scottish western isles road trip

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Outer Hebrides Road Trip: Your 1 Week Itinerary for the Western Isles

If you want to experience the wilds of Scotland, a road trip through the Outer Hebrides is a great introduction. Here’s my itinerary to help you plan your Western Isles adventure.

Go on a road trip to the Outer Hebrides and you’ll avoid the crowds of the almighty North Coast 500, and get to see some of the most open and free parts of Scotland. 

I went to the Outer Hebrides with my friend and fellow travel blogger, Helen in Wonderlust. Sounds incredibly stupid now, but I hadn’t quite realised I’d planned a road trip to the Outer Hebrides, as I was going off Instagram pictures I’d seen. Genuinely thought I was going on a road trip to the Western Isles –  who knew it was the same thing, hey? 

Anyway, confession over, let me guide you through our Outer Hebrides road trip, so you can do the same (one day!). 

Click to see the Outer Hebrides Road Trip Route Map

This was our basic route for the Outer Hebrides road trip. I planned it two weeks before – the day before I went to Norfolk for four days – so, it was a skeleton of an idea, which we planned to flesh out while we were there. 

I’d originally planned more destinations, including Ullapool, but when it came to booking the ferries I realised it was just too much.

Just a warning, booking the ferries for our Outer Hebrides road trip was more complicated than I thought. Knowing the names of the ferry ports, planning the timings and connections, and then, knowing if they had space was harder than I planned. This probably took me about three hours, but with this guide you’ll be able to do it in way less.

More tips on actually booking the Outer Hebrides road trip below. 

So, let’s get onto the Western Isles road trip itinerary, shall we?

Day 1: Driving through Loch Lomond

After driving up from Portsmouth, where I live and about 275 miles away, the day before, we actually set off from Preston. Managed to swing by Tebay Services to drop £50 on snacks, as if we could afford it.

And, after a great drive through the Lake District , we were in Scotland . Kinda daunting how Google Maps told me it was just straight for 174 miles on the motorway, but at least it kept the instructions easy to follow.

Loch Lomond things to do 

I needed a break, and so we pulled up to  Loch Lomond Shores , at the south of Loch Lomond. It’s a small shopping centre with a Sea Life Centre and a park, and a watersports hire place. We had a look round, went to the toilet, and left – weren’t really feeling the vibe. 

Instead we drove north, to the village of Luss. It’s known as one of the cutest villages around Loch Lomond, and so we went for lunch at The Village Rest . A popular spot where I enjoyed an amazing jacket potato and veggie curry – delicious. I’d 100% recommend. 

We went for a wander around Luss. Ended up buying a Scottish face mask (it was September 2020), seeing a stunning rainbow over the pier, and admiring the cute houses, the village is known for. There was also a great gift shop, and a lovely little coffee shop too. Definitely worth a stop off. 

We’d toyed with the idea of visiting Loch Katrine around the lock , and going on a Loch Katrine cruise , but the weather was threatening to change and we decided we were too tired. It was in the wrong direction. If you can fit it in though, and it’s not 2020, then take a look. Pack your women’s parka coat to keep you warm if you want to do this – there are some great ones at Trespass !

We stopped at Ardui instead. Took the time for a local beer and a quick go with the drone, and carried on. The scenery was great. 

It would’ve been great to explore the Loch more, but with the weather and driving distances, we decided to crack on and get settled for the night. If you did want to do some more  driving round Loch Lomond, there are some great scenic drives listed there. 

Loch Lomond accommodation

I managed to freak myself out by obsessively reading weather reports, and so ended up booking a ‘mountain hut’ at the Pine Trees Holiday Park at the last minute. Loved it. Seriously. Wasn’t even annoyed that the weather was fine and we would’ve been ok to camp, like I’d planned.

For £20 each a night we got this cool hut, with an intense heater and just a few steps away from a shared bathroom, with great showers. The owner was great here and it backed onto the Wild Hebridean Way, which I totally plan to do one day.

I had a little walk on it here…

I had actually paid for the camping round Loch Lomond already, as you can’t wild camp in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, like you can in the rest of Scotland. We paid £3. The weather scared me though, and staying at Pine Trees meant we didn’t have to drive too far the next day to Oban either. 

Here’s a MAP of the spots around Loch Lomond so you can decide if you want to do it or not.

Day 2: Oban to Castlebay (Barra)

I was so happy that I only had an hour’s drive to Oban from our accommodation, rather than the two on the original plan.

We stopped off for breakfast at The Real Food Cafe , just a minute’s drive from Pine Trees. Super clean, tasty breakfast baps, and a dedication to supporting toilets in Malawi, means this is a no brainer. Go!

We were warm, fed, and ready to get to the Outer Hebrides. 

When you’re driving round the lochs in this area you’ll see lots of places to park up on the road, and passing places too – take advantage! We stopped off at Glen Lothy to find the reflection of Ben Cruachan on the water was particularly special that day. 

Arriving in Oban

We wanted to have time to look round Oban, so we didn’t stop too long. As soon as I arrived in Oban I wished we had longer , but then after three hours, I think that was about right. Unless you’re going in season and not in 2020 – then you could join a boat tour, or visit the distillery. 

On our visit in September 2020 we looked round the souvenir shops, admired the restaurants and mooched about the Scottish produce shops. We walked to the North Pier, and then the other pier, and went and took the car to the ferry in good time. 

My hot tip for Oban would be the fish market at the ferry terminal. NOT the one with the tartan on but right next to the terminal building. You’ll find it as there’s a huge queue outside. Great price seafood, and super popular. This would be a good place to pick up some Scotland souvenirs to remember your trip by.

The ferry from Oban to Castlebay (which is Barra’s main port) leaves at 13:40 and gets in at 18:25. Don’t be late as it cost almost £100 for a car and two passengers!

Check in closes 45 minutes before it’s scheduled leaving time. 

Oh, and it’s not the North Ferry Terminal. It’s much bigger than that and over the other side. If there aren’t road signs, you’re in the wrong place. Also, you can go about an hour early and park up there to avoid paying around the city.

Oban to Barra by ferry

The ferry from Oban to Barra takes 5 hours. My mum had warned me before that it was sickening and rocky, and I shrugged it off. Heading into hour three, and it turned out she was right, as usual .

I was so seasick I couldn’t move.

I’d gone to get a drink downstairs, and Helen was upstairs and I seriously couldn’t muster my legs to go back and tell her where I was. It was rough. 

As soon as we arrived I was fine.

Thankfully.

But just to warn you.

Castlebay, Barra

We arrived onto Barra, to wind and rain, and so went to put up our tent at the Wavecrest Campsite. The guy there gave us the bright idea of camping on the hill, to be more private. We didn’t realise then quite what a mistake of an idea that was. 

Tent up by the beach, all proud of ourselves, off we trotted into Castlebay for some food.

We went to Cafe Kisimul, an Indian/ Italian restaurant that comes very highly rated online. I went for a chicken jalfrezi – which was even more delicious considering it was about 8pm, and the rollercoaster of a day we had. We ended up staying till closing, getting as much electricity into our phones, and hot food in our bellies as possible. 

Accommodation in Barra

As I’ve said, it was September 2020, COVID times (although this was a break where we were allowed to travel!). All Outer Hebrides hotels I could find online were a two-night minimum, and they said different households weren’t allowed to mix, which is why we ended up camping.

There is a hostel you could try in normal times, called Dunard Hostel, which was in a great location. 

Wavecrest Campsite was really basic. Three toilets and two showers in an industrial tanker thing, and that was about it. No Wi-Fi. It was by the beach though, and not far from the town, and the two members of staff were lovely. 

We barely got a wink of sleep that night though, thanks to the howling gales, our flapping tent, and the worry we were about to be blown into the sea. 

All good fun though, right?!

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Day 3: Vatersay and exploring Barra

Vatersay is a little island off Barra, with a population of just 90 people . It makes for a lovely slow drive to explore the island and see the amazing Outer Hebrides beaches surrounding .

Make Traigh a Bhaigh Beach your first port of call. It’s stunning.

The weather really made it for us, and the fact it was one of the few places in the whole Outer Hebrides road trip that I managed to get my drone up – so enjoy these pictures. 

There’s a cafe here that does operate, although not when we were there. Too early. You can park near here though and there are toilets when it’s open.

We just chilled on the beach, had a brew and admired the view. Would’ve loved a swim but also didn’t want to as we were camping. Spend as long as you can here!

We tried to drive round the island but you can’t actually go much further than this. Instead of driving on, you should walk over the dunes to Traigh Shiar Beach on the west coast. Gutted I missed it!

From here head off the island, and make sure you pull into Uidh Beach for pics. Again, more stunning coastline and views.

Back on Barra 

Any other time, you can enjoy Barra Surf Adventures Barra surf adventures – sea kayaking . There wasn’t any availability thanks to it being 2020, but just wanted to add it in here for future travels.

For brunch we headed to the Hebridean Toffee Cafe, where unfortunately they didn’t have any toffee ready for us to sample. Instead, we had two bacon sandwiches each. Needed it. 

If you do want toffee you can pop into the Buth Barraigh Community Shop. Here you’ll find all kinds of local treats and goodies. 

The big thing to do in Barra is to watch the plane come in on the only beach runway in the WORLD. We magically timed it just right and made it for the 12:15 arrival – felt like everyone in Barra was there waiting!

It was pretty impressive coming in. I’m sure the passengers felt like superstars with all of us waiting. 

Ferry from Barra to Eriskay

Then we headed to the ferry terminal – a different one to the one we arrived in on, at the north of the island. 

Both pretty shattered we ended up having a nap at the terminal, in the car. Was so nice with the sun streaming in.

There was a cafe there, with cakes and coffees, so a scone for an afternoon snack it was. 

Barra to Eriskay – departs 15:40 / arrives 16:20 £17 for a car and two passengers

We took the ferry over, and sat in the car missing all the supposedly beautiful views. Blummin COVID meant we weren’t allowed to get out and walk around.

Arriving into Eriskay, we drove up to South Uist, admiring the views as we went. We were desperate for some decent food, and after quite a bit of driving with no map or phone signal, managed to find Charlie’s Bistro. 

Lasagne, with chips and garlic bread. TRIPLE carbs. Yes.

The owner, Iain, was lovely. He bought the cafe when it was an old sweet shop, called ‘Charlie’s’. He had fond memories of a childhood popping in there for sweets and so wanted to keep the name, but make it a lovely restaurant. 

He was really helpful in our quest to go wild camping in Scotland and directed us to a few beaches to try where no one would mind. 

Accommodation on Benbecula, South Uist

We ended up at Cula Bay. It was even windier than the night before and we couldn’t actually even get the big tent up. Thankfully I’d taken a one man one and so I slept in that on the beach, while Helen slept in the car. It was a rough night. 

I feel like I’ve learnt a lot about wild camping and though I’d totally do it again, that night was hard. 

The beach was amazing though!

Day 4: Road trip up the Uists, to Harris

Up early, it wasn’t good enough weather to properly enjoy the beach, so we packed up as soon as we woke up, and drove up South Uist and North Uist, with a leisurely drive to the terminal. 

I was determined to use the camping stove and toastie maker I’d bought and so after managing to find an open shop at the terminal, we bought some bread and cheese. Unfortunately the wind was blowing the flame so much it didn’t cook, and so we had dry cold cheese sarnies for breakfast.

There’s nowhere to eat before 12 on South Uist. At least, we couldn’t find anywhere. 

Beneray to Leverburgh to Harris Island –  Departs 11:10 / Arrives 12:10

There’s loads of cool stuff to do on Lewis and Harris, but after two nights of camping, gawd we were tired. 

We decided to head north to our Airbnb and just see what we saw on the way. 

We accidentally happened upon the food truck, Taste n Sea, which actually ended up being my favourite food experience of the whole Outer Hebrides road trip. We didn’t know at the time, but they’re actually pretty highly regarded around the Hebrides. 

I went for cod pieces, Cullen Skink soup, and a tea. All tasted soooo good, and even better with this impressive view to look out on as we ate. 

That gave us a good feed for the day, as we hadn’t realised the portions were quite so big. 

We pootled on to our Airbnb in Cromore, admiring the stunning scenery as we did. If the weather had been better I would’ve gone in for a wild swim.

Accommodation in Harris 

We got to our Airbnb in Cromore, showered and just fell asleep. SO nice to relax in a comfortable Scottish home.

We had a room in a lovely couple’s home, but they had to go to the hospital in Glasgow for a check up so, along with another couple who’d got a room on Airbnb, we had the place to ourselves. Hot shower, lovely kitchen, and a massive DVD collection with a big lounge meant we were very happy to be there.

We paid around £21 each per night.

Day 5: Road trip round Lewis

Up and ready, finally refreshed. We wanted to see as much of Lewis as possible. Big day ahead.

The top things to do in Lewis include hiking, exploring the beaches, enjoying the Circular Scenic Route (which included the impressive Reef Beach), going to see the Callanish Stones , learning about the chess pieces of Lewis, and enjoying the Old Village (wasn’t open). 

We had a great day driving round, BUT, the one thing that was missing, was food . Couldn’t find an open restaurant anywhere (this was Sept 2020). We managed a cup a soup at the Lewis Community Shop (great place), and that was it all day. 

So by 5pm we headed to Stornoway – the main town of the Western Isles and the capital of Lewis and Harris in Scotland. Had to be some food there! 

We went for a pint and a packet of crisps at McNeills pub, and waited for the Harbour Kitchen to open. And when it did, wow. Managed an amazing meal. I ordered mussels and they gave me 71.

I counted them. Staff were lovely, and the bread they gave alongside was an absolute taste sensation. 

Accommodation in Lewis

We stayed at the Airbnb again, on Harris, and watched Braveheart. Lovely evening!

It was a bit of a drive but there weren’t any other option tbh.

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Day 6: Road trip round Harris

Today it was Harris’ turn. What could we find on our big day in Harris on our Outer Hebrides road trip? 

After leaving our Airbnb we headed into Tarbert, where we’d be getting our early ferry from tomorrow, and the most populated area on Harris.

First stop, breakfast. 

After getting some petrol (they do it for you, it’s great) we saw a sign for breakfast at the Harris Hotel . 

Best bacon and egg sandwich ever. It was so hot inside, how did they do it? That set us up, and made us book into the hotel for that night too. As we still hadn’t planned any accommodation for our final night of the Outer Hebrides road trip. 

Day in Harris

We spent our day in Harris exploring Seilebost Beach, Luskentyre Beach, walking out to the Eilean Glas Lighthouse on the Island of Scalpay, shopping in Tarbert, wishing we could go in the Harris Distillery, and generally having a lovely time. 

We had dinner in the hotel – cod and chips, with a herring starter – and drinks in the bar after. It was a great last night on the Outer Hebrides!

TOP TIP: Watch out for which Tarbert you book your hotel in. There’s another one in Argyll, where the Loch Lomond Park is and you don’t want to get muddled.

The Harris Hotel was very ‘Scottish’ looking, and traditional. I thought it was great – we were both impressed with our room. It was definitely bigger than the average, we had a sofa and TV, and of course a private bathroom too. 

It was about a two-minute drive from the port, and walkable to the famous Harris Distillery. There was plenty of parking out front, and the staff were lovely too. 

In fact, everyone we met in the Outer Hebrides was definitely nicer than the average!

You could also try the Hotel Harris, which was a bit more modern and even closer to the ferry terminal. Click here for more photos, prices and availability for the Hotel Hebrides .

Day 7: Tarbert to Uig, in Skye

We were up and out, and managed to get the price of breakfast off our hotel as we didn’t have time to eat it. Pretty happy about that. So useful being about two minutes from the terminal too, glad we invested in the Harris Hotel!

Tarbert to Uig Departs 07:30 / Arrives 09:10

Ferry was pretty chill. Had a gross ‘sausage patty’ sandwich though – if they ask if you want ‘links’, say yes.

Unfortunately for us, the weather was terrible in Skye. My mum had been warning me all week about the weather warnings on breakfast TV. Well, it hit in Skye.

We’d been so excited to explore but the rain really stopped play. Driving was awful, and we couldn’t see the stunning views we knew were beyond the fog.

We drove round Quiraing, and managed a few pics and vista points before the heavens opened.

We sat and had cake in Portree, hoping it’d change. I have been to Skye before, on January 1st and weather was actually way better than in September, just to note. 

We gave up and didn’t even look round Portree in the end. Such a shame as we’d so been looking forward to exploring Skye.

Still determined, we drove up to the Fairy Pools, which look amazing online, but found they weren’t even open thanks to the torrential rainfall.

Driving through Glencoe

We drove south, through Glencoe, stopping at a Tibetan market we happened to see along the way. 

Glencoe is one of the most stunning places in the Highlands, but unfortunately we could barely see past our hands. So, we just decided to head back.

I had a LONG drive to do and wanted to get some of it over with.

We passed Ben Nevis somewhere in the fog, and stopped at Eilean Castle, which was featured in James Bond.

I just carried on driving past Loch Lomond and Pine Trees, through the rain, to Glasgow. 

We arrived into Glasgow at around 6pm, to lovely sun. Forgot what that felt like.

Everything looked great and I’d love to go back to see Glasgow, but for that night, I just wanted dinner and a drink. We went to MacSorley’s next door, and had mac and cheese with pulled pork, and a few gin and tonics.

Accommodation in Glasgow

We stayed at the Jury’s Inn Glasgow, which was in an incredible location, and only £40 for the night. The duvet and pillows there were just AMAZING. Click here to book a bargain at the Jury’s Inn in Glasgow.

Final day map

6 hours 31 minutes drive – probably took me longer

——

Day 8: Glasgow, and home

If you have the time, enjoy looking round Glasgow. It was wonderful weather for it, but I needed to get to my parents in the Midlands. We left, stopping at Tebay Services on the way back for breakfast, and then, home.

A great week road tripping in the Outer Hebrides!

Tips for an Outer Hebrides road trip

– I’d definitely recommend dividing up that last day. It was just too much driving and I couldn’t relax and enjoy the morning.

– Pack some healthy food in the car as it could be hard to find when we wanted it. Barely ate a vegetable all week. 

– The roads are unbelievably well kept, especially compared to down where I live in Hampshire!

– If you want to wild camp, read my guide . 

– You need to adhere to the rule of passing places – and be courteous. 

– Let other drivers pass, as they might be on their way to work while you’re chugging along admiring the view. 

– Keep your petrol topped up. 

Cost of the Outer Hebrides road trip

Outer hebrides ferries.

This is what we spent on ferries for the Outer Hebrides road trip, each. 

• Oban to Castlebay = £100
• Eriskay to Barra = £17.15
• Ferry = £21.30
• Tarbert to Uig = £44.65

= £183.10 / 2 = £91.55 each

Outer Hebrides Accommodation

This is what we spent on accommodation for the Outer Hebrides road trip, each. 

• Wavecrest Camping x 1 = £10 
• Airbnb house x 2 = £50
• Harris Hotel x 1 = £60
• Jury’s Inn, Glasgow x 1 = £22

= £142 each

Outer Hebrides food

This is what we spent on food for the Outer Hebrides road trip, each. 

• We didn’t eat particularly well on this trip, and did actually eat chocolate bars for lunch on two days. Sad times. Had some lovely fish and chips at the Harris Hotel, enjoyed my mussels, and the lasagne and chips were just what I needed.

I’d estimate I spent about £150 on food for the week.

= £150 each

Outer Hebrides petrol

This is what we spent on petrol for the Outer Hebrides road trip, each. 

Petrol was one of the biggest expenses on the trip, and from Preston to Preston again, it cost about £130 between us. 

Total cost of the Outer Hebrides road trip =   £449

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Advice for wild camping & driving in the Outer Hebrides

Wild camping in Scotland is perfectly legal, but there are rules to keep it fun and open to all. If you’re feeling inspired by my wild camping adventure and want to give it a go in the Outer Hebrides, make sure to follow the Scotland wild camping rules.

• You won’t stay longer than three nights in one place. 
• You’ll leave the spot how you find it (or better!).
• No fires. 
• Respect animals, nature and other people. 

Top tips for wild camping 

You need to be prepared for wild camping in the Outer Hebrides. Let me take you through a few lessons learned the hard way, so you don’t make the same mistakes!

– When you choose a spot to camp, look for some sort of shelter. At least from one direction. But, don’t camp between two high points as the wind will funnel through to you. That fresh coastal air can become a howling gale very quickly!

– Getting the tent up is one thing, but getting the pegs to stay in the ground is another. So much of Scotland is either boggy, or dry – so you may have trouble with the tent pegs. I’d recommend getting some storm pegs for extra resilience.  

– Don’t camp next to a stream, or any body of water, as little brooks can easily turn into torrents. You do NOT want to wake up to a river in your tent. 

– Don’t move rocks or dig ditches to make your camping spot better. That’s not how wild camping in Scotland works. And don’t camp near people’s homes, or within view from their house – they won’t like it. 

– My tent was too high, too hard to put up, and there was too much fabric to cope with in the wind. When it comes to choosing a tent, go small, basic and as minimal as possible.

– No matter what the time of years, expect the nights to be cold and pack extra warmth for your tent and sleeping bag.

– Arrive in good time to your spot, so you have the time to pick an exact spot before nightfall. 

Top tips for driving

– Don’t worry about the islands’ road conditions. The roads were amazingly well kept and other motorists were very courteous – we didn’t have a problem. 

– You need to adhere to the rule of passing places and pull over if the passing place is on your side of the road. 

– Keep your petrol topped up as it could be some time between stops. 

– Download your maps to your phone before you start as you might not have phone reception for your trip. Any cafe or restaurant we asked was happy to give out their Wi-Fi code with a purchase so we were ok. 

– Spend some money locally rather than taking your own food or using supermarkets. Try the fish market for lunch in Oban, pick up some treats from the community shop in Harris, try the Hebridean Toffee and eat out to taste the local cuisine. It’s tempting to be 100% prepared, but it’s fun to sample local produce and really helps the local communities too. 

Packing list for your trip

A lightweight tent that’s super easy to pitch, and light. 

Take a good quality all season sleeping bag , and an insulated mat too. Maybe some sort of pillow ? Up to you whether you can be bothered to carry it or not. 

You need a way to get water. I was fine with two bottles kept filled and kept in the car but you can get water treatment tablets from Boots easily enough. 

Camping stove, with a gas cartridge . 

Take a phone power bank , and the midge repellant.

You might want to bring a First Aid Kit, a repair kit for the tent , and some hand sanitising gel too. Make sure your toiletries are all biodegradable. 

Some sort of picnic mat to sit out at night. If you’re in little hiking tents there’s no space to sit up. 

Road trip in the Outer Hebrides

If you want to go road tripping round the Outer Hebrides I wholeheartedly recommend it. I feel like we had a real adventure, at a time when adventures were hard to find. We barely saw a soul out and about, and it was the perfect trip to get away from it all.

If you have any questions about going on a road trip in the Outer Hebrides – let me know in the comments below.

PIN THIS OUTER HEBRIDES ROAD TRIP FOR LATER

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Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

Loved reading about your Western Isles adventure, planning ours now.. Regards, Kel and Carole Coles.. South Wales

Hi Vicky, Thanks for the flip flop advice.Looks like we might have to do this trip. But not wild camping,can you recommend doing this in a camper van / motor home . We are both retired and so the time of year is not an issue. Kind regards, John

Can you park a campervan on Cula Bay. I grew up in Benbecula from age 4 until 9 going back 45years now and spent every weekend with our caravan on Cula Bay through the summer. I am taking my 15 yr old daughter this Summer and your road trip has been very useful. We are taking 2 weeks traveling from Petersfield near Portsmouth so any suggestions of places to give more time

Just read your Outer Hebrides Road Trip article and found it fascinating and very useful . We are hoping to do a very similar thing in April/May, except that we shall be taking two weeks instead of your one and we shall return via Stornoway and Ullapool. Oh, and as we are both approaching the age of 80, we shall be staying in hotels and guest houses, not camping! We actually booked it first for 2020 (cancelled because of COVID), then for 2021 (ditto!), so this is our third attempt to do this trip. Like you, we shall take the ferry from Oban to Castlebay (thanks for the warning about rough seas!), then we spend two nights each on Barra, South Uist, North Uist, Harris (three nights there), Lewis west coast, and Lewis east coast (north of Stornoway). I have had three years to do my research and thought I had everything sussed, but your article gave me ten very useful facts that I had missed (places to eat, for example, and even a beach that I’d managed to miss!). Many, many thanks for your report.

Hello David, that’s so wonderful to hear. It warms my heart that I’ve helped plan your trip! That will be fantastic over two weeks. When I think back it was a little rushed with all the driving, two weeks will be perfect to be able to enjoy it all properly. Hotels are a great idea too!

Sounds like you have a fantastic itinerary and I hope you have a great time. It really is a stunning part of the world, whatever the weather. Hope you enjoy those impressive beaches!

@David Briers, Hi, did you manage to do your trip David.. My wife and I hope to do a similar trip next Spring.. Started planning today.. Would love to know how you get/got on??? Oh by the way, we are spring chickens..65 ish traveling by car and utilising hotels and guest houses hopefully. Kind regards, Kel and Carole Coles. S.Wales

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A West Coast of Scotland Road Trip

By: Author [email protected]

Let’s go on a west coast of Scotland road trip!

With spectacular white sandy beaches, soaring mountains and beautiful islands it’s no wonder that Scotland’s west coast is the first place many people think of when planning a trip to Scotland. Explore the best bits of the west coast of Scotland on this itinerary ferry hopping from Glasgow to the Isle of Skye, visiting Oban, Mull and Ardnamurchan along the way.

A west coast of Scotland road trip itinerary

• Stage 1 – Loch Fyne, Cowal and Inveraray
• Stage 2 – The Mull of Kintyre and Oban
• Stage 3 – Exploring   The Isle of Mull
• Stage 4 – Remote   Ardnamurchan
• Stage 5 – The Isle of Skye

This ferry hopping road trip also makes a great extension to the North Coast 500 . The North Coast 500 leaves Scotland’s west coast at Strathcarron before completing the loop back east to Inverness – but your west coast of Scotland trip doesn’t have to end here. Instead, join this west coast of Scotland road trip and head south from the NC500 route to cross over the sea to the Isle of Skye.

Ferry Hopping on the west coast of Scotland

For this road trip you will need to buy a ferry hopping ticket from the west coast of Scotland ferry company CalMac. Book   hopscotch ticket HOP7  – Oban to Craignure on Mull, Tobermory to Kichoan on Arnamurchan and Mallaig to Skye.

For more advice on island hopping in Scotland – read my guide to Scotland’s Hebridean islands .

