best road trips in scotland

5 of the best road trips in Scotland

Mar 6, 2024 • 7 min read

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

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

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

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

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

1. An Isle of Skye driving loop

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

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

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

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

2. North Coast 500

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

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

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

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

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

3. North East 250

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

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

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

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

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

4. Borders Historic Route

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

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

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

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

5. Clyde Sea Lochs and the Argyll Coast

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

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

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

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

Tips for driving in Scotland

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

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

This article was first published June 2021 and updated March 2024

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

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: September 9, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

📝 What to see in Edinburgh

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

Click for our Scotland road trip map (Google maps)

SCOTLAND ITINERARY AND ROAD TRIP ROUTE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Days 4/5/6 – Callander (2 nights)

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

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

🚗 Logistics

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

⭐️ Highlights of the day

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

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

🏨 Where to stay in Callander

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

🏞 Day 6/7/8 – Oban (2 nights)

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

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

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

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

🏨 Where to stay in Oban

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

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

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

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

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

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

Highlights along the way include

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

Days 8/9/10 – Fort William (2 nights)

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

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

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

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

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

🏨 Where to stay in Fort William

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

Read – Area and accommodation guide for Fort William

🚂 Logistics

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

Read – How to ride the Harry Potter train in Scotland

⭐️ Highlights of the day 🪄

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

🏨 Where to stay in Skye

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

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

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

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

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

⭐️ Highlights of each day included

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

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

Read – One-day itinerary for the Isle of Skye

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

🏨 Where to stay in Ullapool

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

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

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

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

• Clachtoll Beach
• Clashnessie Beach
• Golden Eagle Zipline

🏨 Where to stay in Durness or Tongue

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

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

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

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

Read – What to do and see on Mainland Orkney

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

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

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

🏨 Where to stay in Inverness

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

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

Logistics of the day

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

Read – Day trips from Inverness

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

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

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

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

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

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

Frequently asked questions about planning a road trip in Scotland

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

These include

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

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

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

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

Read more in our extensive guides to Scotland

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

Scotland Road Trip: 8 Incredible Routes for an Epic Trip

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The Best Scottish Road Trips

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

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

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

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

Scotland Road Trip Map

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

Scotland’s Top Eight Road Trips

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

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

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

The North Coast 500

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top 16 Highlights

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

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

2 Week Motorhome Itinerary Scotland

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

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

The North East 250

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top 10 Highlights

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

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

The South West Coastal 300

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

• Distance: 302 miles
• Drive Time: 8 hours

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Argyll Coastal Route & Loch Ness

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top 11 Highlights

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

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Borders Historic Route

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Distance: 232 miles

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top 13 Highlights

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

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

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

• Distance: 115 miles
• Drive Time: 5 hours

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scotland Practicalities

When to take a scottish road trip.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scottish Outdoor Access Code

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

Getting to Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

Driving in Scotland

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

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

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

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Scotland’s most scenic driving routes

If you’re looking for top scenic drives in Scotland for touring by car, these driving routes will take you through some of the country's most awe-inspiring landscapes, and you'll find plenty of fantastic attractions and charming towns and villages to visit along the way.

Each route varies in length and offers a scenic alternative to main trunk roads and motorways - ideal for a self-drive tour of Scotland. These driving tour routes are easy to follow and well signposted - simply look out for the distinctive brown and white signs.

Don't forget … all these scenic routes can also be done in reverse!

Moray Firth route Inverness to Loch Fleet

Covesea Lighthouse on the Moray Coast Trail

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

On the Moray Firth Route, journey through the north east corner of the Highlands on this scenic semi-circle from Inverness around the Beauly, Cromarty and Dornoch firths.

• Length of the route: 80 miles (128 km)
• Start and finish: Inverness/The Mound on Loch Fleet
• Time to drive: 1 hour 50 minutes

Deeside tourist route Perth to Aberdeen

Cyclists on the Deeside Way, Ballater

© VisitScotland / Jakub Iwanicki

On the Deeside Tourist Route, travel along Britain's highest main road - the A93 - from Perth, via the Cairngorms National Park, to Aberdeen.

• Length of the route: 108 miles (174 km)
• Start and finish: Perth/Aberdeen
• Time to drive: 2 hours 55 minutes

Angus Coastal Route Dundee to Aberdeen

The beach at Lunan Bay

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Stretching from Dundee to Aberdeen, the Angus Coastal Route takes in the spectacular coastline and countryside of the east of Scotland.

• Length of the route: 68 miles (103 km)
• Start and finish: Dundee/Aberdeen
• Time to drive: 1 hour 40 minutes

The Snow Roads scenic route Blairgowrie to Grantown-on-Spey

The Watchers in the Cairngorms National Park

Admire the drama of The Snow Roads Scenic Route through  the eastern portion of the Cairngorms National Park. It gets its name by traversing the highest public roads in Britain which are the first to close due to snowfall.  

• Length of the route: 90 miles (144.8 km)
• Start and finish: Blairgowrie/Grantown-on-Spey
• Time to drive: 3 hours

Argyll coastal route Tarbert to Fort William

Ardkinglas Woodland Garden on Loch Fyne

© VisitScotland / Stuart Brunton

Absorb stunning mountain landscapes and glittering loch views as you travel through the majestic west coast of Scotland on a scenic drive through the Argyll Coastal Route.

• Length of the route: 129 miles (208 km)
• Start and finish: Tarbet/Fort William

Borders historic route Carlisle to Edinburgh

Melrose Abbey

Discover the lush scenery of the Scottish Borders on this historic route through the south of Scotland.

• Length of the route: 89 miles (143 km)
• Start and finish: Carlisle/Edinburgh
• Time to drive: 2 hours 20 minutes

Galloway tourist route Gretna to Ayr

The Mull of Galloway, Wigtownshire, Dumfries and Galloway

© VisitScotland / Visit South West Scotland / Damian Shields

Stretching from Gretna to Ayr in south west Scotland, the Galloway Tourist Route weaves through the picturesque landscapes that inspired Robert Burns.

• Length of the route: 92 miles (148 km)
• Start and finish: Gretna/Ayr
• Time to drive: 2 hours 10 minutes

The South West Coastal 300 South west

Culzean Castle and Country Park

© Barry Dawson / Ayrshire & Arran Tourism Group

The South West Coastal 300 is a wonderfully scenic route around one of Scotland's most picturesque coasts. If you want stunning scenery, pristine coastline and plenty of things to see and do, this is the road trip for you.

• Length of route: 300 miles (482.8 km)
• Start and finish: Ayr
• Time to drive: 5-6 hours

Fife coastal route Kincardine to Newport

West Sands, St Andrews

Enjoy views of the impressive Forth bridges as you drive along sparkling coastline on the Fife Coastal Route. You'll pass rolling farmland, picturesque seaside towns and beautiful beaches.

• Length of the route: 77 miles (124 km)
• Start and finish: Kincardine/Newport on Tay

Highland tourist route Aberdeen to Inverness

Cawdor Castle and Gardens

If you're looking for more good places to drive in Scotland, follow the Highland Tourist Route through the heart of the Highlands, passing through the rugged landscapes of the Cairngorms National Park and charming Highland towns.

• Length of the route: 116 miles (187 km)
• Start and finish: Aberdeen/Inverness
• Time to drive: 2 hours 50 minutes

Clyde Valley tourist route Abington to Hamilton

Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve

Follow the River Clyde on the Clyde Valley Tourist Route through lush farmland and rolling hills as you journey to the bustling town of Hamilton, close to Glasgow.

• Length of the route: 38 miles (61 km)
• Start and finish: Abington/Hamilton
• Time to drive: 30 minutes

North and west Highland route Ullapool to John o'Groats

You'll travel through some of the most magnificent scenery in Europe on the North and West Highland Route - wild mountains and lochs, foaming salmon rivers, rugged coastlines with mighty sea cliffs and secluded sandy bays.

• Length of the route: 158 miles (254 km)
• Start and finish: Ullapool/John o’Groats
• Time to drive: 3 hours 45 minutes

Forth Valley tourist route Edinburgh to Stirling

The Kelpies in Helix Park

The Forth Valley Tourist Route makes for a brilliant day out discovering some of Scotland's top attractions and historic towns.

• Length of the route: 43 miles (69 km)
• Start and finish: Edinburgh/Stirling
• Time to drive: 1 hour 30 minutes

Perthshire tourist route Greenloaning to Ballinluig

Den of Alyth, Perthshire

Enjoy views of lush, cultivated landscapes followed by the rugged splendour of the Sma' Glen, Aberfeldy and Grandtully on the Perthshire Tourist Route.

• Start and finish: Greenloaning/Ballinluig
• Time to drive: 1 hour 15 minutes

North Coast 500 North coast

Driving the Bealach na Ba

Widely regarded as one of the best driving roads in Scotland, the North Coast 500 route offers the ultimate Highlands road trip experience.

• Length of the route: 500 miles (805 km)
• Start and finish: Inverness
• Time to drive: 13 hours 35 minutes (note: this is without stopping. We recommend taking several days to complete the NC500)

Planning your trip

Please remember to plan your trip in advance. It is crucial for the wellbeing of Scotland's landscapes, as well as for local residents and businesses, that the areas around these routes are respected and looked after properly.

 A few things to keep in mind:

• Take all litter, waste and rubbish away with you to dispose of correctly.
• Book your accommodation in advance; don't park or stay outwith designated camping/caravan areas.
• Follow the  Scottish Outdoor Access Code  to ensure the landscape is left how you found it.

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The 12 Best Road Trips in Scotland

Iain Masterton / Getty Images

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

Glasgow to Glencoe

Jon Douglas / Getty Images

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

Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail

iweta0077 / Getty Images 

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

Isle of Skye

Cédric Lopez / EyeEm / Getty Images

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

Snow Roads Scenic Route

munro1 / Getty Images

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

South West Coastal 300

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

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

North Coast 500

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

Borders Historic Route

Antonel / Getty Images 

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

Argyll Coastal Route

Cavan Images / Getty Images

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

The Malt Whisky Trail

K Neville / Getty Images

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

Royal Deeside Tourist Route

Ossiridian / Getty Images

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

Highland Tourist Route

 Chris Crafter / Getty Images

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

Fife Coastal Route

Courtesy of St. Andrews Links

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

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

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

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

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

The best routes:

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

Route 1: North Coast 500 & Islands - 6 days

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

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

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

What’s the drive like?

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

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

Recommended itinerary for the North Coast 500

Day 1: inverness to orkney.

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

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

Day 2: Orkney Exploration

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

Day 3: Orkney to Ullapool via Scrabster

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

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

Day 4: Ullapool to Skye

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

Day 5: Skye Exploration

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

Day 6: Skye to Inverness via Loch Ness

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

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

Route 2: The Argyll Coastal Route - 3 days

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

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

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

The best itinerary for the Argyll Coastal Route

Day 1: tarbet to auchindrain .

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

Day 2: Auchindrain to Oban 

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

Day 3: Oban to Fort William

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

Route 3: Royal Deeside Tourist Route - 3 days

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

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

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

The best itinerary for the Royal Deeside Tourist Route

Day 1: perth to blairgowrie .

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

Day 2: Blairgowrie to Aboyne

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

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

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

Day 3: Aboyne to Aberdeen

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

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

Route 4: Road to the Isles - 2 Days

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

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

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

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

The best itinerary for the Road to the Isles

Day 1: fort williams to glenfinnan .

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

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

Day 2: Glenfinnan to Mallaig 

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

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

Route 5: Grand Tour of Scotland - 16 Days

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

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

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

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

The best itinerary for a Grand Tour of Scotland

Day 1: edinburgh.

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

Day 2: Edinburgh to Aberdeen

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

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

Day 3: Aberdeen to Inverness

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

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

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

Day 4: Inverness to Kirkwall

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

Day 5: Orkney

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

Day 6: Orkney to Ullapool

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

Day 7: Ullapool to the Outer Hebrides

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

Day 8: Isle of Lewis to Harris

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

Day 9: Hop to the Isle of Skye

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

Day 10 and 11: Isle of Skye

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

Day 12: Isle of Skye to Fort William

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

Day 13: Isle of Mull

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

Day 14: Isles of Iona and Staffa

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

Day 15: Into the Trossachs National Park

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

Day 16: Back to Edinburgh

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

Get help planning your road trip

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

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

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

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

Find Greg on LinkedIn .

Getting there

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

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Hit the road with our selection of the best Scotland road trips. Discover rugged landscapes, historic castles, and serene lochs as you travel the winding roads of this breathtaking country. Whether you seek solitude on remote trails or vibrant life in bustling cities, our guide to the best road trips in Scotland promises an enchanting experience for every traveler. Discover your wanderlust and get ready to explore Scotland's wealth of natural beauty and heritage.

What is the best Scotland road trip?

How many days do you need for a road trip, tips for driving in scotland, these are the 3 best road trips in scotland, road trip #1: north coast 500, road trip #2: scottish highlands road trip, road trip #3: ultimate road trip, tailor-made travel itineraries for scotland, created by local experts.

20 days  / from 2994 USD

The Great British Road Trip

Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

6 days  / from 613 USD

Festive Feelings around Christmas in Scotland

Experience the magic of Christmas in the heart of the Scottish Highlands! Lovely Christmas Markets and winter festivals await visitors during the winter months, but this itinerary can also be turned into a summer festival hop!

11 days  / from 1070 USD

Scotland's Wildest Natural Scenery

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

Tailor-made trips for   Scotland

The quintessential Scotland road trip is encapsulated in the route known as the North Coast 500 . This circular route spans over 500 miles and begins and ends in Inverness , the cultural center of the Scottish Highlands . From rugged coastlines and sparkling lakes to towering mountains and ancient castles, this scenic route offers spectacular views. 

Around every corner, new wonders are revealed, including hidden beaches, quaint fishing villages, and mysterious ruins rich in history. The North Coast 500 route not only showcases Scotland's natural beauty but also invites you to experience the warm hospitality, rich gastronomy, and vibrant traditions of its people. 

For those seeking outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, and breathtaking scenery, the North Coast 500 is the premier Scotland road trip destination.

The ideal duration of a road trip depends largely on your itinerary and how deeply you want to explore each stop. For a full-fledged road trip, it's recommended that you allow at least seven days to leisurely drive the route, take in the sights, and make unexpected discoveries. 

This time frame will allow you to immerse yourself in the scenery, culture, and culinary delights of the regions you are traveling through without feeling rushed. Each day can be devoted to a different aspect of the trip, from scenic drives and historic sites to local dining and recreation. 

