or to pack along lunches for a hike, it makes it so much easier to have a designated bag that is used exclusively for your day excursions.

Laundry detergent sheets

I never travel anywhere without laundry detergent sheets . They are so nice to throw into your bag in case you need to do laundry. I always keep a few of these in my suitcase so I don’t have to remember to bring them – they are always on hand.

A power bank is practically a necessity for travel these days. You always want to make sure your phone is charged so you can take photos, navigate, and double-check your Airbnb reservation address.

How many days do you need for a Scotland road trip?

The short answer? As many as possible!

But since the majority of us have a time limit for these sorts of things, spending months in Scotland is probably out of the question.

I’d say at the very least, if you want to get out of the cities and get a decent glimpse of the countryside, you would need a minimum of 4-5 days. This would give you the ability to spend a day or two in Edinburgh and/or Glasgow and then a couple of days in the Highlands.

However, if you can swing at least a whole week, you’ll be able to take full advantage of this itinerary and see a lot more of the Highlands and what makes Scotland so magical.

When we went to Scotland, we had two weeks and got to see so much, but it still felt too short. There is SO much more I want to see that I cannot wait until I get back!

Conclusion: The Best 7-Day Scotland Road Trip for First-Timers

And there you have it! A fantastic 7-day Scotland road trip for anyone wanting to see the best of Scotland for the first time.

Ready to book your trip right now? I know I’m itching to go back!

What part of this itinerary are you most excited about? Let me know in the comments!

Want to save it for later? Pin it!

Stefanie Henne is an experienced road trip travel blogger who specializes in helping others plan their dream vacation, no matter their budget or time restraints. Go here to read more about Stef's story. If you want to send Stef a message, visit her contact page here.

26 Comments

Hi I read the whole blog and it’s Amazing!! I am planning to travel to Edinburgh from Reading, UK with my husband and daughter in the last week of December by car. My biggest doubt is the journey, safety and weather..Would like to hear from you what exact precautions should be taken on our trip. Please advise. Thank you so much ! Regards, Smitha.

Hi Smitha! Are you planning to make the trip in one day or over several days? It’s a pretty long drive for one day but definitely doable if you want to make it in one shot. My biggest piece of advice is to take it slow in case there is some bad weather and do it in 2 days if you are able so you can take your time. However, it looks like you’ll be taking A and M routes the whole way which means they should be maintained pretty decent and the weather shouldn’t affect you too much. I hope you have a great time!

Hi Stef, this blog is fantastic, so informative and detailed. My daughter and I have 6 days with a hire car so will be generally following your itinerary. We’re leaving Edinburgh on Sat 7th October and will return on Thursday 12th. We’d love to spend more time on Skye but obviously if the weather is going to be very wet with low cloud, we’d see very little. So its a bit of a quandary as if the weather is decent we would regret moving on. Is there any chance you’ve got a crystal ball? Failing that, what is your experience of the weather in October? Thanks, Judy

Hi Judy, I wish I had a crystal ball! Unfortunately the weather could really go either way. When we went in November, we had mostly nice days, but one day on Isle of Skye it rained all afternoon and the other was mostly cloudy but fairly dry. I expect October to be similar. So it really is a gamble either way. That being said, I don’t regret spending the extra days on Skye. The weather really does change pretty quickly, and from what I’ve experienced, it does tend to rain most days but not constantly, so you probably still could see a fair bit. I hope you have a fantastic trip whatever you decide! 🙂

Excellent blog, love it. We would be driving from Lake District and fly out of Edinburgh… you see any issues if we flip the itinerary you shared? And end at Edinburgh? Thanks a bunch

Hi Jaya, I don’t think that would be a problem! The only thing I would check into would be the ferry timetable if you decide to take the ferry from Mallaig to Armadale. You would probably have to time it pretty well so you don’t miss it. Otherwise, if you didn’t mind driving a bit longer, you could take the longer route and drive both to and from the Isle of Skye.

I hope you have a great trip!

We just got back from the most amazing Scotland road trip and your site/post was used for 99.9% of the itinerary! I cannot thank you enough for all of the information you provided, the various options, your honest opinions, and overall great ideas. Thank you again for helping to make our amazing trip come to life (the reindeer hike was an absolute highlight of a lifetime!).

Hi Katie, I’m so glad to hear that! Scotland is magical and I am so happy to hear you had a wonderful time!

Hi, I just want to thank you for writing this blog . I used it for our trip planning and we just got back on Sunday . Everything was just as you said with plenty of time to wonder and see other things . Time of driving was very helpful to plan our day . We stayed mostly in places you recommended and they were all very good !! . We loved Isle of the Skye . We could not see Kilt Rock – it was under construction but we did everything else and it was a dream . Thank you – we loved our trip so much 🙂 Heidi

Hi Heidi, I’m so glad you had a great trip! Scotland is for sure my favorite place and I’m so glad you found my post helpful 🙂

If you have only 6 days and want to include St. Andrews in the trip for the guys (just to see… I know playing isn’t really an option), is this possible?

Hi Sandy, I would say that if you want to include St. Andrews, I would recommend going from Edinburgh directly to St. Andrews and skipping Linlithgow Palace and the Kelpies. Stirling Castle is still worth seeing if you have the time, but you could end up in St. Andrews, stay the night there, and then drive to Inverness. Let me know if you have any other questions!

Hello! I absolutely love your site and the “plain talk”. How do we find accommodations that allow 3 people room? 2 parents and a teenager?

Thank you so much! Darlene

Hi Darlene, when you are searching, you can usually enter the number of people going and the website (hotels.com, VRBO, etc) will filter the accommodations that can take 3 or more people. Let me know if you have any other questions or need more clarification!

Hi! Loved your review. I have a few questions. Do you find it easy to do with kids or you believe it to be a lot of time on the road? Do you know if there are some places closed in January, if it’s not a good month to go? And finally, is the weather very bad in January? Thanks

I haven’t personally been to Scotland in January, but we were there in December and didn’t find the weather too bad, at least to us. It did rain some but it wasn’t awful. Temperatures were above freezing for the most part, so if you don’t mind chilly weather I think that would be a good time to go.

There are a lot of places that are closed in January, especially the smaller attractions. Most attractions in the cities and some of the popular castles are still open but with shorter hours. I think it depends on what you are looking for out of your trip. If you want to see the main attractions and don’t like colder, rainy weather you might not enjoy it as much. But if you like very few tourists and don’t mind exploring in the cold and rain, you’d probably really enjoy going in the winter.

As far as kids, we didn’t have any kiddos on our trip, but as soon as our little guy is born, you bet I’ll be planning a trip to take him. I don’t feel like we did a lot of long driving without stops since there is so much to see. I think kids of any age would be just fine, but again, I think it depends on what you like to do.

If you have any other questions, feel free to ask!

Hello, I love reading your blog and find it very helpful with planning my partners and I trip. As I work in a primary school we are deciding to come either Easter holidays ( April) or half term (may). We love camping, is there any places you can recommend to us to stay during the trip? It will also save us a few pennies. We live in wales and my partner is a car enthusiast so of course he wants to drive 🤣 Any recommendations would be fantastic! Thank you Amelia

Hi Amelia, We did not go camping ourselves when we did our road trip so I can’t recommend any places from personal experience. However, there are a couple of websites I would use to look for camping places if I was doing the trip myself. The first is called Hipcamp . It has camping, glamping, cabins, and other more rustic accommodation options. I see there are some budget options around the Cairngorms and around Loch Lomond. Other sites I would use would be scottishcamping.com, campsites.co.uk, and also check out the information on wild camping in Scotland , which could be a fun option. Let me know if you have any other questions or would like some more help, I can definitely help you find some specific places based on how to like to camp 🙂 Stef

Your Blog is really helpful as I’m just now organising a road trip of 7 days self driving through this beautiful country. Julie 🇦🇺

Hi Julie, I’m so glad you found it helpful! Let me know if I can help you with anything! 🙂

Hi, thanks so much for this. Wondered if you have a rough estimate of how much the cost of petrol for this would be, and how many miles the trip is.

Hi Grace, the total number of miles is approximately 700, and this number is the minimum of just following the route. If you take detours, it will obviously be a bit longer. As far as petrol cost, this will depend on the vehicle you are driving and petrol costs when you go, but it looks like the average petrol cost in Scotland right now is 172.06/liter. If you drive an economy car, I’d probably allocate about £200-250 for petrol.

This was really helpful! Thank you 🙂

Hi Olga, so glad you found it helpful! Thanks for reading!

Hi, thank you for your blog! My husband and I are exploring Scotland, we’re going on a roadtrip for 2 weeks in June. Since I chose the destination, I was assigned to do the itinerary and I am literally copying yours! LOL The photos are amazing and I appreciated all the details that you gave. Very helpful! I’m now excited and can’t wait for our trip! Thanks again 🙂

Of course, Lisa! So glad you found it helpful! You will love Scotland, it is my favorite place 🙂

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The 12 best road trips around Scotland

Hostelworld Blog | Posted on October 31, 2019 |

Whatever type of Scotland road trip you’re planning, there are many different routes you can take to see the most of this wild, beautiful, rugged country. There are plenty of road trips in Scotland that are planned by tour companies, but there’s also the flexibility of tailoring your own trip depending on what you want to see and how much time you have. Want to discover the best road trip in Scotland? We’ve broken it all down for you, so you can prepare for the greatest road trips that the country has to offer!

A Scotland road trip is perfect for backpackers who are thrill-seekers, adventurers, beach lovers, history lovers and all those in between. While you might be used to using trains or buses to get around as a backpacker, renting a car and having a driving tour is an exciting way to see Scotland. We’ve suggested some attractions, when you could visit, where to stay and possible itineraries. We have also estimated the length of the road trip, but your trip may be longer or shorter depending on what you decide to do! Here are 12 of the best Scotland road trips .

Quiraing, Portree  📸: @aridley88

Best Scotland Road Trips:

• North Coast 500: the best Scottish road trip for the ultimate getaway
• Fife Coastal Route: the best Scottish road trip for beach lovers
• Angus Coastal Route: the best Scottish road trip for the all rounder
• Argyll Coastal Route: the best Scottish road trip for classic road trip lovers
• Highland Tourist Route/Aberdeen to Inverness: the best Scottish road trip for history buffs
• Galloway Tourist Route: the best Scottish road trip for thrill-seekers
• Harry Potter road trip: the best Scottish road trip for Harry Potter fans
• Deeside Tourist Route: the best Scottish road trip for lush landscapes
• Borders Historic Route: the best Scottish road trip for learning about Scottish life and culture
• South West Coastal 300: the best Scottish road trip for getting off the grid
• Perthshire Tourist Route: the best Scottish road trip for those who want to spoil themselves (while on a budget)
• Isle of Skye: the best Scottish road trip for photographers

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The best time to take a Scotland road trip

Spring/summer.

With longer and warmer days, spring or summer would be the easiest time to admire the dramatic coastlines on a driving tour. This is a great time to find your inner adventurer and take part in activities like kayaking, mountain biking, surfing and hiking.

Autumn/winter

If you’re headed up north, then this is the best time to see the Aurora Borealis ( Northern Lights ) and the many stellar constellations at night. There are still plenty of things to do indoors, such as a visit to one of the many whiskey distilleries or tasting the Scottish cuisine (we promise haggis is actually pretty tasty!) When planning what to see, check online for opening times as a lot of attractions are closed during the winter.

The best time of year for white-water rafting is in the colder months! There are lots of snow sport locations in Scotland, with Cairngorms National Park being a popular choice.

The Isle of Skye is incredibly popular with travellers during the peak season of around early April to mid-October, with July and August being the busiest. If you consider going around November, you’ll find that it will be much easier to drive around and get those all-important Instagram shots!

Useful info

• If you’re a young backpacker it’s best that you research different car hire companies, as some don’t loan to people under 25 – or make it very difficult to do without spending a lot of money.
• Check if your driver’s licence from your country legally allows you to drive in Scotland.
• Consider getting a GPS navigation system, as some areas are remote and difficult to reach.

When going on a road trip in Scotland, it’s probably easiest to hire a car from one of the main cities (Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Aberdeen). The main companies located in Scotland are: Hertz , Avis , Thrifty , Alamo , Budget , Europcar and Enterprise .

Prices vary depending on the size of the car. It’s also cheaper for a manual car rather than an automatic.

A basic manual car hire from Edinburgh for 4 days is around £80. A basic automatic car is around £80-100.

For a basic manual car hire from Inverness, it’s around £100-130 for 5 days. An automatic car is around £180-200 for 5 days.

Cars can be rented from Stirling for around £50-70 for a manual and £90-100 for an automatic over 3 days.

1. North Coast 500: the best Scottish road trip for the ultimate getaway

This is the Route 66 of road trips guys. Hailed as one of the best coastal touring routes in the world, the North Coast 500 is a must do if you’re planning a Scottish Highlands road trip. Running over 500 miles through Scotland’s North Highlands, this is your chance to see sparkly beaches, ancient castles and draw-dropping coastlines. Prepare your Insta, this is a contender for the best road trip in Scotland.

Dunrobin Castle,  📸: @colinhorn

Major attractions

• Historic ruins: Hill o’Many Stanes, Sinclair Girnigoe Castle , Whaligoe Steps , The Broch
• Museums: Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Experience
• Castles: Dunrobin Castle, Inverness Castle
• RSPB Scotland Dunnet Head Nature Reserve (the most northerly mainland point in Britain)
• LOTS of whisky distilleries (47 to be exact)

Length of road trip

5-7 days (13 hours 35 minutes driving time)

Around 30 minutes from Inverness is the small town of Alness, where there are plenty of eating options. The neighbouring town Dalmore also has its own whisky distillery that was founded in 1839, and they offer hour-long tours.

Head further up the road to Dunrobin Castle . This fairy-tale like castle is open from April to October and is the perfect place for an afternoon stroll.

Drive to the Hill o’Many Stanes – which is around 200 small stones in rows. They are estimated to be around 4,000 years old and were predicted to be used for religious ceremonies. These stone arrangements are super rare in Europe so it’s definitely worth a visit!

Settle into the town of Wick for the afternoon and evening. Explore the historic town and head to Wick sea for some stunning views of the Scottish coastline.

First stop is the Sinclair Girnigoe Castle . These ruins were originally two castles with Girnigoe estimated to have been built between 1476 and 1496 and the Sinclair castle built around 1606. Throughout history it has been desired for its strategic position.

Next stop by Sinclair’s Bay for some Instagrammable views. The day’s major stop is RSPB Scotland Dunnet Head Nature Reserve , which is the most northerly mainland point in Britain. It’s free entry, but donations are recommended. Here, look out at the stunning cliffs as time stops for a moment. In the town of Dunnet and Dunnet Bay you can take surfing lessons (if the weather permits it!)

Smoo Cave, 📸: @colinhorn

If you didn’t get enough beach yesterday, have a morning walk along Strathy Bay. Drive 20 minutes further to Strathnaver Museum, which explores the history of this town that’s been inhabited for over 8,000 years! Have a hot soup in town at The Store Café to recharge – then hit the road again!

Admire the coastline, you’re at one of the most northerly points in the UK. Base yourself at the town of Durness for the night. Close by is Smoo Cave – the largest coastal cave in the UK! Explore, take selfies, do your thing.

Today’s a big driving day – so chill back, put some music on and admire the views right from your car seat.

If you’re an avid hiker, stop by the stunning Eas a’ Chual Aluinn – Britain’s highest waterfall. This is quite a hike from the end of the road, so only attempt it if you feel physically capable. It will take most of the day (upwards of 5 hours).

If you want to visit somewhere more reachable, check out Inchnadamph and the River Caves . These are the entrances to the largest cave system in Scotland. Stop by the local hotel of the Inchnadamph for some lunch.

Drive along to Torridon for the afternoon and evening. If you want to get in touch with the rough Scottish wilderness, stop by Beinn Eighe Nature Reserve for some great walking trails suitable for all abilities.

Drive to Achnasheen for food and savour the stunning landscape as you head back to Inverness. Why not make a short detour to Loch Ness and try to find the famous Loch Ness monster, or add another day to your trip? Lastly stop off at Glen Ord Distillery in Glen Ord to celebrate your once-in-a-lifetime road trip in Scotland!

Loch Ness, 📸: @ramon_vloon

Where t o stay

• Inverness is a great starting point for the road trip. Take a day to look around the city; Inverness Cathedral and Inverness Castle are beautiful attractions to see! There are also some excellent hostels in Inverness that are close to the city centre, including Bazpackers Hostel .
• Loch Ness is a great place to stay overnight (or many nights), as you’ll probably spend forever looking for the Loch Ness Monster!
• The Lochside Hostel is right by the sea so you can search the waters right from your dorm room.
• If you’re looking to stay far up north in the middle of your road trip, there’s Durness Smoo Youth Hostel in Durness, which would put you right in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, situated right between the sea and green pastures.
• On your way back to Inverness, why not stay at Torridon Youth Hostel where you can enjoy a glass of single malt around the panoramic mountains?

2. Fife Coastal Route: the best Scottish road trip for beach lovers

A breeze in comparison to the (Loch Ness) monster that is the North Coast 500, the Fife Coastal Route tour of Scotland follows along the Firth of Forth coastline over 77 miles, while passing through charming little fishing towns, historic castles and endless beaches.

Edinburgh , 📸: @danoolvnoutchk

• Dunfermline Palace and Abbey
• Kingsbarns Distillery
• Scottish Fisheries Museum
• Devilla Forest
• Royal Burgh of Culross
• Kirkcaldy Galleries
• Deep Sea World
• Aberdour Castle – the oldest standing castle in Scotland
• St Andrews University
• Fife Coastal Path: a walking path that takes you through the beach, towns and parks

1-3 days (2 hours 10 minutes driving time)

Spend the first day in either Stirling or Edinburgh. Soak up some culture, hire a car and prepare for your road trip to the starting point of Kincardine. See attractions such as the Royal Burgh of Culross and the Dunfermline Palace and Abbey.

Have lunch in Dunfermline or in the neighbouring seaside towns of North Queensferry and Inverkeithing. Then head to Aberdour Castle and the town of Burnisland for some history and charming coastal views. Stop in the town of Kirkcaldy and admire the Kirkcaldy Galleries featuring art from local artists.

Settle in Anstruther for the evening and take a walk along the beach. Why not grab some fish and chips to finish the perfect day?

Head to the town of St Andrews to see the famous St Andrews University – the next stop on your driving tour. Take the optional whiskey distillery tour at Kingsbarns Distillery along the way and try some authentic scotch whiskey (it might be early, but we won’t judge).

Drive up to Tentsmuir forest for a nature walk or mountain biking. Then on to Newport-on-Tay, where your coastal tour is now complete!

Where to stay

Kick Ass Greyfriars , Edinburgh

• Think about staying in the fascinating cities of Stirling or Edinburgh before your road trip as they both have so much to do! Check out our free things to do in Edinburgh .
• Kick Ass Greyfriars in Edinburgh’s city centre is super funky and in a very lively area.
• In Stirling, the Willy Wallace Hostel is only a 2 minute walk from the station, so it’s convenient to get to from a different part of the UK or from Edinburgh airport.
• Along the coast, the Murray Library Hostel in Anstruther is a great base point to explore the neighbouring fishing villages and coastal views.
• For the end of your trip, the St Andrews Tourist Hostel is in a perfect location to explore the lively and historic university town.

3. Angus Coastal Route: the best Scottish road trip for the all rounder

The Angus Coastal Route extends from where the Fife Coastal Route ends, so if you’ve got some extra time and want to soak up more of the Scottish coast on your tour of Scotland why not combine two road trips in one? Along this road trip why not soak up the culture of the city of Dundee, swim in the beach, or explore some castles?

Dunnottar Castle 📸: @rosssneddon 

• V&A Dundee
• Arbroath Abbey
• House of Dun
• Dunnottar Castle

1-2 days (1 hour 40 minutes driving time)

Starting in Dundee, take some time to explore this culturally rich city. Dundee has a Victoria and Albert Museum (the only one outside London), which exhibits the different eras of design. There’s also Broughty Castle , Mills Observatory and the McManus Galleries to visit on your driving tour.

Drive to the coastal town of Arboath and check out the Arbroath Abbey. Founded in 1178, it’s now a ruin which you can explore. Stop by some of the beaches along your drive, like Lunan Bay. Visit the House of Dun, a Georgian mansion where you can stroll along the gardens like you live there. Then hit up the coastal town of Stonehaven for lunch and check out Dunnottar Castle which sits high above the green sea cliffs.

Drive up to Aberdeen for the end of your tour of Scotland.