Day 1 – The road north – Inns, lochs & very local brews

Starting in Glasgow or from Edinburgh, your first day on the west coast of Scotland takes in both Loch Lomond and Loch Fyne, as well as driving the famous Rest and Be Thankful, a spectacular start to your trip.

Your first stop of the day is Loch Lomond , so park up at the village of Luss and take a wander down to the lochside among the pretty cottages. For a great lunch overlooking the water visit the   Lodge on the Loch Lomond Hotel , or 10 minutes further north,  The Inn on Loch Lomond  is more casual. 

From Loch Lomond head to head to Tarbet and Arrochar. If you have time and the weather is on your side, climb   The Cobbler  – remember to be prepared for bad weather and have waterproofs and proper hiking boots handy!

It’s then time to tackle one of Scotland’s most famous roads, the Rest and be Thankful. The road winds its way through the Arrochar Alps to Inveraray. It is worth popping into   Fyne Ales Brewery  for a pie and a pint – or to pick some beer up for later if it’s too early; their beer Jarl is award-winning.

Stop for your first night in Inverarary where you can visit Inveraray Castle  and  Inveraray   Jail  and grab fish and chips to eat on the lochside. The George Hotel is famous for food and drink and a great atmosphere.

Where to stay near Inveraray

Day 2 – The Mull of Kintyre

Leaving Inveraray your first stop of the day is of   Auchindrain Township  and the beautiful   Crarae Garden  before visiting Crinan, one of Scotland’s hidden gems, with its canal and pretty seafront village.

Head down to the Crinan  Canal  basin, grab a coffee and watch the boats sail up and down the canal. Make sure you visit the village for views across to Jura. 

Then head north along the A816 towards Oban – along  Kilmartin Glen  for a wander around the standing stones and ancient burial chambers. For lunch stop at either the  Lord of the Isles   pub at Craobh Haven or the   Loch Melfort Hotel  where you can also take a stroll in the  Arduaine Gardens .

Oban is a fantastic town to spend an evening – there are seafood restaurants aplenty, and great beer and pub food at my favourite, the   Cuan Mor . To walk it all off climb up to McCaig’s Tower for a fab view of the Isles. In the local area is Castle Stalker which graces many Instagram shots and the Oban Distillery.

Where to stay in Oban

Where to   stay in Oban *

Day 3-4 – Exploring The Isle of Mull

It is time to ferry hop! Leaving Oban, catch the ferry from Oban to Craignure on Mull. The crossing takes around 55 minutes and must be booked in advance, especially in Summer. The views from the crossing are gorgeous and include Lismore Lighthouse and Duart Castle.

T obermory is a great place to base yourself for a short visit to the island as it is a bustling and lively place, with lots of busy harbour bars – try the food at the excellent   Macgochans .  Whisky fans will want to visit the   Tobermory Distillery , located right on the waterfront – no need for a designated driver here.

Read more:   24 hours on the Isle of Mull

However long you have on the island there are lots of things to do on Mull, including visiting beautiful Calgary Bay. The beach is stunning – you can see why it is one of the most photographed beaches in Scotland.

Want to explore on foot? The only Munro (a Scottish mountain over 3000ft) on an island (after from the Cullin on Skye) Ben More stands 966m above Loch Na Keal – the ‘loch of the cliffs’. With views across to the Isle of Ulva to Ben Cruachan, Ben More is a great island viewpoint even if you don’t climb to the very top!

Where to stay on Mull

Day 5 – Remote Ardnamurchan

From Mull catch the short 40-minute ferry across to Kilchoan. You are now heading for remote Ardnamurchan – the most western part of the British mainland. Get off the beaten track and discover Ardnamurchan and the remote regions of Morvern, Ardgour, Moidart and Sunart – home to just 2000 people.

Many of the beaches here compete against the best in the world, so make sure you visit Camusdarach Beach, Arisaig or Sanna. Driving across Ardnamurchan’s volcanic caldera gives an incredible view of the small isles of Eigg and Rum and on a clear day, back to the Cullins on Skye. 

On your way south pop into the   Glenuig Inn  for lunch (note, they don’t serve lager on tap, just real ale and ciders!) before exploring Tioram Castle and Ardnamurchan Lighthouse which sits on the most westerly part of the mainland UK.

Read more :  things to do in Ardnamurchan Where to stay:   Ardnamurchan Bunkhouse  /  Kilchoan Hotel  /  Mingarry Park *

It’s time to take your next ferry – jump on a Calmac Ferry from   Mallaig to Armadale  on the Isle of Skye. 

Day 6-8 – The Isle of Skye

Seeing the Black Cullin, the Fairy Pools, Fairy Glen, Kilt Rock, the Old Man of Storr, The Quiraing, Neist Point Lighthouse, Loch Coruisk, Dunvegan Castle and discovering Talisker whisky will be high on your list of things to do in Scotland.

On the east coast – in the height of summer it may feel like a conveyor belt of hire cars, the east coast of Skye will be filled with campervans and tour buses on their day out – but don’t let you put that off. You often have the road to yourself and the Old Man of Storr, pretty Portree harbour and the mighty Quiraing are well worth a visit.

On the west coast – visit Dunvegan Castle, home of Clan MacLeod to learn not only about the history of this clan but also the role of clans today – as well as their most famous member, Dame Flora MacLeod. The Castle sits in a stunning location on the seafront, and the gardens are also lovely to wander around.

On the south coast – with rolling lush green landscapes and views over the sound to Morar, Knoydart and Glenelg, the Sleat Peninsula is one of Skye’s hidden gems. Often bypassed by those arriving on the Skye ferry the peninsula is also one of Skye’s quieter corners – which makes it perfect as a base to explore. 

Get off the beaten track – if you like life a little more sedate the Cuillin is also viewed in all its magnificence from a walk to Camasunary Beach on the Elgol (or to give it its proper name) Strathaird Peninsula. Take a boat trip to Loch Coruisk right into the heart of the mountains. Take a walk around Loch Coriusk for the most incredible views of the mountains, before catching the afternoon ride back – magical.

The Isle of Skye might be mind-blowing and deservedly popular, but Skye is heaving in summer, and remote in winter, which means visiting can be a challenge. Please visit the island sustainably, park sensibly, learn how to drive on a single track road and book your accommodation in advance.

Read more: a guide to the   Isle of Skye

Where to stay on Skye

Fancy a longer road trip? The North Coast 500

Have you driven the   North Coast 500 ? If not, why not? Scotland’s most famous road trip takes in 500 miles around the north coast of Scotland taking in some of the most spectacular scenery in the world – there’s no wonder they call it Scotland’s Route 66.

The west coast of the NC500 route takes you through the dramatic mountains of Assynt before reaching Wester Ross. Don’t miss visiting Lochinver, Ullapool and climbing Stac Pollaidh and Suilven. 

To get to the north coast 500, leave Skye by the Skye bridge, to reach the pretty town of Plockton where the mild climate allows palm trees to prosper on the waterfront. The weather might even be nice enough to have lunch outside one of the friendly Plockton pubs!

I also highly recommend stopping at   Strome Castle  on Loch Carron, one of the National Trust for Scotland’s   little gems  and exploring the beautiful family-run   Attadale Gardens ,  a late 19th century garden on the Attadale Estate. The gardens are so peaceful – and you might catch the artist owner for a chat.

Then drive north to beautiful  Applecross Peninsula  where you end your trip driving the famous Bealach na Bà, past fiord-like lochs to the huge Torridon mountains and the north coast of Scotland.

Read my   complete guide to driving the North Coast 500 . 

Video guide – West Coast of Scotland Road Trips

Have you done a west coast of Scotland road trip? Where would you recommend?

Love, from Scotland x

*Article contains affiliate links

The travel blogger and photographer behind Love from Scotland

Jessi (@2feet1world)

Wednesday 6th of December 2017

Wow wow wow. I really want to explore this stunning countryside - thanks for the tips!

Mary Mayfield

Friday 17th of November 2017

I think you've ticked off all my 'must see' places. Maybe I'd head out to the end of Skye at Neist Point, to watch the sun set over the Outer Hebrides, or a drive across the 'Bridge over the Atlantic' to Seil, but otherwise I'd just like to spend more than 5 days on the trip :)

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Argyll & Isles , Inner Hebrides , Isle of Colonsay , Isle of Islay , Isle of Jura , Itineraries , Kintyre Peninsula , The Isles

Itinerary for the west coast of scotland [1- & 2-week options]: the west coast waters of argyll.

When you think of Scotland do you envision epic cliffs and coastlines? Towering mountains and sprawling glens? Crystal clear waters and sandy beaches? Delicious whisky and tasty local produce? This 2-week itinerary for the west coast of Scotland covers all that and more. Follow this route and take in some of the most beautiful places in the Inner Hebrides and Argyll – a trip to the west coast you will remember for a lifetime!

This post contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission. Find out more here . All opinions are my own.

This post is part of the West Coast Waters campaign and focuses on Wild About Argyll . Regions all along the west coast of Scotland have joined forces to promote the country’s beautiful west coast from Argyll to Wester Ross. 2020 is the Year of Coast and Waters – the perfect excuse to plan a trip and immerse yourself in the sounds, views, aromas and textures of Scotland’s west coast!

If you ask me, nothing beats an escape to the west coast of Scotland. What could be better than being surrounded by mountains, yet never far from a Caribbean-looking beach or a lush blooming garden? Every time I visit, I am blown away by the diversity of landscapes and things to do near the coast. 

My trip to ring in the Year of Coasts and Waters brought me to one of my favourite regions in Scotland – Argyll and the Isles. Not only is it easily accessible from cities like Glasgow or Edinburgh, but it also has the longest coastline of all Scottish regions – two good reasons to plan a trip here and follow my footsteps!

This blog post contains everything you need for your extended trip to the Scottish west coast: from travel info for the region to a day-by-day itinerary for your holiday. I kept the description of each destination deliberately brief in this post, but make sure to click through to my destination guides for more detailed accounts of what to see & do. Don’t worry, it’s still a “monster post” with lots of practical advice and inspiration!

Without further ado, let’s hit the road!

If you are here for inspiration for a Scotland staycation, you should also read my guide to adding oomph to your staycation .

Need help finding cheap airfare to Scotland? Check out  my tips for booking flights to Scotland !

Dreaming of Scotland? Listen to my immersive travel podcast Wild for Scotland !

Table of Contents

West Coast of Scotland Road Trip Video

Travel Info: Argyll & Inner Hebrides

Where is argyll.

Argyll is a large region in the west of Scotland and covers an area spanning from Kintyre peninsula in the south, across the Isle of Bute and Cowal to the western shore of Loch Lomond in the east, up towards Bridge of Orchy, Loch Etive and Loch Creran in the north, and Oban in the west. Additionally, the region also contains most of the Inner Hebrides islands off the west coast of Scotland. The Heart of Argyll, or Mid-Argyll, which is covered in this itinerary lies south of Oban and includes places like Loch Awe, Kilmartin Glen, Loch Fyne, Inveraray, Crinan Canal, Knapdale Forest and Tarbert.

What are the Inner Hebrides?

The Hebrides are an archipelago of islands off Scotland’s west coast and are split into the Inner Hebrides, closer to the mainland and the Outer Hebrides also called the Western Isles. The Isle of Skye is the largest and possibly the most famous Inner Hebridean island. 

The Inner Hebrides that are part of Argyll are the Isles of Mull, Coll, Tiree, Islay, Jura and Colonsay and a vast number of smaller islands such as Kerrera , Lismore, Iona, Staffa and Gigha. 36 islands in the Inner Hebrides are inhabited and this itinerary takes in seven of them .

Explore the Inner Hebrides with my ready-made Island Hopping itinerary !

Map of the Inner Hebrides & Argyll

Check out my interactive map below or click through. I’ve marked all the places I mention in this itinerary, including places to stay, natural points of interests such as beaches and hills, things to do such as distillery tours and outdoor activities, where to grab a bite to eat, and a few practical places to know such as petrol stations and shops.

Transport for this itinerary

Hire car | I hired a car for my west coast adventure. This trip is conceptualised with a car in mind and ideal for a Scotland road trip.  I covered about 470 miles on the road and took eight ferry crossings, some of which must be booked in advance with a car. 

Check out my practical guide to renting a car in Scotland .

Nervous about driving? Learn about UK traffic rules & etiquette with the useful online guide by Tripiamo .

Ferries | Regardless of how much time you spend on this itinerary (see below for shortened suggestions), it is important to check ferry time tables. Not every crossing mentioned in this itinerary is available every day of the week and winter timetables (roughly Oct to April) can vary significantly from summer schedules (roughly May to Sept).

Don’t miss my practical guide to island hopping in Scotland !

TOP TIP It makes sense to check ferry schedules before you book your flights in order to choose the best arrival/departure days accordingly.

Public Transport | Most places on this itinerary are also accessible by public transport. However, keep in mind that not having a car will slow you down and limits how many stops you can fit into one day. Bus services on islands can be limited (Islay, Jura) to non-existent (Colonsay), so it’s important to be realistic and prepare for active days without motorised transport.

Cycling | You can cycle to the majority of destinations on this route or hire a bike to explore individual islands. Colonsay and Gigha for example, are perfect to explore by bike because they are small and there is very little traffic on the roads.

How much time to spend in Argyll & the Inner Hebrides?

I actually did this itinerary in 10 days, but it was a tour de force . Additionally, I had been so some of the regions before, so I didn’t mind picking some activities over others I had done in the past. If this is your first trip to the Scottish west coast, I, therefore, recommend spending 2 weeks on this route (13 nights/14 days). This allows you to slow down a little and experience each destination to the fullest.

Here is a quick overview of this itinerary: Kintyre Peninsula | 3 nights Isle of Islay |  2 nights Isle of Jura |  2 nights Isle of Colonsay | 2 nights Heart of Argyll (=Mid-Argyll) |  3 nights Glasgow |  1 night

What if you only have one week? 

If you only have one week to explore the west coast of Scotland in Argyll, I recommend cutting one of the island destinations from this itinerary (Islay, Jura or Colonsay) and reducing your time in Kintyre and Mid-Argyll by one night. If you fly out on the next day and unless you have a very late flight, I recommend sticking to the final night in Glasgow instead of racing to the airport from Argyll – just in case there are issues with traffic. 

What if you have even less time?

Of course, you can visit Argyll with less time at your hand – that’s the beauty of its proximity to Glasgow! If you have less than a week – say 3 to 5 days – I recommend choosing one or two destinations to focus on.

You could stay on the mainland and explore Kintyre and Mid-Argyll, like I did for this 3-day Argyll itinerary , or mix it up a little and choose one mainland region and one island. Islay and Jura work well in combination with Kintyre or Mid-Argyll, as the ferry terminal in Kennacraig is easy to reach from north or south. Colonsay is better reached via ferry from Oban and thus best to combine with Mid-Argyll.

Two Weeks on the West Coast of Scotland

Visit the kintyre peninsula (3 nights).

Kintyre is also known as Scotland’s only mainland island. Looking at the map of Argyll, Kintyre is the long finger-shaped mass of land separating the Firth of Clyde from the Atlantic ocean. 

Legend has it, that in a dispute between the Norwegian king Magnus Barefoot and the Scottish king Malcolm III, Malcolm told Magnus that he could rule over all land he could encircle by boat. Up for the challenge, Magnus made his men drag his boat across the 2-mile strip of land that connects Kintyre to the mainland and thus claimed authority over the entire peninsula. It was only a few years later that Malcolm’s younger brother invaded Magnus’ stronghold on the Scottish west coast and won back the isles, Kintyre and the mainland region of Knapdale. 

While signs of this early medieval Viking rule in Kintyre remain tangible today – from place names to archaeological finds – the region offers a quintessentially Scottish experience, which is perfect for anyone looking to discover Scotland off the beaten track without missing out on all things “typically” Scottish.

Spending three nights in Kintyre allows you to explore the peninsula in-depth. I suggest a road trip to Southend on the first day, a day on the east coast, a day trip to the Isle of Gigha and a day on the west coast to fully immerse yourself in everything Kintyre has to offer.

You might also like: 13 Things to do on the Kintyre Peninsula

Day 1: Arrive in Kintyre + Road trip to Southend

After landing in Glasgow and picking up your rental car, make your way to Campbeltown – see the yellow Travel Essentials box below for two different route options.

From here, head out on a road trip to Southend , the southern tip of Kintyre, and the Mull of Kintyre . Don’t forget to download Paul McCartney’s song Mull of Kintyre and play it on full blast along the way – if you are like me, this song will be stuck in your head until you move on to the next region… There are several things to do at the Mull of Kintyre, including a walk to the historic lighthouse from where you can see the coast of Northern Ireland – at least on a clear day. In Southend, pay a visit to St Columba’s Chapel and his Footprints . St Columba landed in Kintyre before continuing his journey to Iona. Across the bay, stop by the ruins of Dunaverty Castle , a former stronghold of the MacDonald clan, the Lords of the Isles.

After refreshments? Stop at Muneroy Tearoom for a full meal and/or home baking. 

In the late afternoon, make your way back to Campbeltown or on to Carradale , a charming village along the east coast of Kintyre – the perfect starting point for tomorrow’s adventures.

Day 2: East Coast of Kintyre

Today you will spend time on the east coast of Kintyre. From Carradale, head out to Torrisdale Bay to take in the views of the beautiful beach and explore the rock pools to the north. At the nearby Torrisdale Estate, book a tour at Beinn An Tuirc Distillery of Kintyre Gin. The distillery produces small-batch craft gin and is entirely powered by a hydro-electricity plant on the estate. Pretty green and very delicious! 

For lunch, head back to Carradale for a soup and sandwich at the lovely Drumfearne Tearoom . 

Driving south once again, stop at the entrance for Saddell Castle . Park your car near the gatehouse and walk the rest of the way towards the sea. The castle is privately owned and rented as a holiday let, but the beautiful bay is open to the public. Soon you will, without doubt, stumble across Antony Gormley’s cast-iron statue which is perched on the rocks of the bay, exposed at low tide, submerged in waves at high tide. It’s eerie, but a beautiful encounter with public art in nature. 

Finally, make your way to Campbeltown for a tour at Glen Scotia Distillery . Campbeltown was once the most prolific whisky region of Scotland, with more than 30 distilleries in the same town. Today, there are only three left. Glen Scotia was founded in 1832 and is one of Scotland’s smallest whisky producers. Distillery manager Iain McAlister showed me around the distillery and brought out the big guns – a tasting of several drams drawn straight out of the casks at the distillery’s Dunnage Warehouse. The Managers Tour is available for £75 per person, but the standard tour starts at only £7.

Day 3: Day Trip to the Isle of Gigha

The Isle of Gigha lies just 3 miles off the west coast of Kintyre and is connected by a regular ferry to Tayinloan (multiple crossings per day) – about 30 minutes from Campbeltown. It makes for an easy and rewarding day trip in the Kintyre region. You can either bring your car across or hire bicycles on Gigha to get around – there are only a few roads on Gigha and very little traffic.

After the short crossing, head north to some of Gigha’s beautiful beaches. The Twin Beaches at Eilean Garbh can be reached via an at times muddy footpath from the main road (park on the grass near the wooden sign for the beaches). The two sandy beaches lie back to back and open up to two beautiful bays and views across to Islay and Jura. Take plenty of time to explore along the coastline and keep an eye open for birds and seals. 

For lunch, heat to Gigha Hotel who have a wide range of meals including plenty of vegan and gluten-free options.

In the afternoon, choose between a trip to the surprisingly exotic Achamore Gardens and Leim Beach in the southwest of Gigha; or charter a local fishing boat to take you to Cara Island . I found my own captain in Stuart McNeill, a local fisherman, who took me out on his boat ( phone to book: +44 78860 07090 ). We sailed past Gigalum Island (which made me giggle a lot), seals sunbathing on the rocks exposed by the low tide and on to Cara, where I went on land to explore the bays in the north. 

The beach near the village (Johnny’s Shore) is a great place for wild swimming and snorkelling.

You could spend your third night in Kintyre on Gigha or around Tayinloan, or return – like me – to your accommodation in Campbeltown for a fresh start tomorrow.

You might also like: A practical guide for snorkelling in Scotland

Day 4: West Coast of Kintyre

Spend your final day in Kintyre on the peninsula’s west coast. If you are curious and active, book a surf lesson with Pete’s Surf School at Westport beach . The surf is great here and on a good day, there are always plenty of others out in the water. Pete is a great teacher, very reassuring, and keen to make sure you’re having a great experience on the board. I really enjoyed myself!

Another beautiful beach in this area is Machrihanish Bay , which is also great for birders. The Seabird Observatory provides a hide for wildlife enthusiasts.

Hungry after my surf lesson, I drove to Glenbarr Cafe for a delicious and rewarding vegan meal.

In the afternoon, head back to the east coast one last time and visit Skipness Castle – or hang around Glenbarr for a little longer and get your energy back after a tiring morning (which is what I did). In the evening, make your way to Kennacraig to catch the day’s last sailing to the Isle of Islay.

KINTYRE TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Getting to Kintyre | There are two ways to get to Kintyre: by land or by water. I chose the latter and boarded the Calmac ferry from Ardrossan to Campbeltown – an hour’s drive southwest of Glasgow. Taking the ferry does not necessarily save time (either way it takes about 3-4 hours to reach Campbeltown), but it did save me exhausting driving time on the same roads I would travel on later during my trip. Additionally, taking a ferry is simply the best way to start a trip to Scotland’s west coast! The Ardrossan to Campbeltown ferry runs only in summer (May to September) and frequents six times a week on four different days. Check the timetable here .

Vegan food in Kintyre | The Kintyre peninsula is very remote, but it was surprisingly easy to find vegan food! Both accommodations where I stayed made an effort to stock vegan-friendly supplies for breakfast and created delicious plant-based evening meals for me. Read more about them below. I also enjoyed two delicious lunches at Drumfearne Tearoom in Carradale (east coast) and Glenbarr Cafe (west coast). I also was not disappointed on the Isle of Gigha and had a great lunch at Gigha Hotel , which also offers vegan evening options.

Kintyre Accommodation | I tried two very different accommodations in Kintyre during my trip. Carradales Guest House is a five-star bed & breakfast in Carradale, a stretched-out village on the east coast of the peninsula. I also spent two nights at the Seafield Annex of Ardshiel Hotel in Campbeltown. In addition to spending time on the mainland, I recommend trying to book a night on the Isle of Gigha to allow more time on the island. There are many options, such as the Gigha hotel, B&Bs, self-catering accommodation and glamping pods.

Visit Islay and Jura (2 nights each)

The Isles of Islay and Jura are often visited together. They are very different, very close and well connected, but an additional factor is surely that Jura does not have its own car ferry connection to the mainland – although, there is a passenger ferry during the summer. 

Islay, also known as the Queen of the Hebrides or Whisky Island, is the third-largest island in the Inner Hebrides and offers a huge variety of landscapes, activities and attractions. From the obvious – whisky distilleries – to the new and exciting, such as fat-biking on the beach or sampling wine made from barley; Islay does not get boring. 

Jura is its rugged neighbour to the north. While it is over half the size of Islay, it counts less than 10% of its population. Only about 200 people call Jura their home and most live in the bustling village of Craighouse. Most of Jura is mountainous, bare and boggy, which makes for stunning, but challenging days out on the trail. A small ferry commutes between Port Askaig on Islay and Feolin on Jura. Many visit Jura on a day trip from Islay, but I recommend staying a while to immerse yourself in the wilderness – and the welcoming local community.

You could consider visiting during the Islay whisky festival Fèis Ìle, but the island is super busy then and it may not be the best time for in-depth distillery tours.

You might also like: Unique Experiences on Islay, Jura & Colonsay

Day 5 + 6: Isle of Islay

Begin your first day on Islay at the island’s Whisky Coast , where three distilleries – Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg – lies within just a few miles from each other. All the distilleries on Islay are open to the public and offer tours and tastings – it is a must to visit at least one! My personal favourite is Ardbeg Distillery , which produces some of the peatiest whisky in the world. Their visitor centre has a lovely cafe with delicious vegan options.

In the afternoon, tour some of the other distilleries, taste locally produced wines at Islay Wines in Port Ellen, visit Kildalton Cross or go for a rewarding walk to the American Monument on the Mull of Oa .

On your second day on Islay, get active. Book a half-day activity with Kayak Wild Islay . Together with Dave, you can either head out in sea kayaks – or if the water is choppy or you’re up for a new activity, try fat biking on one of Islay’s beautiful beaches!

For lunch, treat yourself to a meal at The Machrie Hotel , overlooking the golf course and the ocean beyond. The vegan food here was my favourite of the entire trip, but of course, there are also plenty of non-vegan options!

In the afternoon, take in Islay’s beaches in the north. Saligo Bay will make your jaw drop, as will Machir Bay a bit further south. And why not visit Islay’s newest distillery Ardnahoe – you might not be able to taste their whisky yet, but from the tasting bar and the still room you get the most beautiful views of your next destination: the Isle of Jura!

At the end of the day, catch a ferry across to Jura and drive to Craighouse for the next two nights.

You might also like: A 4-day Whisky Tour to Islay with Rabbie’s [Review]

ISLAY TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Getting to Islay | Calmac operates four to five daily ferry crossings from Kennacraig on the mainland to the Isle of Islay. Ferries alternate between Port Ellen in the south and Port Askaig in the north. It takes about 30 minutes to drive from Port Ellen to Port Askaig, so in terms of where to stay, it barely makes a difference. You can find the full timetable here .

Vegan food on Islay | Like anywhere in Scotland, vegan food is becoming more popular and easier to come by on Islay. I highly recommend the restaurant at The Machrie Hotel , because the chef is actually vegan himself and prepares some of the most creative and mouthwatering meals I’ve ever tried. There are also vegan options available at Lagavulin and Ardbeg Distillery on the south coast, as well as Peatzeria in Bowmore. I also ate at Islay House Hotel, where the chef created an indulging vegan menu just for me.

Islay Accommodation | There is absolutely no shortage of accommodation on Islay, but I highly recommend booking far in advance to avoid disappointment. For anyone who is looking for self-catering accommodation with stunning views of Lagavulin Bay, I highly recommend Storm Pods . For the indulgent couple, Islay House Hotel near Port Askaig is the right choice!

Day 7 + 8: Isle of Jura

You will arrive on Jura late on Day 6 and leave early-ish on Day 8, which means you have one full day to spend on Jura. Make the most of it!

Craighouse is the bustling centre of the island and great for a little shopping sprawl, for example at the Whisky Island Gallery & Studio and a tour at Jura Distillery . Their tasting room is certainly one of the most beautiful and impressive I’ve ever seen! There are several walks you could do near Craighouse too – for example to the village viewpoint (description here ), to Market Loch (description here ), the distillery’s water source, or along the bay to Corran Sands , one of Jura’s most beautiful and easily accessible beaches. Along the way, you can often spot seals perched on the rocks exposed at low tide – they look like upside-down bananas!