However, if time permits, extending the trip to two weeks allows for more complete exploration, letting you linger longer in each place and deviate from the planned itinerary. Ultimately, the length of your trip should reflect your style, interests, and the breadth of territory you want to discover.

Durness, Scotland @ Shutterstock

Taking a Scotland road trip gives you an unrivaled opportunity to explore its stunning landscapes and historic sites at your own pace. To make your journey as smooth as the calm waters of Loch Ness , here are some important tips:

• Drive on the left: In Scotland, it is common to drive on the left side of the road. Make sure you are comfortable driving this way, especially at traffic circles and junctions.
• Understand road signs and speed limits: Familiarize yourself with UK road signs and obey speed limits, which can change frequently in cities, rural areas and on freeways.
• Prepare for weather changes: Scottish weather can be unpredictable. Take appropriate equipment with you and check weather forecasts, especially if traveling to the Highlands.
• Drive carefully on narrow roads: Many Scottish roads, especially in sparsely populated areas, are narrow and winding. Drive carefully, leaving room for passing cars and livestock.
• Legal requirements: Make sure you have all the necessary documents, including a valid driver's license and car insurance, to comply with driving regulations in Scotland.

Scotland, Eilean Castle @ Shutterstock

Discover the allure of Scotland's majestic landscapes and rich history through its scenic roads. From rugged highlands to serene coastal trails, we present three of the best road trips in Scotland that promise an unforgettable journey into the heart of this enchanting country. Each route offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventurous exploration.

Experience what is widely regarded as Scotland's ultimate road trip - the North Coast 500, a fascinating seven-day journey through the raw beauty of the northern highlands.

The first day will start in Inverness before heading to Applecross via stunning Bealach na Bà and exploring the tranquil Applecross Peninsula. On day two , you'll travel from Applecross to Torridon, where serene Loch Marie and the enchanting Inverewe Gardens await. 

Day three will take you from Torridon to Ullapool to see the breathtaking Corrishalloch Gorge and the enchanting Ullapool Harbor. Day four takes you from Ullapool to Lochinver, en route, you will see the historic Ardvreck Castle and the picturesque beach of Achmelvich. The fifth day takes you from Lochinver to Durness, where you'll see the striking Kylesku Bridge and the mysterious Smoo Cave. 

On day six , travel from Durness to Wick to admire the remote beauty of Cape Wrath and the legendary John O'Groats Island. Conclude your adventure on day seven , returning from Wick to Inverness, and visiting the majestic Dunrobin Castle and historic Dornoch Cathedral, embodying the spirit and splendor of Scotland.

Fishing boat moored in loch Broom Ullapool © Tim lamper/Shutterstock

Itinerary overview

Check out this Scotland road trip itinerary:

• Start your journey in the vibrant city of Inverness.
• Drive to Applecross via the spectacular Bealach na Bà.
• Explore the peaceful Applecross Peninsula.
• Journey from Applecross to the stunning landscapes of Torridon.
• Visit the serene Loch Maree.
• Discover the enchanting Inverewe Gardens.
• Travel from Torridon to the picturesque town of Ullapool.
• Marvel at the breathtaking Corrieshalloch Gorge.
• Wander around the charming Ullapool Harbour.
• Head from Ullapool to the quaint village of Lochinver.
• Visit the historical ruins of Ardvreck Castle.
• Relax at the beautiful Achmelvich Beach.
• Embark from Lochinver to the rugged landscapes of Durness.
• Cross the impressive Kylesku Bridge.
• Explore the depths of the mysterious Smoo Cave.
• Travel from Durness to the northern town of Wick.
• Experience the remote beauty of Cape Wrath.
• Visit the iconic John O'Groats.
• Return from Wick to Inverness.
• Stop by the majestic Dunrobin Castle.
• Conclude your trip with a visit to the historic Dornoch Cathedral, capturing the essence of Scotland’s rich heritage.

Torridon, Wester Ross, Scotland @ Shutterstock

Enjoy another seven-day Scotland road trip from the bustling streets of Glasgow to the mysterious depths of Loch Ness to capture the essence of Scotland's wild beauty and rich history. 

The first day will begin with a scenic drive from Glasgow to Fort William , passing serene Loch Lomond and the dramatic valleys of Glencoe. Day two will take you from Fort William to the mystical Isle of Skye with stops at the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct and the majestic Eilean Donan Castle. Day three is dedicated to exploring Skye's natural wonders, including towering Old Man Storr and stunning Neist Point. 

The adventure continues on day four as you depart the Isle of Skye for Ullapool, visiting the enchanting Fae Pools and the rugged Applecross Peninsula. On day five you will travel from Ullapool to Durness via the breathtaking Corrieshalloch Gorge and the wildlife-rich Isle of Handa. On day six you'll travel from Durness back to Inverness, exploring the remote Cape Wrath and the legendary Loch Ness. 

On the final, seventh day , you'll return from Inverness to Glasgow and reminisce about Scotland's turbulent history on the battlefield of Culloden and in the charming town of Pitlochry, ending your journey with unforgettable scenery and timeless stories.

Glasgow Riverside @ Shutterstock

• Start with a scenic drive from Glasgow, passing the tranquil Loch Lomond.
• Admire the dramatic landscapes of Glencoe Valley.
• Arrive in Fort William, the gateway to the Scottish Highlands.
• Depart Fort William for the mystical Isle of Skye.
• Visit the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct and the majestic Eilean Donan Castle.
• Settle in on the Isle of Skye for an evening under the stars.
• Dedicate the day to exploring Skye's natural wonders.
• Hike to the towering Old Man of Storr.
• Capture the sunset at the stunning Neist Point.
• Depart Skye for the charming town of Ullapool.
• En route, visit the enchanting Fairy Pools.
• Explore the rugged landscapes of the Applecross Peninsula.
• Journey from Ullapool to the northern village of Durness.
• Discover the wildlife-rich Isle of Handa.
• Travel from Durness back to Inverness.
• Explore the remote landscapes of Cape Wrath.
• Uncover the mysteries of the legendary Loch Ness.
• Return from Inverness to Glasgow.
• Reflect on Scotland's history at the Culloden Battlefield.
• Conclude your journey with a visit to the charming town of Pitlochry.

Loch Ness, Scotland @ Shutterstock

With plenty of time to spare embark on a 12-day road trip. Begin your Scotland road trip in Inverness on the first day , immersing yourself in the city's rich cultural and historical tapestry. On day two , head to the mysterious Loch Ness, focusing on its natural splendor rather than the famous legend of Nessie. Day three takes you to Fort Augustus, where you'll marvel at the engineering prowess of the Caledonian Canal. 

Day four invites you to explore deeper into the Isle of Skye, going beyond the typical North Coast 500 itinerary to discover hidden gems. On day five , the journey continues to the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, a key landmark before diving into the depths of the Highlands.

On day six , challenge yourself with walking and driving tours in Torridon and Applecross and enjoy unspoiled landscapes. Ullapool on day seven marks the transition to the little-visited northern regions of Scotland, immersing you in the local culture. On day eight , the adventure continues to Assynt, where you'll experience the geological wonders of a stunning geopark. Day nine takes you to Durness, where you'll see unique coastal formations, caves, and beaches.

Day ten takes the expedition to Thurso and John O'Groats, discovering the Orkney Islands and deepening historical research. On day eleven , head south into the heart of the Cairngorms National Park , where you'll explore Scotland's mountainous wilderness. Finally, conclude your unforgettable journey in Pitlochry on day twelve , enjoying a relaxing end to an unusual road trip, distinct from the NC500 coastal routes.

Cairngorms National Park, Scotland © Milosz Maslanka/Shutterstock

• Visit Inverness Castle and take in panoramic views from the viewing platform.
• Stroll along the River Ness to the Ness Islands, a beautiful natural park.
• Explore the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to learn about Highland history and culture.
• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant offering traditional Scottish fare.
• Venture to Loch Ness.
• Take a morning boat tour on Loch Ness, enjoying the scenic vistas.
• Explore the historic ruins of Urquhart Castle on the loch’s shore.
• Visit Drumnadrochit’s Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition to learn about the area's natural history.
• Enjoy a scenic hike along part of the Great Glen Way.
• Head to Fort Augustus.
• Watch boats navigate the locks of the Caledonian Canal in Fort Augustus.
• Visit the Clansman Centre to experience 17th-century Highland life.
• Take a leisurely walk along the canal, enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
• Explore beyond the usual in the Isle of Skye, discovering hidden treasures.
• Visit the magical Fairy Glen, a landscape of small hillocks and lochans.
• Explore the serene Coral Beach, with its stunning white sands and turquoise waters.
• Drive to the remote Neist Point Lighthouse and enjoy a coastal walk with spectacular views.
• Continue to the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, gateway to the deeper Highlands.
• Tour Eilean Donan Castle, learning about its history and restoration.
• Take a scenic drive around the nearby lochs for breathtaking views.
• Visit the nearby village of Dornie to explore local shops and cafes.
• Enjoy a sunset photo session at the castle, capturing its stunning silhouette.
• Embrace walking and driving challenges in Torridon and Applecross, surrounded by pristine landscapes.
• Drive the Bealach na Bà road, one of Britain’s highest and most scenic routes.
• Enjoy a guided walk or hike in the Torridon Hills, spotting wildlife and flora.
• Visit the Applecross Heritage Centre to learn about local history.
• Arrive in Ullapool, diving into the local culture of Scotland's northern regions.
• Spend the morning exploring Ullapool’s local art galleries and craft shops.
• Take a boat trip from Ullapool harbour to view sea life and the Summer Isles.
• Attend a live music session in the evening at one of Ullapool’s traditional pubs.
• In Assynt, experience the geological wonders of a remarkable geopark.
• Visit the Lochinver Geopark Visitor Centre to understand the area's unique geology.
• Hike to the top of Stac Pollaidh for panoramic views of Assynt's landscape.
• Explore the Bone Caves, where ancient animal bones have been discovered.
• Discover Durness's unique coastal formations, caves, and beaches.
• Tour Smoo Cave, a large sea cave accessible by foot.
• Walk along the beautiful sandy beaches, such as Sango Sands, for relaxation and views.
• Visit the Cocoa Mountain café for handmade chocolates and hot drinks.
• Watch the sunset from Faraid Head, observing seabirds and marine life.
• Journey to Thurso and John O'Groats, stepping stones to the Orkney Islands and deeper historical insights.
• Explore the Castle of Mey, the Queen Mother’s former residence.
• Visit the John O'Groats signpost and walk along the coastal paths.
• Consider a ferry trip from John O'Groats to the Orkney Islands for additional historical sites.
• Venture south to the Cairngorms National Park for a wilderness adventure.
• Visit the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre and meet the only free-ranging herd in Britain.
• Take a guided nature walk or a wildlife safari to spot native animals and birds.
• Ride the Cairngorm Mountain Railway for stunning views of the surrounding area.
• Tour the Blair Athol Distillery and sample Highland single malt whiskies.
• Visit the Explorers’ Garden at Pitlochry Festival Theatre, celebrating Scottish explorers.
• Walk around Loch Faskally and watch salmon leaping at the Pitlochry Fish Ladder.
• Conclude your trip with a farewell dinner at one of Pitlochry’s fine restaurants, reflecting on the journey.

Loch Tummel And Tay Forest Park To The Mountains Of Glencoe From Queen's View Near Pitlochry In Scotland © grafxart/Shutterstock

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written by Olga Sitnitsa

updated 09.04.2024

Online editor at Rough Guides, specialising in travel content. Passionate about creating compelling stories and inspiring others to explore the world.

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Six of Scotland’s Best Road Trips

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

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

1. Snow Roads Scenic Route

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

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

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

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

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

Discover more about the Snow Roads Scenic Route .

2. South West Coastal 300

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

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

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

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

Hit the South West Coastal 300 .

3. North Coast 500

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

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

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

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

See more about the North Coast 500 .

4. North East 250

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

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

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

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

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

Explore the North East 250 .

5. The Argyll Coastal Route

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

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

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

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

Follow the Argyll Coastal Route.

6. The Borders Historic Route

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

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

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

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

Explore the Borders Historic Route .

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

VisitScotland

Scotland's road trips.

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

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

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

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Her Jolie Journey

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

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

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

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

Scotland Road Trip Itinerary (VIDEO)

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

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

What is the Best Way to Get to Scotland?

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

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

How to Rent a Car in Scotland As An American

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Use My Scotland Road Trip Itinerary

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

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

Scotland Road Trip Itinerary In Four Days at a Glance

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

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

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

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

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

Explore Edinburgh’s Most Charming Street: Circus Lane

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

• ESTIMATED TIME: 15 Minutes

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

Look For Hidden Gems in Dean Gardens

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

• ESTIMATED TIME: 15 minutes

Take a Peek at the Iconic Dean Village

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

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

• ESTIMATED TIME: 30 Minutes

Don’t Miss the Pretty Fountain in Princes Street Gardens

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

• ESTIMATED TIME: 20 Minutes

Book a Memorable Meal At The Dome

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

• ESTIMATED TIME: 1 Hour minimum

See What All the Fuss is About At Edinburgh Castle

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

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

Catch The Best Views of Edinburgh Here: Vennel

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

You can locate this spot through google maps or here .

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

Do Some Shopping At Royal Mile

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

• ESTIMATED TIME: 1 hour minimum

Catch a Glimpse of Diagon Alley: Victoria Street

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

If You Have Time Visit The Writer’s Museum

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

• ESTIMATED TIME: whatever time you have left over

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

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

You can find my full Edinburgh Travel Guide here . 