Citi Hostel Aberdeen

• In Dundee, Dundee Backpackers Hostel is located conveniently on the high street, around the town’s pubs, bars and clubs. Pre-road trip party sorted!
• Check out our hostels in Aberdeen and maybe consider extending your road trip. Citi Hostel Aberdeen is modern, sleek and right in the centre of town!

4. Argyll Coastal Route: the best Scottish road trip for classic road trip lovers

Another one of the best road trips in Scotland is the Argyll Coastal Route . This road trip combines both mountains and coastline for a priceless experience in the form of a driving tour. Gain an understanding of traditional Scottish culture as you cruise through many different lochs.

Ben Nevis, Fort William  📸: @nitin_mathew

• An Ceann Mor: a manmade viewpoint to look at the sprawling landscape of Loch Lomond
• Inveraray Jail
• Auchindrain: a museum about Scotland’s last Highland farming township
• Kilmartin Museum: learn about the historic monuments that surround the area of Kilmartin Glen, including ruins of a 15 th century tower house
• McCaig’s Tower: monument built in 1897 as tribute to a local family in the town of Oban
• Castle Stalker
• Glencoe Folk Museum
• Glen Nevis: the highest mountain in Scotland

2-3 days (2 hours 55 minutes driving time)

Start your road trip in the town of Tarbet, around 1 hour 15 minutes from Glasgow. Make the trip up to An Ceann Mor in Loch Lomond, where you’ll be welcomed to breathtaking mountain views from the viewpoint. Head to Loch Fyne Restaurant and Oyster bar for some delicious seafood, or head into the town of Inveraray. Here you can also go to Inveraray Jail in a fun interactive museum.

Along the driving tour you could stop at Auchindrain, which is a museum dedicated to Scotland’s last remaining Highland farming town. Make your way to other historic spots like Kilmartin Museum , an ancient stone formation. Then head to the town of Oban for the night.

Head to Castle Stalker in the town of Portnacroish for some lush views and top it off with a pint at the Old Inn . Drive to the town of Glencoe where you can visit the Glencoe Folk Museum (open late March – end of October) for some insights into the history of the town.

Complete the coastal drive at North Ballachulish.

Castle Stalker, 📸: @ascend_film

Day 3 (optional):

If you have an extra day, stay in the town of Glencoe and then head to the far-west coastal town of Ellenabeich for sea-animal watching. Or you could spend some time in Ben Nevis for hiking or mountain biking. In winter, it’s a great skiing spot.

• On your 2-3 day exploration, the town of Oban is the perfect base.
• Oban Backpackers is a bright and spacious hostel which is a 10-minute walk from the ferry, bus and train stations.
• Spending a night in Glencoe is a great way to end your Scottish road trip, with Glencoe Youth Hostel a popular choice with backpackers.

5. Highland Tourist Route/Aberdeen to Inverness: the best Scottish road trip for history buffs

Spanning over 116 miles, this Scotland road trip is perfect for history buffs as you’ll see many castles and museums along your journey on the Highland Tourist Route . Let’s take you back in time…

Cairngorms National Park, Ballater 📸 : @mili_vigerova

• Gordon Highlanders Museum: located in Aberdeen, it shows the history of the Gordon Highlanders Regiment up to the Cold War
• Pitfichie: a forest that’s perfect for adventurers, mountain bikers and horse riders
• The Lecht 2090: skiing and snowboarding base
• Glenlivet Distillery
• Grantown Museum
• Cawdor Castle
• Fort George
• Culloden Battlefield and visitor centre

2-3 days (2 hours 50 minutes driving time)

Culloden Battlefield, 📸 : Danny Nicholson

Starting in Aberdeen, head to the first museum on the driving tour: Gordon Highlanders Museum . Here you can learn about the history of the Gordon Highlanders and their service to the British Army.

Move on to Pitfichie Forest, which is a popular stop for mountain biking (with 3 different cycling routes). Or if it’s winter, stop by The Lecht 2090 at Cairngorms National Park, a must-visit for any Snowsports fan. You might want to add a day or two to your road trip! In summer it transforms into a great mountain biking track.

Top off a busy day with a whiskey and a distillery tour at the legendary Glenlivet Distillery , which is open from mid-March to early November (check their website for specific times). Located ten miles from Tomintoul, not only does it offer straight whiskey, but also whiskey cake at their coffee shop!

Explore the small town of Grantown and visit the Grantown Museum; which includes local art and history about the Clan Grant. Drive along the vast Scottish mountains to Cawdor Castle , a picturesque castle dating back to the middle-ages. The castle is open from mid-April to early October (check their website for specific times). Stop by Fort George for some history and dolphin spotting, then drive to the final spot, the Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre , and learn about the Jacobite uprising.

Black Isle Hostel , Inverness

• Starting your journey in Aberdeen , Aberdeen Youth Hostel has a social space with a café.
• Inverness has many options to wind down from your Scottish Highlands road trip, such as the ideally located Black Isle Hostel .

6. Galloway Tourist Route: the best Scottish road trip for thrill-seekers

This Scotland road trip is great for all adventurers and adrenaline junkies! With a range of hiking trails, the 92-mile Galloway Tourist Route will get your heart rate spiking.

Scottish Dark Sky Observatory , 📸 : Colin Baird

• Dumfries Museum
• Robert Burns’ birthplace
• Outdoor activities: mountain biking, kayaking, ziplining etc
• Scottish Dark Sky Observatory
• Visit to Seaside town of Ayr

3-4 days (2 hours 10 minutes driving time)

From the starting point of Gretna, head to the town of Dumfries to explore. Here you can see the Dumfries Museum and Camera Obscura (open during winter), telling the local history and displaying artefacts. The town is known for its charming farmer’s market and its medieval stronghold ruins. If you’re a fan of poetry, there’s a Robert Burns road trip that you can take which shows you his birthplace, places that inspired his writing and his gravestone.

First stop – Dalbeattie! In this quaint little town lies a great adventure. This is a great location to mountain bike. Even if you’re a newbie, this is something all adventurers should try out, because the views are one in a million – and the sunset atop the mountains is something you won’t forget. This is just one of the seven mountain biking regions in Scotland , so why not make a whole tour out of it?

Threave Castle, 📸 : William Marnoch

Stop by Threave Castle on your tour of Scotland – this haunting ruin is only reachable by boat! Spooky. Tickets to get across start from £3.60. Along the drive, consider stopping at Galloway Kite Trail for some great walking trails and viewpoints. Then head to the Galloway Activity Centre for some fun! Here you can do water sports like kayaking, sailing and windsurfing on Loch Ken. Or if you like dry land, there’s archery, mountain biking, ziplining and climbing – even laser tag. It’s not just for kids!

For the afternoon and evening head to the peaceful town of New Galloway for a traditional pub meal and a rest after an exhausting day. Take the optional drive to the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory , giving crystal clear views of the night sky and the sprawling mountains. They offer guided tours of the constellations and planets, but you’ll need to book in advance.

The final day to take in the stunning Scottish landscapes. Drive to the town of Ayr to finish your road trip. This popular seaside town is a great place to explore further and makes this driving tour one of the best road trips in Scotland (IMO).

7. Harry Potter road trip: the best Scottish road trip for Harry Potter fans – obviously!

This isn’t totally a Scottish road trip, as it includes a train trip (aboard the Hogwarts Express) and is spread out around Scotland. It could also be done completely by train, so if your budget doesn’t stretch for a rental car, then this is a great alternative! With this Scotland road trip, you’ll become the ultimate Potterhead!

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glenfinnan 📸: @jack_anstey

• JK Rowling’s writing locations
• The bridge that the Hogwarts Express crosses – and where Ron and Harry fly the car!
• Loch Morar (AKA Hogwarts Lake)
• Glen Coe (Hagrid’s Hut)

Admire the city of Edinburgh where JK Rowling wrote Harry Potter in many of the cafes.

Spoon : This is where she wrote the majority of the first novel, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. It was originally a coffee shop called Nicolson’s Café, but has since changed ownership.

The Elephant House : labelled the ‘birthplace of Harry Potter’, this café is very popular with tourists. It’s also supposedly hosted other writers such as Ian Rankin.

Balmoral Hotel : This is where JK Rowling wrote most of the final instalment, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – room 552 to be exact.

Drive (or take the train) from Edinburgh to Fort William. It takes about 4 hours, so this would be a full day trip. There are some charming hostels in Fort William so why not snuggle up under the fire and read Harry Potter in the very land that inspired it? We think that sounds magical.

Glen Coe,  📸: @helloiamtuan

You’ve got your acceptance letter, now It’s time to go to Hogwarts! Take The Jacobite train , AKA the Hogwarts Express(!!), to Mallaig. Make sure you book ahead of time because this train journey is VERY popular – and we’re afraid you can’t use your invisibility cloak. An adult day return ticket is £37.75. The train crosses over the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct – the bridge in the movies! When in Mallaig take a trip to see Loch Morar, which was used as Hogwarts’ Lake throughout the films.

Return to Fort William to see some more of the filming locations. 35 minutes away is Glen Coe, which featured in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban as the setting for Hagrid’s Hut. Under an hour from Fort William is Loch Arkaig, which served as the setting for Dumbledore’s resting place in the Deathly Hallows Part 1 and the dragon escape in Part 2. There is a lot to explore, so take your time to research!

• In Edinburgh you can stay at the very Harry Potter-esque Belford hostel – it’s a converted church!
• Fort William has some excellent hostels like Fort William Backpackers and Glen Nevis Youth Hostel .

8. Deeside Tourist Route: the best Scottish road trip for lush landscapes

The Deeside Tourist Route runs for 108 miles from Perth to Aberdeen (or vice versa). It varies in landscape as it covers national parks, farmland and the Royal Deeside.

Lochnagar, Ballater 📸: @paulrysz

• Cairngorms National Park
• Scone Palace
• Royal Lochnagar Distillery
• Cambus O’May Cheese Co
• Drum Castle
• Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve

1-3 days (2 hours 55 minutes driving time)

Starting in the pretty city of Perth, drive to nearby Scone Palace . Here you can learn about the lengthy history of Scotland’s kings, including the famous Macbeth. The palace and grounds are open from 1 st April to 31 st of October. Within the grounds of Scone Palace is a great café with even greater views.

Drive up to Braemar and base yourself there for the night. Here you can see Mar Lodge Estate, which is a section of Cairngorms National Park. In winter you can try your luck at snowboarding or skiing at Glenshee ski centre. There’s also Braemar Castle, to cross another castle off your list. Finish the night with a scotch whiskey at the Royal Lochnagar Distillery (seasonal opening times are on their website).

Stop by the Cambus O’May Cheese Company to learn about the historic process of cheese-making.

Nearby is the Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve, inside the Cairngorms National Park. This reserve contains the Burn o’ Vat – a giant pothole created in the Ice Age. Plus, there are heaps of hiking trails for you outdoor lovers.

Stop by the town of Banchory for lunch, it has quaint restaurants and teahouses, including Number One Community Café that has affordable meals and is run entirely by volunteers.

Not hungry? Banchory is a great place for mountain biking, hiking or even a round of golf! Head up to Drum Castle to learn about its varied history starting from medieval times (check the website for seasonal opening times). Then embark on your final location of Aberdeen!

Howies Aberdeen offers both British and Scottish food, including dishes like haggis and Cullen skink. Why not warm up with a hearty meal to finish your epic road trip?

Cairngorms National Park , 📸:  Manuel Osdoba

Where to stay:

• With a 10 rating on Hostelworld, Bankfoot Inn just next to Perth is a safe bet. Indulge in their FREE breakfast and feel welcomed into their homely environment. There’s also Perth Youth Hostel which is open from June to August. Check out more hostels in Perth here.
• Along your journey, Braemar Youth Hostel is a great resting stop for the first night. Further into the road trip, Ballater Hostel in the small town of Ballater is another great choice.

9. Borders Historic Route: the best Scottish road trip for learning about Scottish life and culture

The Borders Historic Route Scottish road trip runs from Gretna Green to Edinburgh for a charming sightsee of cute villages and green countryside.

Edinburgh Castle, 📸: @joerga

• Gilnockie Tower
• Lochcarron of Scotland
• Abbotsford House
• Stewart brewing
• Dalkeith Country Park

2-3 days (2 hours 20 minutes driving time)

As this starts on the border with England in Gretna Green, it might be easiest to hire a car from the town of Carlisle and spend a couple of days exploring – Hadrian’s Wall is not a far drive away! Then head to the first location of the driving tour – Gilnockie Tower . Here you can also visit the Clan Armstrong Information Centre to learn about the local history.

Drive to the town of Hawick for lunch and some exploring. Here you can check out Hawick Museum, Wilton Lodge Park or Hermitage Castle. Drive to the town of Selkirk to settle in for the night. If you need to get some shopping done, check out Lochcarron of Scotland – an iconic Scottish textiles company. You can even go on a mill tour to see how they make their tartans.

Driving from Selkirk, head to the glorious Abbotsford House which was home to the writer Sir Walter Scott. There’s an affordable café on the grounds for a good lunch spot. Take the time to explore the neighbouring town of Galashiels. Edinburgh is just over an hour away from there, so why not stop at some attractions along the way like Stuart Brewing , Dalkeith Country Park or Midlothian SnowSports Centre in wintertime?

As you arrive in Edinburgh, take some time to explore this richly vibrant city. St Christopher’s Inn in Edinburgh has its own sports bar with delicious dinners! Guests of the hostel also get an extra 25% off.

Castle Rock Hostel , Edinburgh

• For the start of your Scottish road trip, stay in the country-style hostel Hillside Farm Bunk Barn in Carlisle.
• Edinburgh has some high-quality hostels , and if you’re keen to match the castle theme of your road trip then why not stay at Castle Rock Hostel ? There’s also St Christopher’s Inn which has a great party vibe.

10. South West Coastal 300: the best Scottish road trip for getting off the grid

Whether you need an escape from the big city or just a quick breather, the South West Coastal 300 road trip will have you feeling rejuvenated and at one with nature. Set over 300 miles, this is a big Scottish road trip that you should set aside a lot of time to do.

Culzean Castle,  📸: Andy Muir

• Sweetheart Abbey
• Coastal town of Kirkcudbright
• Mull of Galloway Lighthouse
• Culzean Castle
• Moat Brae – Peter Pan’s birthplace

Length of trip

Starting in the town of Dumfries, check out attractions like Moat Brae – the place that inspired Peter Pan, Robert Burns’ house or Dumfries museum. Check out the 13 th century ruins of Sweetheart Abbey close to Dumfries.

Stop in the town of Kirkcudbright for food, where in summer they have a large farmers market. Basecamp café at Laggan Outdoor offers locally sourced food with picturesque views of the coast. Here you can also do activities such as ziplining and Segway tours. Then drive to the Isle of Whithorn, where the local museum tells its unique history of bringing Christianity to Scotland.

Stop by Mull of Galloway Lighthouse for some spectacular sunset views (closed in the winter), before driving around the coast and then heading to the village of Stranraer for the evening.

Mull of Galloway Lighthouse,  📸:  Colin Baird

Admire the stunning coastline as you drive right beside the ocean for most of the day’s journey. Stop by the little town of Girvan for food and then drive on to Culzean Castle (closed in winter). This domineering castle dates back to 1792. US President Eisenhower was even gifted part of it after his many visits! The castle is open from late March to late October but check their website for specific dates. Choose to stop by the town of Ayr, then treat yourself to a dinner under the stars at the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory.

From the town of Sanquhar, venture around the north of the driving route to marvel at the grand mountain ranges. Stop by the town of Moffat for a pint at some of its pubs and bars. Consider stopping by the town of Lockerbie to learn about the town’s influence in modern history, before completing your journey in Dumfries.

11. Perthshire Tourist Route: the best Scottish road trip for those who want to spoil themselves (while on a budget)

The Perthshire Tourist Route will have you feeling in touch with the natural settings and rocky coastlines that you’ll see out of your window. Take the time to hike around some of the national parks on this road trip to really understand Scotland’s beautiful and untamed landscapes. This is the best road trip in Scotland for those on a budget with a taste for luxury.

When backpacking it can be hard to treat yourself, but this tour has some great indulgences like whiskey distilleries and a chocolate factory. So yeah… you’ve been good, why not live in luxury for a bit?

Glen Artney, Crieff 📸: @fredmarriage

• Library of Innerpeffray
• Drummond Castle and Gardens
• Comrie Croft/Crieff walks
• Glenturret Distillery
• Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery
• Iain Burnett The Highland Chocolatier

This road trip starts in the small town of Greenloaning. As you drive along, there are some significant landmarks worth seeing, like The Library of Innerpeffray – the oldest library in Scotland! Also visit Drummond Castle Gardens – its stunning formal gardens were created in 1490. If you’re in the mood for some adventure, head to Comrie Croft where there are many mountain biking tracks. Stop for lunch at the Glenturret Distillery and explore the town of Crieff.

Drive up to the town of Aberfeldy. Here there’s an ancient house on the bank of Loch Tay. There’s also a museum teaching about the Iron Age period in Scotland. If you still haven’t had enough whiskey, close by is Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery. But here’s the real treat: in the town of Grandtully is the Highland chocolatier – Iain Burnett . Once you’re full to your stomach, drive to Ballnluig for the end of your road trip!

• Stay in Perth for a night before beginning the road trip and get to know this fascinating town. Check out all of our hostels in Perth !
• For the end of the trip, drive to nearby town Pitlochry , where there are some great options. Pitlochry Backpackers has a movie lounge and a pool table, while Pitlochry Youth Hostel has an accommodating lounge room with beer and soft drinks available.

Pitlochry, 📸: @stuchy

12. Isle of Skye: the best Scottish road trip for photographers

My-oh-my, the Isle of Skye . Leaving arguably the most stunning road trip for last, the Isle of Skye is a must-visit for anyone seeking some of the best landscapes our earth has to offer. Here you can truly feel in another world.

Be mindful of visiting this island though, as it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Scotland and overcrowding is on the rise. Think about going in the off-season after August to make this tour of Scotland a sustainable one.

Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye  📸: @czermak_photography

• Trotternish Loop
• Mealt Falls
• Old Man of Storr

The Isle of Skye is 2 and a half hours from Inverness, so that’s probably the best place to stay and hire a car from before starting. From Edinburgh it’s around 5-6 hours and from Glasgow it’s around 5 hours – they’re all stunning road trips in their own right!

Drive in to the town of Broadford, where there are restaurants, pubs and accommodation. Here you can kayak, fish and bike ride. From there, drive to the main town of Portree, where you can find great food options. Nearby you can see the Old Man of Storr – a scenic walk around a large pinnacle of rocks. Nearby are Loch Mealt and Kilt Rock – two picturesque sites worth seeing!

Drive along to Staffin, where the rock formations of Totternish Loop and Quiraing lie. The Columba 1400 Restaurant is a good stopping point for food, as the café windows overlook The Quiraing.

Then drive to the most northerly point to Duntulm Castle along the Trotternish Peninsula. Here you’ll find ruins which are free to roam around!

Skye Coastline , 📸: @simonmigaj

Drive to the town of Dunvegan to see Dunvegan Castle , which has long been home to the Macleod Clan. Dunvegan Bakery has some delicious sweet and savoury treats to take along on your journey.

Skye Museum of Island Life is not far away and will give you more of an understanding about this breathtaking island and its inhabitants.

Stop by the town of Uig for a traditional pub lunch at The Pub at the Pier. Explore the picturesque Fairy Glen – a range of tiny green hills – and the standing stones of Eyre.

Head down to Dun Beag Broch next to Struan to see ruins from the Iron Age that was once a tower built around 2000-2500 years ago.  Drive to the famous Talisker Distillery for a tour and warm up with a glass of scotch. Talisker Bay is a spectacular walking spot caved in by looming cliffs.

Drive further inland to explore some of the mountains and hiking trails along your drive back to Inverness. This part of Skye is really for true adventurers. Stop by Sgurr a’ Ghreadaidh and Sgurr na Banachdaich for some brilliant hiking trails (but these are recommended for experienced and dedicated hikers as they are hard to access). Further down is Cuillin waterfalls, which if brave enough you can swim in!

If you’re looking for something more accessible, Glamaig is closer to the main A87 road. It’s still a very tough walk, and if you’re experienced enough the top viewpoints are some of the best in Skye.

If you plan on hiking in Skye, take some time to research as you’ll need to find the right hiking trails for your capabilities and that are easily accessible.