If you’re a bit more adventurous, you could climb the highest peaks of the island, also known as the Paps of Jura (description here ). The hike takes about 10 hours, so make sure you leave early in the day and tell someone about your plans. 

If you are visiting in September, try to schedule your stay on Jura during the Jura Music Festival , which has been going on for many years and brings local, national and international musicians and visitors together for a weekend of beats and rhythms.

After two nights on the island, on Day 8, head back to Feolin in the morning. Get the ferry to Port Askaig, only to board yet another boat to take you from Port Askaig to the Isle of Colonsay.

JURA TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Getting to Jura | While there is a passenger ferry from Tayvallich on the mainland to Craighouse on Jura during the summer, most visitors arrive via the small ferry between Port Askaig on Islay and Feolin on Jura. You can find the timetable and price information here . This ferry allows cars and the crossing only takes about 5 minutes.

Vegan food on Jura | I had a couple of nice meals on the Isle of Jura: at The Jura Hotel, where they always have a few options; and at The Antlers Bistro , which also has a nice deck for sunny days.

Jura Accommodation | There is significantly less choice for accommodation on Jura, so booking in advance is essential. I spent a night at The Jura Hotel , which offers stunning views over the Small Isles Bay, has a lovely restaurant and lively pub – the only one on the island!

Visit Colonsay (2 nights)

Depending on the seasonal ferry schedule, you might get to Colonsay around mid-day (summer timetable), in the late afternoon (Nov, Jan, Feb) or early in the morning (Dec, Mar).  I arrived on a Saturday around 1.30 pm, which gave me enough time to spend the afternoon exploring parts of the island. The ferry back to Oban leaves at 7 pm on Day 10, which means you might actually have 2.5 days on Colonsay if you stay 2 nights.

Day 9 + 10: Islay to Colonsay

The ferry arrives in Colonsay’s main village of Scalasaig , which is also home to most of the islands 124 inhabitants. Even though you can see Mull, Islay, Jura and the mainland from Colonsay, it feels like you are at the end of the world – it’s so remote. But also breathtaking!

One of Colonsay’s most famous beaches is Kiloran Bay , a vast stretch of sandy beach on the north of the island. From Kiloran, you can climb Carnan Eoin , the highest point of the island or explore a series of caves in the next bay over (description here ). Alternatively, you can follow the broad farm track leading north to Balnahard Bay , hands-down one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Watching the crystal clear water from the wind-sheltered sand dunes, one could easily forget that they are in Scotland and day-dream of swaying palm trees and rum cocktails with little umbrellas. Scotland or the Caribbean? Who knows!

Colonsay also has a very productive larder, especially when it comes to alcoholic beverages. Wild Thyme Spirits , who produces Colonsay Gin , offers tours and Gin Retreats at their stunning house in Upper Kilchattan. In Scalasaig, you can visit Colonsay Brewery and Wild Island Botanic Gin for a tour and a taste.

Another absolute highlight is a trip to Oransay – or Oronsay – in the south of Colonsay. You can reach this island by foot – but not via a bridge or causeway, but when the tide retreats and reveals a land-bridge across The Strand.* 

TOP TIP Wear wellies or brave the cold and cross The Strand in bare feet as there is usually remaining water in the bay. It only takes about half an hour, but it’s better than getting to Oransay with wet shoes!

* Note, that the crossing is only safe at low tide and current time tables are available at the local post office, The Pantry, the Colonsay Hotel and other local businesses. It is important that you know when it is safe to cross and don’t attempt to outrun the tide. 

COLONSAY TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Getting to Colonsay | There is a regular ferry service from Oban to Colonsay operated by Calmac, but for this itinerary, you need to coordinate your plans with the crossing from Islay to Colonsay. Due to the timetable, Day 8 must be a Wednesday or Saturday, as these are the only days of the week when the ferry goes from Islay to Colonsay. It’s Saturday only on the winter timetable! Find the full timetable here .

Vegan food on Colonsay | If you stay at The Colonsay Hotel, they are happy to accommodate you and offer vegan options. A true gem is The Pantry near the ferry terminal, which actually won a Hidden Gem of Scotland award in 2019!

Colonsay Accommodation | I stayed at The Colonsay Hotel , a lovely boutique hotel near the ferry terminal with comfortable rooms, a restaurant with stunning views, a bar and plenty of space in the lounge area. 

Visit the Heart of Argyll (3 nights)

You will get to Oban late on Day 10, so it is up to you where you want to spend the night – either in Oban or closer to next day’s activities. 

Day 11 + 12: Heart of Argyll

Despite a late night on Day 10, I rose early on Day 11 and made my way to Ellenabeich on the Isle of Seil . I joined a boat trip with Seafari Adventures to visit the Gulf of Corryvreckan , which is the third-largest tidal whirlpool in the world. An adrenaline- and fun-packed morning!

After the boat trip (approx. 2 hours) you could spend more time on Seil or cross over to the small, car-free Isle of Easdale for a wander. 

Next head south to Arduaine Garden , which features a wide variety of rhododendrons, magnolias, Himalayan lilies and more. There are several trails crisscrossing the garden and stunning viewpoint over the bay below.

Stop for lunch – or check-in for a night – at Loch Melfort Hotel next to the Garden. Spending a night in one of their sea-facing rooms will make for a morning view you will never forget! 

On the next day, it is time to deep-dive into Scottish history. Drive south to Kilmartin to visit Kilmartin Museum and a collection of Sculptures Stones at the cemetery. The glen below the village is home to a huge number of ancient and prehistoric monuments from standing stones to cairns and carvings. The Nether Largie Standing Stones are a must to see, and from there you can follow the farm track to the Temple Wood Stone Circle and one of the Nether Largie chambered cairns. Further down the glen, make sure to stop for a walk up Dunadd Fort , the former seat of the ancient Scottish Kingdom of Dalriada.

Find out more about these and more things to do in Kilmartin Glen !

HEART OF ARGYLL TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Getting to the Heart of Argyll | In this itinerary, you will take the ferry from Colonsay to Oban and drive south to the Heart of Argyll. In general, the Heart of Argyll is just a 2-3 hour drive from Glasgow. Perfect getaway material!

Vegan food in the Hear of Argyll | I had a delicious vegan meal at Loch Melfort Hotel, stayed at a vegan B&B in Kilmartin and enjoyed a dinner at Cairnbaan Hotel right on the Crinan Canal.

Heart of Argyll Accommodation | I recommend spending the first night on or near the Isle of Seil. I spent a magical night at Loch Melfort Hotel , which is a pure treat, and my final night in Argyll at Kingsreach Vegan B&B with gorgeous views of Dunadd Fort. Read my review of the B&B here ! 

Day 13: Argyll to Glasgow (1 night)

Today is your final day on the road and it is time to return to Glasgow. From Kilmartin, it is a 2-hour drive to the city, but there is a lot to see along the way! That’s why I recommend driving back to Glasgow on Day 13 and heading to the airport from there on Day 14. 

Leaving Kilmartin behind, you will make your way through Lochgilphead and up the coast of Loch Fyne. You could stop at Crarae Garden or in Inveraray to visit the Castle. My favourite place for a walk is Ardkinglas Woodland Garden which is home to some of the biggest and tallest trees in the UK. The Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint makes for a scenic stop to enjoy a peaceful glimpse of Highland scenery. The final stretch of the route leads along Loch Lomond , where you could stop for lunch and a wander in the scenic village of Luss, or join a boat cruise on the loch from Tarbet.

Before you know it you will be back in Glasgow, looking back at an eventful 2-week journey to the west coast of Scotland.

You might also like: Money-Saving Budget Tips for Scotland

Day 14: Departure Day

Time to head back to the airport and bid farewell to bonnie Scotland – haste ye back!

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Outer Hebrides road trip: Island hopping in a campervan

Posted on Last updated: March 16, 2024

The Outer Hebrides has been on my bucket list for years. The Hebridean islands have beaches that are comparable to the Caribbean, with glistening white sands and clear turquoise waters. If you want to avoid the crowds of the North coast 500 then take a road trip to the Outer Hebrides. The Outer Hebrides, Scotland are so incredibly remote and quiet, and that is the beauty of visiting… you feel like you have the place all to yourself. Take your time to enjoy island hopping the Hebridean way. This is the ultimate guide to taking an Outer Hebrides road trip in a campervan, motorhome or car.

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Where are the Outer Hebrides?

The Outer Hebrides, is also known as the Western Isles, and sit off the West Coast of Scotland. Each island is unique, with white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, diverse wildlife and vibrant culture. They are made up of more than 70 islands, with only 15 inhabited.

How to get to the Outer Hebrides? 

Getting to the Outer Hebrides is easier than you imagine. But be warned, you need to plan ahead. If you are not taking a campervan you can fly from central Scotland.

CalMac offer the ferry service to and around the Outer Hebrides. I advise booking your ferries before you take your road trip to the Outer Hebrides.

There are so many options for Outer Hebrides routes but we took the main ferry from the mainland port of Oban to Barra. The sailing is just short of five hours. We then sailed from Barra to Eriskay and travelled over the Eriskay Causeway to South Uist. 

We travelled up to Oban and booked a campsite near to Oban to break up our journey. We stayed at North Ledaig campsite for one night and this ensured that we were only a few minutes drive to the ferry terminal for our calmac crossing to Barra the next morning.

( Click here for our North Ledaig Campsite review )

There is also a direct sailing to North Uist from Uig ( Isle of Skye) and this crossing takes 1hr 45 mins. 

• Stay North Ledaig Caravan Site

visiting Outer Hebrides – island hopping in a camper van

Okay so we roughly planned our 1 week itinerary to the Outer Hebrides a few weeks before we left as I was keen to make sure we have the Calmac ferries booked as it was May half term. You can see from the Outer Hebrides map our basic route for the Hebrides island road trip. We had to change our plans last minute due to the Calmac ferry disruptions, and couldn’t make our way over to Lewis and Harris, but instead took a detour over to the Isle of Skye. So here is a ten day Itinerary for exploring the Outer Hebrides in a campervan. What a road trip!

Click here for our outer Hebrides Road trip map

Day 1 driving to Oban

e Wdrove from our home in Staffordshire directly to Oban with roughly two stops along the way. We stopped by at Tebay Services for breakfast. Having visited before and managing to spend about £50 on food, I made sure we were organised and took a takeaway breakfast picnic. There are plenty of benches to sit and have a break, and a dog walking area too.

Our first stop for the night – North Ledaig Caravan site. It is a lovely campsite near to Oban ferry terminal, and this campsite in Scotland has direct access to a shingle beach, great for paddle boarding. (You know how much we love a campsite with a sea view or a campsite with direct access to water !) There is a lovely walk from the campsite, and also a kids play area too.

Read our North Ledaig Campsite review

Day 2 – travelling from Oban to Castlebay (Barra)

We had planned our Outer Hebrides road trip to ensure we spent a good amount of time on each island. We really wanted to make sure that we had an opportunity to explore each of the islands in the Outer Hebrides. With three kids and a dog, it is so important to allow for rest days on a road trip.

We took the main Calmac ferry from the mainland port of Oban to Barra. The sailing is just short of five hours and the crossing was great. We booked our dog onto the ferry when we booked our ferry tickets, (pets travel free of charge). Pets are welcome on the outside deck and there are also dog friendly areas on the ferry too.

We arrived at our campsite – Croft no 2 , Barra in the evening. We were greeted by the owners and allocated a lovely spacious pitch with an incredible sea view.

What a treat.

We stayed here for three nights to allow us to explore Barra and Vatersay.

• Stay: Croft number 2 Campsite

Day 3 -4 Exploring Vatersay and Barra

Driving around Barra is an absolute joy. There are so many gorgeous beaches and places to stop and take it all in. The beach opposite the campsite is only a short stroll and you can take over your paddle boards or enjoy a swim.

The Croft Kitchen Honesty box on the Isle of Barra offers fresh eggs and home baking, and is only a short drive from the campsite (You will see the signs as you drive down from the campsite).

Stop by at Barra airport on the North part of the island (Traigh Mhor beach) where you may spot a plane landing if you are lucky!

If you take the causeway over to Vatersay you will find the most incredible beach.

Vatersay is the most southerly inhabited island of the Outer Hebrides and is now linked to Barra by a causeway.  Here you will find the most stunning beach – You can check out my stories over on instagram but this beach is perfect for paddle boarding too.

You can also pay to camp here for £10 charge a night. There is a watertap and one disabled toilet.

Vatersay Hall cafe is a great place to stop for a bite to eat, coffee or cake. I can say that the cakes are absolutely gorgeous and huge slices too!

• Stay. – Vatersay Community Campsite, Vatersay, Isle of Barra, Outer Hebrides, HS9 5YW

Day 5 Ferry from Barra to Eriskay

We were up early for our early morning ferry from Barra to Eriskay. We arrived really early but we hadn’t needed to arrive quite as early as we did, but never mind!

We visited Ardmore Coffee (Ardmhor, Isle of Barra, Outer Hebrides, HS9 5YB) for the most incredible milkshakes and a coffee of course. A nice start to the morning.

The ferry from Barra to Eriskay crossing takes about 50 minutes and is a pleasant journey.

The beach on Eriskay is incredibly breathtaking. With powder white sand and crystal clear water. We had the beach to ourselves and it is breathtaking.

You can stop in at the Am Politician (it opened at midday) and we all had lunch overlooking the beach. You can sit outside and inside and it is dog friendly.

Am Politican -Eriskay, Isle Of South Uist, Outer Hebrides, HS8 5JL

We then made our way to South Uist to Long Island Retreats for our next stop.

Day 6 -7 North and South Uist

Long Island Retreats ( Tigh Na Breacain, Lochskipport, Isle of South Uist, Outer Hebrides, HS8 5NS)

Here you will find Lindsay and DJ who live in the stunning surrounds of Loch Skipport, South Uist. I have been following Lindsay for some time on instagram and couldn’t come all the way to Outer Hebrides in our campervan without visiting their crofts. Here we stayed totally off grid, and had the opportunity to meet their ponies and feed the baby lambs and just enjoy some peace and tranquility on the island.

Crofter DJ and Lindsay are just incredible people, and they run quite a few tours and Lindsay offered so much advice for where to go and what to see. I only wish we had longer to stay here.

There is plenty to see and do in Uist;

• Benbecula beaches
• Uist Distillery
• Eat lunch at the Wee Cottage kitchen

Day 8/9 ferry from Lochmoddy to Isle of Skye

As I mentioned our ferry from Lochboisdale was cancelled so we had to leave Uist a day early to secure a ferry to the Isle of Skye and back onto mainland Scotland to get us back home in time for work and school.

This did mean that we had an unexpected stop over on the Isle of Skye and a full day exploring.

We managed to book a campsite last minute and we stayed on Kinloch Campsite – a friendly family-run campsite on the shores of Loch Dunvegan. At £57 a night I thought this was very pricey though, but it was a nice campsite with access to Loch Dunvegan. Dog friendly too.

The village of Dunvegan is a five minute walk from the campsite where you will find a good range of shops, cafes, pubs, restaurants. Dunvegan Castle is only a short drive away too.  

We stopped to look for Hectors Highland cows and found a lovely little spot for more coffee and cake (can you see a pattern here) I can highly recommend a visit here for some lovely sponge cake with a view.

Here we took the Ferry from Skye to Mallaig for our last stop before our drive home .

• Stay Kinloch Campsite

Day 10 Arisaig

We have stayed in Arisaig before for our first ever Scotland road trip – and fell in love with it. This time we stayed at Camusdarach campsite and what a stunning campsite it is.

Read our Camusdarach campsite review

We headed straight into mallaig for some pizza to take back to the campsite.

I can highly recommend The Bakehouse and Crannog for delicious takeaway pizza, and only a five minute drive from our campsite!

Camusdarach campsite is a lovely campsite, both family friendly and dog friendly and a perfect campsite if you love to paddleboard . It sits between Arisaig and Mallaig and has direct access via a footpath to 3 beautiful sandy beaches. Perfect to watch the sunset too.

There is also self catering accommodation here too.

• Stay: Camusdarach campsite

Cost of the Outer Hebrides road trip

This is what we spent on ferries for the Outer Hebrides road trip, and this is for a family of five and a dog.

• Oban to Castlebay = £129.95
• Eriskay to Barra = £23.40
• Lochboisdale to Mallaig £102.60

Our Lochboisdale ferry to Mallaig was cancelled and we had to take an alternative ferry from Lochmaady to Uig. and then an extra ferry from Armadale to Mallaig.

• Armadale to Mallaig – £ 21.85

We really wanted to visit Lewis and Harris but the ferries and time was not on our side. We will be back to the Outer Hebrides and I hope you found our Outer Hebrides road trip helpful to plan your route.

Top tips for an Outer Hebrides road trip

– The Hebridean islands have great roads that are really well kept. We found other motorists and cyclists to be extremely respectful and it was a pleasure to drive on the islands.

– There are passing places along the one track roads to allow you to pullover and pass other vehicles.  

– Keep an eye on your fuel as there are minimal places to top up. We filled the tank in Oban.

– Phone reception can be no existent and I actually had no phone reception at all in Barra. So make sure you download any documents you need and have an idea of restaurants/supermarkets and places to visit prior to your trip. I recommend purchasing a good map to take with you .

– Enjoy the honesty boxes and local restaurants along the way – so many amazing cakes and goodies!!

The Outer Hebrides is very open and can be really windy, make sure you take plenty of suncream and warm clothes!

If you have found this post useful for planning your family camping adventures, you can show your support by  buying us a glass of wine to watch the sun go down . Thanks so much!

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Hebridean Island Hopping

• Fully customisable itinerary
• Prices from: £1320 per person
• Best time to go: April - October
• Transport: Rental car included (optional)

Sandy beaches

The Outer Hebrides are home to some of the most stunning beaches in Europe, clear golden sands of the highest quality, which you’ll often have all to yourself. Make sure you visit the jaw-dropping Luskentyre beach on the Isle of Harris.

Sparkling seas

Hop from island to island and enjoy views over the Atlantic Ocean as far as the eye can see. Sit and watch the sparkling waves meet the shore and allow yourself to drift off and dream.

Wildlife-watching

From the seas to the hills there are a whole host of wildlife spotting points. From playful seals and dolphins to orcas and minke whales, they all call the Hebridean coast home. Flying high above the hills of Harris the white-tailed eagle soars and on the moorlands of Lewis, the red deer roams.

Isle of Harris

With some of Britain’s best beaches lining its western coastline, much of the east coast terrain of the Isle of Harris is lunar in appearance, with huge grey rocks across the landscape peppered with patches of grass. Explore the famous east coast Golden Road and you will be treated to twisting roads connecting these small communities.

Gaelic culture

The Outer Hebrides is one of the few places in Scotland you can hear the Gaelic language spoken. Enjoy the friendly nature of the locals and immerse yourself in the culture.

Callanish standing stones

Step back in time over 5,000 years and walk amongst the giant standing stones of Callanish on the Isle of Lewis. These massive stone structures hold great mystery and intrigue for many.

An Island-Hopping Adventure in Scotland’s Western Isles

This tour of the Outer Hebrides will travel through some of the finest beaches in Scotland and allow you to visit one of the oldest Neolithic sites in the world.

Travel over the seas to the Isle of Barra and continue through the Uists and Benbecula. Journey over to the joint islands of Harris and Lewis, both with stunning landscapes, before crossing back to the mainland.

This wonderful island-hopping self-drive tour explores the majestic islands of the Outer Hebrides by sea and by road. Spectacularly located on the extreme edge of Europe, this island chain offers striking landscapes, some of the world’s most stunning beaches, sparkling seas, and a captivating history dating back thousands of years.

An elemental beauty pervades each of the 200 islands that make up the archipelago. Experience a real sense of belonging and freedom as you explore these legendary islands and soak up the warm Hebridean hospitality.

Suggested Itinerary

The holiday ideas on our website are just examples of the amazing trips we offer.  Think of this itinerary as a starting point which can be tailored into something completely unique to you by our award-winning specialists.

We love the opportunity to use our first-hand knowledge and experience to design and deliver the perfect, bespoke holiday experience for you.

Day 1: Oban to the Isle of Barra

Depart Oban bound for the Isle of Barra – your first Hebridean destination, and the most southerly of the inhabited islands. Spend two magical nights in Castlebay, the island’s capital, which is famed for its white sandy beaches, gentle hills, machair and moorland. These combine to make Barra is a very special place indeed. Overnight – Isle of Barra

Day 2: Isle of Barra Sightseeing

Visit the airport – one of the most unusual in the world – with flights landing on the beach at Cockle Strand between tides. Walk along glorious beaches, cycle around the island, and visit Kisimul Castle, ancestral home of Clan MacNeil standing guard over Castlebay harbour. Barra can take your breath away with its colour, tranquility and beauty. Overnight – Isle of Barra

Day 3: Isle of Barra to North Uist

Hop on the ferry to Eriskay and discover the story of ‘Whisky Galore,’ when the islanders retrieved a cargo of 250,000 bottles of whisky from a nearby shipwreck. Travel north by road over spectacular causeways through the stunning scenery of the Uists and Benbecula to your second destination in these beautiful islands. Overnight – North Uist

Day 4: North Uist Sightseeing

North Uist is a remarkable island – partially covered by a mixture of sea and freshwater lochs which sparkle into brilliance when the sun shines. From here visit Benbecula, Berneray and South Uist – ideal for walking, kayaking and wildlife-watching. Overnight – North Uist

Day 5: North Uist to Harris

Your next destination is the Isle of Harris – an island ready to exceed all expectations. Explore the lunar landscape of the Harris hills & discover castles standing guard over deserted bays. Take a tranquil journey through time, surrounded by the most beautiful beaches imaginable, backed by the shell-sand pasture of the machair and its vivid display of spring and summer flowers. Overnight – Isle of Harris

Day 6: Isle of Harris Sightseeing

The mountains of north Harris contrast with the rolling moors and lochans of Lewis, and offer unrivalled opportunities for hillwalkers, birdwatchers and wildlife-lovers. Explore the shimmering strands of Luskentyre beach and take a drive along the “Golden Road,” a bizarre moonscape of eroded crags and black lochans. Overnight – Isle of Harris

Day 7: Harris to the Isle of Lewis

Lewis is the largest and northernmost island in the Outer Hebrides. The main hub is bustling Stornoway which is by far the largest settlement in the Hebrides. The landscape and history of Lewis combine together with the hospitality of its people to provide a wonderful escape from the pressures of modern life. Overnight – Isle of Lewis

Day 8: Isle of Lewis Sightseeing

Crafting and fishing villages are dotted along the north-west coast of Lewis, from where archaeology buffs will make a beeline to the famous Standing Stones at Callanish, a fascinating group of nearly 50 megaliths dating from around 3,000 BC.

The west coast has brilliant beaches while much of the island is made up of peat bog, the favoured habitat of a variety of rare breeding birds. The Butt of Lewis, the northerly tip of the island, is home to many seabirds and an excellent spot for watching whales and dolphins. Overnight – Isle of Lewis

Day 9: Depart to Ullapool

Depart the Hebridean Islands by ferry bound for the fishing village of Ullapool.

What's Included?

Your holiday includes:

• Carefully selected en-suite accommodation for 8 nights including traditional Scottish breakfast
• Comprehensive information pack
• Personalised itinerary with our recommendations for the best places to eat and drink and sightseeing suggestions
• Map of Scotland with our recommended driving route
• 9 days rental of an Economy car (other vehicle categories available) including comprehensive insurance
• All ferry crossings (as per your itinerary)
• 24-hour emergency contact number
• Full financial protection

Your holiday doesn't include:

• Travel insurance
• Lunches and evening meals

Accommodation & Prices

We know that after a busy day of sightseeing an exceptional place to stay makes all the difference. That’s why all of the accommodation we select is hand-picked using our first-hand knowledge of the best places to stay.

Our discerning team has a wealth of experience, and we extensively research and regularly review all of the accommodation we select for our clients.

Please choose from one of our accommodation categories below. If you wish to combine these categories or perhaps upgrade for a special occasion let us know in your enquiry.

A collection of quality 4* Guest Houses and 3* Hotels often located in beautiful locations which provide an excellent standard of accommodation.

Tastefully decorated and furnished, these properties are generally owned and operated by locals who have a genuine passion for their region which they are keen to share with you. Their warm hospitality is sure to be a highlight of your Scottish experience.

Our Premium category includes a unique collection of luxurious and stylish boutique Guest Houses and small 4* Hotels. These are wonderfully charming and intimate and run with great flair by their owners.

It also comprises larger 4* Hotels selected for their high standard of accommodation, exceptional service, and great location. These range from traditional luxury to contemporary Hotels.

From award-winning luxury Hotels to unique country retreats, all of which offer exceptional accommodation with superb facilities and outstanding service.

These are truly magical places and amongst the best Scotland has to offer. The perfect choice when you would like somewhere really special which can be a treat for the night or for your entire holiday.

Our packages include car rental and comprehensive insurance for the duration of your holiday. Absolute Escapes has an excellent relationship with a number of car hire operators and we are able to offer quality vehicles and great value for money.

If you plan to bring your own vehicle, we are also able to offer this itinerary without a rental car.

All our packages include:

• Collision Damage Waiver
• Super Damage Excess Waiver
• Third Party Insurance
• Theft Waiver
• Good for 2 people
• Maximum of 4 passengers
• 2 large suitcases
• Manual or automatic transmission
• Good for 2 – 4 people
• Maximum of 5 passengers

Intermediate

• Good for up to 4 people
• 3 large suitcases
• Good for 5 people
• Maximum of 7 passengers
• 3 – 4 large suitcases

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Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Outer Hebrides

When is the best time to visit the Outer Hebrides? What are the best places to stay? Where are the most beautiful beaches? Scotland's spectacular western islands are a destination close to our hearts and we’re delighted to share some of our first-hand knowledge. Find out all you've ever wanted to know about visiting the Outer Hebrides ... Read more

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Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides

Vatersay Bay, the Outer Hebrides in Scotland

Travel the length and breadth of the Western Isles on a tour that includes visits to 5,000-year-old standing stones, time to enjoy areas of natural beauty and four scenic ferry crossings, along with accommodation, 5 dinners and 5 breakfasts.

Our extended tour of the Outer Hebrides has proved extremely popular, offering as it does a unique opportunity to travel the length and breadth of the Western Isles. Our Grand tour takes in all the beauty and diversity of this very special environment with nine or ten different islands (depending on departure) and four ferry trips included. Two comfortable hotels ensure that this holiday in the Outer Hebrides is as relaxing as possible, while at the same time offering great variety and the sense of a true journey of discovery which will live long in the memory. This itinerary features part of the North Coast 500, the highly scenic coastal route which begins and ends in Inverness. Highlights include visits to Luskentyre Beach, the Standing Stones of Callanish, the Norse Mill at Shawbost, the Black Houses of Gearrannan, Cockleshell Beach airport on the Isle of Barra, St. Clement's Church at Rodel and South Uist's Kildonan Museum.

