self tour of scotland

Guides For Self Drive Scotland Tours

A Wealth Of Local Knowledge

Since 2005 we have intensively explored the corners of Scotland to seek out the places & experiences that make our guides outstanding.

Money Back Guarantee

We are so confident that you’ll be delighted with your guide that we offer a full Money Back Guarantee .

Real Travellers’ Reviews

Read our reviews on Facebook and Google to see the great things that  real people  say about us.

Claim a 10% Discount on Car Hire with Arnold Clark Rental when you book online using the Promo Code in our Tour Guides.

Personal Attention

When you buy a Secret Scotland Tour Itinerary, you get more than a guidebook, you also get Aury & Mike as your personal Travel Advisors.

Find Your Tour

Planning a scotland tour.

Which Type Of Tour Suits You?

Ready to go.

Complete packages of information designed for different durations and themes of road trip.

Jam-packed with local knowledge so you make the most of your Scotland tour.

Looking for something different? We can create a tour plan especially for you.

Email us your requirements and we’ll send you a Tour Proposal which we can discuss and refine until we get the perfect match for you.

Bestsellers

Best of Scotland East - West

Price: £22.99.

Best of Scotland West - East

Express Explorer East to West

Price: £13.99.

Express Explorer West to East

Highland Explorer East to West

Price: £14.99.

Highland Explorer West to East

Island Odyssey

Price: £20.99.

North Coast 500

Price: £18.99.

Scenic Flexi East to West

Scenic Flexi West to East

Ready To Go... What Takes Your Fancy?

Why Purchase A Secret Scotland Tour?

A stress free driving holiday – Keep the driving relaxed and don’t miss anything with our easy-to-follow lay out .

Experience the Best - We are completely independent and only recommend places on their merits. By the same measure, we tell you if we think something is over-rated, or over-priced.

Rest Assured – Take the gamble out of booking a good place to stay with our carefully selected accommodation .

Plan with Confidence – You can rely on our guides because they are updated several times a year and you can email us with any extra questions you have.

Feel Like a Local – With our local knowledge you discover the great places that most tourists miss.

Save Money – With our 10% discount you can save on your vehicle hire with Arnold Clark Rental .

Our Promise to You – We are so confident that you’ll be delighted with your guide that we offer a full refund if you have a complaint that can’t be resolved. See Terms & Conditions.

Secret Scotland is Mike & Aury (plus "Junior")

When you buy a Secret Scotland guide, you get more than a guidebook.

You get us as your " Friends in Scotland " to answer your questions as you plan your tour.

Need Ideas For Your Scotland Tour?

Subscribe to our newsletter and receive 5 free guides.

APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

Self-Guided Tours & Trips in Scotland

Go off the beaten track with a self guided adventure of Scotland. Travel and experience the freedom of creating a holiday on your own terms. With 19 tours lasting from 4 days up to 12 days, fulfil your wanderlust and set off on your own adventure!

19 Self-Guided tour packages in Scotland with 22 reviews

• In-depth Cultural

Classic Scotland Self Drive

We did not have a guide, so that question is not applicable. Rental car and accommodation were good.

• Coach / Bus

Hebridean Escape

Mark - our tour guide was excellent. itinerary could have been arranged better by not being in Stornaway on the 'sabbath' or leaving later for the coach and going straight to the ferry terminal after sightseeing. B & B's were very good. It would have made life easier if coach had pockets in the back of the seats but otherwise it was comfortable except for the seat belts which were very tight and uncomfortable. I would certaily take another tour with them.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing

Self Guide Cycle Tour - Hebridean Way

• Christmas & New Year

Best of Scottish Lochs, the Highlands, Edinburgh and Glasgow in 6Days (Partially-guided, Independent)

NC500 Self Drive Tour

Taste of Scotland

• Food & Culinary

Scotland Culinary

• Hiking & Trekking

Walking the Rob Roy Way

London and Edinburgh in a week

St Cuthbert's Way - 8 Days

Walking the West Highland Way

St. Cuthbert's Way

Edinburgh | The Athens Of The North

Walking the Speyside Way

John Muir Way

What people love about self-guided tours in scotland.

Overall it was a very nice trip, I think it was well laid out for traveling

Very comprehensive & enjoyable tour.

Travel Styles

• Self-Guided
• Self-Guided Tours: 6 Things You Need To Know
• Scotland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Scotland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

We've noticed that you're using an out of date browser. We recommend that you update to the latest version to enhance your browsing experience.

Grand Road Trip of Scotland

This is the ultimate self-drive tour of Scotland. Travel along our stunning coastline, past golden beaches, ancient castles and pretty villages, and explore wonderful lochside and mountain scenery.

Click here to find out more about our Grand Road Trip of Scotland self-drive tour.

Selected highlights

• Explore the enchanting islands of Mull, Iona & Skye
• Glencoe, Scotland's most famous & atmospheric glen
• The medieval university town of St Andrews - the home of golf
• Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile & the Palace of Holyroodhouse
• Historic castles including Urquhart, Dunvegan & Eilean Donan
• The spectacular beauty & grandeur of the rugged coastline of Wester Ross
• Culloden Battlefield & mystical Loch Ness
• The Malt Whisky Trail including visits to Glenfiddich & Macallan Distilleries
• Relax on the 'bonnie, bonnie banks' of Loch Lomond

Established in Scotland in 2004, Absolute Escapes is an award-winning specialist in self-drive tours of Scotland. Our exceptional reputation has developed through a deep passion and knowledge of Scotland - we firmly believe that your visit should be truly unforgettable.

Why book a self-drive tour?

Our self-drive tours offer complete freedom of choice. The itineraries on our website are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible and can be tailored to suit your preferences. This allows you to explore your interests at your own pace and stay in your preferred style of accommodation - with our specialists' knowledge always at your disposal.

Fair prices

While many travel companies like to promote low prices, we believe that value for money is more important. This translates into charging a fair price for your holiday - whether staying in simple guest houses or luxurious hotels - and not compromising on quality. We want you to travel with us again and know that you will not do this if you feel that you paid too much for your arrangements.

Booking your holiday

If you would like us to contact you with a proposal for your tailor-made trip to Scotland, please get in touch with us via the following methods:

Complete our Online Enquiry Form

Email us at [email protected]

Phone us on +44 (0) 131 610 1210

Price on Request

Departure days.

• W Wednesday

January — December

Contact details

• +44 (0131) 6101210
• View tour details
• [email protected]

Tour information

• Aberdeen Airport
• Edinburgh & The Lothians
• Edinburgh - City Centre
• Edinburgh Airport
• Glasgow Airport
• Glasgow City Centre
• Greater Glasgow & The Clyde Valley
• Inverness Airport
• Loch Lomond Area
• Loch Lomond, The Trossachs, Stirling & Forth Valley
• Oban, Mull and Lorn
• Stirling Area

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see this. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Tour company information

Absolute escapes.

Absolute Escapes is a leading specialist in self-guided walking holidays and tailor-made travel to Scotland. We offer self-guided walking holidays on some of the finest long-distance trails in Scotland, including the West Highland Way, Great Glen Way, Speyside Way, and Skye Trail. We also specialise in tailor-made travel to Scotland including self-drive itineraries and escorted tours. We customise all of our itineraries to your exact requirements based on our experience and intimate knowledge of Scotland.

Social Channels

Visit Absolute Escapes

Opening times

Our office is open Monday to Friday from 10.00 to 17.00.

Other tours from this company

West Highland Way - Self-Guided Walking Holiday

Departs: Balmaha, Drymen, Inverarnan, Bridge of Orchy, Crianlarich, Tyndrum, Edinburgh - City Centr...

The West Highland Way is one of the world’s classic long distance walks. It stre...

Price from:

£365pp

Berwickshire Coastal Path - Self-Guided Walking Holiday

Departs: Dunbar, North Berwick, Edinburgh - City Centre, Edinburgh Airport, Cockburnspath, Coldingh...

The Berwickshire Coastal Path takes you on a tour of one of the most scenic coas...

£375pp

Cateran Trail - Self-Guided Walking Holiday

Departs: Aberdeen Airport, Kirkmichael, Edinburgh - City Centre, Edinburgh Airport, Glasgow City Ce...

The Cateran Trail is a delightful circular route through some of Scotland’s fine...

£490pp

John Muir Way - Self-Guided Walking Holiday

Departs: Falkirk, Balloch, Drymen, Helensburgh, Killearn, Strathblane, Dunbar, Musselburgh, North B...

The John Muir Way is Scotland’s newest official long-distance trail, running thr...

The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.

PLEASE NOTE: You are using an out-dated browser. To better experience the website, you can upgrade your browser for free or install Google Chrome Frame .

• Email: [email protected] Tel: +44 (0) 141 634 8444

Self drive tours of Scotland

We also offer self drive tours of Scotland – we provide all the organisation, but you do the driving. We’ll book your accommodation and provide maps and a detailed itinerary.  We also provide a list of our handpicked recommendations for essential sights and places to visit on your self drive tour of Scotland.

We have used all our experience to create unique and wonderful self drive tours of Scotland. If you don’t know the country like we do then it can be a time consuming process to plan and research to make sure you get to see the best that Scotland has to offer.  Rely on our expertise and let us mange the logistics and planning for you, in order that you get the best experience possible.

Our self drive tours of Scotland will let you experience the best that the country has to offer. We aim to get you off the beaten track and see the most spectacular sights and locations. Visit the iconic sights and discover the lesser known secrets which are always the best part of self drive tours of Scotland

Accommodation

We have expert knowledge of the huge range of accommodations on offer throughout Scotland and will we organise perfect overnight accommodation on our self drive tours of Scotland. We will discuss with you to get an idea of your requirements and preferences, and then recommend a range of options to suit any budget or any type of accommodation preference.

Options include guest houses, boutique hotels, luxury hotels and country houses and lodges. We make sure the evening accommodation is as memorable as the sights on our self drive tours of Scotland.

Car & Motorcycle Hire

Through our car hire partners we offer the widest range of vehicles for our self drive tours of Scotland. Whatever your budget or preference we will get you the vehicle that you need. Motorcycle self drive tours of Scotland are also available.

Interested in a Tour of Scotland?

Send us a message and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Your Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Prefer a call back? Leave us your phone number:

Tour ideas or requirements (if any):

• 1 Day Tours
• 3 Day Tours
• 7 Day Tours

Subscribe to our newsletter for updates and special offers:

Welcome to Epic Travel Plans!

Epic Travel Plans

Destinations that will leave you Breathless. Plans to make it happen

7-Day Self-Drive Tour of Scotland: Highland + Island Gems!

My husband and I still talk about our road trip through the Scottish Highlands, Lowlands and Islands. This country is a beauty! And it has something for every traveler. Rugged peaks, hidden beaches and seaside cliffs. Fascinating geological landmarks. Gritty historic sites, modern galleries, and excellent shopping. And lots of sheep!

You’re gonna LOVE it.

• MAP of Your 7-Day Self-Drive Tour of Scotland
• Best Places to STOP: Cities and Islands
• Things to SEE in the Scottish Highlands and Lowlands
• Best Time to GO

Can you drive around Scotland?

Yes! I’d argue that the BEST way to tour Scotland is by car, driving around yourself.

Now, you’ll be driving around Scotland on the LEFT side of the road. My husband and I did this just fine coming from Canada (where we drive on the right-hand side), but it definitely took some getting used to. 

If you’re nervous about this, check out our simple tips to safely driving on the left side .

How many days do you need to drive around Scotland?

You need at least seven days to drive around Scotland and enjoy it. Below is a suggested itinerary, with plenty of flexibility and suggested options to make it exactly as you imagine.