Skyewalker Hostel , Isle of Skye

• There are a lot of great hostels on the Isle of Skye thanks to its popularity with backpackers.
• In Broadford, start your journey by staying at Skye Basecamp .
• The Skyewalker Hostel (yes it’s Star Wars themed) is located in Portnalong and gives some of the best views of the glittering sky with a massive see-through tent.
• There’s the shabby chic hostel The Cowshed in Uig, which is a short walk to the Fairy Glen.

Skye , 📸: @tmarquis

To sum it all up…

With our guide to the best road trips in Scotland there’s no need to feel like an outlander! Grab your clan, a bottle of whiskey and a fire playlist (because it’s cold out there) – and you’re good to go. We hope you’ve enjoyed this list of the best road trips in Scotland.

Love some of these activities and not others? Why not make your own Scottish whiskey tour or mountain biking tour from the places listed here? Let us know in the comments!

Resources: Best Travel Apps ~ Click to read

Keep reading:

🌟 The best hostels in Scotland

🌟 14 totally secret things you never knew you could do in Scotland

🌟 The ultimate guide to backpacking Scotland

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The Ultimate 10-Day Scotland Itinerary: 3 Perfect Routes

Last Updated on December 4, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

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Mapping out the ideal Scotland itinerary can be a bit overwhelming at first glance, especially if you only have 10 days in Scotland to play around with. A destination that draws countless tourists each year. Scotland’s beautiful landscapes, fascinating history, and incredibly friendly people attract people from all around the globe to explore this beautiful country.

Despite its relatively small land area and sparse population, there are a myriad of places to visit in this gorgeous country. Because of this, it’s impossible to fit everything that you may want to see within the span of 10 days.

However, there are countless incredible areas to visit depending on the route you choose. Below, we’ve outlined three different options that can suit whatever kind of trip you’re looking for!

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Scotland

Known to be wet, grey, and chilly, Scotland isn’t famous for its nice weather, however, there are still some months that are better to visit than others.

It will come as no surprise that the best time to visit Scotland — that is if you want the best weather — is in the summer months of July and August. However, because the weather is at its warmest and the days are at their longest, these are also the most popular months for tourists, as well.

Especially during the month of August in Edinburgh (due to the famed Fringe Festival), expect there to be a LOT of tourist crowds in more popular areas – and expect prices to increase respectively.

However, there is a lot of Scotland that remains off of the typical tourist trail and these places are very much worth visiting. So, if you plan to visit in the summer, it is probably in your best interest to get a bit off the beaten path.

While July and August are the warmest months of the year, don’t expect very high temperatures. Further south, highs will be around 20°C (68°F) and, in the highlands and islands, expect highs to be closer to about 16-18° (60-64°F).

Spring and autumn can be attractive times to visit Scotland, as well, as the temperatures aren’t too low and the tourist crowds are unlikely to have arrived in hordes yet.

Late spring and early autumn are going to be the warmest months and the closer you get to winter on either end is going to be colder. Make sure that you bring a good waterproof jacket whatever the season, but especially in the chillier months.

Winters are cold and dark, the days can be short because of Scotland’s northern location and you may find some accommodation options and restaurants in more tourist-reliant towns and villages to be closed for the offseason.

This is, however, the most affordable time of year to visit. If you plan to head to Scotland in the months of December, you can also expect to have your pick of charming Christmas markets to explore and lots of decorations to look at, most notably in Edinburgh.

No matter when you plan your road trip in Scotland, you can also expect there to be a lot of rain. Along with good outerwear, you will also not regret finding a good pair of waterproof shoes for your Scotland trip.

Getting Around Scotland

Unless you’re taking an organised tour through Scotland, you are going to need to figure out how to get around the country independently and by far the easiest way to do this is by your own car.

Public transport does exist in Scotland and it can be a good option for those who are only interested in visiting major cities and towns, however, if you want to venture into the countryside or visit some far-flung areas, having your own vehicle is going to be necessary.

They drive on the left-hand side of the road in Scotland and the road conditions on the major motorways are good, however, they do tend to decline the more rural you go.

Some roads in the far north or on the islands, for instance, only have room for one car to get through and include small passing places for oncoming traffic every hundred metres or so.

This can seem overwhelming at first, however, these rural country roads aren’t ever too congested with traffic and people do tend to be apologetic to confused or stressed-out tourists. If you need to rent a car in Scotland, you can browse options here.

It can also be a good option to take out a third-party policy with iCarHireInsurance to be affordably covered for any excess. Don’t forget to buy a prepaid SIM card for the UK to ensure you can access your GPS at all times!

Finally, have you considered taking out travel insurance for your Scotland trip?  World Nomads   offers flexible and simple travel insurance policies with coverage for more than 150 activities that you can buy or extend while on the road.

10-Day Scotland Highlights Itinerary

One of the most classic Scotland itineraries, this route begins in the capital city of Edinburgh and ends in the “Gateway to the Highlands,” Inverness.

Day 1 – Edinburgh

Begin your trip to Scotland in the incredible capital city of Edinburgh, an absolutely lovely and historic city that is sure to instantly charm you. Though small, there are countless things to do in the Scottish capital that will ensure that you’re never bored while spending a couple of days in Edinburgh .

Take the time to explore Edinburgh’s main sites, stroll down the Royal Mile, enjoy the convivial atmosphere in a local pub and search for familiar names of Harry Potter characters in Greyfriars Cemetery.

On your first day in the city, it’s a great idea to head to the iconic Edinburgh Castle ( book a skip-the-line tour here ) that towers over the city or, if you want to put some context to the sites you’re seeing, consider taking a walking tour of the city centre.

Edinburgh is an incredibly beautiful city that is compact enough to explore entirely on foot but filled with interesting things that you’re sure never to be bored.

Where to Say in Edinburgh

Cityroomz Edinburgh – A centrally-located hotel situated within easy walking distance of all Edinburgh has to offer, they have several clean and comfortable rooms available and there is even an option to include breakfast.

Castle Rock Hostel   – A great, small hostel centrally located near all of Edinburgh’s top sites, this is a fantastic choice for budget or solo travellers. They have several dorm and private rooms available and good common areas for meeting other travellers.  

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Edinburgh!

Day 2 – Edinburgh

Plan to spend 2 full days in Edinburgh as the city has a lot to offer beyond the main sites you visited on the first day. For instance, begin your second day with an exhilarating hike up Arthur’s Seat. This hill in Holyrood Park is a bit of a trek to the top, but it provides excellent views of the city spanned out below.

You can also take the time to visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Scottish Parliament. Take the time to wander through Edinburgh’s cosmopolitan New Town or maybe pop into one of the city’s many museums.

The Writer’s Museum is a great option, as is the National Museum of Scotland – what’s great is that most museums are free to enter!

End your day taking in some live music or, perhaps, a comedy show. There is a lot on offer in Edinburgh and it can be a great opportunity to experience the arts and culture of this city – even if you’re not visiting during the Fringe!

Day 3 – Edinburgh to Loch Lomond

From Edinburgh, it’s time to leave the big city (though Edinburgh does retain a lovely, pastoral charm) and head out into some of the incredible nature that Scotland is famed for. And one of the best places to do this is by paying a visit to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

While en route, however, consider making a pit stop in the city of Stirling to take in the gorgeous Stirling Castle. This is one of the most popular day trips from Edinburgh and it makes a lot of sense to include it while heading west.

Along with the castle, you can also see the site of the Battle of Stirling Bridge where, in the 13th Century, William Wallace defeated the English (as depicted in Braveheart ). There is also a monument to William Wallace in the town.

There is a lot of history to experience in Stirling and it’s worth spending the better part of a day exploring the town. It’s located about an hour outside of Edinburgh and it’s roughly a further 1.5 hours to Loch Lomond – depending on where along the lake you choose to make as your base.

Where to Stay in Loch Lomond

Global B&B – Located in the village of Luss, this is the perfect bed and breakfast to rest your head in when visiting Loch Lomond. They have a handful of clean and comfortable rooms available and a great breakfast cooked fresh each morning.

The Loch Lomond Arms Hotel – A wonderful hotel located on the banks of Loch Lomond, this is a great option for those looking for a bit of luxury on your trip to Scotland. They have a number of great rooms available, and a great restaurant and bar on site.

Private Rental – Having a private place to stay is a great way to enjoy the serenity of Loch Lomond. There are a number of great options such as this delightful barn cottage.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Loch Lomond!

Day 4 – Loch Lomond & the Trossachs

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is one of Scotland’s most beautiful natural areas and it’s worth taking the time to enjoy the gorgeous scenery that lies within it.

The shores of Loch Lomond (Scotland’s largest loch) are absolutely gorgeous and the ample hiking opportunities are sure to keep you busy. There are also countless charming villages worth paying a visit to.

Spend your full day in the area by taking a boat cruise on the Loch – here you can get a beautiful panoramic view of the lake and of the surrounding Munros – including Ben Lomond. Of course, it’s also essential to visit the charming town of Luss that lies on the shores of the lake – there are plenty of charming stone cottages to take in.

You also could simply spend your day walking – there are several well-marked walking routes to take advantage of. You could do a bit of the Three Lochs Way or simply stroll from Tarbet to Arrochar – the world is really your oyster!

Day 5 – Oban

From Loch Lomond, it’s time to head further west until you meet the sea – with your final destination being the seafood capital of Scotland – Oban!

Oban is located about 1.5 hours from Loch Lomond (depending on where you’re staying) and, if you’d like, you could consider stopping the the charming town of Inverary along the way.

Once in Oban itself, there are a number of things to do. Though the town is known primarily for being a jumping-off point to the inner Hebridean islands (more on that later!), it’s worth exploring the town itself.

There’s a lovely little high street where you can browse some shops, a delightful waterfront and harbour to stroll along and, of course, the Oban Distillery is in the centre of town. You can pop into the visitor’s centre for a tasting or you can opt to go on a tour of the distillery if that suits.

It’s also worth walking up to McCaig’s Tower, a colosseum-like structure that looms over the town and provides excellent views of Oban and the surrounding islands.

Where to Stay in Oban

Adelphi Villa – This cosy guesthouse is a great option for mid-range visitors in Oban. They have a great location on a quiet, central street, free on-site parking, friendly owners and comfortable rooms.

The Manor House Hotel – A great luxury option in the town of Oban, this hotel is set in an old manor house. There are plenty of opulent rooms on offer along with countless plush amenities for guests.

Oban Backpackers – This backpacker’s hostel is perfect for budget travellers. They have a great location in the centre of Oban, good self-catering facilities and plenty of room types to choose from.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Oban hotels!

Day 6 – Isles of Mull & Iona

On you’re sixth day, it’s time to leave the Scottish mainland and go for a day trip to some of the country’s loveliest Hebridean islands – Mull and Iona! Though you could spend a number of days on Mull taking in all it has to offer, it is accessible as a day trip from Oban – provided you get an early start!

Car ferries from Oban to the town of Craignure on Mull take about 1 hour – make sure to get there at least half an hour in advance to sailing, though! Once you arrive on Mull, hit the road (they’re pretty small and narrow here!) and head south.

You’ll pass some of the island’s most incredible scenery by following this route along the Rodd of Mull before you reach the town of Fionnphort. Here, hop on another (passenger) ferry to the Isle of Iona. Tourists cannot bring a car to Iona so you must rely on your own two feet (or a bicycle) to get around.

Iona is absolutely charming, but it’s most notable for the Iona Abbey – which dates back to the 6th Century CE and is said to be the birthplace of Christianity in Scotland.

After exploring Iona, head back to Mull to take in more of this incredible island. There are plenty of natural sites to take in (the views along Loch Na Keal may be some of the most stunning in Scotland) as you drive up the west coast en route to Tobermory – the largest town on the island.

Of course, make sure to take the time to explore Tobermory (it’s home to its own whisky and gin distillery!) before hopping on the ferry back to Oban.

Day 7 – Glencoe & Fort William

From Oban, head a bit north to some of the most iconic places in the Scottish Highlands, the gorgeous and historic Glencoe and the lovely town of Fort William.

Like the destinations before this, Fort William and Glencoe boast some of the most spectacular scenery in all of Scotland and it is an area that is best seen by hitting the trails and doing some walking.

Glencoe lies about an hour’s drive north of Oban and a spectacular drive it is – it winds all along the west coast and you can even take in view of the old Castel Stalker while on your way. Do try to get an early start as Glencoe can get incredibly busyand the carparks at viewpoints and trailheads fill up quickly.

Make sure to stop at the Glencoe Viewpoint and at the Meeting of Three Waters. There are views just off the road here, but you can also embark on some longer hikes if that’s what you’d like to do.

In Glencoe Village, you can also learn about the infamous 17th Century Massacre of Glencoe and also stop for a bite to eat. You also could opt to walk a bit along lovely Loch Lochan for more views.

You can end your day in the nearby city of Fort William, which sits in the foothills of Ben Nevis – Scotland’s highest peak. Otherwise, there are also a handful of places to stay near Glencoe if you fancy something a bit more rural.

Where to Stay in Fort William & Glencoe

Gowan Brae Bed & Breakfast – A cosy bed and breakfast located in the centre of Fort William, this place makes for a perfect base for exploring the region. They have a number of great rooms available and a wonderful breakfast included in the nightly rate.

Loch Leven Hotel & Distillery – A lovely family-run hotel on the banks of Loch Levan, this place makes for the perfect place to stay in Glencoe. They have a number of great rooms available, a restaurant on site, and a bar serving locally distilled spirits including whisky and gin.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Fort William or Glencoe!

Day 8 – Fort William to Inverness

Day 8 of your Scotland road trip is a bit of a driving day – though it is less than 2 hours to your final destination (Inverness) so you can spend the morning exploring a bit of Fort William if you’d like.

Here, you can head to the West Highland Museum to learn about the history of the area or even take a detour to the Genfinnian Viaduct – known for being a shooting location for the Harry Potter movies.

Take the longer route from Fort William to Inverness and drive through Cairngorms National Park rather than along Loch Ness – you will be spending the whole next day there, so don’t fret about not getting views of Scotland’s most iconic lake!

Cairngorms is a gorgeous natural area and it’s also home to the Speyside whisky region, so there are plenty of different distilleries to top at if you’re interested. Just keep note that Scotland has a zero-tolerance drink driving limit so all samples and tastings should be reserved for those who are only passengers in the car.

End your day in the city of Inverness – which will be your final destination for this 10-day Scotland itinerary.

Where to Stay in Inverness

Torridon Guest House — This quaint guesthouse is one of the best places to stay in Inverness if your budget allows for a little bit more than a hostel. It is located within a short walking distance of the city centre, has great ratings, comfortable rooms, breakfast included, and free parking. 

Black Isle Hostel – This hostel is in a great location and is one of the best-rated hostels in Inverness. Aside from having multiple dorms of different sizes, they also have private rooms, a welcoming and friendly staff, and a bar serving local craft beers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Inverness!

Day 9 – Loch Ness

Inverness dons the nickname “The Gateway to the Highlands” for a reason – many of the Scottish Highland’s most iconic places to visit are within easy reach of this small city. And the most famous of which is Loch Ness .

Located only about 20 minutes from the centre of Inverness, you can easily get an early start and beat the crowds to this majestic and mysterious lake. Though you’re unlikely to glimpse Nessie in the depths of the loch, it’s still worth taking a cruise on the waters.

Of course, you should visit the ruined remains of Urquhart Castle and take in the gorgeous Falls of Foyers. The latter is located just a stone’s throw from the shore of the loch.

End your time in Loch Ness in the southernmost town on the lake, Fort Augustus. Here, there are lots of shops and amenities along with ample tranquil walks along the Caledonian Canal.

Day 10 – Inverness

Spend your final day in Scotland exploring the city of Inverness itself. Though small in size, this city packs a considerable amount of charm and is well worth spending the time to visit some of the sites here.

It is easy to get around the city on foot and take in the laid-back atmosphere. Stop by the Inverness Castle museum, enjoy some peace and quiet on the Ness Islands, and kick back with a pint at one of the many convivial pubs.

Inverness also has a great restaurant and craft beer scene, so there is something for everyone’s taste in this compact Scottish city.

If you’d like to head out on another day trip, then consider visiting the nearby Culloden Battlefield. This is a heartbreaking but excellent open-air museum where you can learn all about the Jacobite uprising in the 18th Century. Outlander fans will love it, but it’s just as interesting for those who’ve never read/seen the series.

Have More Time?

If you have more than ten days to devote to this Scotland itinerary, there are a number of different options you can make to extend your time.

If you would like to experience another big, Scottish city other than Edinburgh, you also to head over to Glasgow before venturing onto Loch Lomond. Though it has a gritty reputation, there are lots of things to do in Glasgow and it is very much worth visiting.

You could also opt to extend your time on the Isle of Mull – there is enough to do for several days. Especially if you’re visiting in the summer months, it can be worth taking a wildlife tour to the incredible isles of Staffa and Lunga – the latter is known for its massive puffin colony where you can view hundreds of these sea birds up close.

Alternatively, after visiting Glencoe, you could head north to the Isle of Skye and spend a few days there before driving all the way back to Inverness. As you can see, the possibilities are really endless.

10-Day Scottish Highlands & Islands Itinerary

If you’re more interested in exploring the highlights of Scotland’s incredible highlands and islands during your 10 days here, then this is the itinerary for you to follow!

Day 1 – Inverness

Start your Scotland road trip in the “Gateway to the Highlands,” Inverness. Well-poised to explore a lot of what this region has to offer, spend one day exploring the city itself and another two going on a number of day trips that are available.

Day 2 – Loch Ness

Spend your second day with Inverness as your base as an opportunity to visit the inimitable Loch Ness. Located only about 20 minutes from Inverness, we recommend getting an early start this day to avoid the inevitable large crowds that will descend upon the lake by midday.

Day 3 – Culloden Battlefield & Cawdor Castle

Still using Inverness as your base, spend your third day on a day trip to the Culloden Battlefield and to nearby Cawdor Castle.

The latter is one of Scotland’s lesser-known castles, but it’s within easy reach of Inverness and visitors can easily spend a few hours touring the castle and its extensive grounds. Still home to the Dowager Countess of Cawdor, this castle has been in the Campbell family since the 16th Century.

Day 4 – Cairngorms National Park

From Inverness, it’s time to head a bit south to the Cairngorms National Park. This sub-arctic plateau offers ample outdoor activities to delight even the most adrenaline-seeking of travellers. There are numerous hiking routes that range in difficulty, and also opportunities to go horseback riding, kayaking, and any other number of outdoor activities. 

The Cairngorms are really great for those who want to spend time hiking outside and taking in the wilderness. However, there are also a few charming little towns to visit and plenty of fun sites that aren’t necessarily all about being active outside.

Those who came to Scotland to see impressive royal castles, for instance, will swoon over the grand Balmoral Castle located in Cairngorms. And if you’re travelling with children, make sure to visit the Highland Wildlife Park. There are lots of things to do that’s it’s very much worth taking a day to explore this area, even if you don’t want to summit a Munro!

Plan to spend 2 nights in the area. If you want to get the most out of all of the beautiful nature in the Cairngorms, then camping is a great option. There are a number of lovely campsites scattered around the national park such as The Lazy Duck .

If you don’t plan on camping, I would suggest staying in the town of Aviemore, which has the most amenities and accommodation options for tourists.

Where to Stay in the Cairngorms

The Cairngorm Hotel – If you’re looking for a nice and romantic place to stay on Aviemore’s main street, then the Cairngorm Hotel is for you. This hotel has a range of rooms, great ratings, and has breakfast included in the rate.

Aviemore Youth Hostel – If you are on a budget and would prefer to stay closer to civilization, then Aviemore Youth Hostel is the place for you. They offer affordable dorm beds and come very highly rated.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in the Cairngorms!

Day 5 – Speyside Whisky Region

The Cairngorms also happens to be situated in the Speyside region – the largest Scotch whisky-producing region in the country.

There are over fifty distilleries that you could tour and learn a little more about how Scotch is made and how to taste it. If you’re interested, you could opt to drive some of the malt Whisky Trail, a heritage trail that takes you by some of the region’s most notable distilleries. Keep in mind that this is best with a hired driver or a designated sober driver!

Otherwise, the village of Dufftown is home to six working distilleries all of its own – this can be a great place to walk between different places and sample some single malts!

Some of the distilleries in this region include Macallan, Glenfiddich, Arberlour, Glen Moray, Glenlivit and countless more.

Whisky tasting is also possible as a day trip from Inverness and there are plenty of tours that also include parts of the Cairngorms that you can do if you want to avoid driving after all of that whisky!

Day 6 – Isle of Skye

From Cairngorms, it’s time to head to one of Scotland’s most well-known (and gorgeous!) islands — the Isle of Skye ! Known for its dramatic scenery and bucolic charm, Skye is really an essential stop on this Highlands route.