From £895 per adult

Departure days.

• W Wednesday

April — October

Contact details

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Tour information

• Dunfermline
• Archaeology
• Island Hopping

Tour prices

From £895 Per Adult

Prices are subject to change depending on season

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Tour company information

Brightwater holidays.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2022, Brightwater Holidays is a well-established specialist in quality, escorted garden holidays and Scenic Scottish tours. The company won a bronze prize at the British Travel Awards in 2020 for Best Coach Holiday Company, and both gold and silver in the 2019 iteration of the awards ceremony for Best Coach Holiday Company and Best Special Interest Holiday Company respectively. It also has a dedicated Private Groups service, with the Private Groups Manager Jenni Duncan being shortlisted for Group Leisure & Travel’s Excellence Award in 2021.

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Skye and the Western Isles Travel Guide

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A procession of Hebridean islands, islets and reefs off the northwest shore of Scotland, Skye and the Western Isles between them boast some of the country’s most alluring scenery. It’s here that the turbulent seas of the Atlantic smash up against an extravagant shoreline hundreds of miles long, a geologically complex terrain whose rough rocks and mighty sea cliffs are interrupted by a thousand sheltered bays and, in the far west, a long line of sweeping sandy beaches. The islands’ interiors are equally dramatic, a series of formidable mountain ranges soaring high above great chunks of boggy peat moor, a barren wilderness enclosing a host of lochans, or tiny lakes.

Brief history

The small isles.

Each island has its own character, though the grouping splits quite neatly into two. Skye and the Small Isles – the improbably named Rùm, Eigg, Muck and Canna – are part of the Inner Hebrides, which also include the islands of Argyll. Beyond Skye, across the unpredictable waters of the Minch, lie the Outer Hebrides, nowadays known as the Western Isles, a 130-mile-long archipelago stretching from Lewis and Harris in the north to Barra in the south. The whole region has four obvious areas of outstanding natural beauty to aim for: on Skye, the harsh peaks of the Cuillin and the bizarre rock formations of the Trotternish peninsula; on the Western Isles, the mountains of North Harris and the splendid sandy beaches that string along the Atlantic seaboard of South Harris and the Uists. Harris also featured in our reader survey of the most beautiful places in Scotland .

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Festive Feelings around Christmas in Scotland

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Scotland's Wildest Natural Scenery

Want to lose yourself in Scotland's wildest natural scenery? This itinerary is a breath of fresh air and perfect to explore the most enchanting landscapes of the Highlands. It will allow you to get to know the wildest landscapes of Scotland, its fast-paced history and its amazing traditions.

Skye and the Western Isles were first settled by Neolithic farming peoples in around 4000 BC. They lived along the coast, where they are remembered by scores of remains, from passage graves through to stone circles, most famously at Calanais (Callanish) on Lewis. Viking colonization gathered pace from 700 AD onwards – on Lewis four out of every five place names is of Norse origin – and it was only in 1266 that the islands were returned to the Scottish crown. James VI (James I of England), a Stuart and a Scot, though no Gaelic-speaker, was the first to put forward the idea of clearing the Hebrides. However, it wasn’t until after the Jacobite uprisings, in which many Highland clans backed the losing side, that the Clearances began in earnest.

The isolation of the Hebrides exposed them to the whims and fancies of the various merchants and aristocrats who bought them up. Time and again, from the mid-eighteenth century to the present day, both the land and its people were sold to the highest bidder. Some proprietors were well-meaning, others simply forced the inhabitants onto ships bound for North America. Always the islanders were powerless and almost everywhere they were driven from their ancestral homes. However, their language survived, ensuring a degree of cultural continuity, especially in the Western Isles, where even today the first language of the majority remains Gaelic (pronounced “gallic”).

The history of the Small Isles, to the south of Skye, is typical of the Hebrides: early Christianization, followed by Norwegian rule ending in 1266 when the islands fell into Scottish hands. Their support for the Jacobites resulted in hard times after the failed 1745 rebellion, but the biggest problems came with the introduction of the potato in the mid-eighteenth century, which prompted a population explosion. At first, the problem of overcrowding was lessened by the kelp boom, but the economic bubble burst with the end of the Napoleonic Wars and most owners eventually resorted to forced Clearances.

Since then, each of the islands has been bought and sold several times, though only Muck is now privately owned by the benevolent laird, Lawrence MacEwen. Eigg was bought by the islanders themselves in 1997. The other islands were bequeathed to national agencies: Rùm, by far the largest and most-visited of the group, possessing a cluster of formidable volcanic peaks and the architecturally remarkable Kinloch Castle, belongs to Scottish Natural Heritage; while Canna, with its high basalt cliffs, is owned by the National Trust for Scotland.

Measuring just over four miles by one, and with a population of around twenty, Canna is run as a single farm and bird sanctuary by the National Trust for Scotland. For visitors, the chief pastime is walking: from the dock it’s about a mile across a grassy basalt plateau to the bony sea cliffs of the north shore, which rise to a peak around Compass Hill (458ft) – so called because its high metal content distorts compasses – in the northeastern corner of the island, from where you get great views across to Rùm and Skye. The cliffs of the buffeted western half of the island are a breeding ground for Manx shearwater, razorbill and puffin.

Smallest and most southerly of the Small Isles, Muck is low-lying, mostly treeless and extremely fertile. You’ll arrive at PORT MÓR, the village on the southeast corner of the island. A road, a little more than a mile long, connects Port Mór with the island’s main farm, Gallanach, which overlooks the rocky seal-strewn skerries on the north side of the island; to the east lies the nicest sandy beach, Camas na Cairidh. In the southwest corner of the island, it’s worth climbing Beinn Airein (452ft) for the 360-degree panoramic view; the return journey from Port Mór takes around two hours.

Like Skye, Rùm is dominated by its Cuillin, which, though only reaching a height of 2663ft at the summit of Askival, rises up with comparable drama straight up from the sea in the south of the island. The majority of the island’s twenty or so inhabitants now live in KINLOCH, the only village, overlooking the large bay on the sheltered east coast, and most are employed by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), which runs the island as a National Nature Reserve. Two gentle waymarked heritage trails start from Kinloch, both taking around two hours.

The island’s best beach is at KILMORY, to the north, though check with the reserve manager about public access. The hamlet of HARRIS on the southwest coast once housed a large crofting community; all that remains now are several ruined blackhouses and the extravagant Bullough Mausoleum, which was built in the style of a Greek Doric temple by Sir George to house the remains of his father, and overlooks the sea.

Kinloch Castle

Rùm’s chief formal attraction is Kinloch Castle, a squat red sandstone edifice fronted by colonnades and topped by crenellations and turrets, that overshadows the village of Kinloch. From the galleried hall, with its tiger rugs, stags’ heads and giant Japanese incense-burners, to the “Extra Low Fast Cushion” of the Soho snooker table in the Billiard Room, the interior is packed with knick-knacks and technical gizmos accumulated by Sir George Bullough (1870–1939), the spendthrift son of self-made millionaire Sir John Bullough, who bought the island as a sporting estate in 1888. Look out for the orchestrion, an electrically driven barrel organ (originally destined for Balmoral) crammed in under the stairs. You can also spend the night here, and there’s a bistro and a bar.

Eigg is the most easily distinguishable of the Small Isles from a distance, since the island is mostly made up of a basalt plateau 1000ft above sea level, and a great stump of columnar pitchstone lava, known as An Sgurr, rising out of the plateau another 290ft. It’s also the most vibrant, populous and welcoming of the Small Isles, with a strong sense of community. Ferries arrive at the causeway, which juts out into Galmisdale Bay at the southeast corner of the island where An Laimhrig (The Anchorage), the island’s community centre, stands, housing a shop, post office, tearoom and information centre. With the island’s great landmark, An Sgurr (1292ft), watching over you wherever you go, many folk feel duty-bound to climb it, and enjoy the wonderful views over to Muck and Rùm.

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updated 30.05.2021

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Journey through the Western Isles

Kisimul Castle on Barra

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A memorable and relaxing island-hopping adventure.

Ideal for those who want a relaxing tour of these special, truly captivating Scottish islands, each with their own character, taking you through the remote and enchanting Outer Hebrides from Barra in the south through the Uists, Harris and Lewis, before finishing on the easily accessible Inner Hebridean island of Skye , where you can then begin your journey home via the bridge back to the mainland.

Available as described here travelling by car and ferry throughout, or as fly-drive from Glasgow , with one way car hire on the islands.

• McKinlay Kidd

Holiday Details

Day one – isle of barra.

Your first Hebridean destination is the Isle of Barra in the south. Your ferry departs from the port of Oban on the west coast. Look out for whales and dolphins as you cross the Sea of the Hebrides. A short drive takes you to your first accommodation.

Your Accommodation on Barra

You’ll receive a warm Hebridean welcome from the proprietor of your accommodation, situated just a few miles outside the main town of Castlebay. Relax here and settle in to a different pace of island life as you embark on your journey through the Western Isles.

What to See and Do on Barra

Take a walk along the sparkling white sands of Cockle Strand and spot a plane landing at low tide – an unforgettable sight. Drive or cycle up to Eoligarry and feast your eyes on the springtime profusion of primroses as you gaze across the sound to Fuday, Eriskay and South Uist in the distance. Or head South to Castlebay, the island capital, and visit Kisimul Castle, restored ancestral home of the clan MacNeil. Stop off at the highly informative Heritage Centre, where you can enjoy coffee and refreshments, before perhaps taking a picnic across the causeway to Vatersay, with its glorious twin beaches.

Day Three – The Uists

Leave the little island of Barra via the ferry to Eriskay, with your next base a short distance away, giving you plenty of time for exploring.

Your Hotel on South Uist

Nestled amongst the rugged landscape, you’re perfectly placed to explore all that the islands have to offer, and be spoiled for choice.

From bracing walks along stunning white sand beaches besides turquoise waters, maybe spotting some of the local wildlife, to the nearby world-famous Askernish Golf Course. The Hebridean Way with its miles of inspiring trails is also right on your doorstep.

This contemporary, family run guest house offers you the warmest of welcomes from the resident owners. With stylish interiors and an inviting fully licensed restaurant, it’s a delightful oasis amongst the heather.

In the evening you can indulge in a tempting menu, lovingly created by your host, whose experience as a professional chef is evident in every dish.

What to See and Do on the Uists

The islands of Eriskay, South Uist, Benbecula, Grimsay, North Uist and Berneray are all inter-connected by causeways, making it easy to explore. Do take heed of the signs and watch out for otters crossing!

There are abundant local walks whether on wide open empty beaches, along the machair or in the heather clad hills. Just take a range of clothing and a few supplies, as facilities can be few and far between in this remote corner of Scotland, and the weather changes rapidly. Woodland is sparse here. In fact there are very few trees at all. Look out instead for the furrows and little heaps of peat, still cut by hand for winter warmth.

Eriskay is famous as the scene of the shipwreck of the SS Politician, the story of which inspired the film  Whisky Galore! . If you take a drive around the island, you are likely to spot small ponies in the fields – these are a distinct breed, saved in recent years from the brink of extinction.

You’ll see ruined and restored cottages and blackhouses across the islands; evidence of a larger population before the Highland Clearances and emigration in the nineteenth century. Take a drive around the northern loop on North Uist, and you will come across the Georgian folly of Scolpaig Tower, plus one of the smartest and most photogenic of blackhouses, huddling under its thatched roof, against a backdrop of shimmering sand.

Birdwatchers will not want to miss the RSPB Balranald Nature Reserve on the west coast of North Uist. It is home to thousands of coastal waders and divers, an ideal place to hear the distinctive call of the elusive corncrake, as well as being a lovely place for a stroll.

Day Five – Harris

Today you head to the small island of Berneray, connected by causeway to North Uist then cross by ferry to Harris, with your next lodging in a peaceful location in the south of the island.

Your Guest House on Harris

This modern four star guest house exudes a warm, traditional Hebridean welcome and offers a quiet retreat from which to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding area. Overlooking a peaceful loch, you are just a few  minutes drive, or a 20 minute walk from Tarbert.

What to See and Do on Harris

With its magnificent scenery and spectacular beaches, Harris offers unrivalled opportunities for hillwalkers, anglers, divers, birdwatchers and wildlife lovers. Marvel at the sight of golden eagles, cormorants and buzzards swooping down over the uninhabited offshore islands. Don’t miss Rodel’s exquisite 15th century church of St. Clement’s, with its wonderful medieval tombs and wood carvings.

Day Seven – Lewis

No ferry today as Lewis is part of the same land mass as Harris, reached by crossing a barren rocky “moonscape”. Time to explore as you travel, with your next base on the edge of Stornoway, the main town of these islands.

Your Guest House on Lewis

Your accommodation here is a recently refurbished, family owned house with just two very comfortable en-suite bedrooms. Your Stornoway born-and-bred host is here to ensure your complete relaxation and satisfaction, serving authentic, locally sourced breakfasts and giving unique local advice on anything you might need to know about the Outer Hebrides. There are several evening dining choices within easy reach and the town centre is a 30 minute walk away, though there is a 20 minute shortcut through Lews Castle grounds.

What to See and Do on Lewis

Lewis is positively bursting with archaeological treasures, notably the eerie Standing Stones of Callanish, the Pictish Carloway Broch and several blackhouse villages. The bustling town of Stornoway boasts a vibrant social scene, where traditional music and crafts thrive in lively pubs, clubs, markets and shops. Combined with its incomparable scenery, the Isle of Lewis offers plenty of activites for those interested in history, wildlife, walking and much more.

Day Nine – Isle of Skye

Your next ferry takes you east across the sea to Skye, with your hotel a welcoming inn at its northern end, perfectly placed to explore the most dramatic parts of this large island.

Your Hotel on Skye

In a quiet village at the head of Loch  Greshornish  in the north of the island, your accommodation on Skye is a hugely appealing family-owned inn.

Having undergone much refurbishment, the inn has garnered a well-earned reputation for the warmth of its welcome, as guests arrive in the cosy bar, heated by real log fire, with the ancient stone of the original farmhouse exposed here and there.

The bright, unpretentious restaurant serves a hearty menu of classics formed of fine local produce, while each of the six en-suite bedrooms is decorated in soothing tones, making a perfect spot to relax after a long day’s exploration. Dinner arrangements can be made on arrival.

What to See and Do on Skye

This is a perfect, central location for exploring this, the largest Hebridean island, with many contrasts of its own. In the north of the island, you’ll find historic Dunvegan Castle and the stunning Trotternish peninsula, with the now world famous Fairy Glen and stunning views from the Quiraing. In the south the Sleat peninsula, known as the Garden of Skye, take time to visit Armadale Castle and Gardens, or walk to the Point of Sleat, and gaze across to the small isles of Rum and Eigg and dream of future visits! Wherever you are on the island, the Cuillin mountains seem to frame every view and there are a myriad of walking opportunities for all abilities.

Day Eleven – Return Home

To complete your journey you can leave Skye by the bridge or, in more traditional style, by ferry to the mainland at Mallaig.

Island-hop through the contrasting isles of the Outer Hebrides, from Barra, through the Uists to Harris then Lewis, before returning to the mainland through the Isle of Skye.

£1345 per person for departures in March, April & October, £1425 per person in May to September. 

All prices are based on two people sharing a double or twin room, for ten nights on a bed & breakfast basis, and include ferry crossings for two adults and a car from Oban to Barra, onwards through the Outer Hebrides, from Harris to Skye and back to Mallaig.

This holiday is also available as a fly-drive , from Glasgow with one way car hire included between Barra and Stornoway, with Skye visited between Harris and Lewis.

Before your departure, you will receive personalised holiday information including full directions, recommended routes, and suggestions on places to visit depending on your interests and our local knowledge to help you get the most from your holiday.

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Falling in Love with the Isle of Skye

“Somewhere along the Scottish coast An emerald island lies So I will steer my sailing boat Unto the Isle of Skye” [Andrew Peterson] I take a glanc...

So well planned. The whole holiday went like clockwork. Thank you McKinlay Kidd for arranging such a wonderful adventure.

The holiday was everything we would have wished for.

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Escorted tour

Discover the landscapes and big skies of scotland's magical western isles.

Join us on a tour of Scotland's magical Western Isles, a land of unspoilt, timeless beauty, with spectacular scenery, ancient history and unique Gaelic culture.

Perched on the very edge of Britain, these beautiful isles have been continuously inhabited for more than 6000 years, and this trip will take you to the pristine sands of their vast, empty beaches, mountains and moorlands rich in flora and fauna, and villages with a pace of life long forgotten on the mainland.

Start your Hebridean adventure on the Isle of Skye, the largest island in the Inner Hebrides, where you'll visit Dunvegan Castle, the stronghold of the chiefs of MacLeod for nearly 800 years, and Portree, with its pastel-coloured houses lining the harbour.

Next it's on to Stornoway, to discover the intriguing archeological monuments of Lewis and Harris, including the ancient Calanais Standing Stones, which predate Stonehenge by hundreds of years, and the wonderfully-preserved Carloway Broch, a dry-stone fortified tower dating back some 2000 years.

There's also a trip to the Butt of Lewis, the northernmost tip of Lewis, which holds the title of the windiest place in the UK, according to the Guinness Book of Records. Battling the wind will reward you with unforgettable views of a dramatic rocky coastline and a grand lighthouse looking out over the north Atlantic.

Throughout your trip you'll be staying in a series of well-located hotels, all of which will be three-stars and with cosy bedrooms with private facilities for a restful night in between your adventures.

Reasons to book

Calanais Standing Stones

Dunvegan Castle

Carloway Broch

Beautiful beaches

Pretty Portree

Price includes

• Five nights' dinner, bed and Scottish breakfast accommodation at Hotel Dunollie, Isle of Skye for two nights, Cabarfeidh Hotel, Stornoway for two nights and Gairloch Hotel, Gairloch for one night
• All ferry crossings
• Tour of the Isle of Skye and visit to Dunvegan Castle and Portree
• Tour of Harris and Lewis
• Visit to the Butt of Lewis and travel to Ullapool
• Return flights to Edinburgh or Inverness, with coach travel and transfers throughout
• Fully escorted by a friendly, experienced tour manager

Availability

* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room, subject to availability and based on 14 October 2024 departure date and LHR flight. Various departure dates are available, please call for details . Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement on request. Deposit £250pp. Should circumstances require, we reserve the right to accommodate you in conveniently located, alternative hotels of a similar standard. Tour not suitable for those with mobility issues. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Ltd and Newmarket Holidays.

Today you'll fly to Inverness or Edinburgh where you'll be met by your tour manager.

You'll board the coach to head towards the Isle of Skye, a drive of around five hours from Edinburgh and two hours from Inverness. While the journey is long, it's incredibly scenic, and includes a break at the famous Eilean Donan Castle on the shores of Loch Duich.

On arrival on Skye you'll check into Hotel Dunollie, your home for the next two nights, where you'll enjoy a dinner with the rest of your group.

After breakfast at your hotel, you'll set off on a tour of the Isle of Skye. You'll pass by the famous Cuillin Hills mountain range, where jagged peaks are often obscured by a veil of mist, as you make your way to Dunvegan Castle.

This castle was the stronghold of the chiefs of MacLeod for nearly 800 years, and is said to be the oldest continuously occupied family home in Scotland. The castle is steeped in rich history which you'll discover as you visit.

Later in the afternoon, you'll head into Skye's main town, Portree, where you'll see its delightful pastel-coloured houses around the harbourfront, set against a backdrop of dramatic scenery.

Following an early breakfast this morning, you'll transfer to Ullapool, where you'll catch the ferry to Stornoway.

You'll be sailing for around two and a half hours before arriving in Stornoway and exploring the pretty capital of Lewis and Harris, with its dramatic landscapes and unique Gaelic culture.

Later on, you'll check into your next hotel, the cosy Cabarfeidh Hotel where dinner will be served this evening.

You'll head to Harris today, with its towering mountains and rugged coastline to the east, and its miles of pristine beaches lapped by Atlantic waves to the west.

Your first stop will be Rodel Church, one of the grandest mediaeval buildings in the Western Isles. You'll then explore the little port of Tarbert, before continuing to the fascinating Calanais Standing Stones, a collection of almost 50 ancient stones erected 5,000 years ago.

It's then a short walk from the road to the beautifully-preserved Carloway Broch, a circular dry-stone fortified tower dating back some 2000 years.

You'll also visit the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village with its typical crofting buildings to get a fascinating insight into the lives of the islands' inhabitants past and present.

This morning, following breakfast, you'll head to the Butt of Lewis, on the northern tip of Lewis, the final location of your Hebridean adventure and the northernmost tip of the Outer Hebrides. Hold on to your hat - this is the windiest place in the UK, according to the Guiness Books of Records.

See the lighthouse designed by David Stevenson and ancient rocks known as the Lewisian Gneiss before continuing your journey to Ullapool.

You'll set sail in the early afternoon for the crossing to Ullapool then follow a delightfully scenic route through Wester Ross to Newtonmore or Carrbridge and on to Gairloch where you'll check in at your final hotel.

After a final breakfast at your hotel you'll begin your journey to Inverness (one hour's drive) or Edinburgh (three hours' drive) to catch your flight home.

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Find Your Tour

Touring scottish islands by car.

We’ve previously written travel tips on how to plan a 7 day Scottish Islands tour itinerary .

With the following travel tips, we are going to give you the stuff you need to know about how to use the ferry services in Scotland.

Ferry Operators:

The first thing you need to know is that Caledonian MacBrayne operates almost every major ferry route to the islands on the west coast of Scotland. Indeed, their monopoly on the west coast is so famous that it has been celebrated in a well-known rhyme

The Earth belongs unto the Lord, And all that it contains. Except the Kyles and the Western Isles, For they are all MacBrayne's.

If sailing to Orkney you have the choice of Northlink Ferries (who also sail to Shetland) and Pentland Ferries.

There are still a few small independent ferry operators serving the smaller islands such as Kerrera and Easdale.

And, of course, there is the well-known Glenelg Ferry that carries a few cars at a time across the narrow sea strait of Kylerhea to Skye. This is quite an experience as it is the smallest turntable car ferry service in Scotland and one of the last of its kind. Similar ferries used to operate all over Scotland but have been replaced by bridges such as those at Kyleakin and Ballachulish.

Ferry Timetables:

If you are going on a Scottish Island holiday you will need to get acquainted with the CalMac website. This is the go to resource for ferry times, prices and bookings.

There are a couple of things that you need to keep in mind when booking ferries.

1. Seasonal Changes:

CalMac operates a different timetable in Winter than it does in Summer. So if you are looking at ferry times you need to make sure you are looking at the right season. The Summer schedule typically runs from late March to late October.

Northlink ferries also have seasonal changes in their ferry times with extra services running between Mid-May and the end of August.

2. Low Tide Timetable Amendments:

Some Calmac ferry routes have quirky timetable variations due to low tide conditions. Mallaig harbour is particularly vulnerable to this. If sailing on the following routes you need to take note of the “Tidal Amendments” that occur on specific days.

• Mallaig - Armadale
• Mallaig - Lochboisdale
• Mallaig - Eigg
• Berneray - Leverburgh
• Oban - Lismore

Booking Your Tickets:

As a general rule of thumb, if a CalMac ferry crossing takes ~30 minutes or less, it will operate a “turn up and go” system. This simply means that you can’t book a place in advance and they operate a first come first served service.

This system is fine in most cases as the shorter ferry sailings mean you don’t have too long to wait between ferries. But on some routes, such as Tobermory to Kilchoan, you could have a 2 hour wait if you don’t get on the ferry that you hoped for.

We would always recommend that you pre-book your ferry if you can do so. Certain routes are busy in summer and it just isn’t worth the risk of winging it.

The websites for CalMac, Northlink Ferries, and Pentland Ferries all have online booking systems where you can make secure payments by credit card.

If you are sailing with CalMac, you can select to get your tickets sent to you by email. You simply print off these tickets, present them at the ferry terminal and they scan the tickets at check-in… all very easy!

Check-in at the Ferry:

When you are looking at the ferry timetables, you also need to take note of the “Check-in” times as these vary depending on the route.

If you have booked your tickets and arrive after the designated check-in time, you may lose your place on the ferry.

SO always allow enough time to get to the ferry before the check-in time.

Don’t worry, if you buy one of our guides you will find the check-in times highlighted and we suggest how to schedule your day to arrive at the ferry with time to spare.

Boarding the Ferry:

After checking in at the ferry, you will be guided to park your car in a designated boarding lane. Arriving first for the ferry doesn’t always mean that you will be the first off.

Unfortunately, there generally isn’t a great deal to do at the ferry terminals whilst you wait to board the boat. If you are traveling with children, you might wish to think about having some games to hand to keep them amused during the 30 - 45 minute wait.

This isn’t a problem if you are boarding at Oban, Ullapool, Tarbert (Harris), Stornoway or Brodick as the ferry terminal is not far from some gift shops and restaurants.

Disabled Passengers:

Calmac is very efficient when it comes to assisting passengers with mobility problems.

When you make a booking with CalMac you just need to notify them that you will require assistance with the boarding. Then, when you arrive at the ferry check in, they will recognise your booking and make sure that your vehicle is parked on the ferry beside an elevator.

It is all very smoothly organised.

On Board the ferry:

As you would expect, the size of the ferries and what you get on board is very varied.

A general rule of thumb with CalMac ferries is that any ferry on a route that takes more than 30 minutes, will have a cafe on board.

If you are on one of their larger ferries, you can expect to have a restaurant serving a choice of meals which typically seems to include fish and chips, a curry and some pasta dish like a lasagne. It won’t be the culinary highlight of your Scotland tour, but eating on the board is sometimes a good way to make use of your time if you have a packed touring agenda.

The larger ferries also have a bar which is where the “locals” can often be found catching up with the island gossip.

If you prefer a quieter space, there are observation lounges with comfy seating and, of course, you can always sit out on the deck and take in the bracing sea air and coastal scenery.

The Northlink Ferries that sail to Orkney and Shetland are really comfortable ships and have great facilities. The Shetland route is a long crossing so the ferries need good facilities and they feel more like cruise ships.

The Pentland Ferry from Gills Bay to Orkney is a smaller ferry designed for speed so it is more basic than the Northlink Ferries, but it does have a great observation deck. You can also peer into the bridge of the ship and see what the captain is doing.