Best Road Trip in Scotland: Your 7-Day Self-Drive Tour of Scotland

On a 7-day self-drive tour of Scotland, you can weave together your favorite spots to see in the Scottish Lowlands, Highlands and Islands. Start your Scotland road trip in Edinburgh, head up to Inverness, and end in Glasgow. Fill in the rest with your must-do’s on your bucket list!

Below is a suggested itinerary for your Scotland tour by car, with lots of ways to make it your own. Pick a few favorite spots to spend two nights. And for the other days, leave early and spend the afternoon and evening enjoying the new spot.

My biggest tip: Take the backroads whenever possible. Roads are narrow and windy (and sometimes terrifying!), and give you the best taste of this beautiful country. Take along a GPS so you don’t get lost! (We still say our Garmin GPS saved our marriage on this Scotland road trip.)

Disclosure: This post includes affiliate links to excellent travel-related products. If you use the links below to make a purchase, we’ll receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

MAP of 7-Day Self-Drive Tour of Scotland

Below is a map to visualize this 7-day self-drive tour of Scotland. To personalize it to your own trip, save a copy and add/delete/modify each layer to fit your plans.

Day 1: Explore Gorgeous Edinburgh

Historic Edinburgh is absolutely gorgeous. I love this city. Climb to the top of Arthur’s Seat in Holyrood Park for an incredible view and to get your bearings. And Calton Hill, with more views and neoclassical monuments. Wander through Leith, the busy waterfront district with seafood bistros, shops and the Royal Yacht Britannia. 

Spend plenty of time in elegant New Town shops, galleries and museums. And adjacent Old Town, with more museums, St. Giles’ Cathedral and Royal Mile pubs, under the watchful gaze of Edinburgh Castle.

And CASTLES! Of course there’s the imposing Edinburgh Castle right in the middle of town. It’s home to the Crown Jewels and the National War Museum of Scotland. But you’re also surrounded! To the north are Lauriston, Barnbougle, Midhope and Blackness castles. And in the south, Craigmillar Castle. Plus, Rosslyn Chapel, and many more castle ruins, too.

Where to STAY in Edinburgh

• Old Waverley Hotel : Stay in a gorgeous historic building with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle, with onsite bar and restaurant. Includes wifi. Parking is at a nearby car park.
• House Rental : You’ll find so many lovely private house rentals in Edinburgh on Plum Guide. Discover your very own perfect space near Edinburgh Castle, like The Bay Tree.

Day 2: Drive from Edinburgh to Inverness

Day 2 of your 7-day self-drive tour of Scotland will take you north to the pretty city of Inverness. 

There are three stops you should make just north of Edinburgh. First, the impressive Stirling Castle in all its historic significance. Then, Drummond Castle Gardens. And finally, Scone Palace in Perth, where Macbeth and Robert the Bruce were crowned. Driving along these three stops will take 2.5 hours, plus tour time. From Perth, there are two routes you might take.

Your first route option from Perth to Inverness is the A9 highway. This is the fastest, most direct route (just over 2 hours). It skirts along Cairngorms National Park, with lots of pretty hikes (check details on AllTrails ). And it takes you past Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery and Speyside Distillery.

Where to STAY in Inverness

• Heathmount Hotel : A beautiful boutique hotel in a central location. Inverness Castle is only a 10-minute walk. Rooms are classy and comfortable, complete with robes. Onsite restaurant, bar and delicious breakfast. Price includes wifi and parking.
• House Rentals : On Plum Guide, you’ll find a variety of lovely house rentals of various styles, sizes and locations. Like the cozy Lady Of The Ness, a pretty period home in a quiet neighborhood, but only 10-minute walk to restaurants and pubs.

The second route option from Perth to Inverness is through Aberdeen (4 hours). You might visit the two coastal cities of Dundee and Aberdeen, and many inland and coastal castles. The coastal Dunnottar Castle is my absolute favorite! 

Continue on to Inverness, or if you love Scotch as much as my husband, stop in Dufftown for two nights. It’s the perfect central location to visit 16 distilleries! You could easily spend a full day (or more!) touring your favorite Speyside Distilleries .

Where to STAY in Dufftown

• Dunvegan B and B : A pretty little inn in downtown Dufftown, only a 15-minute walk to Glenfiddich Distillery. Your room includes a seating area and private washroom. Price includes wifi, parking and breakfast.
• Conval House Bed and Breakfast : A warm, cozy B&B in central Dufftown, a 20-minute walk to Glenfiddich Distillery. Your king room has an ensuite and seating area. Price includes wifi, parking and breakfast.

Day 3: Drive North to Orkney or South to Skye

Day 3 of your 7-day self-drive tour of Scotland is a great day to head to one of the Scottish Islands! You might continue north to the Orkney Islands or south and west to Isle of Skye. Both islands have stunning coasts, fascinating ruins and excellent distilleries.

Driving Route #1 to Orkney Islands

Option 1 is to head to the rugged and beautiful Orkney Islands. You can either fly from Inverness or drive to Thurso (2 hours), where you catch a ferry. If you drive, stop at Dingwall Castle and Glenmorangie Distillery (one of my favorite Scotches!) along the way. Highway A9 hugs the coast much of the way, so it’s a pretty drive.

Check AllTrails for the best hikes on the Orkney Islands.

Where to STAY on Orkney Islands

• Standing Stones Hotel : Located on a rolling property overlooking Loch of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar, this quiet and comfortable retreat is only 5 minutes from the ferry. Onsite restaurant, garden and shared lounge. Price includes wifi and parking.
• Albert Street Apartment : This cozy private apartment is centrally located in Kirkwall, with shops and restaurants nearby. Twenty minutes from the ferry and highly rated by guests.

Driving Route #2 to Isle of Skye

If you’re not visiting Orkney Islands on this trip, option 2 is to head south along Loch Ness, and then west to Isle of Skye. This drive will take 2 hours, plus another hour to the town of Portree on Skye. As you near the island, stop at the remarkable 13th-century ruins of Eilean Donan Castle.

Plan your epic hikes on the Isle of Skye with AllTrails .

Where to STAY on the Isle of Skye

• Cuillin Hills Hotel : A classy boutique hotel with wonderful views over Portree Bay and the Cuillin Mountains. Rooms have seating areas to enjoy the views, or enjoy them from the award-winning restaurant and bar. Price includes wifi and parking.
• House Rental : My goodness, you can find such beautiful house rentals on the Isle of Skye through Plum Guide! Most have gorgeous views, like The Rock. Enjoy these views of the sea from pretty gardens, your outdoor terrace or oversized windows.

Day 4: Follow the Lochs to Fort William

Wherever you were on day 3 of your 7-day self-drive tour of Scotland, today you’re heading south!

If you’re driving from Thurso in the north, you really should take the coastal route to Durness (2 hours). This stretch of road is known for its beauty, with plenty of rugged ruins and perfect beaches along the way. In Durness, visit the historic Balnakeil Chapel ruins, relax at Balnakeil Beach and breathe in the gorgeous Durness Bay. For the night, make your way back to Inverness (2.5 hours) or follow Loch Ness to Fort William (4 hours).

If you’re starting today in Portree on Skye, you have two route options. Either return to the A82 to reach Fort William (2.5 hours). Or, have a little fun with the road-less-traveled by taking the Armadale ferry from Skye over to Mallaig, and then you hug lochs all the way to Fort William (3 hours).

Where to STAY in Fort William

• Inverlochy Castle Hotel : A 5-star castle hotel on the lake, what could be better?? This award-winning luxury hotel and restaurant features wonderful mountain views, cozy rooms and onsite tennis, fishing and clay pigeon shooting. Price includes wifi and parking.
• Myrtle Bank Guest House : This warm guest house has a lovely garden and terraces overlooking the loch. Rooms are comfortable, some with lake views and all with a patio. Guests praise their breakfast. Price includes wifi and parking.

Day 5: Ascend Ben Nevis

Let’s take a breath on day 5 of your 7-day self-drive tour of Scotland by taking in the views. Spend today experiencing the natural beauty of Ben Nevis and Glencoe Valley.

Ben Nevis is Britain’s highest peak, and takes up to 8 hours up and down. It’s a challenging, rocky path but rewards you with gorgeous valley and loch views along the way. I’m hoping your day 5 is sunny, ‘cause it’s common for clouds to steal the view at the top. Find the best hikes near Fort William on AllTrails .

If a hike sounds too intense, take the Nevis Range gondola to the top. Hike to one of the lookouts for spectacular views. Then, ride a mountain bike down!

Another great idea is to drive the Glen Nevis road to Steall Waterfall. You pass by the lush valley where the Braveheart village was filmed, and then have a moderate 6.5 kilometer hike to this 120-meter tiered waterfall. It’s the second tallest in Scotland.

End your day in Oban, Glencoe or Glasgow, depending how you plan to spend the next two days of your Scotland road trip.  

• Oban is a charming coastal resort community with ferry access to the Isle of Mull and Islay.
• Glencoe Valley gives you more gorgeous mountain scenery and historic sites to visit.
• Or, return your car rental to the Glasgow Airport and fly out to one of the islands. You can easily rent another car on the islands.

Where to STAY in Oban

• Oban Bay Hotel : An elegant 4-star hotel and award-winning restaurant, overlooking the Sound of Kerrera, Isle of Mull and Firth of Lorne. Onsite sunlounge, steam room, sauna and luxury thermal spa. Price includes wifi and parking (limited onsite plus nearby).
• No17 The Promenade : A gorgeous new hotel in Oban with fantastic reviews, featuring an onsite restaurant, bar and free bikes. All rooms have a seating area and cozy slippers, some with water views. Price includes wifi. Private onsite parking is 5 GBP/day.

Day 6: Explore Mull, Islay or The Trossachs

Day 6 of your 7-day self-drive tour of Scotland is exploring the Isle of Mull, Islay, or Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.

Visit Isle of Mull

Isle of Mull has quirky rock formations and cool caves, best explored by boat. Visit the 13th-century Duart Castle ruins and Iona Abbey and Nunnery. And finish your day at the Tobermory Distillery.

Find the best hikes on the Isle of Mull on AllTrails .

Where to STAY on Isle of Mull

• Western Isles Hotel: Located in the pretty village of Tobermory and overlooking the Bay, this lovely hotel has a restaurant and bar onsite. Book a room with a view! Price includes wifi and parking.
• Iona Pods : In the far southwest, actually on the small island of Iona just off Mull, are these cute pods. You can walk to the Iona Abbey and Nursery, as well as two restaurants. Leave your car at the ferry and walk everywhere you need to here! (Or, get a taxi from the ferry.)

Visit Islay

Islay is all about the peaty Scotch distilleries. Even if you’re not into Scotch, you’ve likely heard of Bowmore, Laphroig and Lagavulin. And you’ll be charmed by their pretty fishing villages, whitewash buildings and lovely beaches. Plus, their sheep and Highland cows, with the best views in the world!

Now, Islay also has some gorgeous cliffs, bays and rock formations, too. Check AllTrails for the best hikes.

Where to STAY on Islay

• Lochside Hotel : This warm, cozy hotel features a fantastic restaurant and bar, overlooking Bowmore Harbour. It’s a 5-minute walk to Bowmore Distillery and central to visit the others. Price includes wifi. Parking is along the street (and plentiful, from what I remember).
• Machrie Hotel & Golf Links : A 4-star golf and spa resort, with preferred green fees at the 18-hole championship links course. Onsite restaurant, bar and afternoon tea in the lounge. It’s in Port Ellen on the southeast coast, near the Port Ellen, Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg Distilleries. Price includes wifi and parking.

Plan your itinerary with this post on Islay Distilleries .

Or, use Day 6 of your Scotland road trip exploring Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. Check out AllTrails for the best hikes that match your interest, time and effort.

Day 7: Enjoy Glasgow

Wrap up your 7-day self-drive tour of Scotland by enjoying Glasgow’s galleries and shops.