The drive from Cairngorms National Park will take around 3 hours, so make sure to et an early start to ensure that you don’t miss a thing. En route to Skye, you also can make a stop at the beautiful Eilean Donan Castle which is situated just before you reach the bridge to the island.

On your first day, visit some of the sites that make up the Trotternish Loop, beginning with the Old Man of Storr. Continue onto Lealt Falls, Mealt Falls and Kilt Rock and, of course, drive the iconic Quirang for absolutely stunning views.

End your day in Portree, the main town on the island. There are lots of shops to browse and pubs to relax in here.

Where to Stay on Skye

An-Airidh Bed & Breakfast Portree  – Located just south of central Portree on the eponymous loch, this cosy B&B is a great base on the island. There are several comfortable rooms and a great breakfast each morning.

Skyewalker Hostel – A great, family-run hostel perfect for budget and solo travellers. They have a range of both dorm and private rooms, good facilities and occasionally organise social events in the evening.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Skye!

Day 7 – Isle of Skye

On your second day on Skye, take even more time to explore the island. On this day, you can head to the lovely Talisker Beach before visiting the Talisker Distillery – yet another whisky distillery! Note that Talisker Beach is accessible via a footpath about a mile from the car park, so you will need to walk a bit to take in this gorgeous stretch of sand.

Continue on to visit another one of Skye’s most famous attractions – the Fairy Pools. Again, these are only accessible via a short walk, but it’s 100% worth it. These pools are majestic and worth spending some time enjoying – you can even swim here if you’re brave enough to enter the freezing cold water!

You can end your day exploring some of the island’s castles. You can visit Armadale Castle, which was only built in the 19th Century or venture on to the ruined Dunscaith Castle, which has a far older history. Both are interesting and worth a stop.

Day 8 – Isle of Skye

Your final day on Skye should be dedicated to exploring even more of the island’s most beautiful natural sites. Begin your day at the incredible Fairy Glen – you need to hike for about 30 minutes to reach here but it’s definitely worth it. The scenery is just breathtaking and it can be incredibly peaceful.

From here, take in the white sand and turquoise waters of Claigan Coral Beach before visiting the historic Dunvegan Castle. Originally built in the 13th Century, this is one of Skye’s most impressive castles – and it’s one of many!

And for more seaside views, venture over the Neist Point Lighthouse. Another point that is only accessible via a decent walk, you can get incredible sea views and take in some dramatic cliffside scenery here. You also may have the opportunity to see sea life like whales and basking sharks here!

Day 9 – Skye to Fort William

On your penultimate day in Scotland, it’s time to leave Skye and drive south to Fort William. Expect the drive to take about 2.5 hours without stopping and you will be treated to some truly gorgeous, bucolic scenery in rural highland Scotland.

If you’re up to it, this is a great opportunity to stop by some of the attractions outside of Fort William, such as the Glenfinnian Viaduct, before making your way to the town itself. This will be your final destination for this 10-day Scotland itinerary.

Day 10 – Glencoe

End this Scottish Highlands route in the incredible Glencoe, taking in all of the jaw-dropping scenery, going for a hike or two and learning a bit about the history of this beautiful area. No visit to the Scottish highlands is complete without spending time in Glencoe, and this itinerary is no different!

If you have more time to devote to this Scotland road trip itinerary, then there are a few options available to you. If you’re keen to explore more of island life, then consider hopping on a ferry to the Outer Hebridean island of Lewis and Harris.

Alternatively, if you want to explore just one more quaint town before you head back, then consider making a stop in Ullapool, a lovely fishing village with a lot to offer visitors.

10-Day North Coast & Orkney Itinerary

If you’d like to see some of the most spectacular scenery in Scotland and a bit off the beaten path compared to the other itineraries listed here, then this is the route for you.

Roughly following the North Coast 500 route , this itinerary takes you to some of the most beautiful, sparsely populated and historic places in all of the country.

Days 1-3 – Inverness

Start your itinerary in Inverness and make sure to take the time to explore this lovely, compact city.

With three days in the highland capital, you will have ample time to explore the handful of sites in the city itself as well as embark on a number of day trips — including Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield, the Speyside whisky region and even Cairngorms National Park.

Day 4 – Ullapool

From Inverness, hit the road and head northwest to the absolutely lovely town of Ullapool.

The town of Ullapool itself is absolutely charming, with many shops along the high street worth browsing, inviting pubs that are a great place to escape the rain in, and chippies that will serve some of the best fish and chips to be found on the Scottish seaside.

Visiting Ullapool is also a great way to get out on the water and take a little tour of the small islands that lie off the coast, and even see some marine life. It is not uncommon to see pods of dolphins and lazy sea lions just off of Ullapool harbour.

Ullapool is very small, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting. While you don’t need to devote a tonne of time here, one full day is more than enough to so the town justice.

Where to Stay in Ullapool

Ladysmith Guesthouse – Located in the centre of town, this guesthouse is a wonderful place to rest your head in Ullapool. They have many cosy rooms available and a great, hearty breakfast on offer each morning.

Clachan Farmhouse B&B – Located just a bit outside of the central Ullapool, this bed and breakfast is perfect for those looking for a lovely, pastoral escape. They have a range of plush rooms available and a wonderful breakfast included.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in the Ullapool!

Day 5 – Scotland’s North Coast

This part of the journey will provide you with possibly the most scenic drive of this whole road trip. Make your way along the windy, one-lane roads of the Northwest Highlands to the small, sleepy town of Durness and make sure to pull over and take a lot of pictures — the scenery is truly spectacular.

Make sure to check out the Smoo Cave in Durness but, besides that, there isn’t much in this tiny town. However, it is a great place to spend the night and enjoy the beautiful, pristine coast.

Where to Stay on the North Coast

Bettyhill Hotel – This charming hotel located in the fishing village of Bettyhill is the perfect place to stop for the night on Scotland’s north coast. They have several clean and comfortable rooms available and a great restaurant to grab a bite to eat.

Durness Smoo Youth Hostel – This small hostel is a great place to rest your head in Durness. It is located close to the Smoo Cave and also some fantastic hiking routes. It has a couple of dorm rooms and comes very highly rated.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options on the North Coast!

Days 6 to 8 – Orkney

Your sixth day sees you leaving mainland Britain and heading to the wonderful, peaceful Orkney Islands. There is a comfortable car ferry that leaves from the town of Scrabster a few times per day and the journey takes about ninety minutes.

While very small, there are so many things to do in Orkney and one could easily spend more than the three nights I recommend for this itinerary.

These beautiful islands are packed to the gills with fascinating Neolithic sites, there is a very interesting Viking history here as well as breathtaking bucolic scenery and some very friendly locals. 

Spend your first day exploring the UNESCO-listed Heart of Neolithic Orkney. These sites include the Ring of Brodgar, Maeshowe Chambered Cairn and the Neolithic village of Skara Brae.

On your second day, take the time to explore the lovely town of Kirkwall, the capital of the islands. there’s a lot to do here and it’s a charming little town with plenty of cute shops and inviting pubs. You can also opt to visit the Highland Park Distillery.

And on your third day, you can spend it exploring the island of South Ronaldsay. Here, there are sites like the Italian Chapel and some more Neolithic wonders to take in.

Where to Stay on Orkney

Heatherlea – Also located in the biggest town on Orkney, Kirkwall, Heatherlea is a lovely bed and breakfast to stay at. They have a range of rooms available and also include a full Scottish breakfast available each morning.

Kirkwall Youth Hostel – Located in the biggest town on the Mainland island of Orkney, Kirkwall Youth Hostel is a great budget option on the islands.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in the Orkney!

Days 9 to 10 – Tain & Scotland’s Northeast Coast

After three nights in Orkney, it’s time to head back to the mainland and begin working your way south. Your stop for the evening will be the lovely town of Tain, the oldest of the royal burghs in Scotland and home to the Glenmorangie whisky distillery.

Tain is a lovely town to explore and doesn’t really see much tourism at all, so it’s very much worth exploring. The beautiful streets and landmarks are really something to enjoy and you’re sure to love the vibes of the city, especially as it’s a relatively “off the beaten path” destination to visit.

Where to Stay in Tain

Shandwick House – A lovely guesthouse in the heart of Tain, this is a perfect place to rest your head in the city. They have many clean and comfortable rooms available and a great full Scottish breakfast available each morning.

Carnegie Lodge Hotel – A fantastic hotel if you’re looking for something a bit more upmarket in Tain, this place has some lovely rooms available, room service on offer, and a full breakfast included in the morning.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in the Tain!

If you have more time to spare, then consider heading even further north from the incredible Orkney Islands all the way to Shetland! These islands have a fascinating history (lots of Viking invasions!) and a unique landscape that are sure to have you awe-struck.

As you can see planning the ideal itinerary through Scotland can be a bit complicated, with so many different routes available to you. However, no matter which route you decide to take, there is no denying that you will come back with countless amazing memories.

Are you planning to visit Scotland? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Scotland or Ireland: Which Country Should You Visit?

Is Scotland Expensive? Trip To Scotland Cost Guide in 2024

13 Things To Do In Orkney Islands: A 3-Day Itinerary

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Thanks for the ideas. I’m working out my itenary for 10 days now I. late September – early October 2023. I really enjoyed your suggestions. I am more excited now.

Hope you have a great trip!

Can’t wait! Going to England, Ireland, Scotland and France in a few months Super excited Thanks for the information

Hope you have a lovely trip, Beth!

Thank you very much, very informative/

Went to Orkney & Highlands ‘75 in October when I was 23. Zero other tourists until Ben Nevis, there were dozens there, mostly from Europe. No one else at Ring of Brodgar and Skara Brae. 45 years later, going back in 2020. I know will be vastly different. Ireland: no other tourists at Blarney Castle, no one but lighthouse keeper at Old Head of Kinsale. Only met Australians in both Scotland & Ireland. Loved quiet stay at Aviemore Youth Hostel. Advise go as Winter descends or very early Spring. Hitchhiked, trains, buses. Meet locals that way. Forget the car.

Thanks for your comment, Neil! I think that you’ll find just a few more tourists in Orkney and the Highlands in 2020 than you did in 1975 — probably a few more Aussies as well! Sounds like you’re gonna have a great time walking down memory lane, hope it’s as good as the first 🙂

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7 Day Scotland Road Trip Route & Itinerary (2023)

Some links in this post contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission if you use the links at no extra cost to you! Happy reading 😀

Looking for a 7-day Scotland road trip route and itinerary? I’ve got you covered! Our Scotland road trip was one of the best trips we’ve ever taken – so much so we are currently planning out next!

Finding a simple route to travel around Scotland is tough. If you’re someone who needs it mapped out for you, this blog post has it all.

Whatever happens on your Scotland road trip, I dare you not to fall in love with this country. With its culture, tradition, history, and beauty, it has everything a travel lover could ever need!

In the following post, I’ve highlighted the best things to do on a Scotland road trip, as well as the perfect stops to make your trip extra special. From the mountains of the Cairngorm National Park , to the famous NC500 , the mystery of Loch Ness and chasing fairies on the Isle of Skye, this Scotland road trip itinerary has it all.

Travelling around Scotland? You might also like…

• 13 BEST Things to do in Aviemore (+ Travel Guide!)
• Where to Find Highland Cows in Scotland: Highland Cattle
• Fairy Pools Skye Walk: Everything You Need to Know
• Old Man of Storr Walk Guide: Isle of Skye, Scotland

Want to see epic photos and videos from these experiences?

Follow me on Instagram! As we travel, I post everything live on Instagram, so check out my recent highlights and posts. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, drop me a DM!

7-Day Scotland Road Trip : A Summary

A good thing to know about driving in Scotland is there are very few roads the more north you travel.  There aren’t many routes you can take, and if you’ve got the plan of seeing the highlands or the NC500, it’s impossible to get lost.

This makes it easy to get around, and we found so many unplanned viewpoints, detours, and surprises en route.

🍖 Good news – you can have a BBQ anywhere in Scotland, as long as it isn’t a forest area or exceptionally dry. Your best bet is a beach or roadside.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 The visitor centres in Scotland are brilliant – they’re full of information about the area, with 3D sculptures of the mountains and forests, cute cafes and most importantly, clean toilets! A welcome relief when living the van life, trust me!

🦟 The midges and mosquitoes are in abundance during the summer months in Scotland, especially in the highlands. Be prepared!

Related post: Want to take your pet on your 7-day Scotland road trip? Check out this complete guide to taking your pet on holiday here!

7-day Scotland Road Trip: Route

⏰ Duration:  7 days

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Locations in Scotland: Glasgow > Loch Lomond > Glencoe > Traigh Beach > Isle of Skye > Applecross > Inverness > Aviemore > Glasgow

🗺️ NOTE: This is roughly 500 miles and 11 hours of driving time (part of the map below is a ferry to the Isle of Skye).

Here is the 7-day Scotland road trip route, map and itinerary, with a clear breakdown of the best one-week Scotland road trip for first-timers:

• Day 1  – Glasgow + Loch Lomond
• Day 2  – Glencoe + Traigh Beach
• Day 3  – Isle of Skye
• Day 4  – Isle of Skye + Applecross
• Day 5  – Inverness + Loch Ness
• Day 6  – Cairngorms (Aviemore)
• Day 7  – Cairngorms > Glasgow or Edinburgh

7-day Scotland road trip map:

This entire trip will take you up past Loch Lomond, along the Harry Potter trail, and through scenic mountain ranges. Not forgetting the West Coast beaches and to the magical myths of the Isle of Skye.

You’ll then drive along part of the iconic NC500 (the UK’s version of Route 66) , down to Applecross coastal town, across to Inverness and Loch Ness and finally, into Cairngorms National Park. It’s a lot, but it’s worth it!

However, if this is too much driving for you, cut out one or two of the locations. Do as you wish with the route, but if you follow it exactly, it will take you around 7 days.

This route is to be completed by car/van . We rent our cars in the UK from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world!

Scotland Road Trip: Itinerary

Day 1: glasgow & loch lomond.

If you’re starting your Scotland road trip in Glasgow, but sure to set aside some time to explore. Glasgow is known as the ‘world’s friendliest city’, so be sure to check it out!

As you leave Glasgow, you’ll head north on the A82 for around an hour to reach Loch Lomond. I’d recommend spending as long as you can at Loch Lomond. 

As the loch is the largest in Scotland,  there is so much to see, walks to go on, hikes to be experienced, numerous viewpoints, and of course, lots of water activities (although the water is freezing, so be prepared!)

That evening, if you have a van or a tent, you can find a spot to camp around Loch Lomond, or follow in our footsteps and continue driving to knock off a few more miles. Continue north on the A82, past the loch, and head to the Bridge of Orchy for some amazing wild camping spots.

⛺️ Wild camp at: the Bridge of Orchy

🛌 Or book a night at: Queen of the Loch

Day 2: Glencoe & Traigh Beach

Glencoe and glenfinnan viaduct.

After sleeping at the Bridge of Orchy or in a hotel at Loch Lomond, begin your day by driving further along the A82 towards Glencoe.

Glencoe is one of the most well-known mountainous areas in Scotland. Its landscape has been used in films such as Harry Potter and James Bond.

Depending on what type of Scotland road trip you’re looking for, you could spend days in Glencoe. If you’re short on time, I recommend doing a short walk such as the Invercoe Loop, and the Glencoe visitors centre.

If you’re a Harry Potter fan,  your next stop is going to be the Glenfinnan Viaduct. This famous Jacobite steam train is the iconic Hogwarts Express train and track.

Unfortunately, the famous Jacobite steam train only runs a couple of times a day, but it’s still cool to see the viaduct alone!

🦉 TOP TIP:   Ignore the main Glenfinnan car park  and head around 100m further uphill. Here you will reach a church, with a small 5/6 car park outside. It’s completely free to park here, and as most people have rushed into the first one, usually pretty empty.

Continue along the A82 for quite some time, but be sure to pull over at the northern tip of Loch Eilt,  where Dumbledore’s final resting place is. You will see it situated right in the middle of the loch.

Traigh Beach

That evening, depending on how tired you are of driving, you could find a wild camping spot around Loch Eilt or head to one of my favourite places – Traigh beach. Traigh is such a hidden gem in Scotland, and not many routes include it.

It’s a stretch of white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water, surrounded by green fields. It’s the perfect spot to wild camp and have a BBQ!

As Traigh Beach is situated directly on the west coast, the sun setting over the ocean is just incredible. Honestly, you wouldn’t believe it’s Scotland!

⛺️ Wild camp at: Traigh Beach

🛌 Or book a night at: The Arisaig Pods (Shepherd’s Huts)

Day 3: Isle of Skye

After you’ve enjoyed a morning on the beach,  head to Mallaig to catch the ferry to the Isle of Skye . If you don’t want to visit the Isle of Skye, skip Day 4 and go straight onto Day 5.

Pre-book your £15 ferry to the Isle of Skye a few days previous to wanting to visit. If it’s fully booked, there is a bridge you can drive over to reach the island.

There are so many things to do on the Isle of Skye. Swim in the fairy pools and hike the Old Man of Storr , or visit the small town of Portree and eat fish and chips. Walk around the famous Fairy Glen, or spot highland cows all over the island!

I recommend staying at least 1 night on the Isle of Skye to explore it properly.

⛺️ Wild camp on: the Isle of Skye

🛌 Or book a night at: Rasaay House Hotel

Related posts: The magic of the fairy pools on the Isle of Skye | Hiking the Old Man of Storr Guide

Day 4: Isle of Skye & Applecross

A big day of driving today, including the legendary drive along Bealach na Ba into Applecross. After a busy day of exploring Skye, today you’ll head further north of Scotland and join the iconic NC500!

Begin your drive on the A890 heading towards Applecross,  a small coastal town known for its locally-caught fish and traditional pubs.

During your journey to Applecross, you will drive on one of the highest and best-known roads in Scotland. Bealach na Ba isn’t for unsteady drivers!  It’s full of twists, turns and winding corners.

It’s a single track with a few passing places en route for oncoming cars. As you reach the top of the road, there’s a small layby to stop off and admire the view, 2054ft above sea level.

Applecross is then the next town. As you would have spent a few hours driving, it’s a great place to stop for a seafood lunch. Later in the afternoon, or the following morning, you’ll be back behind the wheel to drive through the Torridon Mountains.

⛺️ Wild camp at: the Torridon Mountains (anywhere along the route)

🛌 Or book a night at: Hartford House Hotel

Day 6: Inverness & Aviemore

Another incredible location en route for all nature and mountain lovers is the historic nature reserve of Beinn Eighe.  It’s a cluster of mountains, wildlife, and ancient pinewoods, it’s no wonder that it was chosen as Britain’s first nature reserve spot!

Spend your morning doing the mountain trail loop, or a simple woodland walk, before jumping back in the van to your next destination on your 7-day Scotland road trip.

Have lunch either in your van, in the trees of Bein Eigh or in a nearby pub, before you make the sad move of heading off the NC500.

You can stop in Inverness en route to the Cairngorms. We went straight to the legendary Loch Ness to find the iconic monster that lives here (but had no luck, unfortunately).

Sadly the Ness is too cold to swim in, and if you jump in, the only thing you’ll be catching is hypothermia! Only a quick visit is needed before you can jump back in the van to your final (in my opinion, best) location.

Aviemore (The Cairngorms National Park)

Around 50 minutes down the A9,  you’ll reach the small town of  Aviemore , known as the heart of the Cairngorm National Park .

The Cairngorms is the largest national park in the UK, and is twice the size of the  Lake District ! It’s by far one of the prettiest places on your Scotland road trip.

Aviemore is a small town in the Cairngorms, known for its ancient woodlands, large lochs and ski resorts. Set up with a Tesco, Starbucks, tons of mountain and ski shops to top up on supplies, and other outdoor-type stores, it just has a real ‘adventure’ vibe to it.

I recommend staying in the  Rothiemurchus campsite  on your first night in the Cairngorms to recharge your electricity.

We parked up in the middle of the forest, hooked up our electricity, and just soaked up every little bit of the forest atmosphere. It’s beautiful.

The camp has small wood cabins for their toilets which are cleaned regularly, with individual showers and toilet cubicles for complete privacy.

At only £30 a night for a van, you get everything you need from a campsite, plus the experience of staying in the middle of an ancient forest, away from the real world. I highly recommend adding it to your Scotland 7 day itinerary!

⛺️ Wild camp at: the Rothiemurchus campsite

🛌 Or book a night at: Macdonald Highlands Hotel

Related posts: The best things to do in Aviemore, the Cairngorms

Day 7: The Cairngorms

Whether you head deeper into the park, or hike up the surrounding mountains, a day in the Cairngorms is for every nature lover.