Day 2: Prepare to Explore the Cutest Towns and Castles

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

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

• Kincardine O'Neil
• Craigievar Castle

Perfect Pit Stop on the Way: Kincardine O’Neil

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

• ESTIMATED TIME: 30 minutes

Discover Scotland’s Pink Castle: Craigievar Castle

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

• ESTIMATED TIME: 1 hour

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

You Will Not Recover From the Cuteness of Braemar

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

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

Go Hunting for the Loch Ness Monster

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

• ESTIMATED TIME: 30 minutes minimum

Get a Good Night Sleep in Inverness

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

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

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

Scotland’s Celebrity Castle: Eilean Donan Castle

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

Most Adorable Cafe in Scotland: Manuela’s Wee Bakery

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

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

• ESTIMATED TIME: 20 minutes

First Stop in Isle of Skye: Old Man of Storr

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

Here are some tips for Old Man of Storr:

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

Don’t Miss the Stunning Mealtfalls

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

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

Isle of Skye’s Most Scenic Route: Quiraing

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

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

• ESTIMATED TIME: 20 minutes minimum

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

Wander the Mystical Fairy Glen

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

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

The Colorful Capital of Isle of Skye: Portree

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

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

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

Day 4: Harry Potter, Highland Cows and Historical Towns

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

Home to the Fabled Hogwarts Express: Glenfinnan Viaduct

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

Pet Some Highland Cows at Trossachs Woollen Mill

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

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

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

Roam The Beautiful, Historical Culross

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

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

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

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

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

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18 Best Road Trips in Scotland You Can’t Miss

February 21, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. The North Coast 500

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But the North and West Highlands Route is still great.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The name of this route is sort of misleading.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the author

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

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ZigZagonEarth

Plan unforgettable road trips!

10 MOST SCENIC Drives in Scotland (Map + Tips + Photos)

Last updated on November 21, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Planning a vacation in Scotland?  A road trip is the absolute best way to see what the country has to offer. The best driving roads take you to mountains, valleys, lochs, coasts, castles, abbeys… Below is my selection of the 10 most scenic drives in Scotland with practical information, best stops and maps to help you plan your trip.

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Scotland:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Scotland: DiscoverCars

The unmissable boat tour: Seal spotting on Loch Linnhe from Fort William

My favorite excursion from Edinburgh: Glenfinnan and Glencoe

My favorite places to stay:

• Edinburgh: see best rated hotels – e.g. Balmoral Hotel
• Glencoe: see best rated hotels – e.g. The Glencoe House Hotel
• Portree: see best rated hotels – e.g. The Cuillin Hills Hotel
• Inverness: see best rated hotels – e.g. Kingsmills Hotel

10 Most scenic drives in Scotland – Map & Overview

About the selection.

To be honest, I think it is beautiful to drive almost everywhere in Scotland. I am only bored when it is very foggy. In this article, rather than listing the long touristic circuits created by VisitScotland, I have decided to focus on the most scenic portions of roads I have enjoyed.

The 10 best drives in Scotland – Map & List

• Glen Coe on A82
• The Road to the Isles – A830 
• Road to Skye through Glen Shiel – A87
• Wester Ross coastal road – A832 
• Trotternish peninsula (Isle of Skye)
• Drumbeg Loop B869 
• Loop around the Trossachs
• The Borders Countryside & Abbeys
• Old Military Road in Cairngorms National Park

Below is a map to help you get oriented and see which ones you could enjoy during your holidays:

Is driving in Scotland difficult?

You can read a lot about people complaining about the difficulty of driving in Scotland. In my opinion, it is not as bad as they say. But people who had no issues don’t write comments… There are 2 main difficulties:

• Driving on the left-hand side (if it is not the case in your home country). It is not that hard. You just have to be focused when exiting a parking space.
• The single lane roads that are very touristy – single lane roads in general are not that complex, there are frequent crossing-places. The problems are that tourists just keep going and then pile up at those crossing places blocking the road. Always look ahead to see if there is enough space.

If you want to see what it looks like, head to my article about driving in Scotland and watch my video .

Driving Times

Below is a map to give you a general idea of the driving times between the main towns in Scotland. These times are calculated using the main roads. When you look at driving times on Map apps, always plan longer because:

• You will want to stop everywhere
• Single-lane tracks take longer when there are many cars piling at passing places

Best time to enjoy those most scenic drives in Scotland

For a worry-free drive, April to October are the best months for 4 reasons:

• Most attractions are open,
• The roads are in good conditions – no snow or ice,
• Weather is not freezing anymore (but remember it can be unpredictable),
• Days are longer for exploring and driving around.

However, June to September are also the most crowded (especially if you plan on visiting the Isle of Skye). May is my favorite month. And the autumn colors in the Highlands can be great for photography.

Planning a road trip in Scotland

Next, I will give you more details about each of the best driving roads in Scotland I listed. But if you are organizing a whole road trip in Scotland, my travel guide eBook includes all my favorite spots and roads. It helps you easily plan your road trip around Scotland :

Plan your dream trip in Scotland thanks to my guide

• 15 maps to easily plan your itinerary
• 170+ pre-selected locations
• GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
• Tips to make the most of your time
• 170+ original photos to help you choose

Need to rent a car in Scotland?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:  Discovercars.com  – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Choose the car and company you prefer (prefer a  compact car for the single-lane roads)
• Consider their full coverage option – I always take it for peace of mind! 
• Book early  to have a large choice of vehicles!

See my  36 tips about renting a car in Scotland

#1 – Glen Coe on A82 –  B est drive in Scotland

In my opinion this is a MUST-DRIVE in Scotland. Glen Coe is one of the most magnificent valleys in Scotland, with lochs and mountains. Typical Highlands. Plus, it is very easy to drive with large carparks to stop and enjoy the views or go for a walk.

• Section of A82
• Starts in Bridge of Orchy 
• Ends in Village of Glencoe
• Length – 24 miles – 39 km
• Road type – one lane in both directions – Moderate to higher speed (Motorhome / Campervan OK)
• To get there – Edinburgh to Glencoe Village = 3h drive

How long to plan

• Time to drive – From Bridge of Orchy to Glencoe, the road takes 30min if you are not stopping
• Time to plan – You should plan half a day if you are not doing any walks.
• If combining with Glen Etive (see #7) and the tour of Loch Leven , then plan a complete day

Best stops / places to see

• Buachaille Etive Mor , the most photographed mountain in Scotland 
• Etive Beag Carpark with some of the best views on the drive
• The Meeting of the 3 waters waterfall
• The 3 Sisters viewpoint
• The Loch Atriochtan, which is often overlooked but that I love, because the valley is narrow there
• The Glencoe visitor center
• Learn more on my article about the drive through Glencoe

Where to stay

• Option 1 – stay at the end of the road in the small town of Glencoe –  see accommodation options
• Option 2 – or enjoy the tour of Loch Leven and enjoy the small village of Kinlochleven nested in the mountains – see accommodation options
• Option 3 – keep driving to the main town of Fort William before starting another drive (such as #2 or #3) – see best rated accommodations

Map of the drive

And below is a map to get your oriented:

#2 – The Road to the Isles A830 – Scenic drive from Fort William

The Road to the Isles is another classic Scottish drive. It gives you a snapshot of everything the country has to offer: Mountain peaks, freshwater lochs, sea-water lochs, white sand beaches, views of islands…

• Starts in Fort William
• Ends in Mallaig
• Length – 43 miles – 69km
• Road type – one lane in each direction, no difficulty (Motorhome / Campervan OK)
• To get there – Edinburgh to Fort William = 3h30 drive
• Time to drive – 1h each way
• Time to plan – half a day if not spending much time at the beaches to a day to explore more in depth each stop

• View of Ben Nevis, highest summit in Scotland
• The Neptune’s Staircase with the 8 lochs for the boats to transfer to / from the Caledonian Canal
• Glenfinnan with views of the monument, the loch and the viaduct
• Lochs Eilt, Ailort and Nan Uamh
• The Coastal route with beaches between Arisaig and Mallaig
• From Mallaig you can take a ferry to the Isle of Skye
• Learn more on my article about the Road to the Isles
• At the beginning of the drive in Fort William, if you want a larger town – Check out the best rated accommodations in Fort William
• If you plan on taking the ferry early morning, it is best to stay in Mallaig – Check out the best rated accommodations in Mallaig
• You can stay near the beaches – Check out the best rated accommodations in Arisaig
• Or for more mountain views in a wilder area, choose Glenfinnan –  see the few accommodation options

#3 – Road to Skye via Glen Shiel on A87 – best driving route

There are 2 ways to reach the isle of Skye: either drive to Mallaig (#2) and take the ferry or drive to the Skye bridge and cross on to the island. I think it is worth it to drive all the way to the bridge and enjoy the beauty of Glen Shiel, especially when it narrows with high summits on each side.

• Mainland section of Road A87
• Starts in Invergarry
• Ends at the Skye Bridge (A87 continues on the Isle of Skye all the way to Portree and Uig)
• Length – 37mi – 60km
• To get there – Edinburgh to Invergarry = 3h15 drive
• Time to drive – 1 hour
• Time to plan – 2 hours or longer if you visit the Eilean Donan Castle

• Loch Cluanie
• Glen Shiel and the Five Sisters of Kintail
• Loch Duich and Eilean Donan Castle
• Loch Alsh and the Skye Bridge
• Learn more on my article about the Road to Skye
• Stay at the West end of Glen Shiel in the town of Invershiel – See few accommodation options in the area
• Or decide to stay in Dornie, near Eilean Donan Castle – See accommodations options
• And at the end of A87 you reach Portree on the island – See the best rated accommodations in Portree

#4 – Wester Ross coastal road on A832 (part of North Coast 500)

The North Coast 500 road is a big loop around the North Coast of Scotland, starting above the Isle of Skye. My favorite part of the loop is the drive through Wester Ross with Loch Maree and beautiful coastal sceneries.

• Roads A890 (alternative A896) and A832
• Starts in Locharron
• Ends in Ullapool
• Length – 106 miles – 171 km
• Road type – one lane in each direction, no difficulty (Motorhome / Campervan OK) –  but if driving the alternative, A896 is a single-lane road.
• To get there – Edinburgh to Locharron = 4h20 drive
• Time to drive – 2h30
• Time to plan – Plan a day to enjoy the views and the villages

• Loch Carron
• Loch A-Chroisg
• Poolewe village nad Loch Ewe
• Falls of Measach
• Learn more on my article about Wester Ross
• Ullapool is a great place to stop before continuing on to the North coast –  Check out accommodations in Ullapool
• However, if you want to stop in the heart of Wester Ross, the coastal town of Poolewe is a great choice with a charming atmosphere –  check out accommodation options

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

#5 – Trotternish Peninsula on the Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is one of the most famous destinations in Scotland . The whole island is worth driving but if I have to pick one section, it would be the Trotternish Peninsula, north of Portree home of many fascinating and iconic attractions.

• Starts in Portree
• Ends in Portree
• Length – 55 miles – 89km (via northern Road + small detour to Quiraing + small detour to Fairy Glen)
• Road type – mix of dual and single-lane roads
• To get there – Edinburgh to Portree = 5h drive
• Time to drive – 1h40 drive
• Time to plan – half a day without hiking or 1 day if hiking

• Old Man of Storr
• Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls
• Short detour to Quiraing
• Loch Langaig
• Museum of Island life
• Short detour to Fairy Glen
• Learn more on my article about the Isle of Skye

Portree is the most central town to explore the whole island – check out the best rated accommodations in Portree

On the map below you can see the Trotternish Peninsula, North of Portree with the locations of 2 of its attractions:

Complete Maps with all my favorite stops available in my Travel Guide eBook:

#6 – Drumbeg Loop B869 – Best driving road in Scotland (twisted)

This was a surprise. This road is not often mentioned but I really enjoyed it as it was quite different from the rest of the Northern drive. North of Ullapool you can enjoy a coastal detour with pink beaches, rolling hills, mini lochs and wildlife.

• The main road A894 goes straight North from Loch Assynt. But take the detour on B869
• Starts at Loch Assynt
• Ends in Newton
• Length – 32 miles – 51km
• Road type – single-lane road / careful wild animals cross the road
• To get there – Edinburgh to Ullapool = 4h10 drive
• Time to drive – 1h 15 drive
• Time to plan – 2h to enjoy the drive and admire the beaches

• Just drive and enjoy the change in scenery
• Stop and look at the quiet beaches
• Learn more on my article about the Coigach-Assynt Reserve

Check out the accommodations in the area

#7 – Side road through Glen Etive

Glen Etive is a wild road on the side of Glen Coe. It takes you along the river all the way to Loch Etive. It offers beautiful views along a narrow valley and leads to a stunning wild loch… what more could we ask? Plus, for the fans of James Bond, you might recognize a location from Skyfall.

• Dead end road
• Starts at the junction with A82 facing the mountain Buachaille Etive Mor
• Ends at Loch Etive (village of Gualachulain)
• Length – 12 miles – 19km
• Road type – single-lane road (can be crowded in Summer).
• To get there – Edinburgh to Glencoe = 2h45 drive
• Time to drive – 35min non-stop
• Time to plan – Plan 1 hour each way to drive Glen Etive + And as long as you want to explore Loch Etive on foot or by boat (if you travel with one…)

• Just enjoy the drive
• Take some time to walk along Loch Etive
• Learn more on my article about Glen Etive

This is a rather wild area. Not many constructions. Stay at the small town of Glencoe that is not far – see accommodation options

Below is a map to help you locate the road in Glen Etive:

#8 – Loop around the Trossachs National Park – typical Scotland road trip

It is not as magnificent as the rest of the Highlands, in my opinion, but it is a great loop road that is close to Glasgow and Edinburgh and offers lochs, mountain passes and a waterfall. Locals enjoy this area a lot.

• Mix of roads around the National Park
• Starts in Balloch, South of Loch Lomond
• Ends in Balloch
• Length – 119mi – 191km
• Road type – one lane in each direction, no difficulty, some narrow sections (Motorhome / Campervan OK)
• To get there – Edinburgh to Balloch = 1h30 drive
• To get there – Glasgow to Balloch = 40min drive
• Time to drive – 3h drive
• Time to plan – One day to also include a cruise either on Loch Katrine or Loch Lomond

• Loch Lomond, its villages and viewpoints – see article
• Loch Katrine and the Sir Walter Scott steamboat – see article
• Many other lochs
• Duke’s Pass
• Falls of Falloch – see article

Check out all the accommodation options around Loch Lomond

#9 – Borders Countryside & Abbeys

If you are tired of all those beautiful mountains and want a change of scenery, head south of Edinburgh. Most articles list the Borders Historic Route. Although I agree with the overall direction of the drive, I have stronger preferences for other stops and those listed on it: the Abbeys and countryside views.