Most Scenic Ferry Routes:

There are some ferry crossings worth taking for the scenery. This is a list of some of our favourites.

Kennacraig to Port Ellen (Islay) - The highlight of this route is the approach to Port Ellen as the ferry passes the famous distilleries of Ardbeg, Lagavulin and Laphroaig. You might need to use a tele-foto lens as the distilleries are in the distance but we took this picture with a modest little camera and it turned out OK.

Uig to Tarbert (Harris) - There is a magic about arriving on Harris. It certainly doesn’t feel like any part of mainland Scotland and it retains a distinct island culture. This is one of the few places in Europe where the Sabbath is still a strict day of rest. But they know how to throw a party too!

Ardrossan to Brodick (Arran) - The appeal of this ferry crossing is the contrast between the urban environment of Ardrossan harbour and the mountainous backdrop of Brodick Bay. When you disembark in Brodick, you are literally stepping off into the Highlands as Arran sits astride the geological fault line that delineates the start of the Highlands.

Scrabster to Stromness (Orkney) - If you are sailing to Orkney, it is worth taking the Northlink Ferry to Stromness as this route sails below the sea cliffs of the Isle of Hoy. At 1,140 feet, these are the highest perpendicular sea cliffs in the British Isles and dwarf the ferry.

The Captain announces when you are approaching the “Old Man of Hoy” sea stack, but this often leads to a rush on deck so it is best to get outside early on to reserve a good spot for a photo.

Oban to Craignure (Mull) - Sailing out of Oban harbour you pass the ivy-clad ruins of Dunollie Castle. 

But Dunollie is just the warm-up act for Duart Castle which is a much more impressive fortress perched on a headland that guards the southern approaches to the Sound of Mull. The castle has an impressive arsenal of cannon that could probably still put a few nasty dents in the CalMac ferry.

How to Make the Most of Your Island Hopping Tour:

For a complete guide on how to plan a Scottish island tour itinerary, we have a choice of "Ready-to-Go" tour plans that cover the popular destinations of Skye, Mull, Arran, Orkney, Lewis & Harris. 

You can read more at the links below:

Island Explorer - this is a great option for a 7 day introduction to the Scottish Islands and it focuses on Arran, Mull, and Iona. With options to visit lots of smaller islands.

Island Adventure - extends the route followed in the Island Explorer by adding in a visit to the Isle of Skye. We suggest you allow around 10 days for this tour.

Island Odyssey - if you have 10 - 14 days in Scotland and want to experience some of its most remotre corners, we recommend the Island Odyssey. This route takes you up the west coast via Fort William (with an option to visit Mull) then onto Skye and the Western Isles before returning via Ullapool.

Grand Tour Borders to Orkne y - we guide you all the way from the south of Scotland to the northern extreme of the mainland and then onto Orkney. This itinerary really needs 2 weeks or more to do it justice.

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Road to the Isles [2024]: 9 Stops from Fort William to Mallaig by Car

Are you planning a trip along the stunning ‘Road to the Isles’ and wondering what unique experiences await you from Fort William to Mallaig ? This incredible journey is more than just a drive along the A830. The route through Scotland’s West Coast leads to a land of scenic landscapes and historic charm, with unforgettable stops along the way.

For those curious, the ‘ Road to the Isles ‘ begins in Fort William and ends in Mallaig , where you can hop on a ferry or boat to the enchanting isles of Rum, Eig and, Muck . These islands are part of the Small Isles archipelago in the Scottish Inner Hebrides . Each island has its unique charm and attractions, making them popular destinations for visitors travelling from Mallaig.

Ideal for both the intrepid explorer and the casual traveller, exploring this route, from Fort William to Mallaig by car epitomizes the essence of a perfect slow-travel road trip, inviting you to immerse yourself in the journey, savouring each moment and discovery at your own pace.

Consider playing the traditional Scottish song “The Road to the Isles.” Its evocative lyrics beautifully capture the essence of the Scottish Highlands and Western Isles, setting the perfect mood for your voyage through Scotland’s heart.

Keep reading for a complete guide to this unmissable ‘Road to the Isles’ road trip from Fort William to Mallaig in the Scottish Highland.

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ESSENTIALS FOR ‘ROAD TO THE ISLES’ TRIP

Go on a 2-Hour Boat Tour of Loch Linnhe from Fort William . Admire picturesque views of Ben Nevis and the surrounding mountains. See wildlife like red deer, otters, seals, and sea birds.

If you’re not driving, opt for one of the following guided tours to experience the scenic Road to the Isles from:

Join an excursion: ­ Edinburgh Day Tour to Glenfinnan, Glencoe and Fort William.

Join this excursion ­: Inverness Day Tour to the Highlands, including seeing the Caledonian Canal.

Edinburgh or check for Best Available .

Fort William , or check for Best Available .

Glenfinnan , or check for Best Available .

‘The Road to the Isles’: From Fort William to Mallaig

The scenic ‘Road to the Isles,’ is a captivating journey from Fort William to Mallaig, weaving like a ribbon through the heart of the Scottish Highlands. This route, perfectly embodying the essence of slow travel , invites you to experience the profound beauty and rich history of Scotland at a relaxed pace.

Starting in Fort William, often referred to as UK’s Outdoor Capital , beneath the majestic Ben Nevis and along the tranquil Loch Linnhe. The journey follows the train tracks, unfurling a story with each unique and charming stop. As you drive, you’re paralleling the iconic route of the Jacobite Steam Train , with the Glenfinnan Viaduct , known from the Harry Potter films, and the serene Loch Eilt offering moments of awe.

The road twists through enchanting woodlands, glens, and moors before revealing the pristine white beaches of Morar and Arisaig. Listen for the distant chug of the train, a nostalgic echo alongside your journey.

In Mallaig, a lively port town, the journey ends where the sea meets the sky. Here, ferries are ready to whisk you away to the bewitching isles of Rum, Eig and, Muck of the Inner Hebrides. There are boats to the Isle of Skye or the Outer Hebrides also.

This journey along the Road to the Isles, set to the rhythm of the traditional tune that shares its name, is more than just a drive — it’s an experience enriched by the stirring sound of bagpipes, immersing you in the mood of Scottish natural splendour and heritage.

Indulging in the Melody of the Journey

One delightful indulgence to consider during your road trip is immersing yourself in the famous melody of “The Road to the Isles.” This well-known Scottish song, penned by Kenneth Macleod, is set to a traditional folk tune and beautifully encapsulates the essence of the journey you’re undertaking.

As you navigate from Fort William to Mallaig, let this song be the soundtrack to your adventure, echoing through the landscapes and places it describes. The lyrics of “The Road to the Isles” speak poetically of the Scottish Highlands and the Western Isles, painting a vivid picture of the journey with words. Each verse is a tribute to the various landscapes you’ll encounter, evoking a deep sense of longing and affection for the picturesque Scottish countryside.

The chorus:

“Sure by Tummel and Loch Rannoch and Lochaber I will go, By heather tracks with heaven in their wiles; If it’s thinking in your inner heart the braggart’s in my step, You’ve never smelled the tangle o’ the Isles,”

resonates with the beauty and charm of the scenery you’ll see and the experiences you’ll have.

You can listen to the traditional ‘Road to the Isles’ song here .

Throughout the years, this song has been covered by various artists, each adding their own touch to its timeless melody. It remains a beloved representation of Scotland’s cultural heritage and scenic landscapes. The song’s melody and lyrics add a layer of cultural depth and emotional connection to the stunning vistas around you.

Practical Information for Your Journey from Fort William to Mallaig

As you set out on the ‘Road to the Isles’ from Fort William to Mallaig, it’s essential to know the practicalities of this iconic route. This journey, predominantly by car , unveils some of the most picturesque landscapes Scotland has to offer.

Here’s what you need to know to make your trip both enjoyable and hassle-free:

Road to the Isles Route: The main route for this road trip is the A830, also affectionately known as the ‘Road to the Isles’ . This road will be your guide from the bustling town of Fort William, through the Highlands, and all the way to the coastal haven of Mallaig.

Journey Duration: Without stops, the drive from Fort William to Mallaig is typically around 1.5 hours, covering a distance of approximately 69 kilometers (43 miles). However, this itinerary is designed to embrace the spirit of slow travel, encouraging you to pause and explore the numerous attractions along the way.

Planning for Stops: Given the numerous scenic and historical stops on this route, including the Glenfinnan Viaduct, Loch Eilt, and the beaches of Arisaig, you may want to allocate a full day for this journey. This approach allows you to fully appreciate each location without feeling rushed.

Overnight Options: To truly capture the essence of this journey, I suggest that you consider an overnight stay. The village of Morar offers stunning beaches for a tranquil evening, while Mallaig provides a lively atmosphere with its seafood restaurants and harbour views. For those interested in history, staying in Glenfinnan is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the area’s rich past.

Travelling by Car: A car is essential for this road trip, offering the freedom to explore at your own pace. You may choose to drive your own vehicle or hire one for this road trip. I find Discover Cars offer a good range of compact cars for the Scottish roads. Take a look here and book well in advance. Ensure your car is in good condition for the journey, as the route offers a mix of straight roads and winding paths through the hills.

What Is There To See From Fort William to Mallaig: 9 Unforgettable Stops on the Road to the Isles

As you begin your journey from Fort William to Mallaig along the Road to the Isles, a multitude of sights awaits. What can you see between these two points? You’ll encounter historical treasures like the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, marvel at the natural beauty of Loch Eilt, and stroll the stunning Silver Sands of Morar. Additionally, explore the engineering feat of Neptune’s Staircase and the cultural richness at the Mallaig Heritage Centre.

These stops aren’t just destinations; they are immersive experiences, weaving together history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes to enrich your travel narrative. Discover these exceptional places, where each offers a unique story and an unforgettable experience.

1. Beginning Your Journey: The Serenity of Loch Linnhe

As you set out on your adventure from Fort William, take a moment to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Loch Linnhe. This expansive sea loch, nestling the town on its shores, is a prelude to the breathtaking landscapes you’ll encounter on your journey.

Loch Linnhe stretches southwest from Fort William, its waters gracefully flowing into the sea and providing a stunning natural backdrop. Before embarking on the iconic A830 Road to the Isles, the calm and shimmering waters of Loch Linnhe invite you to pause and appreciate the contrast between its serene setting and the rugged Highland vistas ahead.

Framed by the majestic mountains of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain, Loch Linnhe offers a peaceful introduction to the diverse splendours of the Scottish west coast.

As you begin your westward journey towards Mallaig, Loch Linnhe lies to your west, a constant companion whose scenic beauty enhances the start of your exploration. This proximity to the loch allows for easy and immediate access to its picturesque views, making Fort William not just a starting point but an integral part of the Road to the Isles experience.

Here, at the edge of Loch Linnhe, you stand at the threshold of a journey filled with natural grandeur, ready to delve into the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

2. Ben Nevis Distillery, Fort William

Just at the edge of Fort William, the Ben Nevis Distillery offers a warm Scottish welcome. Established in 1825, this distillery is one of the oldest licensed distilleries in Scotland, nestled at the foot of the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis.

Whisky Tour Experience: Discover the art of whisky making. The distillery tour provides an in-depth look at the traditional methods of Scottish whisky production. From mashing and fermenting to distillation and maturation, and the intricate processes that give birth to the distinct flavours of their whisky.

Tasting Sessions: After the tour, indulge in a tasting session where you can savour a range of unique whisky blends. These tastings offer a sensory exploration of the distillery’s finest products, showcasing the depth and variety of flavours that come from this ancient craft.

Local History: The Ben Nevis Distillery is not just a place for whisky enthusiasts but also for those interested in Scottish culture and history. The distillery’s story is intertwined with that of the local community, offering insights into the historical significance of whisky in Scotland’s economy and culture. As you sip on a dram of fine whisky, you’re not just tasting a beverage; you’re experiencing a piece of Scottish heritage.

This stop at the Ben Nevis Distillery provides a perfect blend of education, enjoyment, and cultural immersion, setting the tone for the rest of your journey along the Road to the Isles.

Address: Ben Nevis Distillery, Lochy Bridge, Fort William, Scotland, PH33 6TJ

3. Neptune’s Staircase, Banavie

Situated near Fort William, Neptune’s Staircase in Banavie is a marvel of engineering and a testament to Scotland’s industrial heritage is your next stop. This impressive lock system, part of the Caledonian Canal, is not just a functional structure but a breathtaking spectacle.

Engineering Marvel: As the longest staircase lock in Britain, Neptune’s Staircase consists of eight locks, lifting boats a total of 19.5 meters (64 feet) over a quarter of a mile. It was engineered by Thomas Telford in the early 19th century and remains a significant achievement in civil engineering. Observing the lock system in operation is a fascinating experience, offering a glimpse into the ingenuity of historical canal construction.

Caledonian Canal Cruise: To truly appreciate the grandeur of Neptune’s Staircase, consider taking a short cruise of about an hour along the Caledonian Canal. The journey offers stunning views of the surrounding Scottish landscape and a unique perspective on the canal’s design and functionality. It’s a serene way to experience the Highlands’ natural beauty and the canal’s historical significance.

Photo Opportunities: This location provides a myriad of photographic opportunities. Capture the staircase’s impressive scale and the interplay of water, engineering, and landscape. The backdrop of Ben Nevis and the surrounding highlands offers a dramatic setting for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

4. Glenfinnan Viaduct and Monument

Continuing your journey along the Road to the Isles, a stop at the Glenfinnan Viaduct and Monumen t is a step back into history, wrapped in architectural splendour. Located near Loch Shiel, this area is a treasure trove of Scottish heritage and natural beauty, a destination much favoured by slow travellers.

Architectural Beauty: The Glenfinnan Viaduct , with its series of soaring arches, is a masterpiece of railway engineering. Constructed in the late 19th century, it spans 1,000 feet and stands 100 feet high, gracefully curving across the verdant landscape. Its impressive design and construction make it a standout landmark in the Highlands.

Harry Potter Connection: The Glenfinnan Viaduct holds a special allure for Harry Potter enthusiasts, having prominently featured in the film series as a key part of the journey to Hogwarts. Its cinematic fame has transformed it into a pilgrimage site for fans from around the world.

Enthusiasts gather in anticipation of the iconic ‘Hogwarts Express’, notable for its old-world charm, as it gracefully crosses the viaduct. The sight of the train, emitting clouds of smoke and steam while moving along the tracks, offers a magical and captivating experience from various vantage points.

Jacobite History: Near the viaduct stands the Glenfinnan Monument . Erected in 1815 to commemorate the Jacobite uprising of 1745, led by Bonnie Prince Charlie. This poignant historical site, set against the backdrop of Loch Shiel, offers a profound insight into Scotland’s turbulent past. Visitors can climb the monument for a panoramic view of the surrounding highlands.

5. Loch Eilt on Road to the Isles

A serene gem along the West Highland Line, Loch Eilt, is a haven of tranquility and natural beauty. This loch, with its scattered islets and mirrored waters, encapsulates the essence of the Scottish wilderness.

Film Fame: Loch Eilt has carved a niche in cinematic history with its appearances in the Harry Potter films, most notably as the backdrop for the scene of Dumbledore’s grave in “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1.” This particular scene, set against the loch’s tranquil waters and lush surroundings, is a poignant moment in the series. Fans of the films will instantly recognize Loch Eilt as a symbol of the wizarding world’s enchantment, with its serene and mystical ambiance perfectly capturing the essence of the magical realm.

Natural Beauty: The loch’s setting, amidst rolling hills and dense woodlands, offers a peaceful escape into nature. The reflections of the surrounding landscape on the calm waters of Loch Eilt create a mesmerizing and picturesque scene, ideal for photography or simply basking in the beauty of the Highlands.

Picnicking: For those seeking a quiet spot to relax, the shores of Loch Eilt provide the perfect setting for a picnic. It’s an idyllic place to unwind and enjoy the slower pace of Highland life.

Arisaig, a picturesque village on the Road to the Isles, offers a mesmerizing blend of coastal beauty and rich history. This charming spot is a gateway to exploring the natural and cultural wonders of the Scottish west coast.

Marine Activities: Arisaig is a haven for marine enthusiasts. The village provides opportunities for boat tours, where you can explore the nearby Small Isles – Rùm, Eigg, Muck, and Canna. These excursions often include wildlife watching, offering chances to spot dolphins, seals, and a variety of seabirds. The clear waters also make it an excellent spot for kayaking and sailing.

Beach Exploration: The beaches around Arisaig are truly stunning, with their soft white sands and clear turquoise waters. Spend time strolling along the shore, soaking up the tranquil atmosphere. For photographers, the beaches, with their panoramic views and dramatic sunsets, are a dream.

Local History: Visit the Land, Sea and Islands Centre in Arisaig to delve into the area’s rich history and culture. The center provides insights into the local way of life, from the past to the present, and the unique ecology of the region.

7. Silver Sands of Morar on Road to the Isles

A short drive from Arisaig brings you to the Silver Sands of Morar. Here, you’ll find a series of beautiful white sandy beaches, renowned for their scenic beauty and peaceful ambiance.

Scenic Beaches: The Silver Sands offer some of the most picturesque coastal scenery in Scotland. The white sands and crystal-clear waters create a serene and almost tropical landscape, perfect for a relaxing walk or a day of sunbathing.

Nearby Hikes: For those who enjoy exploring on foot, there are numerous walking trails around Morar. These routes offer breathtaking views of the coastline, the isles, and the surrounding landscapes.

Local Dining: Morar and its vicinity boast some excellent dining options, particularly for seafood lovers. Local restaurants serve fresh, locally-sourced seafood, providing a taste of the Highland’s natural bounty.

8. Mallaig Heritage Centre

As you reach Mallaig, a visit to the Mallaig Heritage Centre is a must for anyone interested in the history of the West Highlands and the Road to the Isles.

Local History: The Heritage Centre offers a deep dive into the history of Mallaig and the surrounding area, including its development and the role of the West Highland Railway in connecting this remote part of Scotland to the wider world.

Cultural Exhibitions: The centre’s exhibitions shed light on Mallaig’s past, particularly its fishing industry, which has been the lifeblood of the community. Through various artifacts and stories, visitors gain an understanding of the local culture and traditions.

Interactive Displays: The Heritage Centre is designed to be engaging for visitors of all ages, making it an ideal stop for families. Interactive displays provide an educational experience that is both fun and informative.

Address: Station Road, Mallaig, Inverness-shire, Scotland, PH41 4PY.

TIP: Mallaig Heritage Centre is situated conveniently near the Mallaig Railway station, making it an accessible stop for those travelling to or from Mallaig by train also.

9. Mallaig Harbour, the Final Stop on the Road to the Isles Road Trip

Mallaig Harbour, the final stop on the Road to the Isles, is a bustling fishing port with a lively atmosphere and deep cultural roots. Here, the vibrant harbour life forms the heartbeat of the town, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the Scottish West Coast.

Fishing Port: Mallaig’s harbour is alive with the activities of a working fishing port. Watch boats come and go, bringing in their daily catch, and learn about the local fishing industry that has sustained this community for generations. The harbour’s energy is infectious, and its role as a crucial link in Scotland’s fishing industry is evident in every corner.

Seafood Dining: One of the highlights of Mallaig is the opportunity to indulge in fresh, locally-sourced seafood. The town’s restaurants and cafes serve up the day’s catch, offering everything from traditional fish and chips to gourmet seafood dishes. Dining here means enjoying some of the freshest and most delicious seafood Scotland has to offer, with the sea’s bounty prepared to perfection.

Isle of Skye Ferry: From Mallaig Harbour, you can extend your adventure by taking a ferry to the Isle of Skye. The ferry journey offers stunning views and a chance to explore one of Scotland’s most famous and picturesque islands. Skye’s dramatic landscapes, rich history, and unique culture make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling in the Highlands.

Seafood Dining in Mallaig

In Mallaig, I’d highly recommend these two places to eat:

The Cornerstone Seafood Restaurant: Known for its fresh seafood and local produce, The Cornerstone offers a menu that captures the essence of Scottish cuisine. With its cozy atmosphere and views of the harbour, it’s a perfect spot to enjoy a meal after exploring the area. Check reviews here .

The Steam Inn: This popular eatery provides a warm, welcoming environment and serves a variety of dishes, including locally sourced seafood, hearty meals, and vegetarian options. The Steam Inn is also known for its friendly service and selection of fine ales and whiskies.

BONUS ACTIVITY: Jacobite Steam Train, Fort William to Mallaig or Mallaig to Fort William

The Jacobite Steam Train journey, a highly popular activity for visitors, offers a historic and scenic adventure from Fort William to Mallaig and back. This unique train ride presents an unparalleled opportunity to witness the beauty of the Scottish Highlands in a memorable way. Spanning approximately 84 miles (135 kilometers) round trip, the journey takes about 2 hours each way, making it a delightful day activity.

Historic Journey: Known as the real-life Hogwarts Express, the Jacobite Steam Train offers an unforgettable journey through some of Scotland’s most stunning landscapes. The train, which has become synonymous with the Harry Potter series, provides a magical experience, taking you back in time to the golden age of rail travel.

Scenic Views: The journey on the Jacobite Steam Train is a visual feast, with breathtaking views of the Highlands unfolding along the route. From the majestic Ben Nevis to the deep valleys and serene lochs, the train passes through a variety of landscapes, each more picturesque than the last. The highlight is the crossing of the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, offering panoramic views of Loch Shiel and the surrounding hills.

Booking Tips: The Jacobite Steam Train is a popular attraction, especially during the tourist season. It’s advisable to book your tickets well in advance to secure a spot on this iconic journey.

PRO TIP: For those considering a more leisurely exploration, you could opt to leave your car in Mallaig, enjoy an overnight stay there or in a nearby locale, and then embark on the train the following day for your return to Fort William. This option allows you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning Highland landscapes and the charming coastal town of Mallaig without the rush.

Overnight Stay Suggestions

After a day of exploring the Road to the Isles, finding the perfect place to rest is crucial. Here are some suggestions for overnight stays in Morar, Mallaig, and Glenfinnan, each offering a unique experience:

Morar: For a tranquil retreat, consider staying at the Morar Hotel . Nestled near the famous Silver Sands, this hotel offers stunning views of the coastline and comfortable accommodations. It’s the perfect spot to relax after a day of beach exploration and to enjoy the serene beauty of the Highlands.

Mallaig: To experience the lively atmosphere of a port town, The West Highland Hotel in Mallaig is an excellent choice. Overlooking the harbour, this hotel offers easy access to local dining and ferry services to the Isle of Skye. Its location makes it ideal for enjoying the bustling maritime life of the town.

Glenfinnan: For a stay steeped in history, the Glenfinnan House Hotel offers a charming experience. Located near the Glenfinnan Viaduct and overlooking the serene Loch Shiel, this hotel provides a cozy, historical ambiance, perfect for reflecting on your day’s journey through the Highlands.

Explore more of Scotland

I invite you to explore further and discover more captivating tales and insights about the Scottish Highlands. Browse through other travel stories that unveil the rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture of this enchanting region.

How to Navigate the Duncansby Stacks Walk Without a Tour.

Dores Beach on Loch Ness: Activities in a Scottish Highland Haven.

Is Corrieshalloch Gorge Worth Visiting on a Scottish Road Trip?

Keiss Castle Coastal Walk: Scotland’s NC500 Hidden Gem

Keiss Village: Castles, Coastline, and Caithness Charm

Discover Why Ullapool Is Worth Visiting on Scotland’s NC500

4 Midge Free Areas in Scotland Where You Can Roam Freely;

Best of Portree: Skye’s Favourite City

Highland Coos: Beyond Scotland’s Postcards

Best Places to Stay in Inverness;

For all articles about travels in Scotland, go here to >> Complete Guide to Scotland.

FAQs about ‘Road to the Isles’

The Road to the Isles” is a Scottish song with lyrics penned by Kenneth Macleod. The words were set to a traditional folk tune, creating a melody that captures the essence of the Scottish landscape.

The A830, also known as the Road to the Isles, was originally constructed in the early 19th century. Over the years, it has undergone numerous upgrades and improvements.

Between Fort William and Mallaig, you can see the Ben Nevis Distillery, Neptune’s Staircase, the Glenfinnan Viaduct, Loch Eilt, Arisaig’s beaches, the Silver Sands of Morar, and Mallaig Harbour. The route also offers stunning views of the Highlands.

The Isle of Skye, accessible via ferry from Mallaig near Fort William, is often considered the best island to visit. Known for its rugged landscapes, picturesque villages, and medieval castles, Skye is a must-visit for travellers.

In essence…

As you travel this path along the A830, known as the ‘Road to the Isles’, the enduring charm of the Scottish Highlands envelops you, revealing the rich tapestry of Scotland’s history and its breathtaking natural landscapes.

If I were to choose my favourite stops among the nine, it would be a challenging task. However, the Glenfinnan/Loch Shiel area, the majestic Caledonian Canal/Neptune Staircase, and the pristine white sands truly captivated me. And, of course, the journey aboard the Jacobite Steam Train was an unforgettable experience also.

I hope you find these road trip suggestions both useful and inspiring, highlighting some of the most popular and definitely must-do experiences in the area. Whether it’s the rhythmic chug of the Jacobite Steam Train or the serene sunset at Arisaig, the memories forged along this route are sure to linger long after your journey concludes. This journey is not just about the destinations but the unforgettable moments and unique experiences that make the Scottish Highlands so special.

Happy and Safe Travels Always, Wherever Travel Takes You, xx

Introducing Georgina, the insightful Content Creator behind Timeless Travel Steps. A champion of off-season journeys and cultural immersion for the mature traveller, Georgina has explored 4 continents and over 30 countries. Her blog offers practical tips and personal insights into responsible, comfort-oriented travel along with slow travel destinations. Accompanied by classical, country, and jazz tunes, Georgina's solo adventures and time with her adult children, A & M, enrich her unique travel narrative. Join her for inspiring, immersive global explorations.

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Self-Drive Highlands and Islands

Experience scotland’s highlands and islands on this epic road trip.

Ready to explore Scotland’s rugged landscape? Discover the stunning western highlands and islands as you experience the highlights and hidden gems on this epic 14 day road trip. Summit the UK’s highest mountain, taste the award-winning Isle of Harris gin, explore some of the UK’s most beautiful beaches and so much more.

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• Trip Essentials

Experience the true beauty of Scotland’s highlands and islands as we let you in on the hidden gems of the Outer Hebrides. Your highlands and islands adventure will have you strolling along stunning beaches, paddling crystal clear waters and abseiling down rocky crags with breathtaking views.