Top-rated galleries in Glasgow include the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel, and Glasgow Botanic Gardens. Stroll the historic University of Glasgow and Necropolis, and finish it off at a cozy neighborhood pub.

Where to STAY in Glasgow

• Native Glasgow : This elegant 4-star historic hotel was once the headquarters for the Anchor Line Shipping Company and its decor is inspired by a 1920s ocean liner. Located in central Glasgow with onsite restaurant and bar. Book a penthouse apartment for a terrace! Price includes wifi. Discount on nearby parking. A 15-minute drive to Glasgow Airport.
• Dakota Glasgow : A luxurious 4-star hotel with rich decor, located in central Glasgow near shopping, museums and galleries. Onsite restaurant, bar and library. Rooms feature a monsoon shower. Price includes wifi. Discount on nearby parking. A 15-minute drive to Glasgow Airport.

Best Places to Stop on a 7-Day Self-Drive Tour of Scotland

Stop at these beautiful cities:.

• Edinburgh is where we recommend starting your 7-day self-drive tour of Scotland. It’s an absolutely gorgeous historic city, well-worth sticking around for at least a full day.
• Stirling is home to the famous Stirling Castle that sits atop a plateau high above. Stirling Castle is a fascinating palace and city-within-a-city.
• Perth is another beautiful historic city, home to the famous Scone Palace, tree-lined river walkways, gardens and galleries.
• Dundee is most known for its naval and war history museums, with plenty to entertain history buffs at Discovery Point.
• Aberdeen sits on the eastern coast, and near the gorgeous ruins of Dunnottar Castle. The granite buildings weren’t that interesting to me, but the cobbled roads and historic university buildings of Old Aberdeen are picturesque.
• Inverness is picturesque, and the perfect spot to call home while exploring the Scottish Highlands. Explore historic Fort George military base. 
• Oban is a resort town right on the water, with ferry access to many of the Scottish islands. It’s surrounded by lush green scenery, and home to the excellent Oban distillery and historic McCaig’s Tower and Battery Hill.
• Glasgow is known for its excellent galleries, nightlife and shopping. Top-rated galleries include the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel, and Glasgow Botanic Gardens. Stroll the historic University of Glasgow and Necropolis, and finish it off at a cozy neighborhood pub.

Stop at these SCOTTISH ISLANDS:

A 7-day self-drive tour of Scotland MUST include at least one Scottish Island. Each one is rugged and beautiful, with its own special features, historic sights and distilleries to thrill you!

Below are the top 4 islands to visit on your Scotland road trip.

1. Isle of Skye

This Scottish island is a natural wonderland and makes for epic travel pics. Isle of Skye is certainly the most popular of the Scottish islands, and it’s easy to see why. It’s dramatic and enchanting, with waterfalls thundering over oceanfront cliffs and mysterious rock formations and massive boulders scattered along rolling green hills.

Popular sights include the Old Man of Storr, Quiraing, Fairy Glen, Kilt Rock and Trotternish Ridge. Plus the many castle ruins, like Dunvegan and Eilean Donan just off Skye. And Talisker Distillery, of course. Find the best hikes on AllTrails .

Accessible by bridge.

2. Isle of Mull

Dramatic scenery isn’t limited to the Isle of Skye. Isle of Mull has some incredible rock features of its own, and dramatic coastal cliffs and waterfalls, too.

Most famous natural landmarks on the Isle of Mull are the deep-sea cavern of MacKinnon’s Cave, rock formations at Dervaig and climbing Ben More. Then, there’s the 13th-century Duart Castle ruins and Iona Abbey and Nunnery. Iona is a small separate island accessible by foot ferry only. (Leave your car at the Isle of Mull port and get a taxi or just walk on Iona.)

Find the best hikes on the Isle of Mull on AllTrails . And don’t forget to visit the Tobermory Distillery!

Accessible by plane from Glasgow and ferry from Oban.

If you love peaty Scotch whiskies, you gotta come to Islay . This pretty island is home to nine distilleries, and if you time it right, you can visit all of them in only two days. You can also take a short ferry ride to Jura to visit their distillery, too.

I read some bad reviews on Islay’s scenery but was pleasantly surprised with its lovely coasts and rolling hills. And you can meet plenty of sheep and Highland cows! Find pretty coastal hikes on AllTrails .

Accessible by plane from Glasgow and ferry from Oban or Kennacraig Ferry Terminal. Map out your Scotch tours with this Islay Distilleries post.

4. Orkney Islands

Mainland Orkney is off the northern tip of Scotland, a hauntingly beautiful island to warm the hearts of those who venture this far. Think: rushing waterfalls and rugged cliffs that drop into the ocean. And rugged rolling green hills and quiet beaches. Find the best hikes on AllTrails .

It’s home to Orkney Brewing and Highland Park Distillery, which is one of our favorites. Check out the odd Ring of Brodgar from the Neolithic period and ruins at Corrigall Farm Museum.

Accessible by plane from Inverness and ferry from Thurso.

Things To See on Your 7-Day Self-Drive Tour of Scotland

Scottish lowlands highlights.

• Stirling Castle is certainly grand and impressive. It sits high above the city of Stirling, with fantastic views. Inside are well-preserved and reconstructed buildings from this city-within-a-city, including the Great Hall, Chapel Royal, Tapestry Studio and Regimental Museum. Home to Mary Queen of Scots. Simply walking the grounds and the walls reconnects you with history!
• Scone Castle is where Macbeth, Robert the Bruce and Charles II were crowned. It’s home to the Earls of Mansfield and hosts high-profile events. Stroll the beautiful gardens and lush estate.
• Dunnottar Castle is a romantic and haunting ruined cliff top fortress, with the wild ocean at its feet. Cross the narrow land bridge, scramble through the underground vaults and climb the ruined towers for epic views. Dip your toes at the beach below. This historic castle played a part in the 18th-century Jacobite risings and is super fun to explore.

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Highlights

• Loch Ness is a lovely inland lake that runs down the middle of Scotland, but it’s the legend of Nessie and the chance of spotting this lake monster for yourself that keeps your eyes peeled! Stop for a peek of the famous Urquhart Castle (but it’s crazy busy, so I suggest other, better ruins to see). Take a quick tour of Nessieland (a bit silly but fun, with great souvenirs). And dip your toes at the quiet Fort Augustus view point, and see if you can lure out ol’ Nessie.
• Nevis Range near Fort William, including the highest peak in the UK, Ben Nevis. Ski here in winter, or hike, bike or take the gondola up the Nevis Range. Lower Falls and Steall Waterfall are beautiful.
• Glencoe Valley is a beautiful area to explore, with wildflowers, waterfalls and peaks you can climb to gorgeous views. Hike up Buachaille Etive Mor or Bidean nam Bian. Visit the Glencoe Folk Museum thatch cottages from the 1700s and tribute to the 1692 Glencoe massacre.
• Loch Lamond and The Trossachs National Park is a lovely way to end your 7-day self-drive tour of Scotland, just north of Glasgow. Your drive is nice, but the best way to see the park is to get out for even a short hike to a viewpoint. Check out AllTrails for inspiration and directions!

Best Time To Go on Your 7-Day Self-Drive Tour of Scotland

The best time for a 7-day self-drive tour of Scotland Highlands and Islands is summer, between May and September. These are the warmest months of the year, and winters in Scotland are COLD and snowy. Not super fun for road trips.

So, tell us about your plans! Please share your 7-day self-drive tour of Scotland plans, highlights and tips in the comments below.

Enjoy this post? Share with your friends!

You may also like:

• How to Survive After a Red-Eye FLIGHT to London
• LONDON to Edinburgh Drive: Best Places To Stop
• Whisky Distillery Tour Guides: Speyside and Islay

Featured photo credit (Isle of Skye): Joshua Earle from Unsplash

Add a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Plan your ROMANTIC getaway with our eBook, available in our TRAVEL PRINTABLES store Dismiss

Sign up now to receive your fillable PDF templates for building your travel bucket list and planning those epic trips! Plus, monthly inspiration and tips to make those "wow" trips happen.

Unsubscribe at any time. But we don't think you'll want to.

Self-Drive Holidays in Scotland

Discover majestic mountains, soul-stirring landscapes & magical islands.

Scotland is an awe-inspiring land, where ancient castles nestle amidst majestic mountains and the soul-stirring landscapes of the Highlands give way to a rugged coastline. With an abundance of wildlife and natural beauty, myriads of islands, world-renowned whisky distilleries, and warm hospitality, Scotland is a wonderful holiday destination.

The holiday suggestions on our website are examples of the amazing trips we can offer , which are created uniquely for you by our award-winning specialists. Think of the itineraries below as inspiration for your specialised tailor-made escape. These can be customised to suit your preferences and individual requirements.

Our packages include hand-picked accommodation, a personalised information pack, and 24-hour support from our dedicated team. Discover the highlights of Scotland at your own pace.

Hebridean Island Hopping

North coast 500, shetland & orkney: escape to the edge, escape to the highlands, outlander tour, great british road trip, isle of skye & scottish highlands winter escape, isle of skye & the outer hebrides, discover ayrshire & arran, historic borders of scotland & england, highlands & islands malt whisky trail, speyside malt whisky trail, stay in scottish castle hotels, scottish seafood trail, north east 250, edinburgh & the highlands in winter, winter whisky escape, highlights of scotland, highland honeymoon, from london to the scottish highlands, coll & tiree: a hebridean escape, argyll & mull of kintyre, islay & the west coast whisky trail, james bond tour, winter in a scottish castle hotel, castle to castle, literary scotland, southern scotland winter road trip, grand road trip of scotland, west coast explorer, magical islands of mull, iona & skye, romantic highland getaway, islands of arran, islay, mull & skye, island honeymoon, burns country & the scottish borders, orkney & the far north, north east 250: scottish winter road trip, myths & legends of scotland, scotland on screen, historic scotland, west coast honeymoon.

From £1320pp

• Luskentyre beach - one of the most spectacular beaches in Scotland
• Travel back in time at the 5,000 year old Callanish Standing Stones
• 16th century Kisimul Castle - the magnificent 'Castle in the Sea'

From £1370pp

• Admire the majestic splendour of mountains that Assynt has to offer
• Experience a thrilling journey over the Bealach na Bà
• Discover Achmelvich Bay, one of Scotland’s most beautiful beaches

From £1385pp

• A unique blend of Scandinavian and Scottish culture.
• Archaeological wonders such as Skara Brae, Jarlshof, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Standing Stones of Stenness
• Abundant nature including dolphins, porpoises, puffins and guillemots

From £1015pp

• Discover Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile & Arthur's Seat
• Stunning Glencoe - Scotland's most famous and atmospheric glen
• Explore the magical Isle of Skye and the Cuillin Mountains

From £1150pp

• Follow in Jamie and Claire's footsteps across Scotland
• Explore historic Edinburgh - Scotland's magical capital city
• Discover Doune Castle, aka Castle Leoch in the Outlander TV series

From £2910pp

• The breathtaking scenery of the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye
• Discover picture-postcard English villages in The Cotswolds
• Explore endless attractions in the vibrant capital cities of London and Edinburgh

From £1000pp

• Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile & Holyrood Palace
• Experience Glencoe, Scotland's most famous and atmospheric glen, set beneath snow-capped mountains
• Visit the magical Isle of Skye and the Cuillin Mountains during the quieter winter season

From £865pp

• The magical Isle of Skye and the spectacular Cuillin Mountains
• Discover the mountains and lunar landscape of the Isle of Harris
• The archaeological treasures of the Standing Stones of Callanish

From £1010pp

• Experience the tranquillity of island life on the spectacular Isle of Arran
• Explore the enchanting region of Ayrshire, which inspired Scotland’s Bard, Robert Burns
• Discover Culzean Castle, an 18th-century masterpiece designed by architect Robert Adam