If you stayed at the campsite, you would have been given a small map to show you the different areas of the park.

This will outline various hikes and walks and their difficulties, and show you some of the best areas to visit during your time there.

I’d recommend a morning at Loch Eilen, then an afternoon/evening at Loch Morlich. Loch Eilen is around a 5-minute drive from Aviemore town centre and is in the forest area further in the park. You’ll pay a small fee on arrival which counts as parking and entrance.

Loch Eilen has a historical castle situated on a little island right in the middle, and if you’re a competent swimmer, it’s a great place to swim out to and explore!

Spend your morning here, then head onto Loch Morlich in the afternoon. This loch has a large stretch of ‘beach’ and sand to sit on, with a few cafes and watersport shops if you’re feeling adventurous.

You can also take some hiking and walking routes around the loch.

Loch Morlich was one of the highlights of our trip, and I highly recommend visiting whilst you’re in the Cairngorms!

If you have time, a little further north of Loch Morlich is the only  reindeer reserve   in the whole of the UK. Just remember to book a ticket in advance !

Driving in Scotland Tips

• Drivers from non-EU countries  need a valid International Driving permit.  and you must have at least  3rd-party insurance on your vehicle.
• Scotland drives on the  left-hand side. 
• The speed limit on single-track roads is 60mph, and on dual carriageways, it’s 70mph.
• If you’re not familiar with driving in the UK,  be sure to check out some general road rules before you set off.
• Stay safe whilst following GPS by using a  phone holder  for your car. The phone holder will ensure you can follow directions hands-free.
• Your signal may dip in and out in the Scottish countryside, especially in the Highlands.  I recommend getting an  eSIM  (if you’re from overseas) to get mobile data across the country.
• Most drivers in the UK are sensible and follow the rules.  Seatbelts are mandatory  and you will be stopped and fined for not using one. Traffic lights are followed religiously.
• Lost or need directions? Scotland is home to some of the most friendly, genuine people in the world, so don’t be afraid to stop and ask for directions . We did this and it was a great way to meet some of the locals.
• Remember that Scotland is a rural country, and you can go from being in a busy town centre to a remote area in minutes. Make sure you have plenty of petrol and food with you before embarking on your journey!
• Petrol is more expensive the more remote you go (plus major city centres). If you see a petrol station in a cheaper area, be sure to top up then rather than leaving it until you’re half empty – especially if you have a van with a large fuel tank.

➡  Need to hire a car in Scotland?   We rent our cars in the UK from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world! 🚗  LOOK AT CAR HIRE PRICES IN THE UK NOW!

Things to do on your Scotland Road Trip

Things to do in glasgow.

Scotland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and Glasgow is its largest city. There’s plenty to see and do in Glasgow, from exploring its history and architecture to enjoying its food and nightlife. Scotland is also a great place for a road trip, with plenty of scenic routes to take in all of its natural beauty.

Here are some of the things you can do in Glasgow:

• Visit Glasgow Cathedral: This Gothic cathedral is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Dating back to the 12th century, it’s well worth a visit for its historical significance and cool architecture.
• Take a walk along the River Clyde: The River Clyde runs through the heart of Glasgow, and there are many scenic walking routes along its banks. stop and enjoy the views, or go for a swim if it’s summertime!
• Explore Glasgow’s museums and art galleries: With over 20 museums and 40 art galleries, Glasgow has one of the best collections of cultural attractions in Scotland.
• Go on a shopping spree: Glasgow is home to some of Scotland’s best shopping!

🛌 Where to stay in Glasgow: Maldron Hotel Glasgow City (City Centre)

Where to eat in Glasgow

Glasgow is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of restaurants to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or a casual bite, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Glasgow! For a truly Scottish experience, be sure to try haggis, Glasgow’s national dish.

Other Glasgow specialities include Cullen skink (a hearty soup made with smoked haddock), seafood chowder, and tattie scones (potato flatbreads). For dessert, why not try Glasgow’s famous deep-fried Mars bars?

Since this road trip, we have returned to Glasgow and found these were our favourite restaurants:

• Ranjit’s Kitchen (Indian)
• Two Fat Ladies in the City
• The Red Onion
• Ox and Finch

Things to do in Glencoe

Hopefully, Glencoe doesn’t get skipped on your road trip, as it is simply stunning. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, and here are just a few of the things you can do in Glencoe:

• Explore the ruins of Castle Ewen, a 16th-century stronghold that was destroyed in a clan battle.
• Hike to the top of Buchaille Etive Mor, one of the most popular trails in Scotland. The views from the summit are simply incredible.
• Visit Glencoe Folk Museum to learn about the area’s rich history and culture.
• Take a scenic drive along the Road to the Isles, which winds its way through some of the most beautiful parts of Scotland!

Things to do on the Isle of Skye

This small island off the west coast of Scotland is home to some of the most stunning scenery you’ll ever see . From towering sea cliffs and rugged coastline to misty valleys and rolling hills, there’s something for everyone on Skye.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at Scotland’s notorious ‘ single tracks ’ – narrow roads with sheer drops that are not for the faint-hearted!

There are also plenty of walks and hikes to enjoy on Skye. Quiraing is a popular choice, a 2-hour hike that takes you through an otherworldly landscape of jagged peaks and atmospheric mist. For something shorter, take a stroll around Loch Coruisk. It’s a must-do when you visit Scotland!

Where to eat on the Isle of Skye

Skye is famous for its food. The Isle of Skye has some of the best seafood in Scotland and is also home to many restaurants that serve traditional Scottish food. When visiting, be sure to check out:

• The Three Chimneys is one of the most popular Isle of Skye restaurants. It is located in the village of Dunvegan on the Isle of Skye, and serves traditional Scottish food. The menu includes dishes such as haggis, neeps, and tatties (yes, you have to try haggis!), plus lots of seafood.
• The Old Inn is a popular Isle of Skye restaurant . Located in the village of Carbost on the Isle of Skye, it again serves traditional Scottish food and is known for its whisky menu, sourcing it from all over Scotland.
• The Skeabost Country House Hotel is located in the village of Portree on the Isle Of Skye, and is another popular place to eat.

Things to do in Inverness

Inverness is located in the heart of the Highlands, and it offers a wide variety of things to see and do. From visiting medieval castles to exploring world-famous whisky distilleries, there is something for everyone in Inverness!

🦕 Don’t forget it’s the home of the famous Loch Ness, so make sure you stop off to look for Nessie! Loch Ness is freezing but beautiful and is definitely worth a stop on your 7-day Scotland road trip.

Additional locations to visit on your Scotland Road Trip

If you have a few extra days to spare, make a stop in Edinburgh! This charming city is full of historical landmarks, great restaurants, and fun activities. Make sure in Edinburgh you visit Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Holyrood Palace. You can also take a stroll through one of the many green spaces or go shopping in trendy boutiques.

And no visit to Edinburgh would be complete without sampling some of the local whisky!

🦉 TOP TIP: The sunset from Edinburgh Castle is stunning!

🛌 Where to stay in Edinburgh: Market Street Hotel (Old Town)

Fort William

Although we drove through Fort William, we didn’t have a chance to spend any time here. Nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles, Fort William is a small town with lots to do.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are so many opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and climbing. William Wordsworth even penned a poem about the area’s beauty!

🛌 Where to stay in Fort William: Victoria House Bed and Breakfast

What to Pack for a Scotland Road Trip

Whether you’re planning to camp under the stars or stay in your van, here are a few things you’ll need to pack for your 7-day Scotland road trip.

• Layers! Scotland can have four seasons in one day, so it’s important to be prepared for anything. Pack a mix of light and heavy clothing, including rain gear and sturdy shoes.
• A lightweight  waterproof jacket
• Hiking boots  (that won’t slip) – these are my favourites for any kind of weather
• An  umbrella
• A  waterproof day bag
• A  waterproof phone case  (which can also be used for  wild swimming  when it’s sunnier)
• A  portable charger
• Lots of layers
• A GoPro  for waterproof camera footage
• A  waterproof backpack cover
• A chilly bottle  to keep your water at a drinkable temperature
• A  Dry Robe , as it helps to keep you warm when entering and leaving the water (even if it’s raining!)
• As well as using bug  spray , we have midge  repellent wristbands .

Check out my travel shop here!

Where to stay on your Scotland road trip

If you are not hiring a van or camping , you need to pre-book accommodation for your Scotland road trip in advance. Stays in the UK sell out fast, and prices will increase nearer to the time of your trip.

Here are some of my recommendations, or check the button at the end of the paragraph for more exciting Scotland stays.

Glasgow: Maldron Hotel Glasgow City

Loch Lomond: Queen of the Loch

Traigh Beach: The Arisaig Pods

Isle of Skye: Rasaay House Hotel

Applecross: Hartford House Hotel

Aviemore: Macdonald Highlands Hotel

Fort William: Victoria House Bed and Breakfast

Getting around Scotland

This 7-day Scotland road trip has been planned with a rental car in mind. Public transport in the highlands is non-existent, and I wouldn’t recommend relying on it for your Scotland itinerary (even if you have to do some public transport in the city centre or for a day trip).

The roads in Scotland are easy to follow and for most of the year, the roads are quiet.

Renting a car for a Scotland road trip

If you can, take a car to get around Scotland. If you only have a short amount of time, you don’t want to be spending hours waiting for public transport.  Don’t have a car? We rent our cars in the UK from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world.  Be sure to pre-book your car rental before arriving in the country to avoid disappointment!

➡  LOOK AT CAR HIRE PRICES IN THE UK NOW!

Wild camping in Scotland

When it comes to wild camping, you can park your van anywhere in Scotland . This is apart from the obvious, like someone’s property, a layby, on a corner and so on; just use common sense.

There are a lot of hidden gems and remote areas around, but it just takes a while to find them!

Best time to take a Scotland Road Trip

Scotland is a 365-day-year-round holiday destination, and knowing when to visit depends on your personal preferences.

☀️ If you want sunshine and blue skies , visit during the summer months of June-August. These are generally Scotland’s hottest months, but there’s no guarantee. Temperatures in these months can still drop and of course, we will still have some rain (it is the UK!) It can also get crowded and busy during the summer peak time. Make sure you pre-book any accommodation.

❄️ If you’d like to experience Scotland for its moody weather and clouds, head there for the colder months, like November and January. You’re also likely to see snow at this time in Scotland.

🌸  Spring in Scotland usually begins in late March and is until May.  Temperatures are beginning to rise and there is less rain than in the winter months. Pink blossom trees are blooming and the fields are coated in daffodils. 

🍂  Autumn temperatures in Scotland fall between September-early November.  If you’re looking for those aesthetic autumnal colours, your best bet is to take a Scotland road trip during these months. 

🎶 Don’t forget to check out local events when planning your trip, such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Highland Games.

Scotland Road Trip: FAQs

1) how many days do i need for a scotland road trip.

Whether you have a week, a fortnight, or even just a few days, you can tailor your entire Scottish road trip to suit your needs!

If you’re coming from further away, I would recommend at least 7 days for a Scotland road trip. But you can add or remove certain places to shorten or lengthen your trip.

2) Is 7 days in Scotland enough?

Seven days in Scotland is a great amount of time to get a real feel for the country. Of course, if you have longer, you can visit more places and explore new areas.

But if you only have seven days, this is a great amount of time to experience some of the things Scotland has to offer!

3) What is the best of Scotland in 1 week?

If you only have one week to visit Scotland, I recommend visiting at least one of the major cities (Glasgow or Edinburgh), heading to at least one or two of the lochs (Loch Lomond, Loch Morlich) and experiencing some of the Scottish Highlands.

Hiring a car and driving into the countryside is a great option for experiencing Scotland in just one week.

4) What is the prettiest part of Scotland to visit?

There are so many locations in Scotland that are beyond beautiful. When you first visit, there will be a number of moments when the scenery leaves you speechless.

The ‘prettiest’ part of Scotland will always be a personal choice, but some of the best views include: Loch Morlich (Cairngorms), Glencoe and the Isle of Skye.

5) What month is best for Scotland?

If you want warmer weather and long, dry days, head to Scotland in the summer months (June-August). For misty mountains and dramatic landscapes, visit Scotland in the winter (November-February).

6) What is the best time to go to Scotland to avoid midges?

Midges in Scotland are at their worst during the warmer months. If you want to avoid the midges, plan your Scotland road trip between the months of late September and May, when the weather is considerably cooler.

When we visited Scotland in August, we unknowingly pulled up to a loch at dusk for a bit of a walk.

As soon as I stepped out of the van, we were swamped by thousands, if not millions, of midges. I have never seen anything like it in my life! But, when we were away from the water, the midges were not as bad – we just had to use a lot of bug spray!

7) What is the cheapest time of year to visit Scotland?

The best times to visit Scotland on a budget will be during shoulder seasons (spring and autumn).

Straight after Christmas (January and Feburary time) are some of the cheapest and quietest months in Scotland – however, expect freezing cold temperatures, thick snow and a lot of rain!

8) What are the rainiest months in Scotland?

You can expect rain all year round in Scotland. However, the wettest months are from November to January.

9)  Do I need a car to visit  Scotland?

If you’re visiting Scotland and are short on time, I strongly recommend hiring a car.  If you’re looking to hire a car in Scotland, we rent our cars from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world!  ➡  You can check out the  prices for car hire  in the UK now!

8)  Do I need a SIM card to visit Scotland? 

If you’re not from the UK, it’s worth  downloading an eSIM  on your phone to ensure you can use it for directions and avoid roaming charges as soon as you arrive. 

ESIMs  are easy to download and ready to use within a few minutes of purchasing! Plus, there are  eSIMs  available for the entire continent of Europe, so there’s no longer a need to hunt down free Wifi! ➡  You can check out the prices and packages for  eSIMs here!

A 7-Day Scotland Road Trip: In a Nutshell

If you’re looking for an epic road trip adventure, I highly recommend a 7 day Scotland road trip.

The scenery is stunning and there’s so much to see and do. Just make sure you give yourself enough time – it would be a shame to rush through this beautiful country!

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Have you been on a road trip in Scotland? What was your favourite part? Let me know on Instagram – I’d love to hear from you!

Happy travelling!

Other Scotland posts:

• 13 BEST Things to do in Aviemore (Updated Guide!)

MEET THE AUTHOR!

Hi! I'm Jennie! As a part-time travel blogger based in London, I'm using my 10+ years of travel expertise to encourage & inspire you to step out of your comfort zone through sustainable, mindful and purposeful travel.

If I'm not writing, I'm either reading, drinking coffee or taking a wild swim (all at the same time if I'm feeling impressive).

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7 best road trips in scotland to take in 2024.

Scotland is PACKED with amazing places to visit and roads to drive, and since we spent 2 months exploring all the amazing road trips this country has to offer, we thought we would put together a guide on the best road trips in Scotland based on our very own experience! 

Some of these are “official” road trips, and the others are ones we have designed ourselves. 

So let's get started!

Travellerspoint

When is the best time to road trip Scotland?

Scotland is the sort of country that brings something unique to every season. 

If you don’t mind busy roads and tourist attractions, then you’ll love summer, and the fact it’s kind of the only time of the year you’ll get some sort of “heat” in Scotland!

The main problem will summer road-tripping Scotland is the midges.

They’re a real problem and if you don’t know what they are, they’re an insect that loves to bite! 

If you want to avoid the crowds and the midges, then we can recommend road tripping Scotland in the autumn months! 

That’s when we visited and we loved it. 

We didn’t experience too much rain, and we pretty much had the best places to visit in Scotland all to ourselves -- that was cool! 

Should I road trip Scotland in a campervan or car?

Naturally, we will say that road tripping in Scotland is best done in a campervan because we did it in our very own self-converted camper !

But, if you don’t have your own campervan, or it’s out of your budget to rent one, then driving is a good option. 

Check out our guide to the best car rental sites to see what's out there, or we've got an in-depth guide to the top car rental companies in Scotland .

With driving, you can either bring a tent and get adventurous on your sleeping arrangements or stay in the many amazing Airbnbs and hotels dotted around these Scottish road trip routes. 

The perk of having a campervan, however, is the ability to wild camp in Scotland. 

Wild camping in Scotland is AMAZING! You’ll find yourself waking up to some EPIC views, so if you get the chance to hire a campervan, then choose that for your Scottish road trip itinerary.

Enter ... Motorhome Republic

If you’re looking for a quick answer, then we suggest checking out Motorhome Republic . 

They are a search engine offering the largest array of motorhome and camper rentals across Scotland.

With useful filtering tools and on-hand support, they are the best way to begin any search for a rental.

How long do I need to road trip Scotland?

Short answer ... as long as you can spare! There really is so much to see in this incredible country.

Long answer, well, it will really depend on what you decide you want to see when planning out your road trip .

There are road trips in Scotland that will take a few hours, and others that will take a few days.

That’s the beauty of the country, you’ll find something to suit your needs. 

When I discuss the individual road trips in Scotland below, I’ll put the mileage covered and time estimated to complete so you can help make a choice based on your own personal time constraints. 

But if I had to tell you how long to put aside for an epic road trip in Scotland, at minimum I would say, give it 10 days! 

You may also like: Best Dog-Friendly Hotels in Scotland

The Best Road Trips In Scotland

1. south west coastal 300 .

• Length: 300 miles / 482 km
• Time: 2 days - 3 days
• Location: Dumfries - Dumfries 

This was the very first road trip we did when we entered Scotland and it’s an “official” one that’s advertised and promoted on the Visit Scotland website. 

I loved this Scottish road trip because it took us to the coastline and I was excited to see the sea!

This road trip will take you through some beautiful sights including amazing castles, forests, towns and more.

It will also take you to the most South westerly point in Scotland, the Galloway Lighthouse from where you can see the North of Ireland, Isle of Man, Wales & England. Pretty cool! 

Highlights of the SW300 Scottish Road Trip 

Some of my favourite highlights of the SW coastal route include: 

1. Calverock Castle : there are lots of great castles along this route but I just loved this one. It was empty when we visited, it’s located within a forest and it just looks so well maintained! Plus, it’s free to visit and walk around, so great if you’re on a budget. 

2. Mull of Galloway Lighthouse: I love lighthouses. I’m not sure where the love came from, but if there is a lighthouse on the route, I’m going to visit it! This one as I mentioned above is the most south-westerly point in Scotland and there is a tea room built into the side of the cliffs, which has amazing views, so I loved it. 

3. Culzean Castle : Another great castle, but more tourist established! It’s part of the Scottish national trust. I’ve written a guide on visiting it here, but it’s a dreamy castle where you can imagine beautiful weddings taking place. 

Suggested road trip itinerary for the SW300 

• ‍ Day 1 : Calverock Castle, Sweetheart Abbey, Mull of Galloway, Logan botanical gardens ‍
• Day 2: Culzean Castle, Electric Brae, Scottish Dark Sky Observatory

Optional day 3: take it slower, or add in extra spots for walking in the Galloway National Park

READ: Road Tripping the Southwest 300: An Itinerary

• Length: 500 miles/ 804 KM
• Time: 3-5 days 
• Location: Inverness to Inverness 

The NC500 (The North Coast 500) is, without doubt, the most popular and famous Scotland road trip there is.

It’s Scotland’s answer to Route 66 and it’s amazing! 

We actually spent a couple of weeks doing the NC500, but it doesn’t take anywhere near as long as that.

We were working whilst sightseeing so wanted to take it slow. 

But it’s the sort of Scottish road trip that you can dedicate as much time as you like to it. 

Just remember, since this is Scotland’s most famous road trip, it gets super busy in the summer months.

Expect traffic delays and the need to pre-book accommodation and/or campsites in advance. 

We did the NC500 road trip in autumn time and it was perfect.

We got lucky with the weather and only experienced a few days of rain and we were practically alone for the entire trip- which was perfect for us!

We absolutely loved the NC500 and it didn’t disappoint. ‍

It lived up to our expectations! 

Highlights of the NC500 road trip in Scotland 

1 Applecross mountain pass: This is a mountain pass road that made me feel like I’d just been transported to Norway. The scenery was amazing and the road was a little scary (which added to the excitement!) The little town of Applecross is great to visit too, it’s just so secluded, you honestly feel like you’ve entered a corner of the earth that no one really knows about! 

2. Smoo Cave: I love caves and we’ve visited some pretty vast and unique caves in our travels, and I can’t say I was expecting much from a cave in Scotland. But I loved it! This is a large cave that you can wander in (when the tide is low), check out the powerful waterfall hidden inside, and you can take a boat ride at certain times of the year! It was really cool, and it was FREE!