• A68 + Detours
• Starts in Edinburgh
• Ends in Jedburgh
• Length – 65 miles – 105km
• Road type – one lane in each direction, no difficulty unless you take side roads to explore (Motorhome / Campervan OK)
• Time to drive – 2h drive
• Time to plan – A day to include the visits to the abbeys

• Melrose Abbey and its bagpipe-playing pig – see article
• Scott’s view – the picture-perfect countryside – see article
• The impressive Jedburgh Abbey – see article
• Kelso Abbey
• And many other potential stops
• You can easily visit the abbey on a day trip from Edinburgh – Check out the best rated accommodations in Edinburgh
• But if you want to stay in a quieter area, the towns of Melrose or Jedburgh are great options – check out the best rated accommodations in Melrose  and  more in Jedburgh

#10 – Old Military Road in Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms National Park is a favorite for the locals. The wild area offers mountains, plateaus, valleys and castles. This is where you can find the Balmoral Castle, the Royal Summer residence. There are 2 roads going through it, but the Old Military Road is my favorite for a nice leisure drive.

• A939 and A93
• Starts in Speybridge (North of Cairngorms National Park)
• Ends in Dalrulzian (South of Cairngorms National Park)
• Length – 68 miles – 110km
• Road type – one lane in each direction almost all of the time but there is a single lane bridge that is very narrow.
• To get there – Edinburgh to Dalrulzian = 1h40 drive
• Time to drive – 2h drive when not stopping
• Time to plan – Half a day if simply stopping for the views or a day if you are visiting Balmoral Castle and / or Braemar Castle

• Well of Lecht and ski area
• The plateau
• Gairnshiel and its bridge
• Balmoral Castle and its garden
• Braemar Castle with its L-shape structure
• Learn more on my article about the Old Military Road in Cairngorms
• You can stay in a valley around the castles – Check out the best rated accommodations around Braemar
• Or around the Lecht Ski center – check out options
• Or you can stay in Aviemore before or after driving the Old Military Road  – Check out the best rated accommodations in Aviemore

And many other roads to consider:

• South West Coastal 300 with Caerlaverock Castle
• Argyll coastal route
• North Coast

Want to see more of the best Scotland has to offer?

• Most beautiful landscapes in Scotland – read article
• Best things to do in Scotland – read article
• Best Scotland destinations – where to go? – read article
• Best Scottish Castles – read article
• Most beautiful lochs in Scotland – read article
• The magnificent Isle of Skye –  read my best-of guide
• The magnificent Wester Ross region –  read article
• The Borders Abbeys including  Melrose Abbey  and the photogenic  Jedburgh Abbey

Planning a trip to Scotland?  

Check out my travel guides to help you plan:

Plan your dream trip to Scotland with my guides!

• 15 easy-to-plan maps
• GPS coordinates 
• Useful planning tips
• 170+ large photos 

• 8 easy-to-plan maps
• 60+ pre-selected locations
• 115+ large photos 

And keep track of your own trip!

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

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

Scotland is my favorite place in the whole world.

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

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

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

Planning your trip? Use our favorite resources!

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

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

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

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

• Day 1 – Edinburgh

Day 2 – Edinburgh to Stirling to Pitlochry

• Day 3 – Pitlochry to Cairngorms to Inverness

Day 4 – Inverness to Isle of Skye

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

• Day 7 – Glencoe to Loch Lomond to Edinburgh

Are you getting excited? Let’s dive in!

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

Best 7 day scotland road trip for first-timers.

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

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

Arthur’s Seat

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

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

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

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

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

The Royal Mile

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

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

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

St Giles’ Cathedral

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

Victoria Street

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

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

Greyfriars Kirkyard & Greyfriars Bobby Statue

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

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

National Museum of Scotland

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

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

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

The Scotch Whisky Experience

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

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

Edinburgh Castle

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

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

Bonus: Calton Hill

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

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

Other Options

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

Free and Cheap Things To Do In Edinburgh

Where to Stay

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

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

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

Total Distance: 102 miles Length of Drive: 2.5 hours

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

Linlithgow Palace

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

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

The Kelpies

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

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

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

Stirling Castle

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

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

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

Places to Stay

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

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

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

Day 3 – Pitlochry to Inverness

Total Distance: 106 miles Length of Drive: 2.5 hours

Cairngorm Reindeer Centre

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

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

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

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

Old Pack Horse Bridge, Carrbridge

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

Clava Cairns

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

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

Culloden Battlefield

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

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

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

Where to stay

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

Total Distance: 113 miles Length of Drive: 2.5 hours

Urquhart Castle / Loch Ness

Drive along Loch Ness from Inverness to Urquhart Castle.

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

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

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

Eilean Donan Castle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Total Distance: 151 miles Length of Drive: 4.5 hours

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

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

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

Fairy Pools

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls

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

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

Old Man of Storr

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

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

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

Neist Point

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

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

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

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

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

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

Total Distance: 152 miles Length of Drive: 5 hours

Take the ferry from Armadale to Mallaig

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

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

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

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

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

Once you get off the ferry, it’s only a short drive to Glenfinnan.

NOTE: If you cannot or do not want to take the ferry, it will take you approximately 2 hours 45 minutes to drive from Portee to Glenfinnan, so take that into consideration when planning.

St Mary & St Finnan Church

Take a few minutes to stop and peek into this tiny and beautiful church located just down the road from the Glenfinnan Visitor Center.

Glenfinnan Viaduct

Made famous by the Harry Potter movies, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is an amazing railroad structure that carries the famous Jacobite steam train and other trains from Fort William to Mallaig.

While the Jacobite steam train only runs in the summer months, if you are visiting at another time of year, you can try to catch another train crossing as we did, or just hike along the trail and enjoy the viaduct from several viewpoints.

Glenfinnan Monument

Take a quick walk across the street from the visitor center to see the Glenfinnan Monument, which was erected as a tribute to those who lost their lives fighting during the Jacobite cause.

I don’t think I could pick between Isle of Skye or Glencoe which is more beautiful and breathtaking.

This national nature reserve is the epitome of the Scottish Highlands. Dramatic scenery, loads of wildlife, and wonderful hiking all combine into one of my favorite places in Scotland.

Take your time here. Drive slow, soak up the beauty, and take lots of photos.

Our favorite place in Glencoe is Glen Etive , a stunning area that has been featured in several movies and is home to curious red deer.

There are also multiple hikes in the area if you have the time and want to get out and stretch your legs. A few options include Lost Valley, Buachaille Etive Beag, and Signal Rock.

You’ll have the best luck finding accommodations in the Fort William area. A few good choices include Loch Leven Hotel , The Garrison , and Highland Croft .

Day 7 – Glen Coe to Loch Lomond to Edinburgh

Total Distance: 140 miles Length of Drive: 3 hours 15 minutes

On your last day in Scotland, take it easy and explore Loch Lomond .

Walk along the loch and breathe in the fresh air. Pack along a picnic and eat along the banks. Soak up your last day in Scotland.

Stop by the adorable village of Luss and walk around. If you haven’t gotten to visit a distillery yet, check out Glen Luss Distillery.

In the mood for some hiking? Consider Devil’s Pulpit, a stunning gorge with a waterfall.

Rather spend the day in Glasgow? There are plenty of things to do there as well. We only had a few hours when we went and only had time to see the Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis , but it was beautiful and well worth it.

If you love museums, there are plenty of great ones in Glasgow. The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is a popular one as well as the Gallery of Modern Art.

I know you don’t want to, but you’ll have to eventually head back to Edinburgh to drop off your car and catch your plane. If you can, try to catch a flight for the next morning so you don’t have to rush, but a late evening flight tonight could work as well.

If you plan to drop off your car at the airport, pick a place near there to make it easier. If you are returning the car to a location in the city, you might want to stay downtown and then catch a bus or taxi in the morning to take you to the airport.

Want a downloadable version of this itinerary? I’ll send it right to your inbox!

If you have less than 7 days for a road trip in scotland….

If you don’t have a full week to road trip in Scotland, here are a couple of alternative itineraries so you can still make the most of your time.

3 Day Scotland road trip Itinerary

With 3 days, I’d recommend you stay based in Edinburgh and spend more time in the city. There is so much to see here that you won’t run out of things to do!

If you don’t want to spend all 3 days in Edinburgh, you could take a bus or train to Glasgow and spend one day there to see how different the two cities are.

I like to use Rome2Rio to find the best options when using public transportation.

If you want to get out and see the Highlands , consider a day trip with a group tour. It will be the easiest and most relaxing way to experience the wilds of Scotland.

I highly recommend finding your tour on Get Your Guide . You can find the highest-rated options for good prices, and I’ve had nothing but good experiences with them.

4 Day Scotland road trip Itinerary

If you have 4 days, use the first 3 days of the 7 day Scotland itinerary, and then on the fourth day, drive from Inverness back to Edinburgh via Glencoe.

5 Day Scotland road trip Itinerary

With a five-day itinerary, I would do something like this:

• Day 2 – Edinburgh to Isle of Skye (It’s about a 5.5-hour drive so stop and see a few things along the way if you’d like, such as the Kelpies and Eilean Donan Castle , or head directly there and spend more time on the Isle of Skye.)
• Day 3 – Isle of Skye (use the Day 5 itinerary)
• Day 4 – Isle of Skye to Glencoe (use the Day 6 itinerary)
• Day 5 – Glencoe to Edinburgh (use the Day 7 itinerary)

6 Day Scotland road trip Itinerary

If you have 6 days, skip Day 3 and drive directly from Edinburgh to Inverness. I’d recommend trying to see Stirling Castle and Culloden Battlefield along the way.

If you have more than 7 days for a road trip in Scotland…

Woo hoo! You’ve got more than a week for your epic road trip! There are so many ways you can extend this itinerary to explore some of these areas even deeper.

• With one extra day, you could choose to add an additional day in Edinburgh or the Isle of Skye, whichever one sounds more enjoyable to you.
• With 2 or 3 extra days , I’d do additional days in both Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye.
• St. Andrews (if you love golf)
• Glasgow (if you love cities)
• Oban & The Isle of Mull (if you love scotch or want to explore another isle)
• The North Coast 500 (This could be a whole separate trip, but if you have the time, I’d add this drive! This is on our list for our next visit!)

You can also check out this 10-Day Scotland Highlands road trip itinerary that includes time in Oban & The Isle of Mull plus two full days in Skye. Or, if you want to see more of the UK, here are 11 fantastic UK road trip itineraries for you to explore.

Best time to road trip in Scotland

In my opinion, there is never a bad time for Scotland travel! Each season has its pros and cons. Here are a few things to consider in order to pick the season that’s best for you.

Summer (July to August) is by far the most popular season to visit Scotland. The weather is the warmest, most attractions will be open, and you have really long days (the sun doesn’t set until after 9:30 pm for most of the season!). There are also lots of festivals, including the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Highland Games .

The downside is that things can get CROWDED. Everyone wants to take road trips to experience the beauty of a Scotland summer, so attractions will be packed and you’ll have lots of cars on the narrow country roads. Accommodations will be more expensive and harder to come by unless you book out months in advance. You also will have to deal with a higher chance of rain and the pesky midges (biting insects).

Spring (May-June) and Fall (September-October) are the shoulder seasons and are a fantastic time to experience Scotland. There are fewer crowds, prices are reasonable, and many attractions are open. There is also a lesser chance of rain.

There aren’t many downsides to visiting this time of year, other than the fact that the days are shorter than the summer and the weather can be a bit chilly and unpredictable. If you wanted to do any swimming, you probably wouldn’t want to come during these seasons.

Winter (November-April) is the low season for Scotland. Many attractions and accommodations are closed, it can be cold and snowy, and the days are quite short.

However, there are definitely some advantages to traveling to Scotland in the winter. You can experience the wonder of the Christmas markets in Glasgow and Edinburgh and see the country covered in the beautiful snow .

There is also the opportunity for skiing in the Highlands, and there are hardly any people at the attractions.

We went to Scotland in late November / early December and loved it so much. While we couldn’t see everything we wanted because certain things were closed, the places we did get to see were practically void of people. We got to experience so many things without another person in sight!

Plus I fell in love with Edinburgh and its Christmas market. It was one of my favorite things to do in the city and I tried to make it there every night to enjoy the hot food and drinks and walk the stalls.

No matter when you visit Scotland, you are bound to have an amazing time!

How to get to Scotland

Most likely you will either arrive in Scotland by plane, train, or bus.

The two major airports in Scotland are Glasgow (GLA) and Edinburgh (EDI) . If you are flying, you will probably arrive at either one of these. Depending on where you are coming from, it may be cheaper to fly in/out of one versus the other.

When we went, it was cheaper to fly into Glasgow and then take a bus to Edinburgh, so that’s what we did. Check both options to see which works best for you.

I use Google Flights to check flight prices and track them so I can get the best deal.

If you are already in Europe, you can also arrive in Scotland by bus or train. I like Rome2Rio to help me find the best, cheapest public transportation options.

If you have your own car, you can also drive to Scotland, although if you are coming from mainland Europe, remember that in the UK, they drive on the left side of the road.

It may be better to rent a car in this instance as you will be sitting on the wrong side of the car for this kind of driving.

How to get around Scotland

Personal vehicle.

In my opinion, taking a road trip around Scotland is the best way to see the country.

You can stop and look at whatever beautiful landmark you want.

You can eat at that cute cafe.

You can stay an extra hour or 5 if you fall in love with a particular place.

Being able to control your own schedule is fantastic.

But there are definitely some things to consider before you decide to rent a car and drive yourself.

The biggest thing is that if you are from the Americas, mainland Europe, and many other places in the world, you will be driving on the opposite side of the road than you are used to.

That’s right: you’ll be driving on the left instead of the right.

If you are not a confident driver, this is something you should definitely think about before deciding if you should rent a car.

related: the best car for a road trip in Europe

However, don’t let it freak you out too much. I found that after the first day (which was, honestly, a little nerve-wracking) it wasn’t too bad. Since you are sitting on the other side of the car, I found myself almost automatically being drawn to the left side of the road.

Just take it slow and you’ll get the hang of it.

I use Discover Cars to find and book my rentals. They search all the rental companies for the best prices and you always get free cancellation.

NOTE: most cars in the UK have manual transmissions. If you do not drive a manual car as a daily driver, I’d highly recommend spending the extra money to rent an automatic. You don’t want to be trying to learn to drive on the other side of the road AND remembering how to shift (with your other hand, I might add).

Public transportation

If you would rather not drive yourself around Scotland, you can rely on public transportation. You’ll be more restricted on where you can go and your timetable, but it’s definitely doable.

There is a pretty well-connected bus and train system in Scotland that you can use to get around. You’ll have a harder time getting out to some of the more rural attractions and towns, but public transportation can still get you to a lot of places if you’d rather not drive yourself.

I use the website and app Rome2Rio for all my public transportation planning and to purchase tickets.