From £975pp

• Discover medieval castles and abbeys in the Scottish Borders
• The wild and tranquil scenery of Northumberland National Park
• Dramatic castles and golden beaches on the sparkling Northumberland coast

From £1035pp

• The Malt Whisky Trail including visits to Glenfiddich & the Macallan Distilleries
• Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile & The Scotch Whisky Experience
• The magical Isle of Skye & Talisker Distillery

From £620pp

• Tour the famous Malt Whisky Trail including Glenfiddich and Macallan distilleries
• Dewars World of Whisky & Edradour Distillery in Pitlochry
• Explore mountains and lochs in one of Scotland's most picturesque regions

From £1840pp

• Enjoy spectacular views over Loch Fyne from your west coast castle hotel
• Stay in a magnificent Highland castle with romantic turrets and ancient battlements
• Explore the delightful town of Pitlochry from your luxury castle hotel in the heart of Highland Perthshire

• Spectacular coastal scenery and wonderful locally caught seafood
• The Cowal Peninsula, a mouth-watering introduction to the West Highlands
• Oban - the ‘Seafood Capital of Scotland’ and ‘Gateway to the Isles’

From £1105pp

• Incredible mountain landscape and Britain’s highest road in the Cairngorms National Park
• Brooding Dunnottar Castle and the splendid Balmoral Castle Estate
• The Malt Whisky Trail including Glenfiddich, Balvenie and Glenlivet Distilleries

From £675pp

• Visit Edinburgh's Old Town - a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile & Holyrood Palace
• Relax in the delightful Highland town of Pitlochry, nestled in the heart of Highland Perthshire
• Experience the stunning winter scenery of the Cairngorms National Park

From £700pp

• Discover Scotland’s world-famous Malt Whisky Trail which includes Glenfiddich and Macallan distilleries
• Tour Dewar’s World of Whisky & The Famous Grouse Experience
• Visit spectacular Edinburgh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile & Holyrood Palace

From £1420pp

• Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile & The Palace of Holyrood House
• Historic Castles including Urquhart, Dunvegan and Eilean Donan
• The magical Isle of Skye and the Cuillin Mountains

From £990pp

• Soak up the peace & tranquility of the beautiful Scottish Lakeland
• Explore the gloriously romantic Isle of Skye
• Visit some of Scotland’s most romantic castles, such as Eilean Donan and Urquhart Castle

From £2440pp

• The spectacular scenery of the Lake District National Park
• Discover Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile & Holyrood Palace

From £1095pp

• Enjoy the tranquility of Hebridean life in one of the sunniest places in the British Isles
• Sandy beaches and crystal clear waters - a mecca for surfers and windsurfers from around the world
• Spot a vast array of marine wildlife and seabirds in one of the last great wildernesses in Europe

From £1020pp

• Mull of Kintyre, a unique and unexplored corner of Scotland
• Oban, the beautiful hub of the Southern Hebrides and Gateway to the Isles
• The Cowal Peninsula, a mouth-watering introduction to the Western Highlands

From £1135pp

• Experience the beautiful Isle of Arran and sample The Arran Malt
• Explore the world-famous distilleries on Islay, including Laphroaig, Ardbeg & Lagavulin
• Visit Tobermory Distillery on the beautiful Isle of Mull

From £1140pp

• Visit Scotland’s largest collection of James Bond memorabilia and enjoy a cocktail at the 007 Bar
• Scotland’s stunning West Coast, including locations from The Spy Who Loved Me and From Russia With Love
• Spectacular Glen Etive and Glencoe, dramatically featured in Skyfall

From £1555pp

• Enjoy atmospheric views over Loch Fyne from your west coast castle hotel

From £995pp

• Balmoral Castle, the Scottish home of the Royal Family
• 13th Century Blair Castle nestling in the heart of Highland Perthshire

From £1275pp

• Explore the Scottish Borders, birthplace of Sir Walter Scott
• Take a literary tour of Scotland’s capital Edinburgh, a UNESCO City of Literature
• Discover the romantic and inspiring Trossachs National Park

From £850pp

• Explore charming Ayrshire which inspired Scotland's Bard, Rabbie Burns
• Discover the unspoilt beauty of Dumfries and Galloway - home to the magical Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park
• Visit the magnificent ruins of Melrose Abbey - the resting place of the heart of Robert the Bruce

From £2330pp

• The spectacular beauty and grandeur of the rugged coastline of Wester Ross
• The Malt Whisky Trail, with the opportunity to visit Glenfiddich and Macallan Distilleries
• The medieval university town of St Andrews - the home of golf

From £1005pp

• Oban - the beautiful hub of the Southern Hebrides & Gateway to the Isles
• The magical Isles of Mull and Iona

• Beautiful sandy beaches on the Isle of Mull
• Follow in pilgrims’ footsteps on the tiny Isle of Iona

• Soak up the peace & tranquillity of beautiful lochs surrounded by snow-capped mountains
• Explore the gloriously romantic Isle of Skye during the quieter months of the year
• Visit some of Scotland’s most romantic castles including Eilean Donan and Urquhart Castle

From £1395pp

• Experience 'Scotland in Miniature' on the beautiful Isle of Arran
• World-famous whisky distilleries on Islay, including Laphroaig, Ardbeg & Lagavulin
• The magical Isle of Skye, home to the spectacular Cuillin Mountains

From £1055pp

• Experience 'Scotland in Miniature' on the Isle of Arran
• The gloriously romantic Isle of Skye and the Cuillin Mountains
• Historic Castles including Duart, Dunvegan & Eilean Donan

From £1070pp

• Explore the charming region of Ayrshire, which inspired Scotland's Bard, Rabbie Burns
• Experience the unspoilt beauty of Dumfries and Galloway, home to the only Dark Sky Park in Europe

From £1065pp

• Walk the winding flagstone lanes of the historic fishing port of Stromness
• Explore Skara Brae where Britain’s earliest inhabitants once lived
• Walk into Sandwood Bay, one of the most isolated & beautiful beaches in the British Isles

From £890pp

• Drive through an incredible wintery landscape, including the snow capped mountains of the Cairngorms National Park
• Try an array of warming whiskies on the Speyside Malt Whisky Trail
• Take advantage of the peaceful countryside to look up at the magical stars of the night sky

From £1535pp

• Experience life on the edge in the Outer Hebrides, including the mysterious Standing Stones of Callanish
• Visit dramatic Dunnottar Castle - one of the most striking and romantic ruined castles in Scotland
• Get lost in the breathtaking scenery of The Cairngorms - Britain’s largest national park

From £1505pp

• The magical Isle of Skye and the breathtaking Trotternish Peninsula
• Glencoe, Scotland's most famous and atmospheric glen featured in Skyfall
• Ride the Jacobite Steam Train aka The Hogwarts Express

From £1110pp

• Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace
• Infamous castles including Stirling, Urquhart & Eilean Donan
• Historic and evocative battlefields such as Culloden Battlefield

From £1060pp

• Explore the Kyles of Bute, a romantic introduction to the West Coast
• Discover the magical Isles of Mull and Iona
• Cruise the west coast in search of dolphins, and basking sharks

• Register | Login

Save on Summer! Use code SUMMER24 for $200 USD ($250 CAD) off trips starting June, July, & August 2024

Scotland Castles Trail - 6 Days

• Renowned Eilean Donan Castle, with views of Skye, on Scotland's dramatic west coast
• Explore Loch Ness, Cawdor Castle and Culloden Battlefield from Inverness
• Imposing Dunnottar Castle perched on the Aberdeenshire seacliffs
• Quaint seaside town of St Andrews with its white sand beaches and cobbled streets
• Balmoral Castle, Scottish home of the royal family, set in the Cairngorm National Park

Easily accessible from the UK, Europe and beyond via plane, public transport or the well-linked road network Glasgow is the perfect place to begin your trip.  Let us know if you'd like a pre-trip night in Glasgow and your specialist will happily arrange this for you.  If you can, we recommend allowing time in your schedule for sightseeing and making the most of the vibrant foodie scene. Stroll around the city’s West End, where you can marvel at the impressive sandstone architecture of the University of Glasgow, founded in 1796, and nearby Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum. 

Once you've had your fill of the city's hustle and bustle take a scenic drive through the National Park of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs as you follow the "bonnie banks"  north into the Highlands. Spend the afternoon exploring Inveraray Castle, as featured in Downtown Abbey, and home of the chiefs of Clan Campbell since the 18th century. The castle and nearby town are situated on the shores of Scotland's longest sea loch - Loch Fyne. The loch is renowned for its delicious fresh seafood - for dinner seek out the best award-winning oysters at The Loch Fyne Oyster Bar.

Drive time:  1 hr 30 mins

Stay at the Brambles nestled on the banks of Loch Fyne in the friendly west coast town of Inveraray. This boutique hotel seamlessly combines traditional Scottish charm with modern efficiency. The full Scottish breakfast is said to be among the best as well as the delicious home baking. 

Creag Dhubh is a beautiful country house dating from 1851 and retaining most of its original features. The accommodation is within walking distance of the town centre and with panoramic views across Loch Fyne to the Cowal Hills.

Built in 1755, the Inveraray Inn is the oldest hotel in Inveraray and one of the most iconic hotels on the west coast of Scotland. Enjoy views to Loch Fyne while enjoying traditional Highland hospitality and excellent local food.

Today choose between two scenic route options that meet just south of Fort William before continuing onto Eilean Donan Castle. The first brings you to the seaside town of Oban with its distillery and bustling harbour then heads north along the west coast to reach Fort William. Alternatively, drive through the wild interior of Scotland, via the Rannoch Moor and the iconic valley of Glencoe passing Scotland's most photographed mountain - Buachaille Etive Mor. 

In Fort William you'll pass by the base of the UK's highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Here we recommend detouring to the Jacobite Monument and Glenfinnan Viaduct to look out for the Jacobite steam train, otherwise known as the "Hogwart's Express" made famous in the Harry Potter films. From Fort William continue through ever more mountainus scenery until Eilean Donan Castle comes into view. This impressive castle, is perhaps Scotland's most famous! Situated at the confluence of three sea lochs on a small island connected to the land by an arched stone bridge it makes for a truly inspiring sight. On a clear day don't miss a visit to the upper viewpoint to get the perfect photo of the castle with the Isle of Skye in the distance. Overnight in the small village of Dornie overlooking Eilean Donan Castle. 

Drive time:  3 - 4 hours  

Conchra is situated on the shores of Loch Long and enjoys stunning views towards Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland's most iconic castle. Relax in your comfortable en suite rooms or in front of the roaring log fire in the guest lounge overlooking Loch Long. 

Sealladh Mara is a charming accommodation situated in the quiet village of Ardelve, overlooking the historic Eilean Donan Castle and conveniently located within walking distance of the village of Dornie. Your host Phyllis will make you feel right at home during your stay.

From Scotland's wild west coast drive through the magnificent valley of Glen Shiel with towering mountains on either side to reach the shores of Loch Ness, Scotland's most storied loch. Home to the legend of the Loch Ness Monster ( "Nessie" ), the loch also has positioned dramatically on its shores the 13th century ruins of Urquhart Castle. On a clear day there's nothing like a boat trip for taking in the spectacular scenery! 

A visit to Culloden Battlefield, near Inverness, is a must - the battlefield was the sombre site of the final 1745 Jacobite Uprising battle. Explore your clan history at the visitor centre's ancestry hub or detour to nearby Cawdor Castle for a stroll in the peaceful gardens.

The Highland city of Inverness makes for an ideal overnight stop with many restaurants and pub options serving everything from hearty Highland fayre to locally-sourced cuisine. Why not round off the day with a dram in the Castle Tavern overlooking the castle and the River Ness?