3. John O Groats: I really liked this spot on the NC500. It marks the furthest northern part of mainland UK, and it’s a cute place to visit in Scotland. Take pictures of the iconic different colour of houses (very Balamory style!), grab a coffee, check out the beer distillery and go spotting for sharks and whales!  

Suggested road trip itinerary for the NC500 

I’ll base this on a 5 day itinerary, but in my dedicated post on the NC500 I take you through both 3 day and 7 day road trip itineraries.

READ: 3, 5 and 7 North Coast 500 driving itinerary

3. Isle of Skye

• Length: 160 miles / 257 km
• Time: 3 days 
• Location: Eiliean Donan Castle > Armadale 

The Isle Of Skye is one of the many islands that Scotland has to offer.

I hope to visit many more in the future, but for now, the Isle of Skye is my favourite. 

I’d heard so many great things about this place before visiting and I worried it couldn’t possibly live up to my expectations in reality.

But, you’ll be happy to know that it did! 

The great thing about the Isle of Skye is that it’s small but mighty, so it makes for a perfect road trip in Scotland. 

You can drive the full isle of Skye in around 6 hours, but that’s without sightseeing, so if you want to truly see it all, then I would definitely recommend at least 3 days, simply because a lot of your sightseeing will include walking routes and hikes, and they will take up time! 

Highlights of the Isle of Skye road trip 

1. Old Man of Storr: this is probably one of the most famous attractions on the Isle of Skye. It’s essentially a hike within a dramatic landscape, but it’s epic. The hike itself will take around 2 hours round-trip and it’s tough-going up, but doable, even if you’re not fit (I don’t consider myself fit!). The views here are EPIC! And I suggest you go either at sunrise or sunset. 

2. The Magical Fairy Glen: This is my favourite place on the Isle of Skye. It seriously feels like a completely different country that’s been plotted into a random bit of the island. It’s a natural phenomenon and reminds me of New Zealand (even though I haven’t been, it’s what I imagine New Zealand looks like!). Visit early to beat any crowds. 

3. Eilean Donan Castle: so this isn’t technically on the Isle of Skye itself (but within the region) and it’s just before the Skye bridge. But this is such a cool castle to visit. There is a bridge to walk over the water to visit the castle, and you can just imagine what it was like to be in this castle back when it operated! A real gem of a place to visit on your Scottish road trip. 

Suggested Isle of Skye itinerary

I’ve done a whole separate post on a suggested Isle of Skye road trip itinerary, but I’ll give you the basics here. 

• Day 1: Eilean Donan Castle, Sligachan Old Bridge, the “capital” of Portree, then a sunset hike at the Old Man of Stor. 
• ‍ Day 2: Mealt Falls & Kilt Rock, The Quariang (Walk Or Viewpoint), The Fairy Glen, Dunvegan Castles & Gardens (Neist Lighthouse for sunset if you’ve got time) ‍
• Day 3: The Famous Fairy Pools, Armadale Castle Gardens, Point of Sleat viewpoint, and visit a whiskey distillery! 

From Armadale, you can get the ferry across to Mallaig, or you can drive back out of the Skye bridge.

Read More: Best Places To Stay On The Isle Of Skye

4. Cairngorms National Park Route

• Time: 1 days 
• Location: Aviemore to Blair Castle 

So this isn’t an official road trip in Scotland, but one I’ve created based on our driving.

So if you want to experience the best that the Cairngorms National Park has to offer this is the driving route for you. 

If you’ve got a full day, then you might be able to squeeze everything in (at least in the summer months), but if you’re visiting in winter, or you just want to take things slower, then you can do this route in 2 days. 

Highlights of the Cairngorms National Park Route 

1. Braemar Castle & town : This is one of my favourite little towns in all of Scotland. It was soooo charming and I would move in tomorrow if I could! Not only that, but this town is home to one of the really cool castles in Scotland and it’s really nice when it's lit up at night. 

2. Cairngorm Mountain : This is a really cool place to visit, even if you’re not there for ski season. It offers amazing views over the whole of the Cairngorms national park. 

Read Also: Interesting Scotland Travel Statistics

Suggested road trip itinerary 

Aviemore > Cairngorm Reindeer Centre > Cairngorm Mountain > Balmoral Castle > Braemar Castle > Blair Castle 

5. Glasgow to Fort William 

• Length: 131 miles / 210 km
• Time: 2- 3 days
• Location: Glasgow to Fort William

If you’re looking for a short but sweet road trip in Scotland then this is the one for you.

This mini road trip will allow you to see the delights of Scotland, the epic beauty of Glen Coe and the chance to ride the Harry Potter train! 

If you want to do some hikes in Loch Lomond, then you’ll need the two days for this Scotland road trip to make it to Fort William. 

Highlights of the Glasgow to Fort William Scottish Road trip 

1. Glen Coe: Glen Coe is without a doubt one of my favourite places to visit in all of Scotland. This is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever laid my eyes on, and this road trip means you can visit. You should definitely make a stop at Rannoch Moor viewpoint, and the famous James Bond filming picture point. 

2. Riding the Jacobite: Fort William is home to the Jacobite, a world-famous train ride that is otherwise known as “The Hogwarts Express”. Yes, it’s the same company of the famous train used in the movie, and if you take the train ride to and from Fort William to Mallaig, you’ll go past some pretty famous Harry Potter filming locations , including the Glenfinnan Viaduct! 

3. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum : This is a really great place to visit in Glasgow, and definitely worth stopping by if you spend some time in the city! Glasgow is actually a really charming city and a great place to simply walk around too. 

4. Loch Lomond: This area of Scotland is massively popular not just with locals but tourists too. Loch Lomond is an EPIC loch with beauty on every corner. Whether you want to grab lunch in a local pub, take a boat on the loch, discover castle ruins, stay in some unique accommodation , or do a hike, Loch Lomond has it all! 

• Day 1 : Start early with Glasgow (make sure you see the best sights, including the outdoor harbor museum!), then head to beautiful Loch Lomond, if you like hiking, make sure you try the Ben Lomond hike (the highest peak in Loch Lomond!)
• ‍ Day 2: Make your way to St. Conan’s Kirk, a really cool and scenic church! Then head to Glen Coe and drive around the beautiful mountains, rivers and more. If you like walking, you’ll find lots of hiking and walking routes around Glen Coe! But either way, it’ll be one of the most scenic drives you’ll take in Scotland (you’ll constantly want to pull over for pictures!), and finish the day at Fort William ! 

On your 3rd day, you can either take the Jacobite train ride OR, if you’re feeling adventurous and the season is right, why not hike the highest mountain in all of the UK? Ben Nevis! 

READ: Ultimate guide to hiking Ben Lomond

6. The best of the Highlands

• Length: 520 miles / 840  km
• Time: 5-7 days
• Location: Glen Coe to Loch Ness (but not that simple :P) 

Bradley and I spent quite a bit of time in the Highlands of Scotland, so I’ve come up with this epic road trip that I think highlights the BEST that the highlands have to offer.

This is completely based on our own experience and the sights we saw on our Scottish road trip adventures. 

This road trip will basically allow you to undertake the best parts of the NC500, alongside some of the best sights that the Scottish highlands have to offer, so you really get to experience everything, and the slower you can take the trip, the better it will be! 

You can even make this trip more EPIC, by combining the Isle of Skye road trip with it! 

Highlands of the Scottish Highlands road trip 

1. Glenfinnan Viaduct: This is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Scotland and I don’t think any Scottish road trip would be complete without visiting here. It’s honestly one of the most picturesque places we’ve ever witnessed. 

2. Kylesku Bridge : The bridge itself is pretty cool, but really it’s this whole area in general that is just beautiful. Driving this area of Scotland is a real treat, and we got to meet so many highland cows and deer along the way. It was amazing! 

3. Inverness city : Inverness is often regarded as the “capital” of the highlands and we both really loved it! It’s a city, but it’s not overly big and you can easily see all the best sights in one day. From the charming Victoria Market, to Inverness castle! This is a great place to pick up any souvenirs for your road trip too.

4. Loch Ness: Imagine going all the way to Scotland and not trying to find the famous Loch Ness Monster! Loch Ness isn’t too far from Inverness, so it’s a leisurely and beautiful drive. There are wild camping spots right on the lake too. You can get boat trips out on Loch Ness which will give you a chance to learn about the history of the legend of the Loch Ness Monster, and the chance to actually spot Nessie! 

Book your Loch Ness Boat Tour right here in advance!

Suggested itinerary for The Highlights of the Highlands Road trip 

• Day 1: Start in Glen Coe and make your way to Fort William and Glenfinnan to see the Viaduct , then head towards Mallaig and take the ferry across to the Isle of Skye!  ‍
• Day 2: If you want you could sightsee some parts of the Isle of Skye, or if not, just head over the Skye bridge to visit the Eilean Donan Castle. Then make your way up to the cute town of Gairloch! Try the mountain coffee Co for delicious coffee! Make sure you stop at Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve for a really beautiful viewpoint. 
• Day 3: Make your way to Kylesku bridge and stop along the many lochs, beaches and viewpoints along the way, then head up to BettyHill!
• Day 4: From Betty Hill, it’s time to visit the most northerly part of mainland Scotland, John O Groats! Afterwards, make your way down the North East coast and enjoy the beautiful views and castles on the way. 
• Day 5 : If you haven’t made it close to Inverness yet, then get closer and spend the day sightseeing the beautiful city of Inverness! 
• Day 6: Make your way to Fort Agustus to get ready for your Loch Ness boat tour, and you’ll be driving alongside Loch Ness for the entire drive too. 

7. The City Hop 

• Length: 150 miles/ 241 KM
• Time: 3 days
• Location: Edinburgh to Edinburgh 

If you love cities, then you’ll enjoy this mini road trip of 3 of the best cities that Scotland has to offer.

You can even experience some local nature and lochs too in the form of Loch Lomond, which doesn’t take you off route! 

Since Edinburgh is a popular place to fly into and rent a campervan (or hire a car ) this would be one of the more convenient road trips from Edinburgh, especially if you’re short on time! 

This isn’t a long driving road trip in Scotland, but your time will be taken up with all the awesome sightseeing you’ll have to do. 

Highlights of the City hop road trip 

1. Ben Lomond : If you like hiking, then you’ll love Loch Lomond. There are so many scenic hikes and viewpoints around this area, and if you like a challenge, you can hike the highest peak in the Loch Lomond area, which is Ben Lomond. 

2 . Stirling Old Town : The old town of Stirling is super cute and quirky. The first thing I saw when we arrived was a shop selling only handmade bagpipes, and I thought, this is Scotland! There’s also the beautiful Stirling Castle to see, among many other great attractions.

3. Harry Potter heaven : Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and it’s bursting with amazing sights to see, including Edinburgh Castle, but it’s also really popular with tourists for another reason! J.K Rowling wrote all of the Harry Potter books whilst living in the city, and you’ll see constant sources of her inspiration for Harry Potter as you walk around the famous sights Edinburgh has to offer. 

• Day 1 : Get sightseeing in the beautiful capital city of Edinburgh, and honestly, that’ll probably take you a full day! 
• Day 2 : Head to the beautiful town of Stirling and check out the highlights, then make your way to the beautiful Loch Lomond. Try and get some time to do the Three Lochs Forest Drive, which is like another mini road trip, within a road trip! 
• Day 3: Head to Glasgow and sightseeing all the amazing things to do there! 

Then make your way back to Edinburgh from Glasgow...which won’t take you long at all! 

Tips for road tripping Scotland 

Before I leave you, I just want to point out a few of tips which may help planning your Scottish adventures easier. 

• ‍ The further north you go, the fewer shops there are - I mean this in terms of, if you’re a vegetarian or vegan, the choice of shops becomes less, so I would suggest stocking up on what you regard as essential items in a larger city before you begin your adventure!  ‍
• Book the Jacobite ahead of time: This is a world-famous train ride, so it sells out we only really got a seat because tourism was low when we visited, so if you know you want to do it, book at least a month in advance.  ‍
• Fuel is cheaper in supermarkets: Fuel is available throughout the island of Scotland, but it’s cheaper at supermarkets such as Morrisons and Tesco, so top up there when you can.  ‍
• Scotland road trips are electric car-friendly: There are lots of electric charging points on all of these road trips in Scotland, so if you’ve got an electric car, don’t fret!
• I mentioned it above, but if you need a recommendation for a campervan rental company in Scotland , then we can suggest Motorhome Republic as the top choice. 
• People are REALLY friendly in Scotland, so don’t be afraid to wave from your car! 
• Use these routes as a guide to planning your Scotland road trip itinerary. There is so much to see in Scotland and it's always better when you can add your own stops and routes, really go off the tourist trail! ‍
• Consider staying in some unique spots - We spent a few nights on a private lighthouse cottage when on the Isle of Skye and it was an unforgettable experience. With 2 months in Scotland, it was nice taking some time to have a proper bath and a log fire! So if you can spare a few nights, then consider staying in some unique locations you won't find elsewhere. For more tips, check out my guide on the most romantic hotels in Scotland .

So there you have it, my guide to the best road trips in Scotland as voted by me!

I hope you’ve enjoyed this post and hopefully, you’ve got some inspiration for planning your next Scottish road trip. If you’ve got any questions or suggestions to add to this post, then please do drop me a comment below!

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Home » Europe » Best Road Trips in Scottish Highlands (Insider Guide for 2024)

Best Road Trips in Scottish Highlands (Insider Guide for 2024)

Do you like whisky and castles? Who doesn’t! There’s one place in the world where you can have your fill of both. A road trip to the Scottish Highlands will treat you to both these things and much more. This untamed wilderness boasts stunning lakes, wide-open beaches, and some of the UK’s highest peaks.

There’s only one problem: with so many beautiful places, how do you decide where to visit first? And how do you squeeze in time to relax as well?! Let us help you out.

This comprehensive guide to road trips in the Scottish Highlands will help you decide where to go on your next trip. It’s up to you to choose between the North Coast 500, the Isle of Skye Loop, or the Highland and Deeside tourist trails. One thing is for sure: they’re all absolutely spectacular!

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Why Road Trip in the Scottish Highlands?

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If you’re not already convinced, let us twist your arm. There are loads of reasons to plan a road trip to Scotland, but let’s begin with the top five.

• Beautiful Landscapes:  Magical Munros (mountains over 3,000 feet in height), sandy beaches to yourself, and crystal-clear glassy lakes mean your eyes will be glued to the window for the duration of your trip.
• Castles:  Scotland’s castles come in a range of shapes and sizes. Some are ruins; others look like they’ve come straight out of a fairytale. Stopping off at one (or six) is a great way to learn about the country’s history.
• Whisky: Let us remind you that this is for the end of the day when you’re cosy in front of the fire. Ending a day of driving with a wee dram isn’t hard since there are 47 distilleries you can stop off at.
• Mythical Monsters:  It’s not only the Loch Ness Monster that you should be looking out for on your road trip: Skye’s Fairies, the Old Man of Storr, the Kelpies, and wild haggis on the hills are just some of the folkloric creatures that add another layer of mystery to this part of the world.
• The public transport isn’t that great:  While we’d prefer to stick with wholly positive reasons, it’s an unavoidable fact that up here, you need your own transport. You can take a tour from Edinburgh or Glasgow, but why sacrifice your FREEDOM!

If you’re not convinced yet, you’re never going to be. However, we’re pretty sure you’re unfurling your map (or looking at Google) and plotting the points of your road trip in the Scottish Highlands. However, we need to get some admin out of the way first.

North Coast 500 – 5-7 days

Isle of skye loop – 3-5 days, deeside tourist route – 2-3 days, highland tourist route – 3 days.

With a Scottish Highlands City Pass , you can experience the best of Scottish Highlands at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

• From: Inverness
• To: Loch Ness
• Total Distance: 500 miles/800km
• Days: 5 – 7
• Top Road Trips Stops: Culloden Battlefield, RSPB Scotland Dunnet Head Nature Reserve, Smoo Cave, more than 40 whisky distilleries

Known as Scotland’s Route 66, The North Coast 500 is the ultimate way to experience the rugged Scottish Highland Coastline. It’s said to be one of the best coastal routes in the world, and you’ll take in stunning beaches and old castles. For the adventurers, you can park up and enjoy walks or mountain biking trails, too! This epic almost circular route will end in one of the most popular destinations in Scotland – Loch Ness!

Road Trip Highlights:

• John o’Groats
• Dunnet Head (the most northerly point in the UK)

Day 1: Inverness to Wick (2 hours)

Leave Inverness by heading north over the Moray Firth onto the Black Isle. For an unusual Pagan site, stop off at Clootie Well. People have draped rags for years here, and it’s an eerie experience! Then, stop off at Glen Ord Distillery (one of the oldest in Scotland) before heading north past Dunrobin Castle and onto your stop for the evening – Wick. The former Viking settlement is the largest town in the far north of Scotland’s mainland.

• Best Things to Do: Glen Ord Distillery, Dunrobin Castle, Hill o’Many Stanes
• Where to Eat: Bord de L’eau (Wick)
• Where to Stay: The Old Mission Hall , Clayquoy Lodge

Day 2: Wick to Strathy Bay via John o’Groats and Dunnet Head (1 hour 20 minutes)

You’ll be hitting the most northeasterly and northern points of the UK on day 2 and 3. On a bracing walk from John O’Groats to Duncansby Head, you’ll see cute puffins! Stop off on your way to Dunnet Head to visit the Castle of Mey. The beautiful castle was once a royal residence! If you missed the puffins at Duncansby Head, you’ll have another chance at the seabird centre at Dunnet Head. After food in Thurso, continue to Strathy Bay.

• Best Things to Do: Duncansby Head, Castle of Mey, Dunnet Head Seabird Centre
• Where to Eat: The Cabin at John o’Groats, Captain Galley’s Seafood Restaurant (Scrabster).
• Where to Stay: The Burrow Tiny House , Eco Wildlife Lodge , The Hideaway Cabin

Day 3 and 4: Strathy Bay to Torridon via Smoo Cave and Ullapool (4.5 hours)

Day 3 will allow you to take in some of the most astounding and beautiful coastal features in the Scottish Highlands. First up, it’s Smoo Cave, the largest coastal cave in the UK. Explore that from the village of Durness. If that doesn’t impress you, we’re sure the pink dunes of Sandwood Bay will do the trick! Aim for an overnight stay in the picturesque town of Ullapool, where you can enjoy walks along the coast and Lochbroom on day 4. Then it’s on to Torridon.

• Best Things to Do: Smoo Cave, Sandwood Bay, Lochbroom in Ullapool
• Where to Eat: Smoo Cave Hotel, Seafood Shack and Ceilidh Place (Ullapool), Applecross Inn (Torridon)
• Where to Stay: Ullapool Youth Hostel, Tranquil Highland Retreat, Traditional Highland Seaside Cottage, Torridon

Day 5: Torridon to Loch Ness (2 hours)

The last day will take you from Torridon to Loch Ness. This drive can be done in one go, and the real star today is the road. Once you get to Loch Ness, there’s no shortage of things to do. Park up and hike the Meall Fur-mhonaidh – the highest hill in the area. It’s got awesome views of the loch and is wonderful for a picnic. End your North Coast 500 Roadtrip with an evening cruise on Loch Ness. You might even spot Nessie!

• Best Things to Do: Walk/hike around Loch Ness, try to spot the Loch Ness monster, recover from days of driving by the pretty Fort Augustus Canal.
• Where to Eat: Canalside Fish & Chip Shop, The Lock Inn (Fort Augustus), The Loch Ness Inn (Drumnadrochit)
• Where to Stay: Lochside Hostel, Loch Ness Hideaway , Multiple camping sites including Loch Ness Bay Camping.

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• From: Broadford
• To: Broadford/Carbost/Portree
• Total Distance: 131 miles/212km
• Days: 3 – 5
• Top Road Trips Stops: Portree, Uig Dunvegan, Talisker Bay

One of the most beautiful islands in Scotland, a road trip is an ideal way to see Skye. Thankfully, it’s not that big; with just an hour or two’s driving a day, you’ll have plenty of time to see all there is to offer. Stops you can’t miss are a dip in the mystical fairy pools and Portree’s cute harbour. More adventurous travellers can hike the Old Man of Storr on the Trotternish Ridge. Mountain bikers can draw inspiration for Danny MacAskill’s The Ridge, too… if they’re feeling brave, that is!