If driving your own vehicle and taking public transportation sounds like too much stress for you, then a tour will be more up your alley.

There are plenty of great tour companies out there that will cover every option.

If you want to piece together your own plans and take a day trip or two, consider a site like Get Your Guide or Viator to find day tours that suit your budget and desired itinerary. You can also find multi-day tours too that may work for you.

However, if you want a complete package where you don’t have to plan a thing, check out Tour Radar . You can search all the tour companies that offer trips to Scotland and compare prices and destinations.

What to pack for your Scotland road trip

No matter when you decide to visit Scotland, your packing list will be pretty similar. The weather is always changing there and it can go from being windy and rainy one moment to sunny the next.

Here are some items and travel tips you should consider when packing for your trip .

Plug adapter/converter

Scotland uses a type G power plug. If you aren’t from the UK, you might need an adapter. I’d definitely recommend a plug adapter that is also a power converter so you don’t fry any of your electronics.

This is a given, but you are going to be so amazed by all the beauty around you, you’ll be kicking yourself if you don’t have a good camera to capture it all.

A good phone camera would work well for most landscapes, but if you want to get some awesome closeup shots, you might want something with a zoom lens.

Hiking shoes & good socks

If you plan on doing any kind of hiking, I’d recommend hiking shoes or boots rather than sneakers. The socks you wear with your boots will also make a huge difference in how your feet feel. I like Cloudline wool socks, but there are lots of great brands out there.

Rain jacket

I guarantee you it will rain at some point while you are in Scotland. Don’t let the weather ruin your trip – pack along a good rain jacket so you can still enjoy your activities.

No matter what season you travel to Scotland, you are going to need to be prepared for all kinds of weather and temperatures. Pack a variety of options, ideally items that can be layered. That way you’ll be comfortable no matter the conditions.

It’s always a good idea to have a day pack with you when you travel. Whether it’s to throw all your kids’ stuff into it or to pack along lunches for a hike, it makes it so much easier to have a designated bag that is used exclusively for your day excursions.

Laundry detergent sheets

I never travel anywhere without laundry detergent sheets . They are so nice to throw into your bag in case you need to do laundry. I always keep a few of these in my suitcase so I don’t have to remember to bring them – they are always on hand.

A power bank is practically a necessity for travel these days. You always want to make sure your phone is charged so you can take photos, navigate, and double-check your Airbnb reservation address.

How many days do you need for a Scotland road trip?

The short answer? As many as possible!

But since the majority of us have a time limit for these sorts of things, spending months in Scotland is probably out of the question.

I’d say at the very least, if you want to get out of the cities and get a decent glimpse of the countryside, you would need a minimum of 4-5 days. This would give you the ability to spend a day or two in Edinburgh and/or Glasgow and then a couple of days in the Highlands.

However, if you can swing at least a whole week, you’ll be able to take full advantage of this itinerary and see a lot more of the Highlands and what makes Scotland so magical.

When we went to Scotland, we had two weeks and got to see so much, but it still felt too short. There is SO much more I want to see that I cannot wait until I get back!

Conclusion: The Best 7-Day Scotland Road Trip for First-Timers

And there you have it! A fantastic 7-day Scotland road trip for anyone wanting to see the best of Scotland for the first time.

Ready to book your trip right now? I know I’m itching to go back!

What part of this itinerary are you most excited about? Let me know in the comments!

Want to save it for later? Pin it!

Stefanie Henne is an experienced road trip travel blogger who specializes in helping others plan their dream vacation, no matter their budget or time restraints. Go here to read more about Stef's story. If you want to send Stef a message, visit her contact page here.

26 Comments

Hi I read the whole blog and it’s Amazing!! I am planning to travel to Edinburgh from Reading, UK with my husband and daughter in the last week of December by car. My biggest doubt is the journey, safety and weather..Would like to hear from you what exact precautions should be taken on our trip. Please advise. Thank you so much ! Regards, Smitha.

Hi Smitha! Are you planning to make the trip in one day or over several days? It’s a pretty long drive for one day but definitely doable if you want to make it in one shot. My biggest piece of advice is to take it slow in case there is some bad weather and do it in 2 days if you are able so you can take your time. However, it looks like you’ll be taking A and M routes the whole way which means they should be maintained pretty decent and the weather shouldn’t affect you too much. I hope you have a great time!

Hi Stef, this blog is fantastic, so informative and detailed. My daughter and I have 6 days with a hire car so will be generally following your itinerary. We’re leaving Edinburgh on Sat 7th October and will return on Thursday 12th. We’d love to spend more time on Skye but obviously if the weather is going to be very wet with low cloud, we’d see very little. So its a bit of a quandary as if the weather is decent we would regret moving on. Is there any chance you’ve got a crystal ball? Failing that, what is your experience of the weather in October? Thanks, Judy

Hi Judy, I wish I had a crystal ball! Unfortunately the weather could really go either way. When we went in November, we had mostly nice days, but one day on Isle of Skye it rained all afternoon and the other was mostly cloudy but fairly dry. I expect October to be similar. So it really is a gamble either way. That being said, I don’t regret spending the extra days on Skye. The weather really does change pretty quickly, and from what I’ve experienced, it does tend to rain most days but not constantly, so you probably still could see a fair bit. I hope you have a fantastic trip whatever you decide! 🙂

Excellent blog, love it. We would be driving from Lake District and fly out of Edinburgh… you see any issues if we flip the itinerary you shared? And end at Edinburgh? Thanks a bunch

Hi Jaya, I don’t think that would be a problem! The only thing I would check into would be the ferry timetable if you decide to take the ferry from Mallaig to Armadale. You would probably have to time it pretty well so you don’t miss it. Otherwise, if you didn’t mind driving a bit longer, you could take the longer route and drive both to and from the Isle of Skye.

I hope you have a great trip!

We just got back from the most amazing Scotland road trip and your site/post was used for 99.9% of the itinerary! I cannot thank you enough for all of the information you provided, the various options, your honest opinions, and overall great ideas. Thank you again for helping to make our amazing trip come to life (the reindeer hike was an absolute highlight of a lifetime!).

Hi Katie, I’m so glad to hear that! Scotland is magical and I am so happy to hear you had a wonderful time!

Hi, I just want to thank you for writing this blog . I used it for our trip planning and we just got back on Sunday . Everything was just as you said with plenty of time to wonder and see other things . Time of driving was very helpful to plan our day . We stayed mostly in places you recommended and they were all very good !! . We loved Isle of the Skye . We could not see Kilt Rock – it was under construction but we did everything else and it was a dream . Thank you – we loved our trip so much 🙂 Heidi

Hi Heidi, I’m so glad you had a great trip! Scotland is for sure my favorite place and I’m so glad you found my post helpful 🙂

If you have only 6 days and want to include St. Andrews in the trip for the guys (just to see… I know playing isn’t really an option), is this possible?

Hi Sandy, I would say that if you want to include St. Andrews, I would recommend going from Edinburgh directly to St. Andrews and skipping Linlithgow Palace and the Kelpies. Stirling Castle is still worth seeing if you have the time, but you could end up in St. Andrews, stay the night there, and then drive to Inverness. Let me know if you have any other questions!

Hello! I absolutely love your site and the “plain talk”. How do we find accommodations that allow 3 people room? 2 parents and a teenager?

Thank you so much! Darlene

Hi Darlene, when you are searching, you can usually enter the number of people going and the website (hotels.com, VRBO, etc) will filter the accommodations that can take 3 or more people. Let me know if you have any other questions or need more clarification!

Hi! Loved your review. I have a few questions. Do you find it easy to do with kids or you believe it to be a lot of time on the road? Do you know if there are some places closed in January, if it’s not a good month to go? And finally, is the weather very bad in January? Thanks

I haven’t personally been to Scotland in January, but we were there in December and didn’t find the weather too bad, at least to us. It did rain some but it wasn’t awful. Temperatures were above freezing for the most part, so if you don’t mind chilly weather I think that would be a good time to go.

There are a lot of places that are closed in January, especially the smaller attractions. Most attractions in the cities and some of the popular castles are still open but with shorter hours. I think it depends on what you are looking for out of your trip. If you want to see the main attractions and don’t like colder, rainy weather you might not enjoy it as much. But if you like very few tourists and don’t mind exploring in the cold and rain, you’d probably really enjoy going in the winter.

As far as kids, we didn’t have any kiddos on our trip, but as soon as our little guy is born, you bet I’ll be planning a trip to take him. I don’t feel like we did a lot of long driving without stops since there is so much to see. I think kids of any age would be just fine, but again, I think it depends on what you like to do.

If you have any other questions, feel free to ask!

Hello, I love reading your blog and find it very helpful with planning my partners and I trip. As I work in a primary school we are deciding to come either Easter holidays ( April) or half term (may). We love camping, is there any places you can recommend to us to stay during the trip? It will also save us a few pennies. We live in wales and my partner is a car enthusiast so of course he wants to drive 🤣 Any recommendations would be fantastic! Thank you Amelia

Hi Amelia, We did not go camping ourselves when we did our road trip so I can’t recommend any places from personal experience. However, there are a couple of websites I would use to look for camping places if I was doing the trip myself. The first is called Hipcamp . It has camping, glamping, cabins, and other more rustic accommodation options. I see there are some budget options around the Cairngorms and around Loch Lomond. Other sites I would use would be scottishcamping.com, campsites.co.uk, and also check out the information on wild camping in Scotland , which could be a fun option. Let me know if you have any other questions or would like some more help, I can definitely help you find some specific places based on how to like to camp 🙂 Stef

Your Blog is really helpful as I’m just now organising a road trip of 7 days self driving through this beautiful country. Julie 🇦🇺

Hi Julie, I’m so glad you found it helpful! Let me know if I can help you with anything! 🙂

Hi, thanks so much for this. Wondered if you have a rough estimate of how much the cost of petrol for this would be, and how many miles the trip is.

Hi Grace, the total number of miles is approximately 700, and this number is the minimum of just following the route. If you take detours, it will obviously be a bit longer. As far as petrol cost, this will depend on the vehicle you are driving and petrol costs when you go, but it looks like the average petrol cost in Scotland right now is 172.06/liter. If you drive an economy car, I’d probably allocate about £200-250 for petrol.

This was really helpful! Thank you 🙂

Hi Olga, so glad you found it helpful! Thanks for reading!

Hi, thank you for your blog! My husband and I are exploring Scotland, we’re going on a roadtrip for 2 weeks in June. Since I chose the destination, I was assigned to do the itinerary and I am literally copying yours! LOL The photos are amazing and I appreciated all the details that you gave. Very helpful! I’m now excited and can’t wait for our trip! Thanks again 🙂

Of course, Lisa! So glad you found it helpful! You will love Scotland, it is my favorite place 🙂

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7 Day Scotland Road Trip Route & Itinerary (2023)

Some links in this post contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission if you use the links at no extra cost to you! Happy reading 😀

Looking for a 7-day Scotland road trip route and itinerary? I’ve got you covered! Our Scotland road trip was one of the best trips we’ve ever taken – so much so we are currently planning out next!

Finding a simple route to travel around Scotland is tough. If you’re someone who needs it mapped out for you, this blog post has it all.

Whatever happens on your Scotland road trip, I dare you not to fall in love with this country. With its culture, tradition, history, and beauty, it has everything a travel lover could ever need!

In the following post, I’ve highlighted the best things to do on a Scotland road trip, as well as the perfect stops to make your trip extra special. From the mountains of the Cairngorm National Park , to the famous NC500 , the mystery of Loch Ness and chasing fairies on the Isle of Skye, this Scotland road trip itinerary has it all.

Travelling around Scotland? You might also like…

• 13 BEST Things to do in Aviemore (+ Travel Guide!)
• Where to Find Highland Cows in Scotland: Highland Cattle
• Fairy Pools Skye Walk: Everything You Need to Know
• Old Man of Storr Walk Guide: Isle of Skye, Scotland

Want to see epic photos and videos from these experiences?

Follow me on Instagram! As we travel, I post everything live on Instagram, so check out my recent highlights and posts. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, drop me a DM!

7-Day Scotland Road Trip : A Summary

A good thing to know about driving in Scotland is there are very few roads the more north you travel.  There aren’t many routes you can take, and if you’ve got the plan of seeing the highlands or the NC500, it’s impossible to get lost.

This makes it easy to get around, and we found so many unplanned viewpoints, detours, and surprises en route.

🍖 Good news – you can have a BBQ anywhere in Scotland, as long as it isn’t a forest area or exceptionally dry. Your best bet is a beach or roadside.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 The visitor centres in Scotland are brilliant – they’re full of information about the area, with 3D sculptures of the mountains and forests, cute cafes and most importantly, clean toilets! A welcome relief when living the van life, trust me!

🦟 The midges and mosquitoes are in abundance during the summer months in Scotland, especially in the highlands. Be prepared!

Related post: Want to take your pet on your 7-day Scotland road trip? Check out this complete guide to taking your pet on holiday here!

7-day Scotland Road Trip: Route

⏰ Duration:  7 days

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Locations in Scotland: Glasgow > Loch Lomond > Glencoe > Traigh Beach > Isle of Skye > Applecross > Inverness > Aviemore > Glasgow

🗺️ NOTE: This is roughly 500 miles and 11 hours of driving time (part of the map below is a ferry to the Isle of Skye).

Here is the 7-day Scotland road trip route, map and itinerary, with a clear breakdown of the best one-week Scotland road trip for first-timers:

• Day 1  – Glasgow + Loch Lomond
• Day 2  – Glencoe + Traigh Beach
• Day 3  – Isle of Skye
• Day 4  – Isle of Skye + Applecross
• Day 5  – Inverness + Loch Ness
• Day 6  – Cairngorms (Aviemore)
• Day 7  – Cairngorms > Glasgow or Edinburgh

7-day Scotland road trip map:

This entire trip will take you up past Loch Lomond, along the Harry Potter trail, and through scenic mountain ranges. Not forgetting the West Coast beaches and to the magical myths of the Isle of Skye.

You’ll then drive along part of the iconic NC500 (the UK’s version of Route 66) , down to Applecross coastal town, across to Inverness and Loch Ness and finally, into Cairngorms National Park. It’s a lot, but it’s worth it!

However, if this is too much driving for you, cut out one or two of the locations. Do as you wish with the route, but if you follow it exactly, it will take you around 7 days.

This route is to be completed by car/van . We rent our cars in the UK from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world!

Scotland Road Trip: Itinerary

Day 1: glasgow & loch lomond.