14 days, zero-hassle and all this included:

• 13 nights 3* / 4* B&B accommodation
• Half day guided kayaking
• Route details for Ben Nevis hike
• 3 hour boat trip
• Route details for Quiraing hike
• Route details for Trotternish Peninsula hike
• Half day guided SUP experience
• Whisky distillery tour
• Half day gorge walking or guided hike in Torridon
• 2 hour rock climbing and abseiling experience
• 3 ferry crossings
• 24-hour emergency telephone support
• Our recommendations for the best driving routes, places to eat and instagrammable locations!
• 1 native tree planted in our woodland

Plus flexible booking terms as part of our  Adventure Promise , including instalment payments to spread the cost of your adventure. 

Check out the full itinerary in the tab above!

For adventurers who:

Are looking for an epic road trip around Scotland’s highlands and islands! This self-drive adventure break in Scotland is perfect for couples, friends and families (14+ years)

Welcome to Scotland! Arrive in Fort William to check into your eco-friendly boutique B&B, overlooking the beautiful Loch Linnhe and Ardgour Hills from 4pm. Fort William is the largest town in the highlands of Scotland, located in the heart of the Lochabar district. A popular base for adventure seekers, Fort William is known as the gateway to the western highlands.

With plenty of local pubs and restaurants to choose from, enjoy the first evening of your Scottish adventure exploring the town. It’s only right that your first meal includes some of Scotland’s quintessential food – haggis and cullen skink!

Settle in for the night back at your Fort William base. Be sure to get plenty of sleep in preparation for a big day ahead.

Rise and shine. After a hearty breakfast, lace up your walking boots and leave the warmth of your B&B behind as your Scottish adventure begins at the foothills of Ben Nevis. We’ll provide you with details of a route to the summit.

Meet Ben Although it’s designation as the highest mountain in the UK might seem a little daunting (or exciting!), as long as you are active, the route up Ben Nevis doesn’t require scrambling or specialist equipment during the summer months. Visibility may mean you can’t see the trail easily though, so it’s essential you are able to read a map and use a compass to navigate and stay on the trail.

Optional activity: If you’re unsure about going it alone, why not allow our mountain guide to show you the ropes? Our local mountain leader can lead you up the trails to the summit – just let us know and we’d be happy to arrange this. Cost: £195

Be sure to appreciate the views on the way up, with the iconic Scottish highlands in the surrounding landscape. After a tough ascent, why not have some lunch on the summit plateau – what better backdrop for a bite to eat!

Back at your B&B for the evening after conquering the highest mountain in the UK, rest your aching legs at one of the local pubs and perhaps enjoy a wee dram.

After breakfast it’s time to pack up your car and head north to Arisaig via a particularly magical bridge.

A Chuffing Big Bridge The Glenfinnan viaduct played a starring role in the Harry Potter films with the Hogwarts Express chuffing across it. Even if you aren’t a Harry Potter fan, the immense railway spans 1,000ft and towers 100ft above the ground – a definite must see as you continue your Scottish adventure.

Kayaking in Caribbean waters… With its stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, you’ll be forgiven for thinking you took a wrong turn and ended up on a Caribbean island! Protected by hundreds of small tidal islands known as skerries, Arisaig bay is an ideal spot to hop in a kayak and appreciate the islands from the water. On the edge of a very wild part of Scotland, you don’t have to paddle far to get the sense of wide open space and epic wilderness. Don’t worry, our guides will show you the best spots – from hidden bays to wildlife hangouts, Arisaig is home to colonies of seals and a thriving otter population.

Centred on the sheltered shore of Loch nan Ceall on the west coast, Arisaig is a pretty village boasting superb scenery. The views out to the islands of Rum and Eigg can be breathtaking, especially at sunset. This evening you’ll stay in a cosy B&B, built 200 years ago as a stone stable but converted into welcoming accommodation.

Pack your things, your highlands and islands road trip continues as you leave Arisaig and board the ferry to Skye. The island of Skye is over 50 miles long and the largest of the Inner Hebrides. You’ll spend the next two days exploring the island by boat and on foot.

Discover the Cuillin by boat After disembarking the ferry, it’s only a short drive until you reach a gorgeous inland fresh-water loch on the south west of Skye. From the base of the Black Cuillin, jump aboard your included boat trip to discover some of the island’s most magnificent scenery from a different perspective. Home to some impressive wildlife, keep an eye out for rare species like oystercatchers, golden eagles, manx shearwaters, puffins, razorbills, cormorants, herons and sometimes sea eagles, to name just a few! On occasion, you may even spot basking sharks, minky whales, dolphins and porpoises.

Waterfalls at the Fairy Pools Once you’re back on land, continue north to the scenic village of Portree. But not before a stop off at the Fairy Pools; beautifully crystal clear blue pools on the River Brittle. If you’re feeling brave, the pools are perfect for wild swimming.

Continuing north you’ll arrive in Portree, the capital town on the Isle of Skye. Set round its natural harbour and fringed by high ground and cliffs, the harbour continues to be used by local fishing boats. In the bustling port and thriving cultural centre, explore and admire Portree’s colourful buildings and make the most of your hotel’s proximity to the harbour at one of the local seafood restaurants.

Sunrise from the Summit Skye’s landscapes are so spectacularly unique. This has never seemed more apparent than atop the Quiraing. From here, there are breathtaking views of the craggy landscape, the islands of Raasay and Rona, and the mainland of Scotland.

Picture all this with the sun peaking out from the horizon and casting a golden glow over the landscape. Ready to see for yourself? Trade your slippers for walking boots, wipe the sleep from your eyes and head out early for a sunrise hike.

The Quiraing is a landslip on the eastern face of Meall na Suiramach, the northernmost summit of the Trotternish on the Isle of Skye. The whole of the Trotternish Ridge escarpment was formed by a great series of landslips; the Quiraing is the only part of the slip still moving. In fact, the road at its base, near Flodigarry, requires repairs each year.

Tip of Skye As you make your way down, why not head into one of the local villages for a lunch break before continuing north to your second hike location. This walk takes you to the most northerly tip of the Trotternish Peninsula on Skye. The views from the cliff tops are stunning, on a clear day you can see most of the Outer Isles of Harris, Lewis and Uist. As you head back from the tip, you’ll have great views of Duntulm Castle, the clan seat of the MacDonalds of Sleat in the 17th century.

Evening in Portree Spend a second night in the harbour town of Portree. After a big day of walking, you might want to get a warm shower back at your B&B and an early night ready for the next day of your highlands and islands road trip.

Tropical Harris Pack up your things, after breakfast you’ll hop on the ferry across to the stunning Isle of Harris. Harris is well known for its spectacular beaches, which are more reminiscent of the tropics than the north of Scotland! The island is also the perfect location to witness the natural wonder and theatrical performance of the Northern Lights.

Before you race to the nearest beach, why not pop into the distillery, home to the award-winning Isle of Harris Gin. If you have time, perhaps join in for a tour of the distillery… or skip ahead and pick up a bottle or two as souvenirs!

Land of the Vikings Back in the car, head over to your base for the next two nights. Jo and Greig, owners of this quirky accommodation, are sure to offer you a warm welcome. The two blackhouses are over 150 years old and are surrounded by abundant wildlife. The site overlooks a stunning bay with views out over the loch and even has its own private viking harbour. Keep an eye out for the resident otter and eagles nesting nearby.

Take the rest of the afternoon to relax, perhaps a stroll along the water’s edge to take in the incredible views and feel the sea breeze.

Optional activity: Looking for a way to truly unwind this afternoon? Your local host, Jo, welcomes you to join her for an optional Qigong (pronounced chee-kung) session.

Designed to promote the movement of Qi (energy) in the body, Qigong is a powerful type of health exercise practiced for centuries. Combining slow, graceful movements with mental concentration and breathing, the session will increase and balance your vital energy, opening certain gates and stretching and twisting energy channels. Cost: £45 per person

Ready for a tour of South Harris’ hidden gems? Famed for its beautiful beaches, stunning white sands, wild flower-filled machair and strong sense of island identity, your highlands and islands adventure continues.

Medieval churches to hidden beaches Your first stop is praised as ‘the grandest medieval building in the Western Isles’, and it’s easy to see why. It is one of the most ambitious medieval buildings on the islands, the form of which owes much to its links with Ireland. The late fifteenth-century church was founded by Alasdair ‘Crotach’ MacLeod of Dunvegan and Harris, 8th chief of Clan MacLeod. He died in 1547, and his remarkable tomb can still be seen in the church’s recess.

Along the shores of south Harris, over millions of years, the crashing waves crushed shells into glittering, silver-coloured sand. One perfect beach after another, just waiting for you to explore. We’ll share our favourites for you to check out.

An artist’s inspiration Stop by the arts and entertainment centre on the Isle of Harris. Owned and operated on behalf of the West Harris community, the centre overlooks the golden sands of Niseaboist Beach. The centre hosts regular cultural and social events and the West Harris Trust office staff are on hand 5 days a week for a friendly welcome and information about the islands. Visit the open artist studios, pop into the cafe for a drink or maybe you’d like to purchase handcrafted souvenirs from the foyer gallery.

As you head north along the coast with dramatic views of the sea to your left, be sure to stop off at our highly recommended lunch spot. Fast food meets seafood in a way only the Outer Hebrides could pull off!

SUP at Luskentyre With water clear enough to see the sandy bottom of the sea from aboard your SUP, Harris’ most iconic beach is the perfect spot to follow your guide and explore from the sea. Luskentyre is one of the largest and most spectacular beaches on Harris, boasting miles of white sand and stunning green-blue water. Carved into the island on the edge of a wide bay at the mouth of a three-mile-wide estuary, Luskentyre beach is bordered on either side by vast sand dunes with a mountain backdrop on the horizon.

Spend your second night back at your quirky accommodation and relax ahead of the next day of your highlands and islands road trip.

Pack your things, you’re heading to Lewis. The largest and northernmost island in the Outer Hebrides, you’ll spend your next two nights based on the west coast of Lewis. But there’s one more stop to make before you leave Harris.

Iconic wildlife With some of the highest densities of breeding golden eagles in all of Europe, North Harris provides one of the best opportunities in Scotland for viewing this iconic species. Our recommendation will see you situated right in the heart of the territory of a pair of golden eagles, the perfect opportunity to watch their daily activities.

As you continue North, be sure to stop off along the way at some of the wildlife rich beaches. These beaches are perhaps quieter than some of your earlier stops, but more beautiful in our opinion! Keep your eyes peeled for white-tailed eagles, seals, otters and deer.

Pause for a wee dram Your first stop on Lewis this afternoon is at the creator of the first single malt whisky in the Outer Hebrides since 1829. Take a tour and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of the working distillery, following the spirit’s journey. Learn all about the water source, stills and ingredients that come together to create the bottles of fine whisky you can pick up from their shop.

Continue on to your accommodation for tonight. Overlooking the Atlantic ocean on the west coast of Lewis, drift off to the sounds of the waves crashing against the Aird cliffs.

Calanais Standing Stones Explore the stunning beaches around Uig before making your way to the Calanais Standing Stones. The stones are an extraordinary cross-shaped setting of stones erected 5,000 years ago. They predate England’s famous Stonehenge monument, and were an important place for ritual activity for at least 2,000 years. It’s an enchanting place, with an air of mystery as you marvel at these great stone columns and wonder at how, why they came to be.

Northward bound As you continue to the northerly tip of Lewis, we recommend a stop at our favourite lunch spot at the Port of Ness. This unassuming little village has the most charming community cafe (with a veggie burger to die for!) and a stunning beach to boot.

From here it’s just a short drive to the beginning of your hike. It’s relatively short in length but it will blow your mind, in more ways than one: a couple years ago the Guinness Book of Records named the Butt of Lewis as the windiest spot in the UK! Enjoy small coves and glittering beaches on your circular walk, taking you to the most northerly point of Lewis and its towering lighthouse.

Drive back to your base in Uig for your second night and perhaps get a nice hot shower to warm up after your windy walk!

After breakfast, you’ll have time to explore the capital of Lewis and Harris before catching your ferry. Stornoway is the main town of the Western Isles with a population of around 6,953, making it by far the largest town in the Outer Hebrides. Its sheltered harbour is the reason for Stornoway’s existence and was named by the visiting Vikings as “Steering Bay” which, when phonetically translated, became the name Stornoway.

Take in the views as you ferry over to Ullapool on the Scottish mainland before your scenic drive to Torridon. This small village enjoys a dramatically wild setting beneath the mountains, on the shore of Upper Loch Torridon in Wester Ross.

Your B&B this evening is full of character, a true gem in the highlands. The owners of the property, Sarah and Felix, have a true passion for music – Sarah teaches and plays the Celtic fiddle, and Felix produces and composes music. Keep an ear out for their music in the halls!

Explore Torridon – from gorges to mountains Choose your adventure this morning. Scramble over rocks and swim under waterfalls as you navigate your way through the Beinn Damh gorge with a beautiful waterfall on your gorge walking experience.

Or alternatively let our expert Mountain Leader take you to lesser-known spots with the best views as you hike to your heart’s content knowing you’re in safe hands. Torridon is home to some of Scotland’s best walking trails. The stunning seascape combined with rugged mountains means you’ll be spoiled for views along your route.

After an action-packed morning, take the scenic coastal road to Applecross and check into your cosy B&B to rest up ready for your next big day of adventure. Owner Tery is a designer, originally from Edinburgh, and runs her printing and interior design business from her home studio in Applecross. As a trained screen printer, keep an eye out for her wallpaper and hand printed textile designs in your stylish room.

Climbing and abseiling in the local crags Time to get the adrenalin pumping! Today’s thrilling excursion will give you the chance to scale the rocky crags of picturesque Applecross. Our experienced, qualified instructor will be there every step of the way and will provide you with all the equipment you need before you listen to a full safety briefing. It’s then over to you to climb as high as you like, learning how to belay – keeping your partner safe as they climb – and taking in the epic surrounding views as you go. After climbing the rocky crags, you’ll learn how to abseil, lowering yourself off the edge of a cliff right down to the ground below.

Enjoy a free afternoon to wind down from an epic morning of rock climbing and maybe spend time exploring Applecross. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, our recommendations will keep you busy.

An evening at Applecross isn’t complete without dinner at the local inn. With amazing local seafood and big hearty portions, you’ll be more than able to refuel after an action-packed morning.

Say goodbye to Applecross and head south to Fort William to enjoy the final night of your Scottish adventure. On route, you’ll drive over the infamous Applecross Pass. Originally a droveway, a track used to move livestock from one place to another, its Gaelic name is Bealach na Bà, (pronounced byee-alluch nuh bah), which means “pass of the cattle”. It was the only access in and out of Applecross until 1975.

The road is beloved of cyclists keen to test their legs. It has the steepest ascent of any road in the United Kingdom, starting from sea level and rising to 626 metres. Its challenging hairpin bends are a magnet for bikers and its outstanding views over to the Isle of Skye. However, even as a drive it is not for the faint-hearted!

After taking in the stunning views, be sure to stop off for lunch at Eilean Donan castle, one of the most recognised castles in Scotland, and probably appears on more shortbread tins and calendars than any other! Located on its own little island, overlooking the Isle of Skye, at the point where three great sea-lochs meet, and surrounded by the majestic splendour of the forested mountains of Kintail, Eilean Donan’s setting is truly breathtaking.

If you aren’t over alcohol just yet, along the route to your final base you’ll pass a roadside gin shop and micro distillery!

Arriving at your B&B in Fort William, enjoy the final night of your highlands and islands road trip.

Enjoy one last delicious breakfast before packing your bags and checking out. It’s time to hit the road and leave Scotland’s highlands and islands behind. After 2 weeks of epic mountains, breath-taking beaches, delicious food and enough wildlife to make David Attenborough envious, memories of your Scottish adventure will stay with you forever.

What's Included

• Route details for Quiraing sunrise hike
• Half day guided hike or gorge walking in Torridon

Supercharge your trip

Even more ways to take your adventure tour to the next level! Simply let us know if you’d like to add these experiences when you make your enquiry:

• Private guide on Ben Nevis
• Gin distillery tour
• Qigong session

What you need to bring

• Sturdy, waterproof walking boots and walking socks
• Day backpack – to carry snacks and essentials when out walking
• Waterproof clothing – even if the forecast looks good, the weather can be very changeable in the mountains
• Warm layers – even in summer the mountains and the coast can be chilly, especially in the evening
• Trainers you don’t mind getting wet when stand up paddleboarding, kayaking and gorge walking (if chosen)
• Swimwear – to wear under the wetsuits provided
• Towel – to dry off after the water activities

What you need to know

• Enjoy the reassurance of flexible booking terms, part of our Adventure Promise
• Bookings close 4 to 6 weeks prior to departure, or as soon as places fill
• Dates are booked to suit you – please ask about availability of your preferred dates using the enquiry form
• Suitable for age 14+ years (accompanied by a parent or guardian)
• This is your adventure and you’re in control – if you’d like any additional experiences, hiking routes or an extended stay, simply let us know when you submit your enquiry
• We’ll manage all the bookings and arrangements to make your experience perfect, you simply need to arrive for each experience at the agreed time

Experiences for you

Book your next getaway today.

Highlands Winter Walking

As the temperature drops, Scotland becomes a playground for winter adventures.  Lace up your hiking boots and embark on a Winter hiking tour through the wild landscapes of the Cairngorms National Park, and spend a night in a traditional Scottish bothy. 

£795 View Trip

North Wales boasts a spectacular coastline, magnificent mountains and beautiful rolling hills. It’s the perfect destination for discovering an abundance of wildlife and pristine natural habitats. Enjoy guided hikes, visit a UNESCO world heritage site, take a wildlife boat tour and cycle along the Mawddach Trail, plus spend two nights at a world-renowned eco centre.

• North Wales

£1,275 View Trip

Adventure West Scotland

Set in the breathtaking landscape of West Scotland, get ready for an epic adventure holiday that takes advantage of this rugged yet magical part of the UK. Hike the iconic Ben Nevis, experience kayaking in the Scottish Caribbean, and spend 24 hours in a bothy-style cottage , hiking and foraging your way through the wilds – the perfect adventure holiday in Scotland for adventurers like you.

£1,495 View Trip

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At Adventure Tours UK, we set out to create the kind of breaks people like us go wild for. People who get their thrills in the outdoors and want to care for it too. Who want to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with nature. If you’re in search of adventure, you’ll find it with us.

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Three Perfect Islands for a Scottish Road Trip

There is nowhere I love more than the Scottish Islands (my bed is a close second), and I regularly forfeit overseas adventures in favour of a trip to the islands. My walking boots and local buses have served me well on many of these wanderings, however there are some Scottish Islands that are just screaming out for a road trip. I would love to set off on a campervan holiday, where I could rest up for the night overlooking any bonnie vista of my choosing. Long distances can be travelled freely, remote gems can be discovered effortlessly, and I can hop out after sudden-shouting-and-pointing-like-a-lunatic requests for yet another photo-stop. Here are three  islands which are perfect for a Scottish road trip.

1) Lewis & Harris

Being the largest of Scotland’s Isles, Lewis and Harris is a real show-off with its abundance of scenic roads, attractions, and varied landscapes . On Lewis – the north of the island – there’s Uig beach (where the famous Chess Men were discovered), the mysterious Callanish Standing Stones, the Butt of Lewis, and Gearrannan Blackhouse Village; all served on stage of barren beauty and dramatic coastline.

Harris is stunning, from gnarly mountain to turquoise sea . The beaches of West Harris (my favourites are Seilebost and Luskentyre) are devastatingly dreamy, while the Golden Road on the east coast is like driving across the surface of the moon. Lewis & Harris is definitely my favourite island for a Scottish road trip! Check out my blog  The Isle of Harris: Much More Than Just Beaches for extra inspiration.

Luskentyre Beach

Callanish Standing Stones

  Top Tips:

• Grab freshly made sweet & savoury treats for the road from Croft 36 in Northton, Harris
• Enjoy a sit-in meal at The Anchorage in Levenburgh or Digby Chick in Stornoway
• Fill up at Ardhasaig Filling Station on Harris, or from a number of stations on Lewis including Engebret Ltd in Stornoway

2) Isle of Arran

The Highland Boundary Fault Line runs through the Isle of Arran , providing this wee isle with its very own Highlands and Lowlands. As such, Arran is the picture of geological uniqueness, and is affectionately dubbed ‘Scotland in Miniature’ . This nickname is entirely accurate, as all quintessential Scottish charms can be found within the island’s 167 square miles; castles, glens, forests, beaches and mountains .

Discover the romantic ruins of Lochranza Castle, search for seals on the beach in Brodick, and pop in for a tour at the Isle of Arran Distillery. Those feeling more adventurous can see the island from above, by tackling the highest peak, Goatfell (this is my plan for the next time I visit!)

Glen Sannox

Catacol Beach

• Pop into Janie’s in Brodick for super scones, soups and home baking
• Try the freshly baked Arran oatcakes from Wooley’s of Arran in Brodick, and top with Smokey Garlic Cheddar from the  Isle of Arran Cheese Shop
• Fill up at Bay Garage in Brodick  

3) Isle of Mull

The Isle of Mull is magical; rainbows hover over Loch Scridain, just as the mist circles the summit of Ben More. Mull will undoubtedly capture your affection, from the small-town bustle of picture-postcard Tobermory , to the wildly beautiful three-tiered Eas Fors waterfall, and idyllic beach at Calgary Bay. Keep an eye out for Duart Castle from the ferry, as it welcomes you to the island on the journey from Oban.

A widely appealing destination in itself, Mull is also the gateway to further island exploration ; Iona, Staffa and Ulva are all within easy reach. That’s probably why I love it so much!

• Pick up some fresh mussels from the Inverlussa Mussel Farm (leave money in the honesty box)
• Try a hand dived scallop and Stornoway black pudding roll from The Creel , Fionnphort
• Fill up at MacKay’s Garage in Tobermory, MacDonald’s at Dunora or Ardfenaig Filling Station

Which of these three islands would be YOUR ideal road trip?

This post is  sponsored by The Scottish Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Home Show . As always, all content, opinions & chaotic behaviour are my own.

Happy travels, kay 💙.

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Mull has to be my favourite, I think. So much character and plenty picture perfect views too. The diversity of wildlife for such a small place is a real draw to us.

Mull is wonderful! I usually prefer smaller islands – like Eigg and Iona – but when the opportunity for me to be a car passenger arises, it makes sense to explore the big ones. Have you ever seen any sea mammals on your adventures? I haven’t, but would love to!

Having driven or cycled on most of the 23 Scottish islands I’ve been to, I can’t disagree.

Driving towards Lewis from Tarbert on Harris when the mountains come into view is breathtaking, and that’s far from the only spot where that’s the case. This would be my choice if I had to pick one island.

I mostly used my feet and public transport on Arran, but rented a car for a day, and it’s a perfect little place to drive around.

Mull is awesome. I didn’t know of Eas Fors waterfall (and I love waterfalls) and didn’t get to go inside Duart Castle. A walk I did along the south coast is one of my favourites ever. And the smaller islands accessible from it are great. I’ll be back.

I hope you like my more concise attempt at responding. 🙂

The mountains on Harris are pretty special. I haven’t imagined it being so mountainous so it was a lovely surprise!

Arran is a great size for a short trip. The longest I’ve spent there is 2.5 days and I still feel like I’ve seen and done loads.

Definitely check out Eas Fors next time you’re on Mull. I’ve not been inside Duart Castle either. Would definitely like to spend some more time on Mull, and get out to Ulva and Erraid.

This was very concise for you Alex

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Outer Hebrides Motorhome Route

The perfect 10 - 14 day motorhome guide to the outer hebrides.

Western Isles Motorhome Holiday Route Plan 10 – 14 Day Motorhome Route

A motorhome holiday allows you the freedom to travel and move around without being timetabled to be in a certain location at a certain time.  The Scottish west coast is one of the most beautiful places to explore on your motorhome holiday and when you combine a tour of the Western Isles you are without a doubt in for a truly wonderful holiday.  Picture a paradise of powder-white beaches and the clear blue water of the Atlantic waves, dark moorland and rugged mountains, amazing wildlife and rich and vibrant culture.   Just 30 miles off the north-west coast of Scotland lies the Outer Hebrides or the Western Isles, this is an idyllic chain of Islands.  There are at least 70 named islands in the group, of which 15 are permanently populated - total population around 26,500. The Outer Hebrides consist of the Isles of Lewis, Harris, Scalpay, Beneray, North Uist, Benbecula, South Uist, Eriskay, Barra and Vatersay.   This route combines some of our Scottish west coast route with the Outer Hebrides route and will give you some suggestions of where you can park on the Outer Hebrides as well as places that you can visit.  We enjoy the freedom of wild camping but have suggested some campsites to stay at along the way.

Day 1 - Of Motorhome Holiday 

Starting in Perth at Scottish Tourers base, take the A9 North towards Inverness, depending on how long you want to drive about 45 minutes from Perth is the Blair Atholl Campsite which is great for an overnight stop if you don’t want to go far and you could visit  Blair Atholl Castle or if you are happy to continue north then head for Aviemore which is 2.5 hour’s drive from Perth.  

House of Bruar

On the way to Aviemore, we would recommend stopping at the House of Bruar, the house of Bruar has a fantastic food hall, selling some of the finest meats at the butcher counter and cheeses in with the delicatessen, we think it’s a must-stop to pick up a few treats for your holiday.  There is also the opportunity to browse in the clothing and homeware stores and have a huge range of branded clothing for any gifts or something special for yourself.

The Highland Folk Museum (Turn off at Kingussie)

This is a fantastic stop and gives visitors a flavour of how Highland people lived and worked from the 1700s up until the 1950s, this is done by displaying over 30 historical buildings and furnishing them appropriate to their time period.  Some have been built from scratch on-site and some have been moved here from other locations.

The site is a mile long with 1700s Township (featuring 6 houses) at one end through to our 1930s working croft at the other, located at Newtonmore in the Scottish Highlands amidst some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.

       Highland Folk Museum at Kingussie   Campsite

Glenmore campsite is only a short walk from Loch Morlich beach but the campsite itself is with the Glenmore forest park and has all the facilities you will – a campsite can be a good base for your first night and allow you to get to know the motorhome.

Wildcamping is available up at the Ski centre - dont forget to put ypour £5 in honesty box, in the morning you could enjoy a trip on the funicular railway, the 2 km journey up the hill is the highest railway in the Uk.      

Day 2 of Motorhome Holiday Route 

If you have children with you, we highly recommend visiting Landmark before you make the journey to Ullapool – the children will love exploring the nature reserve and playpark.   Landmark Forest Park

Landmark Forest adventure park is just outside of Aviemore at Carrbridge, you can easily spend the whole day here exploring they have just recently opened Dinosaur land, there is the opportunity to explore between the ancient pine trees hunting for red squirrels to the more adrenaline-filled water slides.  This is a great day out and there will be something for everyone.