• Old Man of Storr
• Dunvegan Castle
• Fairy Pools
• Talisker Whisky Distillery

Day 1: Broadford to Staffin (1 hour)

Starting in Broadford, head straight to the largest town on Skye – Portree. Spend a couple of hours exploring the colourful harbour and getting souvenirs/having a bite to eat. If that’s not your thing, head straight out towards the Quiraing. The rock formations here are part of an ancient landslip. On the way, stop at the Old Man of Storr – a huge rock column in the Trotternish Ridge. Check out the dinosaur footprints on Staffin beach before heading back to Portree for the widest choice of accommodation.

• Best Things to Do: Shops and cafes in Portree, climb the Old Man of Storr, Staffin Bay dinosaur footprints.
• Where to Eat:  Sea Breezes Restaurant, Scorrybreac Restaurant
• Where to Stay: Portree Independent Hostel , Portree Trundle Truck ,  Tigh Quirang.

Day 2: Portree to Dunvegan via Duntulm and Uig

After breakfast at one of the many lovely cafes in Portree, take another look at the Trotternish Ridge and Quirang on your way up to Duntulm. This road is a little narrower, and there are some passing places, but it’s worth that for the views you get on your way to Uig. Stop for the views over Uig Bay and maybe get a coffee at the Galley Cafe. After a few instagrammable shots, continue to Dunvegan Castle. Leave yourself time to explore the castle and gardens before finding your evening meal and bed for the night!

• Best Things to Do: Take in the views from Uig Bay, Dunvegan Castle
• Where to Eat: Stein Inn, The Old School Restaurant, Dunvegan Prawn and Mussel Bar
• Where to Stay: Spinning Wheel Pod , The Flat at the Old School

Day 3: Dunvegan to Broadford

The third day of your road trip in the Scottish Highland’s largest island, Skye, brings you to more stunning natural beauty. Head for Talisker Bay from Dunvegan – but be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the Fairy Pools. These stunning green pools are one of the best places for wild swimming in the UK; remember to pack your swimsuit. Dry off with something to eat at the Oyster Shed overlooking Talisker Bay before heading down to the distillery for a tour. If you want a few drams of whisky, park up and find your accommodation before the distillery. Alternatively, head back to Broadford or Portree.

• Best Things to Do: Talisker Distillery, Skye Fairy Pools
• Where to Eat: The Oyster Shed (Talisker Bay)
• Where to Stay: Skyewalker Hostel , Broadford Backpackers Hostel,  Red Mountain Cottage

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• From: Perth
• To: Aberdeen
• Total Distance: 108 miles/174km
• Days: 2 – 3
• Top Road Trips Stops: Braemar, Cairngorms National Park, Drum Castle

The Deeside Tourist Route can be done in as little as two days, but give yourself a little longer if you want to truly appreciate the beauty of the Cairngorms National Park. Starting and ending in two of Scotland’s cities, you’ll have time to appreciate not only natural beauty on the trip, but also stop off at some excellent places to eat and drink.

If you’re travelling this way in winter, you could even enjoy skiing and snowboarding. But beware, the roads can be treacherous!

• Scone Palace
• Glenshee Ski Centre
• Cairngorms National Park
• Muir of Dinnet Nature Reserve
• Drum Castle

Day 1: Perth to Braemar (1.25 hours)

Your first stop comes just seven minutes after leaving Perth city centre. Scone Palace is one of the finest Georgian Gothic style castles in the United Kingdom, and it has an important place in Scottish Royal History. Tour the staterooms and get lost in the maze before jumping back in your car. Then, it’s on to Braemar. While today is short on travelling, Braemar is an excellent base for seeing the Cairngorms National Park. If you’ve a few days, check out the Strathspey Railway, and Cairngorm centres for reindeer and sleddogs!

• Best Things to Do: Scone Palace, CairnGorm Mountain Railway, Balmoral Castle, Glenshee Ski Centre (in winter)
• Where to Eat: The Bothy, Braemar Lodge
• Where to Stay: Ballater Hostel , Converted Braemar Church , Braemar Cabins

Day 2: Braemar to Aberdeen

Depending on how long you stay in Braemar, this could be day 2, 3, or 4 of your trip. Either way, you won’t want to miss these next stops off your Scottish Highlands road trip itinerary. The first stop is the Muir of Dinnet. This is a nature reserve inside Cairngorms National Park. As well as the chance to spot highland wildlife, there’s a glacial pothole called Burn O’Vat here, where Scottish outlaws used to hide from the law. If you’ve not spent all day at the nature reserve, stop off at Drum Castle on your way to your final stop on the trip: Aberdeen!

If you have time left over, consider heading 25 minutes south of Aberdeen the following day for the spectacular cliffside Dunnottar Castle.

• Best Things to Do: Muir of Dinnet Nature Reserve, Drum Castle
• Where to Eat: Number One Community Cafe (Banchory), Books and Beans and Monkfish Cafe (Aberdeen)
• Where to Stay: Aberdeen Youth Hostel , Charming Flat with Stunning Sea Views, Modern City Centre Apartment.
• From: Aberdeen
• To: Inverness
• Total Distance: 116miles/187km
• Days: 3 days
• Top Road Trips Stops: Pitfichie Forest, Glenlivet Distillery, Cawdor Castle, Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre

Our last Scottish Highlands road trip idea encompasses everything visitors come to Scotland for. As well as the stunning views you’ll get as you trundle along, there are plenty of opportunities for adventures. Whether that’s mountain biking through a forest, hitting up ancient castles, or enjoying a spot of whisky, this is the road trip for you – and it can be done in as little as two to three days. But hey, if you take longer to do it, who are we to judge?!

• Pitfitchie Forest
• The Lecht 2090
• Glenlivet Distillery
• Cawdor Castle
• Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre

Day 1: Aberdeen to Pitfichie Forest (0.75 hours)

The first part of this road trip is a short one, but you’re going to be spending a lot of time at Pitfichie – especially if you’re an outdoor enthusiast! There are trails throughout the forest. The popular Cairn William Trail is a loop of almost 12 miles where you can really enjoy the Scottish countryside. There are several mountain biking tracks crisscrossing the park, including the scarily named Devil’s Staircase. This is a popular place for mountain biking championships. We figured after such a busy and tiring day here, you’d like somewhere comfy and cosy to stay before the next leg of your Scottish Highlands road trip! If you’d prefer an indoor attraction, visit Castle Fraser Garden & Estate instead.

• Best Things to Do: Tackle the mountain biking trails or enjoy a tranquil but challenging walk on the trails of Pitfichie Forest. Castle Fraser.
• Where to Eat: Grant Arms Cafe B&B, Monymusk
• Where to Stay: Relaxing Residence , Netherton Farm Lodge

Day 2: Pitfichie Forest to Grantown via Corgarff and Glenlivet (1.5 hours)

Your legs might still be hurting after your day in Pitfichie, so day two is a little more chilled out. Carry on west into the Cairngorms National Park and stop at Corgarff Castle. It may not be the grandest castle in Scotland, but this fortified farmhouse has a rich history. The views are enough to draw you here, though! After a few shots fit for Insta, jump back in the car and head to the Glenlivet Distillery. Choose to stay here or carry on to Grantown – depending on if you’ve had a drink or not. If you arrive in Grantown early enough, explore local art and history at the town museum.

If you want to continue in a similar vein to day one, head to the Lecht 2090 instead. This offers snow sports in winter and epic mountain biking in summer.

• Best Things to Do: Corgarff Castle, Glenlivet Distillery, The Lecht 2090 (for outdoor enthusiasts)
• Where to Eat: The Croft Inn (Ballindalloch), The Wee Puffin (Grantown).
• Where to Stay:   Stag Shed Bunkhouse (Glenlivet), Charming Quaint Cottage (Grantown)

Day 3: Grantown to Inverness (0.75 hours)

Day three is light on the driving again. While day one allowed you to explore the natural beauty of the highlands and day two mixed that with culture and history, day three is the day that history buffs have been waiting for. Leave Grantown and head to Cawdor Castle, an excellent example of a turreted tower. It’s more than 600 years old and shares its name with the castle in Macbeth.

Park up here to take advantage of the surrounding nature trails. Don’t spend too long though, because there’s one more stop before your trip ends in Inverness. That’s Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre. This is where the last battle took place in the UK. Not to be missed!

• Best Things to Do:  Cawdor Castle, Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre.
• Where to Eat:  Cawdor Tavern (Cawdor) Curry Hoose (Culloden), Rocpool, Fig & Thistle (both Inverness)
• Where to Stay:  Bazpackers Hostel , Cottage by Culloden Battlefield ,  Clava Cairns Tiny Eco House

Unless you already live in the UK, the best way to see the Scottish Highlands is by renting a car. The roads are mostly quite good in the Highlands, but they can be a little narrow. Pick a car (or van/motorhome) that you feel confident driving on twisty and technical roads.

The good thing about driving up here is that roads are rarely crowded; sometimes you can go for hours without seeing anyone else. As the roads are quite fun to drive on, be aware of motorbikes. Having some sort of breakdown cover is a good idea too, as one of our writers found out on their way to Skye!

Renting a Vehicle in the Scottish Highlands

Renting a vehicle is easy in Scotland’s cities. If there’s a group of you, splitting the cost makes it quite affordable. Rental companies in the UK are generally reliable, but there are a few things you should know before you arrange to pick up your car.

• Age Surcharge:  While you can drive from the age of 17 in the UK, some rental companies have a minimum age limit of 22. For many companies, driver surcharges for under 25s are around £30 – £40 per day.
• Bond/Deposit:  You’ll be expected to pay a deposit to drive away. It can be anything from £200 – £500. You’ll get it back if the car’s returned in the same condition it left in, so make sure you note any scuffs or scratches and bring them to the attention of the company.
• Additional Driver Charge:  Want to split the driving? Companies will offer you the option of an additional driver. This can start from around £10 per day, company dependent.
• Insurance:  Even the most basic cover sold from a rental company is going to cost you an arm and a leg, and you can’t drive off the forecourt without it. Instead of being ripped off, check out RentalCover.com . They can cover your road trip in Scotland, giving you peace of mind without taking a huge chunk out of your budget.

Don’t have a car? Well, we’re going to have to sort that out! Use rentalcars.com to find the best deals on the web and save heaps of cash!

Road Rules in Scottish Highlands

The UK is one of four countries in Europe that drives on the left. The others are Cyprus, Iceland, and Ireland. Don’t forget to give way to traffic coming from the right at roundabouts!

Scotland is the strictest part of the UK when it comes to drink-driving laws. The legal limit of alcohol is 50mg per 100ml of blood. However, we’d suggest you play it safe and stay away from alcohol unless you’ve finished driving for the day.

Other things to note – if you’re travelling with children, they’ll need a booster seat if they’re under 1.35m. Also, using your mobile phone is illegal and can leave you with a £200 on the spot fine. UK drivers will get six points on their license, too.

Now that we’ve got you clued up on the boring bits, we’re at the part you’ve been waiting for: let’s check out four of the best Scottish Highland road trip ideas!

Insurance in Scottish Highlands

All cars on UK roads need at least 3rd party insurance cover. However, this is the bare minimum, and it covers fire and theft. Hopefully, you won’t get into a collision, but it’s best to prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Look at full protection from RentalCover.com, which provides not only fully comprehensive insurance but also roadside assistance.

As well as insurance requirements, you’ll need to have your vehicle registration and/or ownership documents with you during your trip.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

If you’re not careful, Scottish Highlands’s wilderness will smack ya to next Monday.  There are six road trip essentials I never go traveling without:

1. First Aid Kit : Even if you don’t plan on doing anything extreme on your trip, like hiking, climbing, or other extreme sports, you never know what could happen. You could cut yourself while cooking, smash a finger in a car door, or burn yourself on a hot radiator. A first aid kit will be able to handle most of these minor situations.

2. Aux Cord : One of the only things to do on a long car ride by yourself is to listen to music or a podcast. Since most people use their phones as an MP3 player these days, an auxillary cord is crucial to preserving your sanity. If there is no auxiliary port in your car, buy a radio transceiver or use a portable speaker.

3. Phone mount :  It’s very dangerous to be looking down at your phone while driving. If you need to have access to your phone, for maps and what-not, buy a mount for it. This way, you can keep your eyes on the road and your phone won’t be far from your field of view.

4. Headtorch : Every backpacker should have a head torch! A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must. Currently, I’m using the Petzl Actik Core rechargeable headlamp – an awesome piece of kit! Because it’s USB chargeable I never have to buy earth polluting batteries.

5. Roadside Emergency Kit : Just like you never know what could happen to yourself , one never knows what can happen to their car . A vehicle can mysteriously fail, break, run into a ditch; all that and then some. Most emergency kit include a pair of jumper cables, a tow rope, a set of essential tools, and ties.

6. Toiletry Bag : I always travel with a hanging toiletry bag as it’s a super-efficient way to organise your bathroom stuff. Well worth having, whether you are hanging it from a tree whilst camping, or a hook in a wall, it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

For plenty more inspiration on what to pack, check out my full road trip packing list.

Now that we’ve covered the best road trips in the Scottish Highlands, we guess you’re already grabbing your car keys or looking up rental sites.

Driving in the Scottish Highlands really opens up one of the most beautiful parts of Europe. You’ll see from above that you don’t even need to do a long trip to see a range of different landscapes. How many places allow you to walk along a deserted beach and scale a Munro the following day?!

Whichever road trip you choose, there’s nothing quite like a road trip in the Scottish Highlands. Get ready to be swept off your feet!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sophie Steinebach

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• The Great Outdoors

The very best driving roads in Scotland

Tom Ford finds out if Scotland has any decent driving roads

A lap of Scotland. Sounds simple enough, you would think. But, this being TopGear, it started... confusedly. An initial foray into the dark art of crowdsourcing TG reader opinion nearly melted the internet and caused a social media capacity blackout over Western Europe. According to TopGear readers, there are a lot of pain-of-death-unmissable roads in Scotland, which subsequently required a whole day of plotting and an entire pink marker pen to pull together into some sort of Saltire mega-circuit. But that rosy highlighter did not give its life in vain, and we ended up with the most tortuous, meandering, circuitous, deviant, beautiful ramble of a 1,643-mile route around Scotland ever created.

There's just one problem: the car. Because the perfect vehicle for this particular route would have to be capable of so many mutually exclusive disciplines it would need to be made of shape-shifting sorcery. After all, the Scottish lap would require it to be economical and comfortable (to get there and back in the first place), and big enough to carry kit without feeling several months pregnant. It would then need to magically transform into something small and lithe when the good roads made an appearance. Which inevitably led to thoughts of either a) an improbable high-performance diesel version of the Lotus Evora and a lack of spare underwear or b) a big diesel truck with something interesting slung on a trailer.

But then the lateral thinking took a back seat. You need to flap the wings you're given. So we decided to take the TopGear Garage BMW 640d Gran Coupe. It makes sense. This car is about compromise, but in the best ways. It can be a long-distance hauler with enough space for four (five at a pinch), and it delivers decent fuel economy (45+mpg, equating to a just under 600-mile tank range) and yet comes equipped with enough bhp (313 of them) and torque (464lb ft) and a rear-drive chassis useful enough to make life interesting when the roads turn twisty. Ok, so the roads might have to be plus-size for comfort, the 640d being on the big side, but you get the idea. So, one bitter-cold Tuesday morning, we loaded the 640d GC with kit, filled it with fuel and set off, with just a clipboard of pinkly-promising routes and a hankering for adventure. The Lap of Scotland had begun.

Only it hadn't, because Scotland is still miles from where I live in England. So the road trip had to wait some five or six hours until we'd dispatched a great wandery swathe of A1 to get to the Borders. Immediately, I knew we had brought the right car. We did it in one hit, with fuel to spare, backsides that retained circulation and with a stereo powerful enough to drown out Justin the photographer's prodigious snoring. In fact, you tend to lose bladder capacity long before the GC requires refuelling, and the way it hums through the anaesthetic of a motorway journey, those long tranches of got-to-be-done, is a joy. Diesel Rohypnol: you get there and don't remember how. It whipped us to Scotland like a large brown private jet, and you could sense the self-satisfaction from Carlisle to Coldstream.

Pictures: Justin Leighton

BORDER PATROL: FINALLY, IT BEGINS

Which, incidentally, is where we crossed the border, and the Lap began in earnest. Now, Coldstream (home of the famous Guards) sits on the northern bank of the River Tweed in Berwickshire and considers itself the gateway to the Borders of Scotland, which is why it felt appropriate as a starting point. There's a ‘Welcome to Scotland' type sign, but no passport control or barbed wire, and the border guard consisted of a small brown terrier, who just huffed at our ankles as we checked maps. Coldstream is a gateway, though. There's a feeling of change as soon as you pass through that putative portal of Scottishness. Maybe the air's a touch sweeter, the verges a bit greener. Maybe it's just being excited to be here. But the roads open out after the little village, a taster of what's to come.

Immediately, I know we've brought the wrong car. The GC feels massive and a bit fuzzy around the edges, groping around for body control and unsure of where it might end up if pushed. But Borders roads roll and pitch through a heavy swell of green countryside and stone walls without the sudden random arcs of UK roads, so I prod the GC into Sport mode from the lazy confines of either Eco or Comfort+, the latter two better to use the adaptive suspension to round off the corners and soothe the bumps on the motorway. The car tenses up, becomes more eager on the throttle and less inclined to roll and heave. It feels faster - as if someone's just thrown a bucket of icy water on its face and a coffee down its throat. The big BMW shrinks. You may still be aware of the size, but suddenly you know where the edges are, and the 640d starts to lean into the traces and haul. The trade off is that now we know the exact texture of the road, hit a couple of unsighted potholes and suddenly wonder where the spare and jack are, the GC crunching through larger depressions with the finesse of tooth enamel on kerbstone.

But these roads are an encouraging welcome to Scotland. Not much fun in the streaming wet, mind, but well sighted. We pass the first few miles to Kelso on the A698 and then to St Boswells on the A699 in a happy blur, eventually picking out some side roads to Galashiels and looping around to catch the A7 up toward Edinburgh.

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A822 crieff to dunkeld: miles and miles of lovely.

So far, so good. The A7's a bit ordinary compared to some of the stuff we've just driven up, but it does the job. There's a huge temptation to visit Edinburgh, but we have to crack on, so it's another long loop around the A720 to the M8, then the M90 to Perth - bit of a diversion, this - so that we can run the A85 towards Crieff before picking up the A822 to Dunkeld. Then it's the A923 to Blairgowrie, and across east, marvelling at the traffic-free roads and rolling hills. And there are miles and miles of good roads. Exceptional roads. Roads you don't really find anywhere else.

So here's the thing. Once you start obsessing about particular bits of Scottish tarmac, you want to drive them again and again. But on the Lap, we can't. So we hoick back, grab the A90 and haul to Stonehaven, barely pausing for breath. Having stocked up on Jaffa Cakes, we run the A957 Stonehaven Slug Road to Crathes and then Banchory, pick up an old military road to Aboyne and then whip our way up to Ballater, Tomintoul, Grantown astride the Spey and, finally, Nairn. It's a tiring trip at this pace, with little relaxation, but the views and glorious roads are definitely worth it.

THROUGH THE FOREST PARK TO NAIRN

It's up here through the Glenmore Forest Park to the east of Aviemore when it all starts to feel more... Scottish. The palette swaps spectra from green to brown, the roads start to tighten and constrict. The trees pull back, as if suspicious of going further north, and the bracken and gorse spread like a glorious infection. It's beautiful and worth a pause, but we've been taking too long, even at this pace. So we head down the A96 towards Culloden and Inverness, find the A9 again and run across the Dornoch Firth all the way up the eastern coast of Scotland via the A99 to Wick. Seems a shame to do it in the dark, but there's too much ground to cover, and too few daylight hours.

THE NORTH BEGINS. THE PROPER NORTH

Next day, it's up and out and the northernmost reaches. More miles, and we arrive at John O'Groats, more to say that we've been than for the scenery, which, when compared with the rest of what Scotland has to offer, is more than a little bare. Strange little eco-hut holiday homes huddle on the promontory of land, exposed and fearful-looking. Scotland being so chock-full of the divine, it just seems a weird place to invest in the view. But there's a charm to the land hereabouts, the summer weather adding to the sense of calm. Though I doubt it looks so appealing when a big storm decides to stomp its way in from the sea. The wide moor-like stretches lend themselves to fun roads - with long lanes curling around the countryside. Unfortunately, they're full of tourist traffic, so we spear off west in search of something a little less crowded. Within an hour, we find it. Oh boy, we find it.