Drive time:  1 hr 40 mins - 2 hr 30 mins

Ballifeary Guest House is an impressive Victorian Villa with many original features. It has a large private car park for guests use and a secured shed for those with bikes. It is ideally located only a matter of yards from Eden Court theatre and a short walk from the River Ness where many restaurants, the Cathedral and Castle can be found. The rooms have been recently refurbished to a high standard offering every comfort you would expect.  

Glencairn and Ardross Guest House is a family run guesthouse. The building is an elegant detached listed Victorian building situated in a quiet street close to the scenic River Ness. Room are comfortable and tastefully furnished and have all the amenities you require.

Built in 1842, your accommodation is a well-appointed Victorian villa with stunning views over the River Ness and Cavell Gardens. All rooms have TV, hospitality tray, hairdryers and free wireless Internet. They also have available on request bathrobes, slippers, toothbrushes and toothpaste, iron and ironing board and DVD player.

Today you'll stay in The Cairngorm National Park - Scotland's largest. Located within the park is  Royal Deeside where you'll find not only Balmoral Castle and its sprawling estate, Scottish home of the royal family, but also the castles of Braemar, Crathes and Craigievar. Craigievar with its turrets and pink paintwork is particularly special and well-worth a visit. 

If you've had your fill of turrets and battlements then we recommend a visit to the Royal Lochnagar Distillery or the  picturesque  Victorian village of Braemar, home of the world-famous Braemar Gathering & Highland Games. Near Braemar enjoy tranquil strolls in the Caledonian pine forest with views of the Cairngorm Mountains from the Linn of Dee viewpoint. The viewpoint over the River Dee gorge was one of Queen Victoria's favourite picnic spots. 

Drive time:  2 hr 30 mins - 3 hr 20 mins 

The Alexandra Hotel offers a friendly service, comfortable accommodation and excellent meals. All rooms are en-suite with free Wifi, tea and coffee making facilities, satellite television and other essentials that go to make up everything you would expect of a quality family run hotel.

The Deeside Inn is known for its traditional Scottish hospitality and lively music scene as much as it is for its homely lounge, open fires and welcoming bar with quality homemade food. The lovely rooms have complimentary tea and coffee making facilities.

No.45 is a stunning Victorian granite house originally built in 1890, set in an acre of walled gardens at the end of a private drive. No.45 has many original features including a pitch pine staircase and open fires. The house is furnished in Scottish style with tartan carpets, leather sofas and a stag's head. The eight bedrooms are each decorated in individual styles with modern en-suite bathrooms, televisions, tea trays and hair-dryers. Wi-fi is available free of charge.  During the summer months breakfast is served in the conservatory looking out over the walled garden where you can often see red squirrels in the copper beech trees.

Discover Scotland's dramatic east coast as you explore Aberdeenshire and Fife. Visit iconic Dunnottar Castle perched atop seacliffs on the Aberdeenshire coast. This stunning spot is thought to have been occupied since the middle ages but most of the remaining castle ruins date from the 15-16 th  century. The nearby town of Stonehaven, with its sheltered beach and harbour, makes for the perfect lunch stop.  

Also not to be missed is Glamis Castle - the inspiration behind Shakespeare's Macbeth  and childhood home of the Queen Mother . T his spectacular castle is set in beautiful gardens with numerous trails for visitors to explore.   

Overnight in St Andrews, Scotland's first university town  and home to the country's oldest golf course (the aptly named "Old Course"). Spend an afternoon wandering its cobbled streets and exploring the 10 th  century cathedral and castle ruins. Stroll the 2 mile long West Sands Beach and sample the myriad of delightful cafes, restaurants and cosy pubs that pepper the town's streets.   

Drive time: 2 hrs 45 mins  

Doune House is a carefully maintained Victorian townhouse with many original features and modern comforts. The accommodation has been completely modernised to offer the highest quality of comfort and the rooms have all the amenities you require for a great overnight stay. 

The Saint, St Andrews, is located in the heart of the picturesque town famed for golf. There are 4 comfortable ensuite bedrooms that are spacious and have been decorated in modern style. The restaurant serves high-quality food with a menu that combines contemporary and traditional dishes.

Jim, Glynice and their staff assure you of a warm welcome when you come to stay with at Craigmore Guest House. You will stay in one of their seven lovely rooms, all with our newly refurbished en-suite bathrooms with heated towel rails. Every room is equipped with tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryer, flat screen TV with DVD player and complimentary toiletries. 

On your return to Edinburgh take an optional detour through Fife's charming fishing villages of Crail, Pittenweem, St Monans and Elie. Stop off in Crail to admire the colourful seaside cottages and the little boats bobbing in the deep harbour. Alternatively, visit Elie's lighthouse for dramatic views over the Firth of Forth to Edinburgh and the Pentland Hills.   

If you would like to break up your onward journey we recommend adding an overnight in Edinburgh at the end of your trip. Simply let us know when you book and we will happily arrange this for you. 

Drive time: 1hr 30 – 2 hrs   

This trip has a carbon score of 10kg per person per night, meaning it’s one of our greenest trips! For comparison, a carbon count of 10kg is equivalent to 18 lattes. Here at Macs, we pride ourselves on being a responsible travel company and continue to adopt, develop and innovate ways to positively impact the environment. Find out more information about how we've carbon counted our trips .

Other Information

The ideal trip for aspiring history buffs and lovers of legend alike. Immerse yourself in the country's multifaceted past as you tour iconic castles. No trip to Scotland would be complete without a distillery visit, so we have designed the trip to take you past some of Speyside's most renowned distilleries. However, you don't have to be an amateur historian or single-malt enthusiast to get the most out of this self-drive holiday! Allow our local expertise to guide you on a hassle-free journey of cultural discovery around the Scottish Highlands. Experience Scottish hospitality at it's finest, not just at your accommodations, but as you tour the Scottish Highlands meeting locals along the way.

Discovery | Think of it as a ‘local’s guide’ to the best of the region. It includes a combination of activity and transportation to give you the freedom to explore and cover more ground at your own pace. We do all the research and organisation for you. All you have to do is turn up and enjoy!

Self Drive | Take the wheel and explore an area at your own pace taking in places and highlights that our travel experts recommend.

Solo Travellers

You will overnight in hand-picked small hotels, B&B's and guesthouses, all of which have been chosen to ensure you experience warm Scottish hospitality at its best! We regularly use the below properties listed in the itinerary but may accommodate you elsewhere if these are unavailable. 

Single Rooms

This holiday is available to solo travellers but as all our tours are priced per person based on two sharing there is a single supplement payable to cover the additional costs. If you require single rooms within your party we will, of course, try to accommodate your request subject to availability.

Breakfast is included each morning and normally consists of a continental buffet with tea and coffee, fresh fruits, yoghurt, cereals, eggs and bread with jams. Often also on the menu are cooked options like freshly made porridge, a traditional cooked Scottish breakfast and smoked fish with scrambled eggs. 

We don't include lunch and dinner so you are free to choose from the available options. Your information pack includes details and recommendations of convenient lunch stops, cosy cafes and restaurants along the way. A couple of decades ago the food scene in Scotland was somewhat lacking, but now you'll find a range of high quality, varied options with everything from award-winning fish and chips to intimate Michelin-listed dining experiences, and casual restaurant menus showcasing delicious locally-sourced produce. 

Additional Nights

You can add additional nights wherever you please on the route. Of course we highly recommend additional nights in the city of Edinburgh at the start/end of your trip!

Your information pack will include a day-by-day itinerary, with recommended driving routes between overnight stops, as well as recommended detours and must-see sights and attractions. You can use Google maps to navigate the route on your phone, or your car's sat-nav. If you are hiring a car we recommend adding on a sat-nav as internet signal in the Highlands isn't always reliable. 

• 5 Nights in 3-4* B&B's, guesthouses and small hotels
• 5 Breakfasts
• Detailed information pack brimming with our local knowledge
• Our daily recommendations for places to see and visit
• Our daily recommendations for top places to eat and drink
• 24/7 Emergency support from our UK office
• Car hire (available as an optional extra)
• Lunches, dinners, snacks and drinks
• Personal equipment
• Travel insurance (required)
• Any entrance fees for attractions/recommended excursions
• Additional nights at the start/end or along the route

You can start this tour on any day of the week from March to October, subject to availability. The busiest times of the year are around Easter and May when accommodations fill up quickly, so book as early as possible if you are planning to travel then. If you travel before Easter, and after mid-October it is worth noting that some attractions may either be closed, have limited access (i.e. castle interiors may be closed but the gardens open), or may open later and close a little earlier in the day. We always recommend checking the links in our information pack for up-to-date opening times to avoid disappointment. 

During the shoulder season - March to early April and after mid-October - the Scottish weather tends to be more unpredictable and is often colder and rainier. However, attractions and popular viewpoints will generally be quieter. 

Scotland enjoys a temperate climate, meaning it's relatively mild all year, except in winter when temperatures dip below 0 degrees Celsius and it snows regularly in the Highlands. The Highlands are renowned for variable weather so you should be prepared for everything; from 'dreich' days (a Scottish word for rainy days that are a bit bleak) to days with beautiful blue skies and warmer weather. Whatever the weather it tends to be breezy so spare layers are always recommended.

From the end of April to October average daily temperatures vary from 9-15 degrees Celsius. Monthly rainfall varies from 10-16 mm per month on averarge. Generally, May to July are the driest and mildest months, but exploring later in the year from September to October is pleasant in cooler temperatures and the autumnal scenery is spectacular as the leaves begin to change colour. To see the purple heather blooming on the hillsides the best time to travel is from late July to early September. 

Your trip ends in Edinburgh, which is easily accessible from across the UK via great public transport and road links, or from Europe and beyond by flying into either Glasgow or Edinburgh international airports. Glasgow and Edinburgh are just over an hour apart by road and it doesn't take much longer to travel between the two by an express bus or train service. 

Onward travel from Edinburgh is easy if continuing onward travel in your own car via good motorway links to the rest of the UK. 

By Road:  It's a 1h 15m drive from Glasgow on the west coast to Edinburgh on the M8 motorway.  Newcastle is approximately a 2.5 hour drive from Edinburgh, and Manchester and Birmingham, 4 and 6 hours respectively. 

If dropping off a rental car and continuing your onward journey by public transport we recommend breaking the journey by adding an extra night in Edinburgh. For specific information regarding public transport in Scotland, please see the excellent   Traveline   Scotland website for timetables and fares. 

By Air:  Located 8 miles east of the city of Edinburgh, the international airport is served by routes from around the UK and the world. There are regular shuttle bus and tram services running from the airport into the city centre, with a journey time of around 30 minutes. There's also a taxi rank outside the airport to take people into the city centre. 

By Rail:  Edinburgh is also connected to central Scotland and England by good rail links. See the   Scot Rail   website for Scottish locations and   National Rail   for UK-wide locations.

By Bus:   Services from UK destinations are operated by   National Express . Services from Scottish destinations are operated by   Scottish Citylink . 

On confirmation of your booking, you will receive a personalised itinerary and comprehensive information pack. This carefully curated pack, designed with our own local knowledge and expertise, will include recommended driving routes, the must-see places and attractions to stop at en route, and our suggestions for the best places to eat and drink. 

Car Rental 

We don't include car rental in the cost of our discovery tours to keep things flexible as we realise many people may wish to use their own car. If you decide to arrange car rental through us, we have a partnership with Europcar and can arrange this easily for you. As standard we book an Economy category car (suitable for up to 4 people) with included comprehensive insurance, prices are on a request basis. Please just let us know if you would like to upgrade your car. 

It is a requirement of booking this tour with Macs Adventure that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the activity and emergency evacuation and hospital care.