  Strathspey Steam Railway

In Aviemore itself, the Strathspey steam railway has been running for 42 years now the steam train and the line was reinstated by a team of volunteers who have worked to keep the train in a fantastic condition.  This nostalgic train is a must to enjoy the beauty of the Scottish highland while you sit back relax and enjoy a cream tea.

When you have finished exploring Aviemore continue to head north towards Inverness and take the A835 towards Ullapool.

Broomfield Campsite is near the ferry port, and in a fantastic location to watch the ferries and fishing boats come and go, within walking distance of the town, so you can enjoy a meal out in one of the many restaurants – the seafood shack is highly recommended.

Broomfield campsite

Day 3 of Motorhome Hire 

Today we will be leaving the west coast of Scotland, and catching the ferry at Ullapool to take go to Stornoway. The ferry to Stornoway (Isle of Lewis) takes just over 2 and a half hours, while onboard you can enjoy a cup of tea in the restaurant and enjoy the crossing.

On arrival to the Isle of Lewis, take the A857 East then turn right onto the A858 and turn right after a few miles to visit the Blackhouse Museum.

1.      The Blackhouse Museum

This museum is run by Historic Scotland - you can walk around the blackhouse to see how Islanders lived in the houses where they lived alongside their animals and without chimneys.  The Blackhouse here at Arnol was probably built as recently as 1875 it’s fully furnished as it would have when it was inhabited but the design of black houses dates back hundreds of years.

2.      The Whalebone Arch

The Whalebone Arch, in Bragar, is one of the landmarks you will see as you travel around the northern tip of Lewis, The Whalebone Arch, erected by the former village postmaster Murdo Morrison, was formed from the jawbones of a giant whale which beached itself and died in Bragar Bay after been harpooned by hunters. The whalebone arch has become a bit tourist attraction standing at 25 feet and weighing 4 ton it has been coated in fibreglass to preserve and protect, the Harpoon hangs in the centre of the arch.

Head South on the A857 to the Village of Callanish here is the Callanish Stones.

3.      Callanish Stones

Construction is thought to have taken place between 2900 and 2600 BC, it is possible though that some buildings were here before 3000 BC, there was a tomb built into the site at a later date, investigating some of the debris from the destruction of the tomb would suggest that this site was not used between 200 BC and 1700 BC, there are 13 primary stones which form a circle 13 metres in diameter there is an avenue of stones on the north approach and shorter stone rows to the south, east and west approaches, the layout resembles a Celtic cross, and the stones vary from one metre to five metres in height, The Visitor centre gives a fascinating insight to the area.

https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/calanais-standing-stones/

Our last recommended visit for the Isle of Lewis today is the iron age village then there is a fabulous overnight spot at Uig.

4.      The Iron Age Village

The iron age of Great Bernera was first discovered at Bosta in 1993 after a huge storm and gales revealed the remains, long excavations followed which revealed some very important and interesting finds, using the new information archaeologists built a reconstruction of an entire iron age house of the time, which is part of the exhibition and is open to visitors.

https://www.visitouterhebrides.co.uk/see-and-do/bosta-bostadh-iron-age-house-p523981

Ardoil Campsite Isle of Lewis located just outside of Uig you will find a basic but fantastic community-run site which relies on donations from their customers – there’s is a tap to top up the fresh water, chemical waste point, toilet/shower block and you can park on the edge of the beach in this stunning location.

Traigh na Beirigh at Kneep is a lovely campsite ideal for motorhomes parking on the Isle of Lewis, nestled in the sand dunes whit white sandy beaches making this an ideal base for overnight.

Wildcamping on the Isle of Lewis is also an option and The outer Hebrides welcome responsible motor homers, see below the photo of us parked up on the white sandy beach by Uig – we have many places where wild camping is available and this can be found in the pre-programmed sat nav which comes with your motorhome.

Day 4 of motorhome hire 

Today we continue our outer Hebrides adventure round the west coast of the Isle of Lewis by heading south towards the Isle of Harris but before we leave the Isle of Lewis we recommend another few stops.

5.      Seatrek

Seatrek is based in Uig which we think is one of the most beautiful places in the Uk, they offer boat trips around the Hebrides and land on uninhabited Islands with the opportunity to see whales, Dolphins, Basking Sharks, Sea Eagles, Puffins.

6.      Abhainn Dearg Distillery

Abhainn Dearg Distillery (pronounced Aveen Jarræk), located in Uig on The Isle of Lewis.  The distillery was founded by Mark Tayburn (Marko) and is the first legal whisky distillery in the Outer Hebrides in almost two hundred years. The distillery was established in 2008, and the first spirit to leave the island was in 2010 when two small casks of new spirit were sold.  The distillery offers its guests a guided tour around the distillery and the opportunity to have a wee dram at the of the tour or why not treat yourself to something from the distillery shop.

7.      Lewis Chessmen

The Lewis chessmen They were found in the vicinity of Uig on the Isle of Lewis in mysterious circumstances. Various stories have evolved to explain why they were concealed there, and how they were discovered. All that is certain is that they were found sometime before 11 April 1831, when they were exhibited in Edinburgh at the Society of Antiquaries for Scotland. The precise findspot seems to have been a sand dune where they may have been placed in a small, drystone chamber.

The chessmen were probably made in Norway, in the 12th century, during that period, the Outer Hebrides, along with other major groups of Scottish Island, were ruled by Norway. The chessmen were discovered in early 1831 in a sandbank at the head of Camas sandbank on the west coast.

Leaving the Isle of Lewis, we head South on the A859 to Harris, following the coast road. On arrival to the Harris, you will probably be ready to look for somewhere to stay overnight, motorhome parking is available in campsites or wild camp spots.

Campsites Isle Of Harris

Tallanmara Campsite this is a more conventional campsite, with available electric hook up, shower facilities, chemical toilet disposal, water and recycling centre.

Seilebost School There is only a few pitches available within what was the old primary school ground but it has access to a toilet block and electric hook up and only a short walk to the beach.

Community Spot There is also the opportunity to stay overnight in designated spots where a fee of £5 is asked as a donation, the money raised is used to maintain the camp spots but also help with community projects, these spots are marked with a small sign to identify the area and offer fantastic views and located in Luskentyre and Seilebost.

Wildcamping parking on the Isle of Harris in our opinion is stunning and have discovered many wonderful parking spots on the Isle of Harris.  We consider Harris to have some of the best beaches in the world, you can even drive the motorhome right down to some of the beaches and stay overnight.  Get the Barbeque out table & Chairs out of the garage, sit down relax and enjoy a glass of your favourite tipple in a remote area in peace & quiet which is what a motorhome holiday is all about.

Day 5 of Motorhome Hire Holiday 

Before leaving Harris to head for ferry to North Uist there is a few things we think may be of interest to you.

8.      Harris Tweed

Harris is famous for its weavers who make the Harris tweed. As you travel Look out for the independent small shops and workshops where you can buy direct from the weaver.  All the weavers are self-employed and can work for any of the three Island mills or make and sell their own cloth independently to order. These independent weavers use yarn dyed and spun by the mills but may warp it themselves before returning the cloth to the mill for finishing and stamping by the HTA.

9.      Harris Gin

The Harris Gin distillery located in Tarbert, there is a gift shop and team room and they also have distillery tours and tastings allowing you to discover more about how they use a special blend of 9 botanicals and sugar kelp seaweed which is hand collected from the local area this gives the Gin its own distinctive flavour.

To get over to the Isle of Uist, at Leverburgh which is in the very south of the island board the Ferry to Isle of Berneray and then on to North Uist which takes around 2.5 hours sailing time.

North Uist is a landscape of fresh and saltwater lochs bordered on its western side by miles of sandy beaches, and cultivated crofts. North Uist is very popular with walkers, bird watchers, motor homers and cyclists alike.

On the west side of the island the road follows the machair, (the fertile coastal grassland bordering the sand dunes), whilst the eastern side is mainly water. This area is a fisherman’s and bird watchers paradise.

The exception is the south-east of the island, which is very flat and covered with a patchwork of peat bogs, low hills and lochs, with more than half the land being covered by water. Some of the lochs contain a mixture of fresh and tidal salt water, giving rise to some complex and unusual habitats.

10.  Otter Spotting

Otter spotting is a popular island attraction as the east side of the island is a landscape of inland and sea lochs, inlets bays and channels. Study the tide timetable as an otter is much more likely to be seen on an incoming tide, roughly 2 – 4 hours before high tide. As it comes towards high tide, the Otter usually heads for its holt, which is its home and rest area. It is also where they rear their young.

11.  Barpa Langass

Barpa Langass to the south of the Island is a 5,000-year-old burial chamber thought to be the burial place of a Neolithic chieftain. Trinity Temple is a historic ruin, listed as of European significance and possibly Scotland’s oldest University. The building is the remains of a medieval monastery and college, the building has been extended up to the 16th Century but destroyed after the reformation. Again, restored in the 19th Century. You can park just off the main A865 road, near Temple View Guest House, Access is through the gate and about 200 metres walk from the car park.

North Uist Campsites

Balranald Hebridean Holidays located by the beach and within the RSPB nature reserve there is the opportunity to observe birds that have made a home in amongst the machair.  The campsite itself caters well for motorhome’s and offers laundry facilities, as well as toilet and shower blocks, chemical waste point and electric hook up you, will find yourself once again only a few meters from the beach.

Moorcroft Campsite on the outskirts of Cairinish is situated on a working croft and is a family run site with all the facilities you need for refreshing and emptying your tanks.

Wildcamping   The map below give an example of potential wild camp spots within North Uist.

Day 6 of Motorhome Hire Holiday 

Our Outer Hebrides route will continue to take us South to south Uist.  South Uist is a stunningly beautiful island of crystal-clear waters and white powder beaches to the west and heather uplands dominated by Beinn Mhor to the east.

12.  The Kildonan Centre

The Kildonan Centre is a heritage and cultural centre which includes a museum and a craft shop. The museum itself is owned by the South Uist Historical Trust. Originally a school it has been extended and developed into a multipurpose centre which is a Registered Museum.

13.  The Cladh Hallan Roundhouses

The Cladh Hallan Roundhouses are an archaeological site on the island, noted as the only place in Great Britain where prehistoric mummies have been found. In 2001 a team of archaeologists found the remains of what are believed to be two mummified Bronze Age bodies, buried under the floor of a Roundhouse at Cladh Hallan.

One of them was a male who had died around 1600 BC and another a female who had died around 1300 BC. At first, the researchers did not realize they were dealing with mummies as the soft tissue had decomposed and the skeletons had been buried.

Tests showed that both bodies had not been buried until about 1120 BC and that the bodies had been preserved shortly after the death in a peat bog for 6 to 18 months. The preserved bodies were then apparently retrieved from the bog and set up inside a dwelling but the reason why the bodies were mummified is a complete mystery.

14.  Askernish Golf Club

Askernish Golf Club is home to “the most natural golf course in the world” and is a favourite stop of ours on the Outer Hebrides route.  Old Tom Morris came to South Uist in 1891 to create a course at the request of the wealthy landowner - Lady Cathcart, so that she could impress her high society guests. Old Tom created an 18-hole course that was maintained by the local crofters until the early 1920s when the demand for golf declined and meant that maintaining the course was not viable.

Over the next 80 years, the course was not maintained, and it went back to being wild. In 2005 a group of locals decided that they wanted to reinstate the golf course, and with the help of some of golf industry’s biggest and best names, they set to work restoring this lost course. In 2008 the course was reopened as an 18-hole facility that has received the highest acclaim from golfing media and beyond.

15.  Flora MacDonald Monument South Uist

After the Jacobite’s lost the battle of Culloden, Bonnie Prince Charlie fled to the Island to evade capture from the British troops, with the idea of fleeing to France, his supporters intended to smuggle him from Uist to the Isle of Skye, and then onto France by boat.

Flora MacDonald agreed to help them and on 28 June 1746 Flora with her Irish maid Bett Burke they sailed from Benbecula over to Skye, however, the maid was actually a disguised Bonnie Prince Charlie, however, Flora was captured by the government troops and imprisoned at Edinburgh, after her release in 1747 she returned to the Island, and the plan on the map is believed to be Flora, s house.

There are not many campsites available on the south of Uist, but remember your sat nav is pre-programmed with places to wild camp, empty the chemical toilet and fill up with fresh water.

Kilbride Campsite is ideal for those looking for a bit of peace and quiet, the beach is just across the road and a café on-site plus all the amenities you need to stock up and refill.

Gleanndal Campsite this campsite has a view across the loch and has some pitches with electric hook up, toilet/shower facilities and chemical waste empty point.

Wildcamping.

The map below gives you an idea of wild campsites available.

Day 7 of Motorhome Hire Holiday 

On the Outer Hebrides holiday tour, we suggest visiting the Isle of Eriskay which lies to the South of South Uist and is connected to the isles to the north by a causeway constructed in 2001.  The name comes from the Norwegian name Èirisgeigh meaning Eric’s Isle.  The ferry to Barra sails from the southern end of Eriskay.

Whiskey Galore

The SS Politician was an 8000-tonne cargo ship which left Liverpool on the 3rd February 1941 laden with amongst other things 260,000 bottles of whisky, bound for Kingston in Jamaica and New Orleans. The whisky was for the American market and therefore no duty had been paid.

On the morning of 5th February, a young man was combing a beach in South Uist when he saw the ship in trouble. After a valiant struggle by the Captain, Beaconsfield Worthington, to keep his ship on course, the SS Politician eventually ran aground in the storm onto sandbanks off the Isle of Eriskay where she began to flood.

When the locals learned from the crew exactly what the ship was carrying, a series of illegal salvage operations took place at night, before the customs and excise officials arrived. The islands supplies of whisky had dried up due to war-time rationing, so the islanders helped themselves to some of the 260,000 bottles of whisky before winter weather broke up the ship. Boats came from as far and wide as news of the whisky travelled across the Whole Outer Hebrides.

The official salvage attempts were not going too well, and it was eventually decided to let the Politician remain where she was. Mr McColl (the customs officer), who had already estimated that the islanders had stolen 240,000 bottles of whisky, ensured that there would be no more temptation. Mr McColl applied for and was granted permission to explore the SS Politician hull.

  Islander Angus John Campbell, commented, “Dynamiting whisky. You wouldn’t think there’d be men in the world so crazy as that!” In 1987 Donald MacPhee, a local South Uist man, found eight bottles of whisky in the wreck. He sold them at auction for £4,000.

The wreck of the SS Politician still lies off the coast of Eriskay.    

Isle of Barra

Isle of Barra is the most southerly of the inhabited islands in the Outer Hebrides . If you are travelling to Isle of Barra from Uist take the small car ferry (Ok for Motorhomes) from Eriskay which will bring you to Ardmhor jetty, visit Calmac Ferries website for ferry times.

Long famed for its beauty, boasting beaches, hills, machair and moor all in a small island - Barra is a special place to visit, the airport is one of the most unusual in the world, with flights landing on the beach at Cockle Strand in between tides. At high tide, the runway disappears beneath the waves.

16.  Allasdale Bronze Age Burials

In May 2007 Televisions Time Team came to the hamlet of Allasdale to investigate the exposed remains of Bronze Age burials and Iron Age roundhouses in sand dunes that had been previously uncovered by storms. The programme was broadcast on 20 January 2008.

17.  Sea Kayaking

For an amazing sea kayaking experience, take to the water on a guided tour with Clearwater Paddling from Castlebay and explore a world of beautiful islands and sheltered bays whilst keeping your eyes peeled for the wildlife.

18.  The Deserted Village

Balnabodach is a small township on the east side of Barra, down by the shore of the loch are the remains of two earlier settlements, and it is here that the present archaeological studies are focused,  The loch-side must have been a favoured spot for settlers for many centuries. The earliest artefact yet recovered is a barbed arrowhead of flint, dating around 2000 BC.

Excavations in 1996 found the remains left by 'Iron Age' people who lived here in the period around 200BC - AD200, the rubbish left behind by these early settlers betrayed their presence. Nearly 250 pieces of their handmade pottery were found including pieces of bowls decorated with incised patterns.  There were also some flint tools including a small cutting blade and scrapers for cleaning skins.

19.  Kisimul Castle (Seat of the clan MacNeil of Barra)

The most visible of all Barra's heritage is this restored medieval tower house castle with a curtain wall. Dictated by the shape of the low rock island on which it sits, the pentagonal castle is the first thing holidaymakers see when they come to Barra by ferry from Oban.

The castle would have been difficult to capture being surrounded by the sea yet having a freshwater spring. You come to the castle by boat in a journey of 200 yards from Castlebay main street.  As you approach the castle, look for a large ring of rocks to the east of the landing place: this was a catchment basin to trap fish when the tide whet out, again vital if the castle was besieged.

Like most castles, Kisimul is cold and draughty but you will enjoy clambering about. Not to be missed, in the Great Hall, is the collection of English bayonetted muskets and pikes used at the Battle of Culloden. Look out for the spartan toilets, flushed twice daily by the tide! Much of what you see is the restoration work carried out by the clan chief Robert Lister MacNeil between 1956 and 1970.

20.  Annie Jane Ship Disaster

One of the saddest events to befall the island happened when the Annie Jane, a three-masted immigrant ship out of Liverpool bound for Canada, struck rocks off West Beach during a storm in September 1853. Within ten minutes the ship began to founder and break up casting 450 people into the raging sea. Despite the conditions, islanders tried to rescue the passengers and crew.

There were only a few survivors rescued. A small cairn and monument mark’s the site where the bodies recovered from the sea were buried. The inscription reads: "On 28th September 1853 the ship Annie Jane with emigrants from Liverpool to Quebec was totally wrecked in this bay and three-fourths of the crew and passengers numbering about 350 men women and children were drowned and their bodies interred here."

After a busy day travelling, we recommend staying parking for one last night here in Barra on The Outer Hebrides before taking the ferry back to the mainland.

Borve Camping and caravan site only a few miles away from the ferry port at Castle by, this is a great overnight stop with electric hook up, laundry facilities.  Why not stop relax and enjoy your favourite tipple as you enjoy a sunset.

This is the end of our Outer Hebrides motorhome tour, from here take the ferry back to the mainland from Castle by to Uig on the Isle of Skye (if your 14 nights) or if you are short for time take and only had 10 nights we recommend taking the ferry back to Oban.

From here we will pick up our Scottish west coast route again,

Isle of Skye

When you arrive in Uig you need to take the A87 heading south, then turn off on the A850 at Borve and we recommend you visit Dunvegan Castle. If you are using a campsite tonight, we have been to and are happy to recommend the Kinloch campsite at Dunvegan which is right by the sea. Only a short walk from the campsite is the Old Schoolhouse restaurant, here you can enjoy a huge plate of langoustines and a very nice cooked steak if seafood is not for you.

21.  Dunvegan Castle

A must visit when in the Isle Of Skye is Dunvegan Castle and Gardens with a wealth of history and has been the ancestral home of clan MacLeod for over 800 years, Dunvegan is the oldest continually unhabituated castle in Scotland, which has been built the most stunning Lochside setting, the Castle has recently become a popular venue for weddings.

Kinloch Campsite is on the shore of Loch Dunvegan and is a family run site with all the amenities on-site you will need, a short walk will take you into the village where you will find local shops and cafes.

Wildcamping

Wildcamping is available in Skye and can be found in your sat nav, our favourite wild camp spot is at Duntulm.  However you might want to rethink your route because Duntulms is north of Uig, so when you come off the ferry you might want to head north and visit the Skye Museum of life which gives a history of how the Islanders lived and earned a living in bygone years.

If you go past the Museum for around two miles on the left next is a fantastic wild camp spot at Duntulm next to the Sea overlooking the Western Islands of The Outer Hebrides.  We think an overnight stop here with a nice glass of wine and the Barbie on is fantastic, you can sit back and enjoy the most spectacular sunset overlooking the sea across to the Islands.

Day 9 of Motorhome Hire Holiday 

On the way to Armadale to catch the ferry back to the mainland, we suggest you continue south on the west coast of Isle of Skye on the A863, there is 2 fantastic stop before you catch the ferry.

22.  Fairy Pools

At the foot of the Black Cuillins near Glenbrittle are the Fairy Pools, beautifully crystal-clear blue pools on the River Brittle. These famous pools entice visitors from all over the world, and they make some great ‘Wild Swimming’ for those brave enough to enter the cold water. For the less adventurous these magical Fairy Pools make some fantastic photos.

23.  Talisker distillery

Whilst on the Isle of Skye, visit the Talisker distillery is a must, however, young children are not permitted on the tour due to health and safety.  The only distillery on the Isle of Skye, set on the shores of Loch Harport with dramatic views of the Cuillins. This alluring, sweet, full-bodied single malt whisky is so easy to enjoy, and like Skye itself, so hard to leave.

24.  The Oyster Shed Farm Shop

At the village of Carbost near the Talisker distillery, don’t miss a visit to The Oyster Shed Farm Shop which supplies Pacific oysters grown in the crystal-clear waters of Loch Harport. If oysters are not your thing try mussels, smoked salmon, scallops, crab and a variety of cheese and chutney, which ae all beautifully arranged.

Head to Armadale A851 and take the Ferry to Mallaig on the mainland. During the summer the Ferries run every hour or so and normally there is no need to book if the first one is full then simply wait for the next one

25.  Western Isle Cruises

While in Mallaig we would recommend you consider visiting western Isle cruises, who offer 1-hour wildlife cruise – where if you are lucky you can see whale, dolphin and variety of sea birds.

From Mallaig head for Fort William A830.

If you are looking for a campsite then don’t miss the beachside campsites at Arisaig. Sunnyside Croft this is one of our favourites. The owners Ian & Julie have brought camping into the 21st century everything is immaculately clean and modern with underfloor heating in the toilets. Each pitch has an elevated position with views over the bay. The site is situated 200 yards from the bay where Minke whales and dolphins are frequently seen.

On the way to Fort William heading along the A830, stop at Glenfinnan.

Glenfinnan Viaduct

The famous Glenfinnan viaduct has been made famous from its feature in the Harry Potter films and books. The Jacobite steam train runs across the Bridge travelling between Fort William and the seaside town of Mallaig on the west coast during the summer months, the railway bridge spans 1,000 ft and 100 ft above the ground level.  Please bear in mind if you wish to travel on the Jacobite Steam Train it needs to be booked many months in advance to avoid disappointment.

The Jacobite Steam train

The Jacobite steam train is known as one of the world’s best train journeys, the 84-mile round trip enjoys a fantastic list of impressive views.

The journey starts near Fort William close to Britain’s highest mountain Ben Nevis, the journey is through the most westerly Railway station in the UK – Arisaig.  The train passes Britain’s deepest freshwater loch - Loch Morar.  Round by Britain’s deepest seawater loch - Loch Nevis and not forgetting the amazing crossing over the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

This was made famous by J.K, Rowling in the harry potter films, the viaduct is also known as “The Harry Potter Bridge”.

Glenfinnan Monument

At the head of Loch Sheil stands the monument to the final Jacobite rising, the lone highlander in his kilts sits on top the 18-metre-high stone column, with stunning views of the sweeping glen below where highland life was so cruelly extinguished.  The visitor centre gives full details of the Jacobite rise and fall. Be prepared to be emotionally stirred by this tumultuous chapter in Scotland’s history.

Neptune’s Staircase

Neptune's Staircase is on the Caledonian canal near Fort William, comprising of 8 locks. It was built between 1803 and 1822 by Tomas Telford, it is the longest lock staircase in the UK, the original system was hand-powered and has been converted to an electric hydraulic system in recent years. It lifts boats 64 feet through the eight locks which are 180 feet by 40 feet and takes about 90 minutes to pass through the system.

Fort William makes an ideal stop overnight, known as the Scottish outdoor capital of Scotland there will be something here for everyone whether you enjoy walking, fishing or more adrenaline-fuelled hobbies.

Glen Nevis campsite situated at the bottom of Ben Nevis, this a lovely campsite with everything you need on-site from restaurants, shop kids play area and laundry facilities.

Wild Camping

From Fort, William take the Glen Nevis road (Near Fort |William) and follow the road past the waterfall right to the top (Not suitable for Lewis or Bara models due to height restriction), here you can park overnight at the bottom of Ben Nevis in complete peace and tranquillity in the heart of the highest Mountains in the UK.

Wildcamp at the Glencoe Ski Centre - from Fort William follow the coast road A82 down towards Oban on the way bare left into Glencoe A82 turn round at Kings house and head back towards Oban A828 this is a stunning drive with Through Scotland's highest mountain range overnight parking is available at Glencoe Ski Centre £12.00 per night.

Day 11 of Motorhome Holiday 

From your Fort William head towards Oban on the A82, then take the A828 and follow the road down by Loch Linnhe.

26.  Cruachan power station

Cruachan Power Station is an amazing feat of engineering with the inside of the mountain hollowed out to house the power station, this is so the local scenery was not spoiled.  The tour will take you the 1 km inside the mountain, the guided tour takes you on a short journey deep inside the mountain Ben Cruachan.

The power station lies at the heart of the mountain one kilometre inside. Once inside the mountain on the walkway you will notice sub-tropical plants which are well suited to the humid conditions inside the mountain, in the massive generating hall there is a viewing gallery, showing the four generators producing the electricity from the water which is stored in the loch above the mountain.

When in Oban there are many burger style vans along the promenade but they are selling fresh-caught seafood which is cooked in front of you, Scallops, Crab, mussels etc, If you want to spoil yourselves then head to the Temple Restaurant, on the seafront with magnificent views and food to match, freshly caught and all the sauces are homemade.

Known locally as The Green Shack, the Oban Seafood Hut is a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike and has a delicious array of lobster, scallops, crab and other seafood delicacies, it’s situated at the south side of Oban near the railway pier, you can buy your favourites to eat on the spot or to take home with you to enjoy later.

From Oban head down the A816 towards Lochgilphead then take the A83 along the Banks of Loch Fyne towards Inveraray.

Loch Fyne Oyster Bar

Near the top of Loch Fyne is the Famous Loch Fyne Oyster bar, the oysters are harvested in Loch Fyne itself and served up in some the finest Michelin star restaurants.   Providing you dine in the Restaurant they will allow you to park overnight in the overspill car park next to the loch, making this an ideal spot to wild camp overnight.

Day 11 of Motorhome Hire Holiday 

From here take the A82 through the Arrochar Alps and down the Famous Rest and be Thankful road towards Crianlarich. Then the A85 towards Lochearnhead wild camping is available at various spots along the loch, then take the A84 towards Stirling.

Inverary is on the water’s edge of Loch Fyne and is a small quaint town with lots of history. Inverary Castle is the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll, Chief of the Clan Campbell and the iconic, must-see visitor attraction on the West Coast of Scotland.