REVELATION. IT DOESN'T GET BETTER THAN THIS

The A836 to Tongue is one of the best roads in Europe. I have never seen another quite like it. The sign announces that the perfectly surfaced, wide two-lane is the product of some excellent European funding initiative. And it is, by all that's holy, deserted. And this isn't some miserly scratch of twisty road, this is a good 20 miles of stunning. The big BMW laps it up, swooshing imperiously across the countryside, feeling made for it. We couldn't have picked a better car.

We slip neatly onto the A838, and eventually run across the stonebuilt causeway towards Durness, basking in uncommon sunshine. But as we scoot around the bottom of Loch Eriboll, I know we've brought the wrong car. There are single-track roads here, notched with passing places, and the 640d feels huge and bossy and flash. Mind you, there's not a car on the planet that could go fast in these conditions, the roads tight and furnished with desperate margins, jumbled with crests and dips that lie about where the road goes next. And there are other people. Middle-aged bikers on rented BMW Tourers. Swarms of grey packed into minibuses or mounted in small retirement-spec motorhomes, dawdling at the view. But you can't blame them - when the weather is good, this scenery becomes a thief, stealing your breath. The skyline keeps expanding, the horizon crowded with less and less Sapiens clutter, until it feels like you might just fall off the edge of the world and into the sky.

And then it hits me. So far, in 80 per cent of the Scotland we've seen, dullness has been notably absent. And that's the thing. In England we had to stitch together great driving or sightseeing roads with swathes of mind-rotting motorway. In Scotland, it's been incessant. We're not looking at 10 or 15 miles of glorious; we're faced with hundreds of miles of awe. A country's worth of magic. We're not even halfway through.

SOUTHWARD BOUND - THE INCREDIBLE WEST OF SCOTLAND

Of course, there's more. We head west and south towards Lochinver on the B869, taking weird little side roads, just for the hell of it. Drovers' roads, scored into hillsides by the hooves of sheep and cows. Immediately, I know we've brought the wrong car. Big, technological, bruising BMW does not want to inch its way down a farm track, does not suit the grime and the cow poo. Although it doesn't show on the brown paintwork. It takes time to pick our way through the backwaters, and though these little places are wonderful to behold, islands of perfect isolation, they certainly aren't good driving roads. So we take the A837 past Loch Assynt and south on the A835 towards Ullapool.

GOD KNOWS, BUT IT'S PRETTY

It's starting to get a bit silly now. We turn corners and are consistently ambushed by the glory of the view. Mugged of metaphor. Completely stuck for sensible simile. Brains become devoid of intelligence. Poets would be struck dumb, their inspiration adrift. How do you describe something so wild and free and enormous and brimming with portent?

"This place is well cool", says Justin, without apparent irony, and heavy italics. "Yeah, it's like... y'know... wow," I reply.

We've stopped by the side of the road, and the Highlands of Scotland are spread astride the view. The weather is cool and clear, and in the distance there's an electrical storm with the sun behind it, so that big, thick celestial shafts spear down through frowning black clots of cloud, occasionally lit from behind by striking lightning. Sod Hollywood. Special effects and CGI haven't got a patch on this. For a start, I can smell the ozone and feel the pressure in my ears. It feels like the end of days. We run as if it was, down through roads that lurk in the shadow of stands of pine, skimming by Loch Torridon on the A896, and running across the Applecross Pass (Bealach na Bà) before heading south to Strathcarron on the A890.

FORT WILLIAN BOUND - ALMOST TOO MUCH

The funny thing about the Highlands is that it isn't pretty, really. This beauty is fierce and wild and full of edges sharp enough to draw blood, the mountains sheer and craggy. The sky above is the colour of a mortuary slab, a uniform grey, except for the western reaches where it darkens like a bruise. It's getting late again. So we run the A890 and A87 to Invergarry, then the A82 to Fort William, and fall into strange beds in an even stranger hotel. I'm running out of things to say. My head feels like it's about to pop.

DUE SOUTH - BACK TO NORMALITY. ALMOST

Next morning, it's the A82, A828 and A85 to Oban, and, at last, the view starts to calm down. Still incredible, but less hysterically attention-grabbing. The roads below Oban, around Loch Melfort and towards Lochgilphead are great fun, but busier than we've been used to these past couple of days, filled with some committed bikers, and less highland than the Highlands. Back up to Loch Lomond, the Trossachs National Park and some classic scenery, busier again, then Balloch and Greenock. Greenock feels a lonely, industrial place, and we run through an inner-city-style estate, groping blindly for a road we found on a map that cuts across the Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park towards Largs. We drive out of the estate up what looks like a dead end, and within four hundred yards are back out on the moorland, slightly startled. Seems like surprise is commonplace on this trip. But these one-track roads really are too claustrophobic in the 640d, so we head down towards Girvan and then Barrhill, and cut across the Galloway Forest Park and run the old Queen's Way to Castle Douglas. And it feels like the show is coming to a close - the view becomes more familiar to me, more English.

STARTING EAST AGAIN: AND THE FINISH

Tired, it's a simple thing to take the A75 to Dumfries, the A701 to Moffat, the A708 to Selkirk, up to Galashiels and then across to Coldstream to close the Lap. Three days is all it took to skim the surface of Scotland, to briefly dash around the edges.

But it was enough to figure out that there's so much more to see. Wise to the fact that we know very little, have seen not enough. But I wonder how many English people obsess about running south into Europe for their road-trip escape, and forget to look up to Scotland first. To one of the most beautiful places in the world. Another country, but not so far from home.

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10 Best Road Trips in Europe [2024 Europe Road Trips Guide]

F act: road trip destinations don’t get much better than Europe. From the winding alpine roads of Switzerland and France to the spectacular coastal routes in Italy and Ireland, there are more incredible road trips in Europe than you can shake a stick at!

Furthermore, there are road trips for all occasions and interests. The best road trips in Europe take you through wine country, around lakes, into ancient towns, and up sweeping mountain passes. Truly, whether you have an afternoon or an entire month available, if you’re looking for an epic adventure, a cultural experience, or a simple break from the city, there’s a European road trip that’s up to the task.

The tricky part’s deciding which one to do first! To help, we’re going to reveal 10 of the best Europe road trips available – whether you go in a car, a campervan , or on a motorbike. Let’s dive in.

The Best Road Trips in Europe

Wild atlantic way in ireland.

The Wild Atlantic Way is an epic road trip that runs 1600 miles (2600km) along the west coast of Ireland. One of the world’s longest-defined coastal routes, it starts from Derry in the north and ends at the pretty town of Kinsale, County Cork, in the south.

Wild in both name and nature, driving the entire distance will reveal the very best of Ireland’s rugged, ancient, and weather-beaten coastline. You’ll pass through stunning countryside and picturesque villages, bearing witness to historic monuments, towering cliffs, and legendary landscapes at every turn.

A few highlights of the route include:

• The magical Cliffs of Moher
• Slieve League (a mountain in Country Donegal whose name in Irish means “mountain of stone pillars”)
• The lively and historic town of Galway, and
• The Ring of Kerry (another famous European road trip)

North Coast 500 in Scotland

The North Coast 500 (NC500) is Scotland’s answer to Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. Widely regarded as the best road trip in Scotland, it brings together 500+ miles of the country’s most impressive scenery, sights, and attractions.

Passing through the notorious Highlands, your mind will boggle at the remote and unblemished beauty on display. Quaint fishing villages, sugar-soft white sand beaches, age-old lochs, rugged mountains, and sites of historical significance are just a few of the hidden gems you can expect to encounter.

Starting and finishing in Inverness – the UK’s northernmost city – you hug the coast of Scotland along a series of existing roads that form a loop around the top of the country. This road trip was actually only established in 2014 but quickly became popular among locals and visitors alike. A few highlights of the route include:

• The huge Smoo Cave, which was formed by both sea and rainwater (making it unique in the UK)
• The ruins of Ardvreck Castle at Loch Assynt
• The wildlife (especially the infamous highland deer!)
• The mile-long Corrieshallock Gorge, complete with a Victorian suspension bridge that crosses it

Check out our guide to things to do in Edinburgh, Scotland .

Atlantic Road in Norway

Often referred to as one of the most beautiful drives on the planet, the Atlantic Road in Norway is a real sight to behold. A unique route and remarkable feat of engineering, the road connects Averoy with the mainland, snaking out over the ocean in a series of small islands and bridges.

Proof that the best road trips in Europe aren’t always the longest, the Atlantic Road itself is only 5 miles (8km) long. Officially, it runs from Karvag to Vevang. However, it forms one section of a longer National Tourist Route between Bud and Kristiansund – the entirety of which is worth driving.

A phenomenal road trip, it’ll be a struggle to keep your eyes on the road as you gaze at the coastal scenery – views that chop and change depending on the weather conditions you happen to experience at the time.

Explore more of Norway! Here are the best things to do in Oslo , family-friendly things to do in Bergen , and our guide to exploring Norway’s fjords .

Almafi Coast in Italy

The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most popular travel destinations. And for a good reason! This 30-mile (50km) stretch of coastline is unlike any other on the planet.

Colorful old villages sit atop sheer cliffs, with cerulean waters below reflecting the blue skies and blazing sun above . Beautiful beaches and hikes litter the area, matched only by the mass of restaurants, bars, shopping opportunities…and tourists!

Trust us, a road trip along this inimitable coastline is hard to beat. Driving down the Amalfi Coast road, otherwise known as the SS163, will leave you speechless.

A staggering stretch of tarmac, it hugs the cliffs and winds through pristine, pastel-colored towns – starting in Sorrento and heading south past Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, and Vietri sul Mare. Take it slow, stop to explore each town, and fall in love with the aptly-named Divina Costiera (AKA the Divine Coast).

Arctic Coast Way in Iceland

You’ll find another of the best road trips in Europe in Iceland. One of the most picturesque countries on earth, it’s full of incredible sights and natural wonders – as well as infamous driving routes that take you past some of its most iconic attractions.

Chief among Iceland’s famous road trips is the Arctic Coast Way. This epic, 560-mile (900km) journey runs along the country’s northern coast, encompassing six peninsulas and just as many islands. The whole route takes anywhere from 3 to 12 days to drive, and a 4×4 is recommended for the trip.

This is nature at its finest, and you’ll pass a huge array of unforgettable attractions. Indeed, it’d require an entire article to provide a complete list of Arctic Coast highlights! To keep things short, here are a select few items to add to your Iceland road trip itinerary:

• The Hofsos swimming pool, with its mindblowing views over the ocean
• The Hofsos basalt columns that rival the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland
• Humpback whale watching
• The geothermal sea baths at Husavik
• The Arctic Henge in Raufarhofn

Transfagarasan Highway in Romania

Welcome to what’s arguably Romania’s best-known road – not to mention one of its most popular tourist attractions.

Over 93 miles (150km) in length and with countless twists and turns, the Transfagarasan Highway looks like it was built solely to please road trippers! Expect switchback after switchback through a stunning landscape , leading up to an impressive high point of 6500 feet and exceptional views over the surrounding area.

The road cuts a striking sight – especially from above. Another amazing feat of engineering, it winds back and forth up a beautiful natural gorge, passes through tunnels, and crosses the Vidraru Dam (offering a fantastic look at the eponymous lake in the process).

Be sure to take your time and stop at the viewing points as you go. This is partly to stay safe on the ascent! But, with so much beauty on display, it’s mainly so you can make the most of the Transfagarasan Highway’s unbelievable scenery.

Ready to explore the Romanian capitol? Here are 10 great activities in Bucharest, Romania to enjoy with kids .

Route Napoleon in France

Route Napoleon isn’t just one of the best road trips in Europe. It’s also one of the most famous.

Following an escape route that Napoleon Bonaparte took in the early 19 th Century, the journey takes you 200 miles (325km) from the coastal town of Golfe-Juan, in the French Riviera, all the way north to the city of Grenoble.

The route’s as scenic as it is historic, too, passing a wide range and ever-changing landscapes from sweet-smelling lavender fields and pine forests to rolling hills, rocky outcrops, gorges, and mountains. Get ready for stunning vistas and equally impressive roads at every turn.

Trekaroo Tip: You can stick with tradition and attempt this Europe road trip in the same direction as Napoleon (from south to north). Yet many people choose to do it from north to south instead. That way, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea when you approach the French Riviera at the end.

Romantic Road in Germany

Romantic in both name and nature, this wonderful road trip is one of the very best in Germany. The Romantische Straße , as it’s called there, is 285 miles (460km) long and takes you through a slew of charming towns and jaw-dropping countryside, complete with ancient castles that look like something straight out of a Disney movie!

As for how long this road trip takes, consider giving yourself between three and four days to go from the start, in Wurzburg, until the end in Fussen. To prolong your German adventure, we recommend spending another couple of days in Munich afterward. Located just over 1.5 hours away from Fussen, the Capital of Bavaria is a popular travel destination in its own right.

Oberalp Pass in Switzerland

Searching for another iconic European road to drive down? Look no further than Oberalp Pass (AKA Route 19) in Switzerland.

Located at over 6,719 feet (2,048m) above sea level, this high mountain pass in the Swiss Alps connects the Graubunden and Uri cantons. However, all you really need to know is that it’s utterly phenomenal! Just under 20 miles long, the pass runs from Disentis to Andermatt and provides unbelievable views of the surrounding mountains at every twist and turn in the road.

Steep and riddled with switchbacks, the pass is magnificent. Take note, though: Oberalp Pass is usually impassable between the end of October through April (although the final dates depend on how much snow and meltwater are present).

Read our full guide to visiting Switzerland with kids .

Glossglockner High Alpine Road in Austria

Last but not least on this list of the best road trips in Europe is the Glossglockner High Alpine Road in Austria – the highest paved mountain road in the country.

Popular with cyclists and sports car enthusiasts alike, this memorable toll route climbs up to an almighty 8215 feet (2504m) above sea level in a mere 30 miles (48km), with no fewer than 36 hairpin bends along the way. It runs from Fusch-Furleiten in Salzburg to Heiligenblut in Carinthia, taking you into the stunning Hohe Tauern National Park in the process.

Once again, this European road trip isn’t available all year round. It’s usually open from the start of May until the end of October, although inclement weather conditions can restrict access to the road at any time of year.

As you can tell, thanks to its countless scenic roads and awe-inspiring landscapes, this diverse continent across the pond is a haven for anyone with a penchant for road trips. In fact, there are so many routes available that picking one can feel impossible!

With any luck, the options in this post will have given you some useful inspiration for which European road trip to do first. From the stunning Swiss Alps to the rugged coastline of Ireland, any of them is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Danny Newman is a digital nomad and freelance writer with a deep passion for travel. He’s also mad about #vanlife and offers fellow enthusiasts wide-ranging advice and inspiration on the topic over at campervantips.com .

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A car-free trip in the Scottish Highlands: I’d have missed so much if I’d driven

A popular circuit round Scotland’s wild north coast draws thousands of drivers – but there’s so much more to experience by public transport and on foot

T here’s a party atmosphere round the lighthouse on Chanonry Point near Inverness, the UK’s best place to see dolphins from land. It’s an hour after low tide and there are pipers, picnics and kids running barefoot over long, evening sands. Already in late spring, the sun barely seems to set in the Highlands. The kelp-strewn pebbles are glowing as I walk from the bus stop near Fortrose cathedral ( bus 26/26A from Inverness) along one side of the promontory. The dolphins don’t show up. But, somehow, it’s fine – the first of many reasons to return. It’s still light as I walk back along the beach for a 9pm bus, past wild lupins and views of Fort George and pink clouds over the Moray Firth. I’m in Inverness at the start of a week exploring Scotland’s wild north coast by train and bus.

The North Coast 500 is a victim of its own success. Devised in 2015, in the style of America’s Route 66, this 516-mile circular road trip round northern Scotland draws thousands of drivers and motor homers every year to narrow roads with bottleneck passing places. Locals complain that the route’s popularity has driven up house prices and talk in terms of pre- and post-NC500. A few cyclists cover all or part of the route by bike. I’m exploring some of it by public transport and on foot. It takes a bit of planning. I’m used to the mild frustration of missing an hourly bus; missing a weekly one is another matter. But first, there’s an epic railway journey to enjoy.

The Far North Line winds past coast and woodland, moor and mountain on its four-hour journey from Inverness up to Thurso (advance tickets £16 each way, scotrail.co.uk ). One end of Cromarty Firth, one of three huge estuaries, is all reedbeds, waterbirds and hares in the long grass. The far end is studded with disused oil rigs, towed here when they’re not needed in the North Sea. Across the wide blue of Dornoch Firth, I can just make out Skibo Castle , a huge baronial mansion that was the Scottish home of steel tycoon Andrew Carnegie. Later, there’s a half-timbered station house and a glimpse of turrets above the trees as we pass Dunrobin Castle . The railway runs beside the sea between Brora and Helmsdale, past miles of deserted sand and rocks bristling with cormorants.

In the middle of blanket-bogged Flow Country , we stop at Forsinard, where the old station house is an RSPB visitor centre and a surfaced trail leads through bird-rich lochans. Some kids on the path wave cheerfully at the train and a deer runs past the window. Broch, broch, hut circle, cairn insists the map in gothic lettering. I can usually see only the more recently ruined circular sheepfolds, but it’s clear this is a huge and ancient landscape. There are intricately carved Pictish stones and Viking shield bosses at the North Coast visitor centre in Thurso.

After half an hour’s onward journey, through cotton-grassed moorland dotted with glittering lochs, I arrive on bus 803 in Melvich. I walk through dunes to the beach, where oystercatchers are flying over peat-tinged waves. In neighbouring Portskerra, there are purple orchids, columbines and carpets of squill with starry sky-blue flowers beside a clifftop path and the clear, sheltered waters of the harbour are perfect for a bracing high-tide dip. Warming up in the Coastline Coffee Shop , I tell a fellow swimmer I’m worried about missing the twice-daily weekday bus along the coast tomorrow and she laughs and says someone would probably give me a lift.

Very early next morning, I do catch bus 274 to Bettyhill , where the Strathnaver Museum reopened in April 2023 after a big refurbishment. In an old church near the white sand beaches of Farr Bay, the museum houses all kinds of curios from a bronze age beaker to a dog-skin buoy. There’s plenty of info about Clan Mackay and the Highland clearances that still feel freshly tragic to some people living locally. “I hate sheep,” says one woman, whose grandfather was forced to move. Later, rambling along quiet lanes near Tongue, I pass a roadside memorial to the local Gaelic poet Ewen Robertson. He wrote poignantly about the clearances, which evicted crofting communities from the land they had farmed. Some of Robertson’s best-known lines curse the sheep and the perfidious duke for making Sutherland a desert.

From Tongue, it’s a four-mile walk to Kinloch Lodge , where a group of us are meeting for a hike, through blue milkwort flowers and aromatic bog myrtle, to remote Loch an Dithreibh. It’s organised by the team from Feragaia , a distinctive alcohol-free Scottish spirit, distilled in Fife from a bunch of plants like west coast sugar kelp, lemon verbena, and blackcurrant leaves from a farm in Perthshire. The hike is led by a ranger from Wildland , a long-term conservation project that featured in David Attenborough’s Wild Isles. Their work includes re-establishing woods and restoring wetlands.

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Kinloch Lodge, where we’re staying, is one of Wildland’s portfolio of posh properties. Outside, the many peaks of Ben Loyal are crowned with cloud or lit by a coppery sunset. Other places to stay locally include the Tongue hotel , a Victorian lodge with wood panels, open fires and mountain views, recently revamped by the Highland Coast Hotels group (doubles from £158 B&B). There’s a hostel too, right on the coast near the wide Kyle of Tongue (doubles from £70, room-only).

Next day, I follow a signed path over the rust-red Rhian Burn, through streamside bluebells and bright yellow broom flowers, up to Castle Varrich . The steel viewing platform, added by Wildland in 2017, looks out over mountains and sea loch. Back down in the village, there are gnarled beech trees, duck eggs for sale, a lone fisher on the crumbling pier, and Tongue House, another former seat of Clan Mackay. The Norse Bakehouse serves up home-cooked Italian food, and the blue-and-gold view from the garden is one of many postcard-ready seascapes.

I’m leaving tomorrow via Inverness, where the Caledonian Sleeper , taken over last year by the Scottish government, sets off six nights a week (seats from £55 Inverness to Crewe and London Euston). Walking to the bus stop in Tongue next morning, past heather-sunk rocks with strange markings, the sunshine is bright enough to keep the midges at bay. There are so many things I might have missed if I drove along this road instead of walking: a marbled white butterfly on the coconut-smelling gorse, wood sorrel under lime-green birches, the sound of mountain streams, and the cuckoo calling hoarsely over the valley.

This trip was supported by Feragaia and Visit Scotland

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