The Biggest Choice

Around since 2003, 21,000+ customer reviews, positive impact.

At Macs, we don’t do tour buses, groups, or guides. Instead, we give you the freedom and confidence to have your own self-guided hiking or biking adventure.

This is active travel led by you.

You choose your departure date and who you travel with, we do the rest.

We sort accommodation and luggage transfers and provide your route in an easy-to-use app.

We give you everything you need to travel independently but we're here 24/7 if you need us.

Getting from A to B under your own steam is intensely rewarding. With Macs, you'll see the world, and yourself, differently.

Travel restrictions and resources, to and from any destination

Follow us on social media.

• twitter-x-logo@2x

My big self-drive tour of the Highlands

Discover the must-see places and more secret sites of scotland.

As the credits of the film Highlander scroll across your screen, you find yourself dreaming of war in Scotland, valiantly wielding your sword in the heart of vast moors dotted with heather. In the background, dizzying mountains rise up against the wind, and on the side a medieval castle is besieged by enemy troops... With this 14-day tour in Scotland, you're not promised victory or courage, but you're guaranteed breathtaking scenery, just like the most beautiful Scottish postcards. The national parks of Trossachs and Cairngorms, the grandiose Isle of Skye, the hundred-year-old whisky distilleries, the giant Ben Nevis... All this draws the so singular portrait of this country of legends, between raw nature and ancestral traditions. Quiet, rolling... Action!

You will like...

Admire and enjoy the beautiful highlands, feel the magic and mysteries floating around the isle of skye, hike the ben nevis, the highest peak in the british isles, discover scotland's most beautiful national parks: cairngorms and trossachs, trip itinerary.

Check out or itinerary, don't forget we can customize this trip ! We can’t wait to show you around!

Itinerary Map

Pricing Chart

Our “from” price is based on mid-season prices and for a group of 8 people.

What's included ?

• Trip organisation (customisation and bookings)
• All ferry crossings
• Accommodation
• All Breakfasts
• Personalised guidebook
• 24/7 emergency telephone support
• Navigation App with preloaded walking routes and maps

What's not included ?

• Lunches and dinners
• Entry fees to attractions such as distilleries or museums

Related Self-Guided Tours in Scotland

Check out some of our tour ideas to discover Scotland. We can’t wait to show you around!

Self-drive: Skye and Highlands

Highlands by campervan

The West Highland Way

Scottish Home of the Year 2024: Tour the three properties shortlisted from the North East for the BBC show

The latest series of the BBC programme to find the most incredible homes in Scotland kicks-off this week.

Scotland’s Home of the Year is back for a new series as the judges - interior designers Anna Campbell Jones and Banjo Beale along with architect Danny Campbell - go in search of outstanding homes across the country.

They are kicking off their search with three unique properties from the North East and Northern Isles .

Self-built barn-style dwelling Casa Barra, near Inverurie, will go up against a traditional cottage in Banchory and a renovated 1860s South Aberdeenshire farmhouse for a place in the final of the competition.

You can see which one the judges pick this evening (Monday, April 29) at 8.30pm on BBC One .

Interior designer and Scotland's Home of the Year judge, Anna Campbell Jones, has a clear idea of what her judging criteria is: "What I’m looking for in a home is individuality, imagination and integrity and of course that most important ingredient…love.”

Isle of Mull-based interior designer Banjo Beale adds: “I’m looking for homes that are packed full of character, packed full of personality and something that tells me about the characters that live there.”

While architect, Danny Campbell has his own take on what makes the perfect pad: "What I’m looking for in a home is an inventive use of space, with a deep connection to its site, delivered with such originality that I can’t help but feel inspired.”

Take a tour of the three properties here:

Men on hair-loss drug warned of sexual and psychiatric side effects

Regulator orders pack warnings about depression and sexual dysfunction on finasteride, which is also used to treat enlarged prostate

Men on a popular hair-loss drug have been warned of its potential serious sexual and psychiatric side effects by the drug regulator.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) said men should be aware that finasteride has been linked to depression and suicidal behaviour as well as sexual dysfunction that in some cases continued beyond the treatment.

It has also ordered suppliers of finasteride to now include a patient alert card in packs of the drug to raise awareness of the risks.

Finasteride , also known by brand names Proscar and Propecia, is used to treat benign enlarged prostate and male pattern baldness, but is only available on the NHS for the former.

It works by stopping the sex hormone testosterone from turning into another hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which can cause the prostate to grow, and hair to fall out.

An enlarged prostate is a common condition in men over the age of 50, affecting as many as three million, although many will not realise or need treatment until symptoms, such as frequent urination, develop.

King Charles underwent surgery for a benign enlarged prostate earlier this year when a cancer, not of the prostate, was found. It is not known whether he has ever taken finasteride.

It has been linked to mood disorders and sexual dysfunction previously, but now the MHRA has intervened after “a comprehensive review of the safety” of the drug.

The regulator said its Yellow Card scheme, designed to allow patients to report adverse effects of medicines, had received 281 reports of depressed mood disorders and suicidal or self-harm behaviours, as well as 426 reports related to sexual dysfunction.

It said an expert panel had reviewed all available evidence, including patients reporting symptoms of deteriorating mental health and sexual dysfunction, such as loss of libido and inability to achieve or maintain an erection.

In some cases sexual function did not return after stopping the drug, it said.

Dr Alison Cave, MHRA chief safety officer, said: “It’s crucial that patients are aware of vital information about the medicines they’re taking.

“The new patient alert cards aim to raise awareness among men taking finasteride about the potential for psychiatric and sexual side effects, so they can make an informed decision about their treatment and know what to do if they experience these side effects.”

She said patients should “remember to always read the leaflet inside the pack”.

The MHRA is recommending that patients inform their doctors of any personal history of depression or suicidal thoughts before taking the drug and stop the treatment “immediately” if they are taking it for hair loss and develop symptoms, or “speak to their doctor urgently” if it is for an enlarged prostate.

Sexual dysfunction should also be discussed with a doctor if symptoms develop.

The MHRA also encouraged patients to show the patient alert card to friends and family as they “may not notice changes to their mood” themselves.

There were around 4.2 million NHS prescriptions for the drug in 2023, which suggests around 350,000 a month were taking the daily 5mg pill for an enlarged prostate.

It is not known how many people get the drug for hair loss on a private prescription but some clinics have reported an increase. It is only licensed by the MHRA for hair loss in 18 to 41-year-olds, and the treatment of enlarged prostates.

• Prostate Cancer
• Facebook Icon
• WhatsApp Icon

Thanks for visiting nordicvisitor.com! For the very best browsing experience on our website, we urge you to upgrade to the most recent version of your browser . Some of our site features may not function properly on older versions.

Scotland travel update | New tours of the UK!

Suggested Results

• EUR (€)
• GBP (£)

Self-Drive i

• Guided Small Groups i
• Privately Guided i
• Multi-Day i
• Scotland & Ireland i
• Scotland, England & Wales i
• Honeymoon i
• Highlands i
• Solo Travel i
• All types & themes
• All Scotland Tours
• Best Sellers
• Special Offers
• Book With Confidence i
• Scotland Travel Update i
• Why book with us i
• Travel Update
• Booking Terms i
• Sustainability Policy i
• Scotland at a Glance i
• Useful Information i
• Scotland Attractions i
• Scotland Blog i
• Scandinavia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Manage Booking
• Privacy policy

Iceland Bíldshöfði 20 110 Reykjavík +354 578 20 80 View Map

Sweden Scotland View Details

• Complete Scotland

Scottish Highlands & North Coast 500

(14 days / 13 nights).

• Travel Style

Spend 2 weeks exploring the best of Scotland

This two-week itinerary will be the road trip of a lifetime for those interested in Scotland’s rich culture, history, and dramatic landscapes. Your drive will take you through the picturesque Highlands, across the scenic North Coast 500 and to some of the most beautiful islands of Scotland. On this tour, you get all the exciting adventures and highlights of our Classic Scotland tour, which goes from Edinburgh into Highlands and to the Isle of Skye, plus the chance to discover the mysterious Outer Hebrides islands Harris and Lewis and the historical and stunning Orkney Islands.

Relax on a privately guided version of this tour with your own local guide and driver.

14 days / 13 nights

Price p.p. from

The amount will be charged in GBP

Approx 2771 GBP

— why book with nordic visitor.

• Seamless travel experience
• Handpicked hotels and routes designed by local experts
• Reliable rental cars with trusted Scottish partner
• Comprehensive itinerary, personalised map & travel guide
• 24/7 helpline during your tour
• Service from local travel experts in Scotland
• Great customer reviews
• Carbon offsetting included

— Cancellation Protection

• Rebook your tour on one occasion, or
• Cancel for any reason and receive a partial refund and travel credit

Terms and conditions apply

Tour Highlights

• Explore some of Scotland’s top sights on the famous and breathtaking Isle of Skye
• Discover Scotland‘s historic capital Edinburgh and stroll up the Royal Mile
• Walk along the mysterious Loch Ness and visit the castle on its shores
• Enjoy island-hopping between Orkney , Harris , Lewis and Skye
• See the striking natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands
• Drive along the famous North Coast 500
• Visit the spectacular Callanish Standing Stones
• Explore the mysterious and ancient “ Heart of Neolithic Orkney ”
• Enjoy a road trip with peace of mind with your personal itinerary from a local travel expert

Travel style

Best seller i , classic i , countryside and natural scenery i , culture and history i , heritage i , highlands i , isles i , off the beaten path i, driving distance, 1890/1170 km/mi, attractions.

Just a few of the majestic sights you’ll take in during your trip.

Isle of Skye

Lewis and harris, orkney islands, the callanish standing stones, cairngorms national park, stirling & stirling castle, eilean donan castle, old man of storr.

Doune Castle

Trossachs National Park

Dunnottar castle.

Loch Lomond

Fort William

Ring of Brodgar

North Coast 500

A day-by-day plan to guide your journey.

Day 1: ARRIVAL DAY IN EDINBURGH

Make your way into Edinburgh city centre where your hotel will be located. Many travellers opt to take a taxi or use public transport, but for a more direct and comfortable ride, we will be happy to organise a private airport transfer for you. For those arriving early in the day, we recommend spending the afternoon walking through the city, strolling along the Royal Mile and exploring the Old Town and New Town , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also plenty of museums and landmarks to visit within the city centre, including the majestic Edinburgh Castle .

Spend the night in Edinburgh.

Day 2: SCOTLAND‘S DRAMATIC EAST COAST

Today, start your road trip driving up to Fife. Your first stop will be the quaint village of Falkland , where you can explore its Renaissance palace. From there, drive east to the town of St Andrews , famous for being the home of golf and of the oldest university in Scotland. As you continue north, pass by Dundee, a UNESCO City of Design. You can then take the direct route to Aberdeen , or take the coastal scenic route, which will take you past the St. Cyrus National Nature Reserve and the spectacular Dunnottar Castle , near Stonehaven.

Spend the night in the Aberdeen area.

Average driving distance: 235 km / 145 miles

Day 3: ROYAL DEESIDE, CASTLES & WHISKY

Today will take you into the Scottish Highlands. First drive along the “ Deeside Tourist Route ”, an enchanting route through the Cairngorms National Park . On the way, there is a plethora of castles you could visit, including 16th-century Crathes Castle , and of course, the Scottish residence of the Royal Family, Balmoral Castle , which you can visit from April to July. You will then continue to Speyside , which is famous for its whiskies. You may want to visit one of the many distilleries (there are over 40 to choose from!), such as Glenfiddich or Aberlour.

Spend the night in the Inverness area.