If you’re starting your Scotland road trip in Glasgow, but sure to set aside some time to explore. Glasgow is known as the ‘world’s friendliest city’, so be sure to check it out!

As you leave Glasgow, you’ll head north on the A82 for around an hour to reach Loch Lomond. I’d recommend spending as long as you can at Loch Lomond. 

As the loch is the largest in Scotland,  there is so much to see, walks to go on, hikes to be experienced, numerous viewpoints, and of course, lots of water activities (although the water is freezing, so be prepared!)

That evening, if you have a van or a tent, you can find a spot to camp around Loch Lomond, or follow in our footsteps and continue driving to knock off a few more miles. Continue north on the A82, past the loch, and head to the Bridge of Orchy for some amazing wild camping spots.

⛺️ Wild camp at: the Bridge of Orchy

🛌 Or book a night at: Queen of the Loch

Day 2: Glencoe & Traigh Beach

Glencoe and glenfinnan viaduct.

After sleeping at the Bridge of Orchy or in a hotel at Loch Lomond, begin your day by driving further along the A82 towards Glencoe.

Glencoe is one of the most well-known mountainous areas in Scotland. Its landscape has been used in films such as Harry Potter and James Bond.

Depending on what type of Scotland road trip you’re looking for, you could spend days in Glencoe. If you’re short on time, I recommend doing a short walk such as the Invercoe Loop, and the Glencoe visitors centre.

If you’re a Harry Potter fan,  your next stop is going to be the Glenfinnan Viaduct. This famous Jacobite steam train is the iconic Hogwarts Express train and track.

Unfortunately, the famous Jacobite steam train only runs a couple of times a day, but it’s still cool to see the viaduct alone!

🦉 TOP TIP:   Ignore the main Glenfinnan car park  and head around 100m further uphill. Here you will reach a church, with a small 5/6 car park outside. It’s completely free to park here, and as most people have rushed into the first one, usually pretty empty.

Continue along the A82 for quite some time, but be sure to pull over at the northern tip of Loch Eilt,  where Dumbledore’s final resting place is. You will see it situated right in the middle of the loch.

Traigh Beach

That evening, depending on how tired you are of driving, you could find a wild camping spot around Loch Eilt or head to one of my favourite places – Traigh beach. Traigh is such a hidden gem in Scotland, and not many routes include it.

It’s a stretch of white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water, surrounded by green fields. It’s the perfect spot to wild camp and have a BBQ!

As Traigh Beach is situated directly on the west coast, the sun setting over the ocean is just incredible. Honestly, you wouldn’t believe it’s Scotland!

⛺️ Wild camp at: Traigh Beach

🛌 Or book a night at: The Arisaig Pods (Shepherd’s Huts)

Day 3: Isle of Skye

After you’ve enjoyed a morning on the beach,  head to Mallaig to catch the ferry to the Isle of Skye . If you don’t want to visit the Isle of Skye, skip Day 4 and go straight onto Day 5.

Pre-book your £15 ferry to the Isle of Skye a few days previous to wanting to visit. If it’s fully booked, there is a bridge you can drive over to reach the island.

There are so many things to do on the Isle of Skye. Swim in the fairy pools and hike the Old Man of Storr , or visit the small town of Portree and eat fish and chips. Walk around the famous Fairy Glen, or spot highland cows all over the island!

I recommend staying at least 1 night on the Isle of Skye to explore it properly.

⛺️ Wild camp on: the Isle of Skye

🛌 Or book a night at: Rasaay House Hotel

Related posts: The magic of the fairy pools on the Isle of Skye | Hiking the Old Man of Storr Guide

Day 4: Isle of Skye & Applecross

A big day of driving today, including the legendary drive along Bealach na Ba into Applecross. After a busy day of exploring Skye, today you’ll head further north of Scotland and join the iconic NC500!

Begin your drive on the A890 heading towards Applecross,  a small coastal town known for its locally-caught fish and traditional pubs.

During your journey to Applecross, you will drive on one of the highest and best-known roads in Scotland. Bealach na Ba isn’t for unsteady drivers!  It’s full of twists, turns and winding corners.

It’s a single track with a few passing places en route for oncoming cars. As you reach the top of the road, there’s a small layby to stop off and admire the view, 2054ft above sea level.

Applecross is then the next town. As you would have spent a few hours driving, it’s a great place to stop for a seafood lunch. Later in the afternoon, or the following morning, you’ll be back behind the wheel to drive through the Torridon Mountains.

⛺️ Wild camp at: the Torridon Mountains (anywhere along the route)

🛌 Or book a night at: Hartford House Hotel

Day 6: Inverness & Aviemore

Another incredible location en route for all nature and mountain lovers is the historic nature reserve of Beinn Eighe.  It’s a cluster of mountains, wildlife, and ancient pinewoods, it’s no wonder that it was chosen as Britain’s first nature reserve spot!

Spend your morning doing the mountain trail loop, or a simple woodland walk, before jumping back in the van to your next destination on your 7-day Scotland road trip.

Have lunch either in your van, in the trees of Bein Eigh or in a nearby pub, before you make the sad move of heading off the NC500.

You can stop in Inverness en route to the Cairngorms. We went straight to the legendary Loch Ness to find the iconic monster that lives here (but had no luck, unfortunately).

Sadly the Ness is too cold to swim in, and if you jump in, the only thing you’ll be catching is hypothermia! Only a quick visit is needed before you can jump back in the van to your final (in my opinion, best) location.

Aviemore (The Cairngorms National Park)

Around 50 minutes down the A9,  you’ll reach the small town of  Aviemore , known as the heart of the Cairngorm National Park .

The Cairngorms is the largest national park in the UK, and is twice the size of the  Lake District ! It’s by far one of the prettiest places on your Scotland road trip.

Aviemore is a small town in the Cairngorms, known for its ancient woodlands, large lochs and ski resorts. Set up with a Tesco, Starbucks, tons of mountain and ski shops to top up on supplies, and other outdoor-type stores, it just has a real ‘adventure’ vibe to it.

I recommend staying in the  Rothiemurchus campsite  on your first night in the Cairngorms to recharge your electricity.

We parked up in the middle of the forest, hooked up our electricity, and just soaked up every little bit of the forest atmosphere. It’s beautiful.

The camp has small wood cabins for their toilets which are cleaned regularly, with individual showers and toilet cubicles for complete privacy.

At only £30 a night for a van, you get everything you need from a campsite, plus the experience of staying in the middle of an ancient forest, away from the real world. I highly recommend adding it to your Scotland 7 day itinerary!

⛺️ Wild camp at: the Rothiemurchus campsite

🛌 Or book a night at: Macdonald Highlands Hotel

Related posts: The best things to do in Aviemore, the Cairngorms

Day 7: The Cairngorms

Whether you head deeper into the park, or hike up the surrounding mountains, a day in the Cairngorms is for every nature lover.

If you stayed at the campsite, you would have been given a small map to show you the different areas of the park.

This will outline various hikes and walks and their difficulties, and show you some of the best areas to visit during your time there.

I’d recommend a morning at Loch Eilen, then an afternoon/evening at Loch Morlich. Loch Eilen is around a 5-minute drive from Aviemore town centre and is in the forest area further in the park. You’ll pay a small fee on arrival which counts as parking and entrance.

Loch Eilen has a historical castle situated on a little island right in the middle, and if you’re a competent swimmer, it’s a great place to swim out to and explore!

Spend your morning here, then head onto Loch Morlich in the afternoon. This loch has a large stretch of ‘beach’ and sand to sit on, with a few cafes and watersport shops if you’re feeling adventurous.

You can also take some hiking and walking routes around the loch.

Loch Morlich was one of the highlights of our trip, and I highly recommend visiting whilst you’re in the Cairngorms!

If you have time, a little further north of Loch Morlich is the only  reindeer reserve   in the whole of the UK. Just remember to book a ticket in advance !

Driving in Scotland Tips

• Drivers from non-EU countries  need a valid International Driving permit.  and you must have at least  3rd-party insurance on your vehicle.
• Scotland drives on the  left-hand side. 
• The speed limit on single-track roads is 60mph, and on dual carriageways, it’s 70mph.
• If you’re not familiar with driving in the UK,  be sure to check out some general road rules before you set off.
• Stay safe whilst following GPS by using a  phone holder  for your car. The phone holder will ensure you can follow directions hands-free.
• Your signal may dip in and out in the Scottish countryside, especially in the Highlands.  I recommend getting an  eSIM  (if you’re from overseas) to get mobile data across the country.
• Most drivers in the UK are sensible and follow the rules.  Seatbelts are mandatory  and you will be stopped and fined for not using one. Traffic lights are followed religiously.
• Lost or need directions? Scotland is home to some of the most friendly, genuine people in the world, so don’t be afraid to stop and ask for directions . We did this and it was a great way to meet some of the locals.
• Remember that Scotland is a rural country, and you can go from being in a busy town centre to a remote area in minutes. Make sure you have plenty of petrol and food with you before embarking on your journey!
• Petrol is more expensive the more remote you go (plus major city centres). If you see a petrol station in a cheaper area, be sure to top up then rather than leaving it until you’re half empty – especially if you have a van with a large fuel tank.

➡  Need to hire a car in Scotland?   We rent our cars in the UK from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world! 🚗  LOOK AT CAR HIRE PRICES IN THE UK NOW!

Things to do on your Scotland Road Trip

Things to do in glasgow.

Scotland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and Glasgow is its largest city. There’s plenty to see and do in Glasgow, from exploring its history and architecture to enjoying its food and nightlife. Scotland is also a great place for a road trip, with plenty of scenic routes to take in all of its natural beauty.

Here are some of the things you can do in Glasgow:

• Visit Glasgow Cathedral: This Gothic cathedral is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Dating back to the 12th century, it’s well worth a visit for its historical significance and cool architecture.
• Take a walk along the River Clyde: The River Clyde runs through the heart of Glasgow, and there are many scenic walking routes along its banks. stop and enjoy the views, or go for a swim if it’s summertime!
• Explore Glasgow’s museums and art galleries: With over 20 museums and 40 art galleries, Glasgow has one of the best collections of cultural attractions in Scotland.
• Go on a shopping spree: Glasgow is home to some of Scotland’s best shopping!

🛌 Where to stay in Glasgow: Maldron Hotel Glasgow City (City Centre)

Where to eat in Glasgow

Glasgow is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of restaurants to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or a casual bite, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Glasgow! For a truly Scottish experience, be sure to try haggis, Glasgow’s national dish.

Other Glasgow specialities include Cullen skink (a hearty soup made with smoked haddock), seafood chowder, and tattie scones (potato flatbreads). For dessert, why not try Glasgow’s famous deep-fried Mars bars?

Since this road trip, we have returned to Glasgow and found these were our favourite restaurants:

• Ranjit’s Kitchen (Indian)
• Two Fat Ladies in the City
• The Red Onion
• Ox and Finch

Things to do in Glencoe

Hopefully, Glencoe doesn’t get skipped on your road trip, as it is simply stunning. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, and here are just a few of the things you can do in Glencoe:

• Explore the ruins of Castle Ewen, a 16th-century stronghold that was destroyed in a clan battle.
• Hike to the top of Buchaille Etive Mor, one of the most popular trails in Scotland. The views from the summit are simply incredible.
• Visit Glencoe Folk Museum to learn about the area’s rich history and culture.
• Take a scenic drive along the Road to the Isles, which winds its way through some of the most beautiful parts of Scotland!

Things to do on the Isle of Skye

This small island off the west coast of Scotland is home to some of the most stunning scenery you’ll ever see . From towering sea cliffs and rugged coastline to misty valleys and rolling hills, there’s something for everyone on Skye.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at Scotland’s notorious ‘ single tracks ’ – narrow roads with sheer drops that are not for the faint-hearted!

There are also plenty of walks and hikes to enjoy on Skye. Quiraing is a popular choice, a 2-hour hike that takes you through an otherworldly landscape of jagged peaks and atmospheric mist. For something shorter, take a stroll around Loch Coruisk. It’s a must-do when you visit Scotland!

Where to eat on the Isle of Skye

Skye is famous for its food. The Isle of Skye has some of the best seafood in Scotland and is also home to many restaurants that serve traditional Scottish food. When visiting, be sure to check out:

• The Three Chimneys is one of the most popular Isle of Skye restaurants. It is located in the village of Dunvegan on the Isle of Skye, and serves traditional Scottish food. The menu includes dishes such as haggis, neeps, and tatties (yes, you have to try haggis!), plus lots of seafood.
• The Old Inn is a popular Isle of Skye restaurant . Located in the village of Carbost on the Isle of Skye, it again serves traditional Scottish food and is known for its whisky menu, sourcing it from all over Scotland.
• The Skeabost Country House Hotel is located in the village of Portree on the Isle Of Skye, and is another popular place to eat.

Things to do in Inverness

Inverness is located in the heart of the Highlands, and it offers a wide variety of things to see and do. From visiting medieval castles to exploring world-famous whisky distilleries, there is something for everyone in Inverness!

🦕 Don’t forget it’s the home of the famous Loch Ness, so make sure you stop off to look for Nessie! Loch Ness is freezing but beautiful and is definitely worth a stop on your 7-day Scotland road trip.

Additional locations to visit on your Scotland Road Trip

If you have a few extra days to spare, make a stop in Edinburgh! This charming city is full of historical landmarks, great restaurants, and fun activities. Make sure in Edinburgh you visit Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Holyrood Palace. You can also take a stroll through one of the many green spaces or go shopping in trendy boutiques.

And no visit to Edinburgh would be complete without sampling some of the local whisky!

🦉 TOP TIP: The sunset from Edinburgh Castle is stunning!

🛌 Where to stay in Edinburgh: Market Street Hotel (Old Town)

Fort William

Although we drove through Fort William, we didn’t have a chance to spend any time here. Nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles, Fort William is a small town with lots to do.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are so many opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and climbing. William Wordsworth even penned a poem about the area’s beauty!

🛌 Where to stay in Fort William: Victoria House Bed and Breakfast

What to Pack for a Scotland Road Trip

Whether you’re planning to camp under the stars or stay in your van, here are a few things you’ll need to pack for your 7-day Scotland road trip.