27.  Inverary Castle

Inverary Castle is the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll, Chief of the Clan Campbell and the iconic and beautifully romantic castle was built sometime in the 17th century, built on the shore of loch Fyne, and the beautiful highland scenery behind this is good stop where you can explore the castle and gardens before stopping for a quick cup of tea in the café and browsing the gift shop a must-see visitor attraction on the West Coast of Scotland.

From Inverary you have 2 options - if you have time to visit Stirling then head along the A85 then join the A84 for Lochearnhead heading towards Callander.

If you need to get back to Perth continue on the A85 towards Crieff there is campsites available in Crieff, Perth and at Scone all of which are within half an hour driving of Peth, this will allow you to empty the chemical waste, bins and top up freshwater before you return the motorhome – don’t forget to allow time to top up the gas if you have not done so already.

On the way to Stirling, stop off at Blair Drummond Safari Park.

28.  Blair Drummond Safari Park

  Blair Drummond Safari park is a great stop to allow the kids to run about and play there is lots to see and do.  Drive the motorhome through the various enclosures and get close to, Lions, Monkeys, Tigers, Elephants, Giraffes, Bears etc, it is also a Kids adventure park with water slides and Sealion/ seal shows, a great day out for kids and adults alike.

29.  Stirling Castle   One of Scotland’s most famous castles, this was home to Mary Queen of Scots Stirling, Castle sits high on top of the hill and dominating the Stirling skyline a worthwhile visit, they offer tour guides and have a gift shop and café for any souvenirs.

For your last night, I would recommend The Witches Craig campsite, it is close to the Wallace monument and is an ideal last night stop to clean the motorhome and empty the toilet before the 45-minute journey back to Perth.

I hope you find this route planner helpful in planning your holiday to the Outer Hebrides, the western isles of Scotland in our opinion has some of the most breathtakingly beautiful scenery making it a pleasure to drive.  Although we have broken it into suggested nights the whole point of a motorhome holiday is not to be tied down to certain locations and hope when you’re out driving you can experience the freedom of the motorhome and use this as a guide.

While we prefer not to stay in campsites , we would like to remind all our customers about the importance of responsible wild camping.   ·         Only take pictures and only leave footprints. ·         If there is any litter, please pick it up even if it’s not yours. ·         Use common sense, never park in front of someone’s house blocking their view. ·         Don’t park in farmers gates or field entrances. ·         Please use the local village shops rather than the big supermarkets, the product is normally sourced locally and is of much higher quality and tastes delicious.   Warning this route and wording is copyright by Scottish Tourer and only available for use by customers of Scottish Tourer, Any other Campervan Hire Company using any material copied from this route will result in copyright infringement and  we will prosecute. 

Motorhome Hire Scotland - Itinerary Guide Scotland is a very beautiful country, rich in culture and history...

We are the only company who have all brand new very high specification motorhomes, however and more important than that is the service and advice of where to go and also where not t o go from experienced expert local motor homers.

This is a route designed by us for your motorhome holiday.  

Trying to strike a balnce of keeping the kids amused and still enjoying a holiday thats both active and intresting is not always easy, our west coast route is based on our own experiance's with some suggested stops that my children have enjoyed along the way.

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Isles Road Trip

Iconic routes across scotland.

Written by Jeremy Hawkings

Every so often, you will want to get out of your car, look around and give thanks for experiencing such a beautiful part of the world. The Road to the Isles follows the route that drovers used to take their livestock from the Western Isles to market. It runs from Fort William to Mallaig. It is 50 miles long and has some of the most spectacular scenery in Scotland.

Leave Inverlochy Castle Hotel and drive six miles south on A82 to Fort William, then turn right onto the A 830. You will cross The Caledonian Canal just below Neptune’s Staircase, which is an impressive flight of locks. You will follow Loch Eil, an open sea loch which offers great views of Ben Nevis. Just after Loch Eil, at the head of Loch Shiel you will find Glenfinnan with the Glen Finnan Viaduct, made famous by many films including Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Nearby is The Glenfinnan Monument where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised the standard for the Jacobite Rising. You may catch a glimpse of The Jacobite Steam Train which operates in the summer months. There is also a little church at Glenfinnan, notable for the different coloured stone used in its construction.

The road continues to Arisaig and offers wonderful views out to the Small Isles. If you take the B8008 coast road which runs between Arisaig and Morar you will find The Sands of Morar and some of the finest beaches in Britain. Loch Morar has the deepest body of freshwater in the UK. At Mallaig, which is the end of the tour, you will find the ferries that take you over the Sound of Sleat to Skye where you can overnight at Kinloch Lodge Hotel before extending your trip to the nearby islands of the Inner Hebrides.

First published 27 June 2019. Information correct at time of going to press.

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Guide to the Best Scottish Road Trips 2024

24th April 2024 Laura Hammond -->

Our guide takes you through 6 amazing Scottish road-trips, away from your standard NC500. Taking the off-the beaten track approach, we’ve done the research so you don’t have to. Featuring the best lochs, pubs, castles, mountains, rivers and beaches, plus some amazing campsites and of course, campervans to be your travelling companion. All you need to plan the Scottish road-trip you’ve always dreamed of, in one place. 

The Scottish Islands Road-Trip

An island hopping holiday that takes in the stunning isles that sit off the Western coast of Scotland. 

Wildlife Lovers 

Distance 

467 Kilometres

Days to Complete 

7-10 Days 

Isle of Arran (1 Day)

One of the most accessible islands of the Scottish Highlands, the Isle of Arran can be reached by ferry, and must be booked in advance. This beautiful island encompasses stunning views and exciting wildlife. We recommend stopping off to see the Machrie Moor standing stones, Brodick and Lochranza Castles, for heritage sites surrounded by jaw droppings vistas. Goatfell is the island’s highest point and can be reached via a fantastic hike. Once you reach the top, weather permitting, you’ll have 360 views across the whole island.    

Isle of Islay (2 Days) 

North of Arran and the Southernmost island of the Hebridies is the enchanting Isle of Islay. The ferry can be caught from Kinncraigg on the mainland and must be booked in advance. Known for its sumptuous food and drink Islay has many whiskey distilleries to choose from. The 130 mile coastline is interspersed with sandy and shingle beaches, most popular for a chilly dip are Kilchiaran Bay or Tayvulion. To catch sight of some local wildlife, both Killinallan and Ardnave are well known for seal spotting, and sometimes even adorable sea otters are found there.   

Isle of Jura (1 Day)

The beautiful Isle of Jura can be accessed directly from the Isle of Islay by the 10 minute ferry. This narrow, mountainous island is home to wild roaming deer, there’s actually more deer inhabitants on this rugged isle than there are people! There are plenty of walking trails across the islands to choose from to get closer to the native wildlife. Stop off for a tour of one of the local whisky distilleries, as you travel along Jura’s one road up to the Ardlussa Estate . This historic house was originally built in the 1600s and was once home to the author George Orwell, who wrote his famous novel 1984 here. 

Isle of Mull (2 Days) 

Moving further North, the Isle of Mull is the second largest island in the Scottish Hebrides. You can catch the ferry from Oban, Lochaline and Kilchoan, but they require booking in advance. Wildlife lovers and bird watchers flock to this Island every year to catch sight of the adorable sea otters, the frolicking seals, soaring eagles, whales, dolphins and sometimes even basking sharks. There are amazing cycling routes and plentiful hikes to see the island’s glorious scenery, historic caves, and castles.

Isle of Iona (1 Day) 

The Isle of Iona is one of the smaller Hebridean islands, only 1.5 miles wide and 3 miles long. Access to this island does allow vehicles with a permit, however its size means many visitors will find it easier to leave their campervan on the mainland and take the island in as a day trip. Its best seen on foot and you can take in the best wildlife and scenery the island has to offer. There are plenty of beaches to see all over the island and cafes, pubs and restaurants to break up a great day’s walking. 

Isle of Skye (2 Days) 

At 50 miles long, The Isle of Skye is the largest island of the inner Hebrides. Famous for its history, wildlife and spectacular scenery. There’s so much to see and do, from kayaking around the coast, wildlife boat trips, beaches, mountain hiking and much more. Highly recommended are the Isle of Skye Fairy Pools, An Corran Beach, The Cuillan Mountain range (this is a very challenging hike so visitors may want to enjoy from a distance!) and the Old Man of Storr.  

Heartland of Scotland Road Trip 

At around 200 miles for the round trip, this route takes in the heart of central Scotland. 

Best For 

Quaint villages and stunning cities. 

200 Miles 

321 Kilometres

7 – 8 Days

Perth (1 Day) 

Starting in the lovely city of Perth, which sits on the banks of the River Tay. This city oozes charm with its cobblestone streets, Georgian town houses and vast public parks. Be sure to check out the Guiness World Record holding Meikleour hedge, standing at an impressive 100ft, it’s the tallest hedge in the world. The Greyfriars Burial Ground is a historic cemetery nestled in the city centre, perfect for quiet contemplation. On sunny days you can kayak along the River Tay, check out the local distilleries, The Branklyn Garden or The Black Watch Castle and Museum for your dose of history.

Loch Leven (1 Day) 

Spend the day surrounded by nature as you explore the circumference of this spectacular loch. Take a boat trip, or while away the hours fishing or bird watching at the loch side. There’s plenty on offer all around the banks of the loch. The Loch Leven Heritage Trail is a 13 mile walk that takes it in from every angle and is suitable for walkers of all abilities.

Stirling (1 Day)

The grand, historic Scottish City of Stirling is home to ancient castles and battlefields. This city lets you take a step back into history. The magnificent Stirling Castle is top of the list to see, situated at the top of the cobbled high street you’ll be well rewarded with its formidable walls, and picturesque vistas. If panoramic views are your thing, next stop is the National Wallace Monument, a 220ft tower built to commemorate the life of the Scottish hero and legend, Sir William Wallace. 

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs (2 Days) 

The spectacular scenery of the Trossachs has been the landscape behind many films and movies, from Game of Thrones to Monty Python. You’ll need at least 2 days to take in everything this national park has to offer. From hikes, to paddle boarding the Loch, or cycling around the winding roads taking in the scenery. Filled with quaint towns and villages, waterfalls, and wonderful wildlife, you won’t be short on things to see and do. 

Loch Tay and Tay Forest Park (2 Days) 

Carry on North from Loch Lomond and you’ll come to the the quaint village of Killin, perched on the edge of Loch Tay. Spend a day exploring the loch and its surrounds, there’s plenty of water activities available in the warmer months and cosy pubs for evenings spent around a roaring fire. North of Loch Tay is the village of Kenmore and the Tay Forest Park, an idyllic forest surrounded by countryside villages with stone roofs, cobbled streets, and cute cafes for coffee and cake. If you have the time stop off at Craigtin House and Courtyard, Blair Castle, and the village of Killiecrankie.    

The Scottish North East Road Trip  

This Scottish road trip takes in the cultural hub of Aberdeen, hugs the rugged and beautiful East Coast, then tracks down through the mountain passes of the Cairngorms. One for the adventurers. 

Dolphin Spotting and mountain passes. 

250 miles 

402 Kilometres

8 – 10 Days 

Aberdeen (1 Day)

Starting in the beautiful port city of Aberdeen, take in the famous granite architecture, travelling back in time wandering the streets of The Old Town known as ‘The Granite City’. The third most populated city in Scotland, it’s a bustling hub of culture. A true seaside city, you can relax on the Aberdeen City beach, or watch the urban dolphins frolic in the harbour. Enroute to your next stop, stop off at Balmedie Bay, Forvie National Nature Reserve, Scotstown Beach, Rattray Head Lighthouse and the stunning Cruden Bay. 

The East Coast (1 Day) 

North from Aberdeen you will discover the remarkable East Coast, this rugged shoreline is home to some spectacular vistas. Stop off at the small town of Fraserburgh, a hidden gem that’s not to be missed. Check out the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses, the glorious beach and harbour, or the quaint ‘wee hooses’ of the town itself. Nearby Cullykhan beach is tucked away in a secret bay away from the crowds, or hike up to Fort Fiddes for a view out across the town, if you have the time stop off enroute at Brodie Castle and Estet for some impressive architecture.  

Moray Firth Coast (1 Day) 

Moray firth is the entrance to the North Sea, traversing the coastal path here feels like you’re on the edge of the world. This triangular inlet is home to one of the oldest and best preserved fishing villages in Scotland, a resident pod of dolphins, idyllic cottages, ruins, and rugged scenery make this popular for tourists and as a filming location! Take the coastal road from Lossiemouth to Inverness to explore the entire south part of the Moray Firth Inlet, being sure to stop off at Culbin Forest and the Culbin Bar, Findhorn village and beach, and the friendly seaside town of Nairn. 

Speyside   (1 Day)

If you have the time, head inland to the towns, villages and wild countryside that surrounds the River Spey. On the cusp of the Cairngorms, there are plentiful distilleries, rolling hills, and characterful villages. Visit Ballindalloch, a stunning village known for its castle and whisky distilleries, Brodie Castle, a grand 16th century castle, the famous Aberlour Distillery and Fochabers Village and Castle.

The Cairngorms (2-3 Days) 

Starting at Grantown on Spey driving through to Blairgowrie, you enter into the majestic wonders of the Cairngorm National Park. This route will take you through the highest roads in the UK, take your time enjoying the vistas and villages on offer, this isn’t a race, it’s a meander through some of the most spectacular views Scotland has to offer. Stop off for day hikes to see the mountains close up, traverse secluded lochs, discover ancient woodlands and get lost in the history of the area. Perfect towns and villages for stops enroute include Aviemore, Kincraig, Blair Atholl, and Killiecrankie.  

Glasgow to Fort William Road Trip 

A 120 mile trip perfect for long weekends traversing the rolling green hills and spectacular Lochs of central Scotland. 

Mountain Hiking and Bird Watching 

120 Miles 

193 Kilometres

Glasgow (1 Day)

Starting in Glasgow, the heritage heart of Scotland, this port city has world renowned striking architecture, art galleries, museums and culture by the boatload. Visit Ashton Lane, for a cobbled street that oozes charm and does a cracking fish and chips, the Natural History Museum, a magnificent gothic building, or the Glasgow Necropolis, a fascinating Victorian Cemetery. Eat, drink and be merry in this vast city filled with hidden gems.

The spectacular scenery of the Trossach’s has been the landscape behind many films and movies, from Game of Thrones to Monty Python. You’ll need at least 2 days to take in everything this national park has to offer. From hikes, to paddle boarding the Loch, or cycling around the winding roads taking in the scenery. Filled with quaint towns and villages, waterfalls, and wonderful wildlife, you won’t be short on things to see and do. 

Glencoe (1 Day)

Visit the tucked away village of Glencoe, a gem of western Scotland. This quintessential Scottish Highland village lies at the bottom of the Glencoe valley. Explore the local area famous for its gushing waterfalls and challenging trails that will take you up to a number of peaks including Buachaille Etive Mor and Bidean nam Bian, while hiking keep your eyes peeled for local red deer and eagles! If you plan on staying in the village, be sure to stop off at the Glencoe Folk Museum located on the site of old thatched cottages and filled with local history.

Loch Leven (1 Day)

Loch Leven Nature Reserve is a haven of tranquil waters. This freshwater loch is home to a huge variety of bird life, from the tufted ducks that call the vast expanse of the loch their home, to the Ospreys that hunt in the skies, flocks of wildfowl, and kingfishers that dip in and out of the loch edges. The lucky few may even spot the resident otters playing in the reeds. A heritage trail runs around the circumference of the lake as you can walk or cycle part or the whole way around for a 360 view of this natural wonder.  

Loch Linnhe (1 Day)

Loch Linnhe may be a smaller Loch, but is famous for its glorious sunsets, this sea loch draws photographers from around the world for its spectacular views. Outdoor activities abound at this scenic spot, and you can enjoy the views from a kayak, sail boat, while fishing or just with a stroll around the lake. As a sea Loch, you may be lucky enough to see dolphins or seals popping their heads above the lake to say hello!

Ben Nevis (1 Day)

The highest peak in the whole of the UK and the tallest of the Three Peaks, Ben Nevis is a stunning hike but not one to be taken lightly. Standing at 1,345 m you can hike the whole thing in a day (Weather Permitting) and enjoy one of the local pubs at the trailhead for a well earned pint and pub dinner afterwards. There are a variety of trails for different abilities, check weather conditions and local recommendations before starting a hike. 

Fort William and Lochaber (1 Day) 

The final day of this tour can be spent in well earned comfort exploring the town of Fort William and its surroundings. Relax and enjoy the lively spirit of this loch side town. There’s plenty of places to eat and drink the local cuisine, you can paddleboard on the harbour, or if you’re feeling like a rest, why not take a cruise boat to see the local wildlife? 

East Lothian and the Scottish Borders Road Trip

Beaches and Cliff Top Views

50 Miles 

80 Kilometres

5-6 Days 

Edinburgh (2 Days) 

Spend a few days in the Scottish Capital, taking in the phenomenal heritage of this historic city. Many parts of Edinburgh feel like they haven’t changed since they were built, explore the cobblestone streets, the Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle, stop off in the historic pubs and take a walk up to Arthur’s Seat for a panoramic view across the city. 

Aberlady Bay and Gullane Beach (1 Day) 

Heading out of Edinburgh, there are bays and beaches aplenty, take the coastal path and stop off to see the pretty architecture of Aberlady Bay, a small town and local coastal nature reserve. Stop off enroute at Gosford House for lovely walks around a stately home. Gullane Beach and town are a sweet spot for an evening stop off to watch the sunset. 

North Berwick (1 Day) 

This charming Scottish seaside town is perfect for a stroll around the shops and cafes, taking in the glory of the bay over a coffee and cake. Avid bird watchers should take a visit to the Scottish Seabird Centre and then walk up to The Glen for views across the sea. If you have time the local Tantallon Castle is also worth a stop over. 

Tyninghame (1 Day)

A quaint and charming area of conservation famous for its’ pastel pretty in pink houses wonderful wildlife. Stop off at the historic Tyninghame Smithy for coffee and lunch in the cafe, and visit the Tyninghame House to see a remarkably preserved 12th Century home. Talk long walks around the East Lothian countryside from here, being sure to stop off and bird watch at the Tyninghame Beach. 

Dunbar (1 Day)

Famous as the birthplace of the environmentalist John Muir, he lauded Dunbar as the place that inspired his love of wildlife. From the bustling harbours that are still used for fishing today, to the ruined remains of Dunbar Castle, this town is oozing history and charm. It’s said to be the sunniest place in SCotland and has beautiful beaches and plenty of walks to satisfy all travellers. 

Oban and the Scottish Castles Road Trip 

Oban (1-2 days).

A colourful seaside town known for its fine seafood, you could spend days discovering the hidden secrets of this holiday town. Take a boat trip from the working harbour to see the town from the sea. Visit the Oban Distillery for a taste of the local whisky, or check out the local cultural events going on around the town. There’s always something happening in Oban, music, craft and art combine in this lively spot. 

Dunollie and Dunstaffnage Castles (1 Day) 

Stopping off first at the Dunollie Castle and Grounds, this majestic clifftop castle takes in magnificent views across Oban Bay, its ruins are great for kids to explore and there’s exhibitions on that immerse you in the history of the castle and area. Dunstaffnage Castle and Chapel are stunning to walk around any day, but over the summer they host mediaeval weekends where you can step back in time and watch birds of prey, knights jousting and even try your hand at archery.  

Castle Stalker and Loch Laich (1 Day) 

This romantic ruined castle sits at the centre of the dark water, be sure to take a camera for dramatic shots. The castle is privately owned but can be seen from the shore and there are boat trips running throughout the summer. Castle Stalker View Cafe sits across the Loch from the castle offering coffee and cake and of course a fantastic view. Stop over in Appin if you have the time, this lovely village can be explored by bike or on foot. 

Glencoe and Loch Leven (1 Day) 

Bridge of orchy , kilchurn castle and st. conan’s kirk (1 day) .

A short distance from each other lies Bridge of Orchy, a tiny white washed village with a delightful and highly photographic stone bridge. The Kilchurn Castle is a ruined fortress that looks out over Loch Awe, a powerful castle that dominates the landscape in all seasons. A short drive away, sits St Conan’s Kirk, a historic tourist attraction in the village of Lochawe, a phenomenal piece of architecture, this is a must see and a hidden gem of Argyll. 

Scottish Campervans 

What better way to explore these magnificent Scottish Road-trips than by campervan? You’ll be travelling with absolute freedom, always having everything you need with you and able to change your mind and your destination at the drop of a hat. Here are our favourite Quirky Campers based in Scotland.

Fauna is the pet friendly cosy cabin on wheels. Her compact size and automatic transmission makes her easy to drive around those winding Scottish roads. Glasgow based, she’s perfect for escapes up to the Scottish Highlands. 

Heater | Sink | DIning Table | Stove | Festival Friendly | Inverter | Fridge 

Hamish  

Happy Hamish is a light and breezy companion for your Scottish travels. Pet friendly and fitted to the brim with every modern amenity you could possibly need, what better way to travel through the highlands and Islands than in this fantastic campervan. Located in Kincraig, Hamish is perfect for trips exploring the Cairngorms and further North. 

Dining Table | Festival Friendly | Outdoor Shower | Solar | 6ft Bed | Reverse Sensors | Heater | Pet Friendly | Fridge | Toilet | Sat Nav

EDINBURGH 

Elton is the snazziest of the Quirky Campers, perfectly stylish inside and out, compact in size but spacious enough for you and 3 other friends or family. This automatic campervan will have you whizzing around the coast in no time, the envy of everyone who sees you.

Air Con | Dining Table | Heater | Outdoor Shower | Solat | Sat Nav | Awning | Oven | Fridge | Stove 

Ozzy  

EAST KILBRIDE 

Ozzy is located just south of Glasgow in East Kilbride. Easy to get to and ready for adventure. With wood panelling and dark highlights, this romantic cabin is perfect for a romantic getaway. Explore the wilderness in this beautiful van knowing that you’ll  have a cosy hideaway to come back to at the end of the day. 

Air Con | Fan | Heater | Pet Friendly | Fridge | Stove | Reverse Sensors | Dining Table | Festival Friendly | Solar | Toilet 

Isla  

Edinburgh based Isla is just waiting for you to pick her and go on a Scottish adventure. This stunning campervan has a sleek whitewash design with a hint of moroccan influence, a picture perfect pet friendly campervan for two, ready for strolls around lochs, hikes up mountains and beach time galore. 

Fan | Heater | Sink | Pet Friendly | Fridge Toilet | Reversing Sensors | Dining Table | Festival Friendly | Outdoor Shower | Solar | 6ft bed | Sat Nav

BISHOPBRIGGS 

Located just north of Glasgow in the town of Bishopbriggs, Sonny is a campervan on the cusp of the Scottish wilderness. Prepared for any adventure you can imagine whether it’s paddling the lochs, hitting up the Islands, birdwatching or searching for seals, Sonny will be your reliable and trustworthy travel companion. 

Fan | Levelling Jacks | Stove | Tow Hitch | WIFI | 6ft Bed | Bike Storage | Sat Nav | Reverse Camera | Dining Table | Heater | Pet Friendly | Fridge 

The Glasgow based stylish Syvlia is a sleep sprinter, waiting to be your Scottish tour guide. Wherever the wind takes you, Silvia will be along for the ride. With all your mod-cons you can travel in style and luxury while never missing out on the freedom of travel campervans offer. 

Pet Friendly | Fridge | Toilet | 6ft Bed | Reverse Camera | Fan | Oven | Stove | Parking Sensors

Scottish Campsites 

Scotland is home to some magnificent campsites, no matter what view you seek you’ll find a campsite that offers it. Whether you want to wake up to the sun rising over the vast expanse of a loch, down the valleys or over a mountain, we’ve got you covered. 

Linnhe Lochside Holidays Campsite

A campsite that overlooks a stunning stretch of water where two Lochs meet, keep your eyes peeled for otters and porpoises and watch spectacular sunsets while you cook your dinner. With family friendly areas, views to Ben Nevis and amazing amenities, this is a campsite not to miss. 

Address – LINNHE LOCHSIDE HOLIDAYS, Corpach, Fort William, Scotland, PH33 7NL

Showers | Campfires Allowed | Electric Pitches | WIFI | Beach | Pet Friendly | Family Friendly 

Ben Nevis Holiday Park 

A stone’s throw from the highest mountain in Britain and set alongside a beautiful flowing river. With all modern amenities provided this is the ultimate campsite for mountainside relaxation. 

Address – Camaghael Rd, Caol, Fort William PH33 7NF

Pet Friendly | Family Friendly | Toilets | Showers | Laundry | Shop | Cafe 

Red Squirrel Campsite

A campsite surrounded by the stunning scenery of Glencoe, this site truly immerses you in nature. A rugged and back to basics campsite, but with the basic amenities to keep you happy. You’ll feel nothing but relaxed and calm your entire stay. 

Address – GLENCOE, ARGYLL, SCOTLAND, PH49 4HX

Food Truck | Wild Camping | Toilets | Showers | Pet Friendly 

Barrow Campsite Nairn 

A small family run site that’s right on the cusp of the Scottish Highlands, a perfect base if you’re setting off to explore! Open all year round with 360 vistas to the open countryside. 

Address – Kinchyle Farm, Nairn, IV12 5NY, Scotland

Pet Friendly | Family Friendly | Toilets | Showers | Hard Pitches | Shop | BBQs Allowed

Port Nan Gael Campsite

A campsite on the banks of lochs and with the backdrop of the stunning wilderness of the Isle of Mull. Every pitch has sea and mountain views, there’s nothing quite like this idyllic spot for a little R&R. 

Address – ​​Port nan Gael Campsite, Pennyghael, Isle of Mull PA70 6HB

Toilet | Shower | Family Friendly | WIFI | Hook Ups | Washing Facilities 

Glenbrittle Campsite 

A remote campsite that brings you back in touch with nature. This wilderness campsite is nestled at the foot of mountains on the Isle of Skye. Ideal as a base for exploring the island it offers all the fun of wild camping with the advantages of premium facilities. 

Address – Glenbrittle Campsite & Cuillin Coffee Cafe, Glenbrittle, Isle of Skye IV47 8TA

Toilets | Showers | Family Friendly | Cafe | Laundry | Washing Up | Shop 

Bunchrew Caravan Park  

A friendly campsite set against the backdrop of a beautiful forest, this tranquil setting creates a quiet and charming campsite, perfect for finding peace and seclusion on your road-trip.

Address – Bunchrew, Inverness IV3 8TD

Toilets | Showers | Laundry | Shop | Bike Hire | BBQ | Wifi 

Are you ready for your Scottish adventure?  Check out our range of Scottish campervans today to take the first step to freedom!

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