Average driving distance:  240 km  / 150 miles

Day 4: JOURNEY TO ORKNEY

Today your drive will take you north, across the Black Isle Peninsula , all the way to the seaside village of Scrabster. We recommend making a stop on the way at the fairytale Dunrobin Castle . In the early afternoon, you‘ll catch a ferry to Stromness on Orkney , a beautiful 1.5-hour journey across the Pentland Firth with spectacular views of the Old Man of Hoy. Once you‘ve reached mainland Orkney, drive to the capital, Kirkwall , a former Viking stronghold. Here you can explore the city centre and the magnificent 12th-century St Magnus Cathedral. 

Spend the night in the Kirkwall area. 

Ferry from Scrabster to Orkney: 1.5 hours

Average driving distance:   205 km / 130 miles

Day 5: THE WONDERS OF ORKNEY

You have the whole day to explore the gems of Orkney, admire its stunning scenery and ruins dating back millennia to the Stone Ages. The highlight of Orkney‘s wonders is the “Heart of Neolithic Orkney”, a UNESCO World Heritage Site area that comprises a group of Neolithic monuments. This includes the 5,000 year-old prehistoric village of Skara Brae , the mysterious Ring of Brodgar stone circle, the huge megaliths at the Standing Stones of Stenness and the chambered cairn of Maeshowe , where 12th-century Vikings left one of the largest collections of Norse runic inscriptions. 

Spend another night in the Kirkwall area.

Average driving distance:  56 km  / 35 miles 

Day 6: THE NORTH COAST 500 ROUTE

Today you journey back to the mainland by ferry before taking on part of the famous North Coast 500 route. Scotland‘s version of Route 66 stretches around the northern coast of Scotland, and is known for its incredible vistas of rocky cliffs, gold sand beaches and beautiful mountains. We recommend stopping along the way to visit the beautiful Smoo Cave , the largest and most dramatic sea cave in Britain, the pristine beaches and turquoise waters of Durness , and the 15th-century ruins of Ardvreck Castle before arriving at the charming and whitewashed village of Ullapool . 

Spend the night in the Ullapool area. 

Ferry from Orkney to Scrabster: 1.5 hours 

Average driving distance:  250 km / 150 miles 

Day 7: GAELIC CULTURE & NEOLITHIC MEGALITHS OF LEWIS

This morning, catch the ferry from Ullapool to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis , where the Gaelic culture and language still thrives. In Stornoway, you could visit the Stornoway Museum located within Lews Castle, which houses exhibits about the island including six of the famous Lewis Chessmen. You will want to make the detour toward the west side of the island to see the spectacular Callanish Standing Stones , an impressive collection of Neolithic stone circles and megaliths. We also recommend visiting the Black Arnol Museum to learn about the history of the island life.

Spend the night on Lewis or Harris.

Ferry from Ullapool to Stornoway: 2.5 hours

Average driving distance:  165 km / 100 miles 

Day 8: HARRIS & THE GOLDEN ROAD

Today enjoy the beauty of the Isle of Harris . You can explore the small village of Tarbert and then take in the striking scenery on a drive along “ The Golden Road ” towards Rodel. We recommend exploring the beautiful medieval St. Clement’s Church and going for a walk on Luskentyre Beach , one of the most spectacular in Scotland, boasting miles of white sands and dazzling turquoise waters. You can also visit the Harris Tweed outlets for a genuine souvenir, as this tweed is still woven by hand in the Outer Hebrides.

Spend another night on Lewis or Harris.

Average driving distance:  70 km / 45 miles

Day 9: ISLAND HOPPING TO SKYE

Today you’ll catch the ferry from Tarbert to Uig on the Isle of Skye . Upon your arrival on Skye, we recommend a drive around the northern part of the island via the breathtaking Trotternish Peninsula . There you can enjoy a walk up to “ The Old Man of Storr ” rock pinnacle and see the beautiful Kilt Rock waterfall. Other highlights include the Quiraing , the An Corran Beach at Staffin, where you may spot ancient dinosaur footprints, and the mystical Fairy Glen.

Spend the night on the Isle of Skye or nearby.

Ferry from Tarbert to Uig: 1 hour and 40 min

Average driving distance:  80 km / 50 miles

Day 10: THE ISLE OF SKYE

Today take full advantage of your day on Skye, a haven for nature and history lovers alike. Take some time to wander around the scenic village of Portree with its colourful buildings and local shops. Drive to the west of the island to enjoy a walk to the crystal-clear Fairy Pools at the foot of the Black Cuillin Hills and discover and taste the local Single Malt whisky of Talisker Distillery . In the northern part of the peninsula you can visit the romantic Dunvegan Castle, home to the Chief of Clan MacLeod.

Spend another night on the Isle of Skye or nearby.

Day 11: THE BEAUTY OF LOCH NESS

Today’s journey will bring you back to the Scottish mainland. Make sure to stop at the picturesque Eilean Donan Castle , a sight you will surely recognise from many photographs, films and TV shows. Drive all the way to the shores of the mysterious Loch Ness , where you can visit the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition. You might also wish to take a boat tour on Loch Ness in search of its notorious and elusive monster, or explore the nearby Urquhart Castle ruins on the shores of the loch.

Spend the night in the Fort William area.

Average driving distance:  260 km / 160 miles

Day 12: TRAVEL ALONG DRAMATIC VALLEYS

Today’s journey takes you past Scotland’s most famous valley, Glen Coe , which offers world-famous scenery. You could stop at the grave of Rob Roy at Balquidder and the beautiful Falls of Dochart in the village of Killin. Alternatively, you could travel the longer scenic route via the seaside town of Oban onto the historical valley of Kilmartin Glen and past the charming village of Inveraray . This region is considered to have one of the most important concentrations of Neolithic and Bronze Age remains in Scotland, including cairns, standing stones, and castles.

Spend the night in the Trossachs National Park area.

Average driving distance  via Glen Coe: 130 km / 80 miles Average driving distance  via Kilmartin Glen/Inveraray: 285 km / 180 miles

Day 13: TROSSACHS NATIONAL PARK TO EDINBURGH

Today’s drive will bring you back to Edinburgh (you can choose to end your trip in Glasgow in the optional activities below). Drive through the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park , where you could stop to take a walk in nature, enjoy an optional steamship tour on Loch Katrine , or visit a local whisky distillery. For a fun photo opportunity, don’t miss Doune Castle , featured in Monty Python & the Holy Grail and Outlander. If time allows, you could also stop by Stirling Castle , one of Scotland’s top attractions, or at the Kelpies , two impressive horse-head sculptures.

Average driving distance:  130 km / 80 miles

Day 14: DEPARTURE FROM SCOTLAND

On your day of departure, we recommend taking the Airlink bus or a taxi directly from your hotel to reach the airport. If you would like to add any additional nights to your trip or to arrange a private transfer, you can do so during the booking process. If your flight is in the afternoon, you may have time for some last-minute shopping, to visit one of Edinburgh’s museums, or take one last stroll through the charming city centre.

If you wish to spend more time in Edinburgh or Glasgow before or after the tour, ask your travel consultant about adding extra nights or services, such as private airport transfers. We can also extend your trip with other destinations in the Nordic region such as Iceland or Norway.  Contact us  for details about customizing your itinerary .

Optional extras

Customise your adventure with these Optional Extras.

We recommend adding your extra activities to the tour now for the best booking experience and to secure your spot, as activities are likely to sell out.

Private Airport Transfer: Edinburgh Airport to Edinburgh

Private airport transfer: glasgow airport to edinburgh, classic afternoon tea, champagne afternoon tea, admissions to the royal yacht britannia, johnnie walker distillery – the journey of flavour, johnnie walker distillery – whisky makers’ cellar, ghostly underground vaults walking tour, underground vaults historical walking tour, edinburgh old & new town food tour, the scotch whisky experience – gold tour, the scotch whisky experience – silver tour, secrets of the royal mile, cardhu distillery – flavour journey, royal lochnagar distillery - warehouse tasting, deconstructed whisky tasting at aberlour distillery, glenfiddich distillery tour & tasting, the original glenlivet distillery tour, talisker distillery – distillery tour, loch ness cruise, oban distillery tour, day thirteen, switch your last night to glasgow, cruise on loch katrine, deanston distillery – warehouse 4 experience, day fourteen, private airport transfer: edinburgh to edinburgh airport, private airport transfer: edinburgh to glasgow airport, private airport transfer: glasgow to edinburgh airport, private airport transfer: glasgow to glasgow airport.

Here’s a map of your travel route, to help put things in perspective.

What's included

Don’t worry, we’ve got this covered.

• Accommodation (Comfort Plus/Superior) for 13 nights
• Daily Breakfast
• Rental car of your choice with unlimited mileage, 2 authorised drivers, CDW insurance and VAT for 12 days
• All ferry crossings, as per itinerary
• Map of Scotland and detailed personal itinerary
• Carbon offsetting the package
• Nordic Visitor's Scotland Travel Guide
• 24/7 helpline
• Taxes & service fees

Not included

• Flights to/from Scotland
• Personal travel insurance
• Gasoline/Petrol
• Transfers to/from airports (can be arranged on request)
• Transfers to/from car rental pickup/drop-off locations
• Meals & drinks (unless otherwise stated)
• Driving-related fees and expenses
• Any services not listed above as “Included”

Optional Extras

• Cancellation Protection

Essential information

We recommend that you read carefully through the following information before booking this self-drive tour in Scotland. We’ve answered the most frequently asked questions here so you know what to expect. You’ll also find more practical advice and attraction recommendations in our online Scotland Travel Guide .

On a self-drive tour, Nordic Visitor supplies you with a quality rental car and a detailed personal itinerary. You act as your own tour guide and driver, and you get to pick the road trip music!

All your services will be pre-booked by your personal travel consultant at Nordic Visitor. This includes your rental car and accommodation in Scotland, along with planned activities, as specified in the itinerary.

As this is a self-guided tour, you’re welcome to stop whenever and wherever you wish along the way. Except for accommodation and booked activities, other highlights we’ve listed in the itinerary are suggestions based on Nordic Visitor favourites.

And rest assured that we’re with you every step of the way. Upon your arrival, you’ll receive personalised information, including an itinerary, hand-annotated map and our very own Scotland Travel Guide. Plus, you’ll have access to our 24/7 helpline during your trip should you need to contact us.

The minimum age to hire a car in Scotland is 23. Please note that if you are 25 or younger, an additional fee and extra conditions apply.

For example, you need to have held your driving licence for at least 4 years. If you are 23 or 24, you can only hire vehicles up to the SUV category.

Scotland is beautiful all year long. That said, it’s good to be aware that the summer is the high travelling season, with July and August being peak months.

This means many of the highlights, such as the Isle of Skye and Edinburgh, will be extremely popular and might have limited availability. This could impact your booking of attractions, accommodation, restaurants, excursions and more.

For a more relaxing experience, we recommend booking your tour, plus any extra excursions, activities or entrance tickets, well in advance. You also might prefer to arrive during the shoulder season, which is during April–June and September–October.

If you do wish to travel in July or August, we will be happy to help you plan your trip to make it as smooth as possible.

During your Scotland tour, you’ll stay in accommodation hand-picked by our local travel experts. We’ve partnered with local businesses and selected hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses based on excellent ratings, comfort and our personal experience.

In Scotland, you can choose from single or double rooms. Twin, triple and family rooms are not commonly available. Please also note that in Scotland room types are based on European standard sizes, which means they are smaller than in North America.

For example, a double room often consists of 2 single beds pushed together. And single rooms are often smaller than the standard double.

Due to the historic nature of the properties we usually select, most of the rooms are only accessible by stairs. Lifts are not common in Scottish hotels. Please let us know as soon as possible if you are not able to walk up stairs.

Travelling with your kids? No problem! Just let your travel consultant know during the booking process. We’ll arrange any cots needed at your accommodation.