• Layers! Scotland can have four seasons in one day, so it’s important to be prepared for anything. Pack a mix of light and heavy clothing, including rain gear and sturdy shoes.
• A lightweight  waterproof jacket
• Hiking boots  (that won’t slip) – these are my favourites for any kind of weather
• An  umbrella
• A  waterproof day bag
• A  waterproof phone case  (which can also be used for  wild swimming  when it’s sunnier)
• A  portable charger
• Lots of layers
• A GoPro  for waterproof camera footage
• A  waterproof backpack cover
• A chilly bottle  to keep your water at a drinkable temperature
• A  Dry Robe , as it helps to keep you warm when entering and leaving the water (even if it’s raining!)
• As well as using bug  spray , we have midge  repellent wristbands .

Check out my travel shop here!

Where to stay on your Scotland road trip

If you are not hiring a van or camping , you need to pre-book accommodation for your Scotland road trip in advance. Stays in the UK sell out fast, and prices will increase nearer to the time of your trip.

Here are some of my recommendations, or check the button at the end of the paragraph for more exciting Scotland stays.

Glasgow: Maldron Hotel Glasgow City

Loch Lomond: Queen of the Loch

Traigh Beach: The Arisaig Pods

Isle of Skye: Rasaay House Hotel

Applecross: Hartford House Hotel

Aviemore: Macdonald Highlands Hotel

Fort William: Victoria House Bed and Breakfast

Getting around Scotland

This 7-day Scotland road trip has been planned with a rental car in mind. Public transport in the highlands is non-existent, and I wouldn’t recommend relying on it for your Scotland itinerary (even if you have to do some public transport in the city centre or for a day trip).

The roads in Scotland are easy to follow and for most of the year, the roads are quiet.

Renting a car for a Scotland road trip

If you can, take a car to get around Scotland. If you only have a short amount of time, you don’t want to be spending hours waiting for public transport.  Don’t have a car? We rent our cars in the UK from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world.  Be sure to pre-book your car rental before arriving in the country to avoid disappointment!

➡  LOOK AT CAR HIRE PRICES IN THE UK NOW!

Wild camping in Scotland

When it comes to wild camping, you can park your van anywhere in Scotland . This is apart from the obvious, like someone’s property, a layby, on a corner and so on; just use common sense.

There are a lot of hidden gems and remote areas around, but it just takes a while to find them!

Best time to take a Scotland Road Trip

Scotland is a 365-day-year-round holiday destination, and knowing when to visit depends on your personal preferences.

☀️ If you want sunshine and blue skies , visit during the summer months of June-August. These are generally Scotland’s hottest months, but there’s no guarantee. Temperatures in these months can still drop and of course, we will still have some rain (it is the UK!) It can also get crowded and busy during the summer peak time. Make sure you pre-book any accommodation.

❄️ If you’d like to experience Scotland for its moody weather and clouds, head there for the colder months, like November and January. You’re also likely to see snow at this time in Scotland.

🌸  Spring in Scotland usually begins in late March and is until May.  Temperatures are beginning to rise and there is less rain than in the winter months. Pink blossom trees are blooming and the fields are coated in daffodils. 

🍂  Autumn temperatures in Scotland fall between September-early November.  If you’re looking for those aesthetic autumnal colours, your best bet is to take a Scotland road trip during these months. 

🎶 Don’t forget to check out local events when planning your trip, such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Highland Games.

Scotland Road Trip: FAQs

1) how many days do i need for a scotland road trip.

Whether you have a week, a fortnight, or even just a few days, you can tailor your entire Scottish road trip to suit your needs!

If you’re coming from further away, I would recommend at least 7 days for a Scotland road trip. But you can add or remove certain places to shorten or lengthen your trip.

2) Is 7 days in Scotland enough?

Seven days in Scotland is a great amount of time to get a real feel for the country. Of course, if you have longer, you can visit more places and explore new areas.

But if you only have seven days, this is a great amount of time to experience some of the things Scotland has to offer!

3) What is the best of Scotland in 1 week?

If you only have one week to visit Scotland, I recommend visiting at least one of the major cities (Glasgow or Edinburgh), heading to at least one or two of the lochs (Loch Lomond, Loch Morlich) and experiencing some of the Scottish Highlands.

Hiring a car and driving into the countryside is a great option for experiencing Scotland in just one week.

4) What is the prettiest part of Scotland to visit?

There are so many locations in Scotland that are beyond beautiful. When you first visit, there will be a number of moments when the scenery leaves you speechless.

The ‘prettiest’ part of Scotland will always be a personal choice, but some of the best views include: Loch Morlich (Cairngorms), Glencoe and the Isle of Skye.

5) What month is best for Scotland?

If you want warmer weather and long, dry days, head to Scotland in the summer months (June-August). For misty mountains and dramatic landscapes, visit Scotland in the winter (November-February).

6) What is the best time to go to Scotland to avoid midges?

Midges in Scotland are at their worst during the warmer months. If you want to avoid the midges, plan your Scotland road trip between the months of late September and May, when the weather is considerably cooler.

When we visited Scotland in August, we unknowingly pulled up to a loch at dusk for a bit of a walk.

As soon as I stepped out of the van, we were swamped by thousands, if not millions, of midges. I have never seen anything like it in my life! But, when we were away from the water, the midges were not as bad – we just had to use a lot of bug spray!

7) What is the cheapest time of year to visit Scotland?

The best times to visit Scotland on a budget will be during shoulder seasons (spring and autumn).

Straight after Christmas (January and Feburary time) are some of the cheapest and quietest months in Scotland – however, expect freezing cold temperatures, thick snow and a lot of rain!

8) What are the rainiest months in Scotland?

You can expect rain all year round in Scotland. However, the wettest months are from November to January.

9)  Do I need a car to visit  Scotland?

If you’re visiting Scotland and are short on time, I strongly recommend hiring a car.  If you’re looking to hire a car in Scotland, we rent our cars from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world!  ➡  You can check out the  prices for car hire  in the UK now!

8)  Do I need a SIM card to visit Scotland? 

If you’re not from the UK, it’s worth  downloading an eSIM  on your phone to ensure you can use it for directions and avoid roaming charges as soon as you arrive. 

ESIMs  are easy to download and ready to use within a few minutes of purchasing! Plus, there are  eSIMs  available for the entire continent of Europe, so there’s no longer a need to hunt down free Wifi! ➡  You can check out the prices and packages for  eSIMs here!

A 7-Day Scotland Road Trip: In a Nutshell

If you’re looking for an epic road trip adventure, I highly recommend a 7 day Scotland road trip.

The scenery is stunning and there’s so much to see and do. Just make sure you give yourself enough time – it would be a shame to rush through this beautiful country!

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Have you been on a road trip in Scotland? What was your favourite part? Let me know on Instagram – I’d love to hear from you!

Happy travelling!

Other Scotland posts:

• 13 BEST Things to do in Aviemore (Updated Guide!)

MEET THE AUTHOR!

Hi! I'm Jennie! As a part-time travel blogger based in London, I'm using my 10+ years of travel expertise to encourage & inspire you to step out of your comfort zone through sustainable, mindful and purposeful travel.

If I'm not writing, I'm either reading, drinking coffee or taking a wild swim (all at the same time if I'm feeling impressive).

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Home » Europe » Best Road Trips in Scottish Highlands (Insider Guide for 2024)

Best Road Trips in Scottish Highlands (Insider Guide for 2024)

Do you like whisky and castles? Who doesn’t! There’s one place in the world where you can have your fill of both. A road trip to the Scottish Highlands will treat you to both these things and much more. This untamed wilderness boasts stunning lakes, wide-open beaches, and some of the UK’s highest peaks.

There’s only one problem: with so many beautiful places, how do you decide where to visit first? And how do you squeeze in time to relax as well?! Let us help you out.

This comprehensive guide to road trips in the Scottish Highlands will help you decide where to go on your next trip. It’s up to you to choose between the North Coast 500, the Isle of Skye Loop, or the Highland and Deeside tourist trails. One thing is for sure: they’re all absolutely spectacular!

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Why Road Trip in the Scottish Highlands?

Scottish highlands road trip route 1: north coast 500, scottish highlands road trip route 2: isle of skye loop, scottish highlands road trip route 3: deeside tourist route, scottish highlands road trip route 4: highland tourist route, driving in the scottish highlands, what to pack for a road trip in scottish highlands, final thoughts on the best road trips in the scottish highlands.

If you’re not already convinced, let us twist your arm. There are loads of reasons to plan a road trip to Scotland, but let’s begin with the top five.

• Beautiful Landscapes:  Magical Munros (mountains over 3,000 feet in height), sandy beaches to yourself, and crystal-clear glassy lakes mean your eyes will be glued to the window for the duration of your trip.
• Castles:  Scotland’s castles come in a range of shapes and sizes. Some are ruins; others look like they’ve come straight out of a fairytale. Stopping off at one (or six) is a great way to learn about the country’s history.
• Whisky: Let us remind you that this is for the end of the day when you’re cosy in front of the fire. Ending a day of driving with a wee dram isn’t hard since there are 47 distilleries you can stop off at.
• Mythical Monsters:  It’s not only the Loch Ness Monster that you should be looking out for on your road trip: Skye’s Fairies, the Old Man of Storr, the Kelpies, and wild haggis on the hills are just some of the folkloric creatures that add another layer of mystery to this part of the world.
• The public transport isn’t that great:  While we’d prefer to stick with wholly positive reasons, it’s an unavoidable fact that up here, you need your own transport. You can take a tour from Edinburgh or Glasgow, but why sacrifice your FREEDOM!

If you’re not convinced yet, you’re never going to be. However, we’re pretty sure you’re unfurling your map (or looking at Google) and plotting the points of your road trip in the Scottish Highlands. However, we need to get some admin out of the way first.

North Coast 500 – 5-7 days

Isle of skye loop – 3-5 days, deeside tourist route – 2-3 days, highland tourist route – 3 days.

With a Scottish Highlands City Pass , you can experience the best of Scottish Highlands at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

• From: Inverness
• To: Loch Ness
• Total Distance: 500 miles/800km
• Days: 5 – 7
• Top Road Trips Stops: Culloden Battlefield, RSPB Scotland Dunnet Head Nature Reserve, Smoo Cave, more than 40 whisky distilleries

Known as Scotland’s Route 66, The North Coast 500 is the ultimate way to experience the rugged Scottish Highland Coastline. It’s said to be one of the best coastal routes in the world, and you’ll take in stunning beaches and old castles. For the adventurers, you can park up and enjoy walks or mountain biking trails, too! This epic almost circular route will end in one of the most popular destinations in Scotland – Loch Ness!

Road Trip Highlights:

• John o’Groats
• Dunnet Head (the most northerly point in the UK)

Day 1: Inverness to Wick (2 hours)

Leave Inverness by heading north over the Moray Firth onto the Black Isle. For an unusual Pagan site, stop off at Clootie Well. People have draped rags for years here, and it’s an eerie experience! Then, stop off at Glen Ord Distillery (one of the oldest in Scotland) before heading north past Dunrobin Castle and onto your stop for the evening – Wick. The former Viking settlement is the largest town in the far north of Scotland’s mainland.

• Best Things to Do: Glen Ord Distillery, Dunrobin Castle, Hill o’Many Stanes
• Where to Eat: Bord de L’eau (Wick)
• Where to Stay: The Old Mission Hall , Clayquoy Lodge

Day 2: Wick to Strathy Bay via John o’Groats and Dunnet Head (1 hour 20 minutes)

You’ll be hitting the most northeasterly and northern points of the UK on day 2 and 3. On a bracing walk from John O’Groats to Duncansby Head, you’ll see cute puffins! Stop off on your way to Dunnet Head to visit the Castle of Mey. The beautiful castle was once a royal residence! If you missed the puffins at Duncansby Head, you’ll have another chance at the seabird centre at Dunnet Head. After food in Thurso, continue to Strathy Bay.

• Best Things to Do: Duncansby Head, Castle of Mey, Dunnet Head Seabird Centre
• Where to Eat: The Cabin at John o’Groats, Captain Galley’s Seafood Restaurant (Scrabster).
• Where to Stay: The Burrow Tiny House , Eco Wildlife Lodge , The Hideaway Cabin

Day 3 and 4: Strathy Bay to Torridon via Smoo Cave and Ullapool (4.5 hours)

Day 3 will allow you to take in some of the most astounding and beautiful coastal features in the Scottish Highlands. First up, it’s Smoo Cave, the largest coastal cave in the UK. Explore that from the village of Durness. If that doesn’t impress you, we’re sure the pink dunes of Sandwood Bay will do the trick! Aim for an overnight stay in the picturesque town of Ullapool, where you can enjoy walks along the coast and Lochbroom on day 4. Then it’s on to Torridon.

• Best Things to Do: Smoo Cave, Sandwood Bay, Lochbroom in Ullapool
• Where to Eat: Smoo Cave Hotel, Seafood Shack and Ceilidh Place (Ullapool), Applecross Inn (Torridon)
• Where to Stay: Ullapool Youth Hostel, Tranquil Highland Retreat, Traditional Highland Seaside Cottage, Torridon

Day 5: Torridon to Loch Ness (2 hours)

The last day will take you from Torridon to Loch Ness. This drive can be done in one go, and the real star today is the road. Once you get to Loch Ness, there’s no shortage of things to do. Park up and hike the Meall Fur-mhonaidh – the highest hill in the area. It’s got awesome views of the loch and is wonderful for a picnic. End your North Coast 500 Roadtrip with an evening cruise on Loch Ness. You might even spot Nessie!

• Best Things to Do: Walk/hike around Loch Ness, try to spot the Loch Ness monster, recover from days of driving by the pretty Fort Augustus Canal.
• Where to Eat: Canalside Fish & Chip Shop, The Lock Inn (Fort Augustus), The Loch Ness Inn (Drumnadrochit)
• Where to Stay: Lochside Hostel, Loch Ness Hideaway , Multiple camping sites including Loch Ness Bay Camping.

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• From: Broadford
• To: Broadford/Carbost/Portree
• Total Distance: 131 miles/212km
• Days: 3 – 5
• Top Road Trips Stops: Portree, Uig Dunvegan, Talisker Bay

One of the most beautiful islands in Scotland, a road trip is an ideal way to see Skye. Thankfully, it’s not that big; with just an hour or two’s driving a day, you’ll have plenty of time to see all there is to offer. Stops you can’t miss are a dip in the mystical fairy pools and Portree’s cute harbour. More adventurous travellers can hike the Old Man of Storr on the Trotternish Ridge. Mountain bikers can draw inspiration for Danny MacAskill’s The Ridge, too… if they’re feeling brave, that is!