If you need multiple rooms, please note that we can't guarantee family rooms or interconnecting rooms at all accommodation. You may even have rooms on different floors.

If you'd like us to arrange for a car seat to be provided for your trip, please let us know ahead of time. This will incur a small extra cost.

The roads in Scotland are usually in good condition all year long and are renowned for their road trip worthiness. In winter, though, storms, rain, snow and ice can cause adverse conditions. We recommend checking weather forecasts daily and not taking any risks when it comes to driving.

Please be aware that in the UK motorists drive on the left side of the road (and on the right side of the car). If you are not used to driving on the left, we highly recommend choosing a vehicle with automatic transmission for your self-drive tour.

If you want a manual transmission vehicle, keep in mind that you will need to shift gears with your left hand (floor pedals are the same).

Drivers will need to get used to the narrower roads of the UK as well as the rural single-track roads. If you meet another driver on one of these single-track roads, one of you needs to tuck into a passing place, which might be behind you. In these areas, you should also be careful of animals on the road.

It’s also a good idea to plan how you will navigate around Scotland ahead of time. Your travel consultant will prepare a detailed hand-annotated map of your route to help you stay on track.

We also recommend using navigation apps on your phone, such as Google Maps. Make sure to download the route ahead of time, in case you don’t have signal in the more rural areas.

For inexperienced drivers who still want to explore and discover Scotland, we recommend one of our guided small group tours or privately guided tours . On these tours you’ll have a local, experienced driver at the wheel.

This itinerary includes a ferry crossing. To board, you’ll need to arrive at the port marked in your voucher and on your map. You will need to arrive a certain amount of time ahead of your departure, and this time will be noted on your voucher. Simply drive your car in the queue to board the ferry at the right time.

Summer in Scotland might be warmer than you expect! While temperatures are unlikely to reach higher than 20°C (68 °F), heatwaves in Scotland are usually humid. This means it can feel hotter than it is, especially in Edinburgh or Glasgow.

That said, the weather is also very changeable, so you’ll want to come prepared for anything. Rain is always a possibility, and when the sun sets a warm jumper or jacket is a must. We’ve prepared a useful packing guide to help you decide what to bring with you.

Please note that sightseeing is dependent on weather and road conditions. This means that your itinerary might need to be altered if these conditions are not favourable during your visit. If something unexpected occurs, you can call our 24/7 helpline to speak directly with a Nordic Visitor staff member.

Whatever time of year you’re in Scotland, you’re likely to see lots of different types of weather. As you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors it’s a good idea to come prepared for a combination of weather conditions.

Here is a recommended packing list for a summer trip:

• A warm jumper or fleece
• A waterproof jacket
• Good walking shoes or boots (especially if you intend to hike and go on nature walks)
• Light scarf or thin sweater
• Reusable water bottle
• Sunglasses, sunscreen and a sunhat

In some areas of Scotland, such as the Highlands and islands, you might notice small, pesky insects called midges. They’re most active on summer evenings and tend to swarm near still water. You can avoid bites by wearing long-sleeves and trousers and by packing an insect repellent.

And here’s our recommendations for a winter getaway:

• A warm, windproof and waterproof jacket
• Thermal base layers and cosy jumpers
• A scarf, gloves and hat
• Sturdy boots and some woollen socks

For more information, check this packing list suggestion .

There are limited laundry facilities in Scotland’s countryside, though you’ll find laundrettes in the cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Inverness. Some hotels do offer dry cleaning for an additional cost.

On your Scotland road trip, you should budget for petrol costs of around £1.60–£2 per litre.

As for meals, your breakfast is included at all your accommodation in Scotland. For the rest of your food, your spending money will depend on the standard of restaurants you decide to go to.

Budget between £15–£20 per person for each day’s lunch. Dinners at casual restaurants might cost between £20–£25. Meanwhile at upscale restaurants, you can expect to pay £40–£50 or more. This does not include the cost of alcoholic beverages.

If you’re arriving from Canada, the United States, Australia or the European Union, you won’t need a visa to visit Scotland.

Visiting from another country? You can find the complete list of countries whose nationals require a visa to enter Scotland on the website of the UK government .

Your passport must also be valid during the entirety of your stay in Scotland. It’s a good idea to check your passport expiry date early in case you need to renew it.

By booking with Nordic Visitor, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that there’s always someone there for you throughout your trip.

For support and advice during the day, you can call our office. And if anything unexpected happens outside working hours, you can reach us on our 24/7 helpline.

During your tour, there will always be an Edinburgh-based travel expert on call to handle any unforeseen situations, such as unusual weather or events.

Yes, you can customise this tour online. During the booking process, you can easily add extra nights to your itinerary as well as optional day trips, excursions and upgrades.

It’s best to book as soon as you can to secure your preferred travel dates. Once you have picked your tour, check the availability calendar to see which months are open for booking. Then, select the date you want and complete your booking. 

Nordic Visitor offers 10–20% deposits so you can reserve your trip as early as it’s convenient for you. The remaining balance is due 30 days before you travel. 

Many tours are also open for the following year if you like to plan well ahead. And if you have any questions or need advice, you can always contact us . 

After booking your tour package online, you will be contacted within 2 business days by your own dedicated travel consultant. They will be your point of contact for all your travel needs before, during and even after your trip. 

At that time, they’ll confirm the availability of your tour. Then the booking process starts, which may take a few weeks. Once this is done, your travel consultant will provide you with all the details of your trip. You will also receive more information about what to expect during your trip.

You can get in touch with our Scotland travel experts ahead of your trip if you have any questions. The live chat option is useful for getting a quick reply as someone answers live every day during office opening hours.

Once you’ve booked, we’ll provide you with a travel guide packed full of local tips and top attractions for your visit. You can also check out our online Scotland Travel Guide where we’ve compiled useful information about topics, including:

• Which credit cards are widely accepted in Scotland
• What kind of electric adapters or converters you’ll need
• The native languages of Scotland that you might hear alongside English
• As well as tipping, local news sources and other useful information

After you have booked your tour, it will only take a few days to confirm its availability. But it may take a few weeks to create your itinerary and book everything. Once your trip details are finalised, we’ll send you e-copies of your travel documents.

Upon your arrival in Scotland, you’ll receive a welcome bag with hard copies of your itinerary, attraction and tour vouchers, the Nordic Visitor Scotland Travel Guide and more.

So when do you check in? And what can you expect upon landing in Scotland?

After picking up your luggage, make your way to your accommodation in the Edinburgh city centre. If you’ve come from another airport, such as Glasgow, you can take the train or book a private transfer.

Check-in times vary between hotels and guesthouses, but it normally starts between 2–4 PM.

You are welcome to request an early check-in for an additional fee. Although this isn’t always available, you’ll be able to store your luggage at the hotel if you have to wait. Please contact your travel consultant well in advance of your arrival if you’d like an early check-in.

When you depart may depend on the time of your return flight. Check out early if you’re heading to the airport for a morning flight. On the other hand, if you’re flying home later in the day, you might like to enjoy a leisurely day or visit one more attraction.

You will need to check out from your room, but will be able to store your luggage at the hotel reception. Simply return later to collect your bags before catching public transport or a taxi to the airport.

All bookings are billed in British Pounds (GBP), the local currency in Scotland and the UK.

Prices displayed in other currencies are indicative only and based on the daily exchange rate. This means conversions from GBP to other currencies will fluctuate from day to day.

These should tide you over until you’re in Scotland to take your own pictures.

Glenfinnan Memorial

Cuillin Hills

Callanish Standing Stones

Luskentyre Beach on the Isle of Harris

Ardvreck Castle

Quiraing on the Isle of Skye

+17 more from this tour

Portree - Scotland

Kilt Rock on the Isle of Skye

Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye - Scotland

Glencoe Valley

Durness Beach

Dunrobin Castle

Firth of Forth Bridge

Skara Brae - ©Visitscotland - Paul Tomkins

Edinburgh and Green Hills during Summer

Urquhart Castle

Newtonmore Highland Museum in Scotland

Sligachan Bridge

We don’t like to brag, so we’ll let our happy customers do it for us.

Very happy that we chose Nordic Visitor

We took the 14 day self-driving tour of Scotland with 2 extra days in Edinburgh at the end. Picking up and returning the rental car was very easy. We enjoyed the sightseeing suggestions offed in our documents even though we didn't make all of them. Enjoyed our celebratory bubbly on our arrival! We were notified of our cancelled ferry in plenty of time. No problems at all. We are very happy that we chose Nordic Visitor.

Cynthia, United States

Complete scotland, october 2023, easy to follow documentation.

The itinerary Rebecca set up for us included all of the sites we told her we wanted to see. It was very orderly so we weren't backtracking. She also included places "along the way" that we might want to check out. All of the documentation she emailed to us was clear and easy to follow. The rental car had an awesome GPS which we depended on.

Cathy, United States

Complete scotland, september 2023, a wonderful time in scotland.

Seamless experience. Accommodation were great, everything booked by Nordic Visitor went flawlessly. Thank you for helping us have a wonderful time in Scotland!

Deana, United States

Nordic visitor was perfect for us.

Chris, our travel consultant, was extraordinarily helpful from our first inquiry onwards. He was able to answer all our questions and helped us customise the Complete Scotland package to meet our needs. Having our itinerary, with lodging already arranged, allowed us to explore each day as we drove through breathtaking views seemingly at every turn on the way. As first-time visitors to Scotland, using Nordic Visitor to plan our stay was the perfect option for us.

Victoria, United States

Everything went very smoothly.

Having never travelled internationally before, Nordic Visitor put my mind at ease. They answered every question I had and then some. The tour was very thoughtfully planned with adequate time to do the things they recommended or add our own things. Magdalena was awesome and everything went very smoothly! We would definitely book with Nordic Visitor again. Thanks so much!

Sandra, United States

Very responsive.

Our contact at Nordic Visitor was Chris . He was very responsive to our emails as we planned the trip. We had very good conversations a couple of times as well. It was no problem to adjust the 21-day self-drive tour to accommodate our specific wishes to explore certain islands and parts of Scotland. Also at the last minute on our tour he notified us that a B&B had to close unexpectedly. The replacement accommodation was excellent and details were handled seamlessly. Thanks Chris!

Barbara, United States

Accommodation.

Sleep soundly, in the accommodation type of your choice, and wake up ready to enjoy another day of exploration.

Comfort Plus

In this category, you can expect standard rooms in good quality 3-star guesthouses or country hotels.

In this category, you can expect standard rooms in 4-star hotels or boutique guesthouses.

Enjoy your road trip with 2 authorised drivers and Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) to reduce liability.

Toyota Yaris (manual) or similar

• Description: Economy
• Passengers: 4
• Transmission: Manual

Vauxhall Astra (manual) or similar

• Description: Compact
• Passengers: 5

Toyota Auris (automatic) or similar

• Transmission: Automatic

Ford Mondeo (automatic) or similar

• Description: Standard

BMW 520 (automatic) or similar

• Description: Premium

Vauxhall Grandland (automatic) or similar limited availability

• Limited availability between 29 April - 2 June 2024
• Description: Intermediate SUV

Mercedes Vito (automatic) or similar

• Description: Premium Passenger Van
• Passengers: 8
• Transmission: Automatic*
• *manual option available upon request

Price per person from

OTHER SUGGESTED TOURS

Classic scotland, scottish highlands & isle of skye, classic scotland at leisure, grand tour of scotland, complete scotland / attractions.

Complete Scotland / Included

Complete scotland / guided small groups, send request, send to inbox.

Would you like to refer to this tour at another time or on another device? Send the tour details directly to your email inbox for future references.

Share this tour with a friend. If you think they may be interested, send the tour details directly to your friend's email inbox for future references.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Email has been successfully sent!

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.