• Old Man of Storr
• Dunvegan Castle
• Fairy Pools
• Talisker Whisky Distillery

Day 1: Broadford to Staffin (1 hour)

Starting in Broadford, head straight to the largest town on Skye – Portree. Spend a couple of hours exploring the colourful harbour and getting souvenirs/having a bite to eat. If that’s not your thing, head straight out towards the Quiraing. The rock formations here are part of an ancient landslip. On the way, stop at the Old Man of Storr – a huge rock column in the Trotternish Ridge. Check out the dinosaur footprints on Staffin beach before heading back to Portree for the widest choice of accommodation.

• Best Things to Do: Shops and cafes in Portree, climb the Old Man of Storr, Staffin Bay dinosaur footprints.
• Where to Eat:  Sea Breezes Restaurant, Scorrybreac Restaurant
• Where to Stay: Portree Independent Hostel , Portree Trundle Truck ,  Tigh Quirang.

Day 2: Portree to Dunvegan via Duntulm and Uig

After breakfast at one of the many lovely cafes in Portree, take another look at the Trotternish Ridge and Quirang on your way up to Duntulm. This road is a little narrower, and there are some passing places, but it’s worth that for the views you get on your way to Uig. Stop for the views over Uig Bay and maybe get a coffee at the Galley Cafe. After a few instagrammable shots, continue to Dunvegan Castle. Leave yourself time to explore the castle and gardens before finding your evening meal and bed for the night!

• Best Things to Do: Take in the views from Uig Bay, Dunvegan Castle
• Where to Eat: Stein Inn, The Old School Restaurant, Dunvegan Prawn and Mussel Bar
• Where to Stay: Spinning Wheel Pod , The Flat at the Old School

Day 3: Dunvegan to Broadford

The third day of your road trip in the Scottish Highland’s largest island, Skye, brings you to more stunning natural beauty. Head for Talisker Bay from Dunvegan – but be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the Fairy Pools. These stunning green pools are one of the best places for wild swimming in the UK; remember to pack your swimsuit. Dry off with something to eat at the Oyster Shed overlooking Talisker Bay before heading down to the distillery for a tour. If you want a few drams of whisky, park up and find your accommodation before the distillery. Alternatively, head back to Broadford or Portree.

• Best Things to Do: Talisker Distillery, Skye Fairy Pools
• Where to Eat: The Oyster Shed (Talisker Bay)
• Where to Stay: Skyewalker Hostel , Broadford Backpackers Hostel,  Red Mountain Cottage

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• From: Perth
• To: Aberdeen
• Total Distance: 108 miles/174km
• Days: 2 – 3
• Top Road Trips Stops: Braemar, Cairngorms National Park, Drum Castle

The Deeside Tourist Route can be done in as little as two days, but give yourself a little longer if you want to truly appreciate the beauty of the Cairngorms National Park. Starting and ending in two of Scotland’s cities, you’ll have time to appreciate not only natural beauty on the trip, but also stop off at some excellent places to eat and drink.

If you’re travelling this way in winter, you could even enjoy skiing and snowboarding. But beware, the roads can be treacherous!

• Scone Palace
• Glenshee Ski Centre
• Cairngorms National Park
• Muir of Dinnet Nature Reserve
• Drum Castle

Day 1: Perth to Braemar (1.25 hours)

Your first stop comes just seven minutes after leaving Perth city centre. Scone Palace is one of the finest Georgian Gothic style castles in the United Kingdom, and it has an important place in Scottish Royal History. Tour the staterooms and get lost in the maze before jumping back in your car. Then, it’s on to Braemar. While today is short on travelling, Braemar is an excellent base for seeing the Cairngorms National Park. If you’ve a few days, check out the Strathspey Railway, and Cairngorm centres for reindeer and sleddogs!

• Best Things to Do: Scone Palace, CairnGorm Mountain Railway, Balmoral Castle, Glenshee Ski Centre (in winter)
• Where to Eat: The Bothy, Braemar Lodge
• Where to Stay: Ballater Hostel , Converted Braemar Church , Braemar Cabins

Day 2: Braemar to Aberdeen

Depending on how long you stay in Braemar, this could be day 2, 3, or 4 of your trip. Either way, you won’t want to miss these next stops off your Scottish Highlands road trip itinerary. The first stop is the Muir of Dinnet. This is a nature reserve inside Cairngorms National Park. As well as the chance to spot highland wildlife, there’s a glacial pothole called Burn O’Vat here, where Scottish outlaws used to hide from the law. If you’ve not spent all day at the nature reserve, stop off at Drum Castle on your way to your final stop on the trip: Aberdeen!

If you have time left over, consider heading 25 minutes south of Aberdeen the following day for the spectacular cliffside Dunnottar Castle.

• Best Things to Do: Muir of Dinnet Nature Reserve, Drum Castle
• Where to Eat: Number One Community Cafe (Banchory), Books and Beans and Monkfish Cafe (Aberdeen)
• Where to Stay: Aberdeen Youth Hostel , Charming Flat with Stunning Sea Views, Modern City Centre Apartment.
• From: Aberdeen
• To: Inverness
• Total Distance: 116miles/187km
• Days: 3 days
• Top Road Trips Stops: Pitfichie Forest, Glenlivet Distillery, Cawdor Castle, Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre

Our last Scottish Highlands road trip idea encompasses everything visitors come to Scotland for. As well as the stunning views you’ll get as you trundle along, there are plenty of opportunities for adventures. Whether that’s mountain biking through a forest, hitting up ancient castles, or enjoying a spot of whisky, this is the road trip for you – and it can be done in as little as two to three days. But hey, if you take longer to do it, who are we to judge?!

• Pitfitchie Forest
• The Lecht 2090
• Glenlivet Distillery
• Cawdor Castle
• Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre

Day 1: Aberdeen to Pitfichie Forest (0.75 hours)

The first part of this road trip is a short one, but you’re going to be spending a lot of time at Pitfichie – especially if you’re an outdoor enthusiast! There are trails throughout the forest. The popular Cairn William Trail is a loop of almost 12 miles where you can really enjoy the Scottish countryside. There are several mountain biking tracks crisscrossing the park, including the scarily named Devil’s Staircase. This is a popular place for mountain biking championships. We figured after such a busy and tiring day here, you’d like somewhere comfy and cosy to stay before the next leg of your Scottish Highlands road trip! If you’d prefer an indoor attraction, visit Castle Fraser Garden & Estate instead.

• Best Things to Do: Tackle the mountain biking trails or enjoy a tranquil but challenging walk on the trails of Pitfichie Forest. Castle Fraser.
• Where to Eat: Grant Arms Cafe B&B, Monymusk
• Where to Stay: Relaxing Residence , Netherton Farm Lodge

Day 2: Pitfichie Forest to Grantown via Corgarff and Glenlivet (1.5 hours)

Your legs might still be hurting after your day in Pitfichie, so day two is a little more chilled out. Carry on west into the Cairngorms National Park and stop at Corgarff Castle. It may not be the grandest castle in Scotland, but this fortified farmhouse has a rich history. The views are enough to draw you here, though! After a few shots fit for Insta, jump back in the car and head to the Glenlivet Distillery. Choose to stay here or carry on to Grantown – depending on if you’ve had a drink or not. If you arrive in Grantown early enough, explore local art and history at the town museum.

If you want to continue in a similar vein to day one, head to the Lecht 2090 instead. This offers snow sports in winter and epic mountain biking in summer.

• Best Things to Do: Corgarff Castle, Glenlivet Distillery, The Lecht 2090 (for outdoor enthusiasts)
• Where to Eat: The Croft Inn (Ballindalloch), The Wee Puffin (Grantown).
• Where to Stay:   Stag Shed Bunkhouse (Glenlivet), Charming Quaint Cottage (Grantown)

Day 3: Grantown to Inverness (0.75 hours)

Day three is light on the driving again. While day one allowed you to explore the natural beauty of the highlands and day two mixed that with culture and history, day three is the day that history buffs have been waiting for. Leave Grantown and head to Cawdor Castle, an excellent example of a turreted tower. It’s more than 600 years old and shares its name with the castle in Macbeth.

Park up here to take advantage of the surrounding nature trails. Don’t spend too long though, because there’s one more stop before your trip ends in Inverness. That’s Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre. This is where the last battle took place in the UK. Not to be missed!

• Best Things to Do:  Cawdor Castle, Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre.
• Where to Eat:  Cawdor Tavern (Cawdor) Curry Hoose (Culloden), Rocpool, Fig & Thistle (both Inverness)
• Where to Stay:  Bazpackers Hostel , Cottage by Culloden Battlefield ,  Clava Cairns Tiny Eco House

Unless you already live in the UK, the best way to see the Scottish Highlands is by renting a car. The roads are mostly quite good in the Highlands, but they can be a little narrow. Pick a car (or van/motorhome) that you feel confident driving on twisty and technical roads.

The good thing about driving up here is that roads are rarely crowded; sometimes you can go for hours without seeing anyone else. As the roads are quite fun to drive on, be aware of motorbikes. Having some sort of breakdown cover is a good idea too, as one of our writers found out on their way to Skye!

Renting a Vehicle in the Scottish Highlands

Renting a vehicle is easy in Scotland’s cities. If there’s a group of you, splitting the cost makes it quite affordable. Rental companies in the UK are generally reliable, but there are a few things you should know before you arrange to pick up your car.

• Age Surcharge:  While you can drive from the age of 17 in the UK, some rental companies have a minimum age limit of 22. For many companies, driver surcharges for under 25s are around £30 – £40 per day.
• Bond/Deposit:  You’ll be expected to pay a deposit to drive away. It can be anything from £200 – £500. You’ll get it back if the car’s returned in the same condition it left in, so make sure you note any scuffs or scratches and bring them to the attention of the company.
• Additional Driver Charge:  Want to split the driving? Companies will offer you the option of an additional driver. This can start from around £10 per day, company dependent.
• Insurance:  Even the most basic cover sold from a rental company is going to cost you an arm and a leg, and you can’t drive off the forecourt without it. Instead of being ripped off, check out RentalCover.com . They can cover your road trip in Scotland, giving you peace of mind without taking a huge chunk out of your budget.

Don’t have a car? Well, we’re going to have to sort that out! Use rentalcars.com to find the best deals on the web and save heaps of cash!

Road Rules in Scottish Highlands

The UK is one of four countries in Europe that drives on the left. The others are Cyprus, Iceland, and Ireland. Don’t forget to give way to traffic coming from the right at roundabouts!

Scotland is the strictest part of the UK when it comes to drink-driving laws. The legal limit of alcohol is 50mg per 100ml of blood. However, we’d suggest you play it safe and stay away from alcohol unless you’ve finished driving for the day.

Other things to note – if you’re travelling with children, they’ll need a booster seat if they’re under 1.35m. Also, using your mobile phone is illegal and can leave you with a £200 on the spot fine. UK drivers will get six points on their license, too.

Now that we’ve got you clued up on the boring bits, we’re at the part you’ve been waiting for: let’s check out four of the best Scottish Highland road trip ideas!

Insurance in Scottish Highlands

All cars on UK roads need at least 3rd party insurance cover. However, this is the bare minimum, and it covers fire and theft. Hopefully, you won’t get into a collision, but it’s best to prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Look at full protection from RentalCover.com, which provides not only fully comprehensive insurance but also roadside assistance.

As well as insurance requirements, you’ll need to have your vehicle registration and/or ownership documents with you during your trip.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

If you’re not careful, Scottish Highlands’s wilderness will smack ya to next Monday.  There are six road trip essentials I never go traveling without:

1. First Aid Kit : Even if you don’t plan on doing anything extreme on your trip, like hiking, climbing, or other extreme sports, you never know what could happen. You could cut yourself while cooking, smash a finger in a car door, or burn yourself on a hot radiator. A first aid kit will be able to handle most of these minor situations.

2. Aux Cord : One of the only things to do on a long car ride by yourself is to listen to music or a podcast. Since most people use their phones as an MP3 player these days, an auxillary cord is crucial to preserving your sanity. If there is no auxiliary port in your car, buy a radio transceiver or use a portable speaker.

3. Phone mount :  It’s very dangerous to be looking down at your phone while driving. If you need to have access to your phone, for maps and what-not, buy a mount for it. This way, you can keep your eyes on the road and your phone won’t be far from your field of view.

4. Headtorch : Every backpacker should have a head torch! A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must. Currently, I’m using the Petzl Actik Core rechargeable headlamp – an awesome piece of kit! Because it’s USB chargeable I never have to buy earth polluting batteries.

5. Roadside Emergency Kit : Just like you never know what could happen to yourself , one never knows what can happen to their car . A vehicle can mysteriously fail, break, run into a ditch; all that and then some. Most emergency kit include a pair of jumper cables, a tow rope, a set of essential tools, and ties.

6. Toiletry Bag : I always travel with a hanging toiletry bag as it’s a super-efficient way to organise your bathroom stuff. Well worth having, whether you are hanging it from a tree whilst camping, or a hook in a wall, it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

For plenty more inspiration on what to pack, check out my full road trip packing list.

Now that we’ve covered the best road trips in the Scottish Highlands, we guess you’re already grabbing your car keys or looking up rental sites.

Driving in the Scottish Highlands really opens up one of the most beautiful parts of Europe. You’ll see from above that you don’t even need to do a long trip to see a range of different landscapes. How many places allow you to walk along a deserted beach and scale a Munro the following day?!

Whichever road trip you choose, there’s nothing quite like a road trip in the Scottish Highlands. Get ready to be swept off your feet!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sophie Steinebach

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Scenic road trips in Scotland

By Kimberly Grant

With thousands of miles of dramatic coastline, peaceful countryside, remote islands and high mountain roads, Scotland offers some of the most spectacular road trips in Europe . Dozens of magnificent beaches edge otherworldly landscapes in the Outer Hebrides, while Mull’s rugged coast is dotted with sheltered bays and harbour towns known for excellent seafood. On the mainland, the Heart 200 route rolls through Big Tree Country and the Snow Roads goes over the highest public road in Britain and deep into the Cairngorms National Park. These are some of the most scenic road trips in Scotland, each passing incredible sites and rest stops. And while you can’t appreciate all of Scotland’s beauty in a single hit, each visit provides a truly unique experience – so with every season, you’ll want to come back and drive them all over again.

The Snow Roads, Cairngorms

This 90-mile scenic route winds through the wild landscape in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. The road heads north from Cateran Country in Perthshire before traversing the highest public road in Britain, the Cairnwell Pass in Glenshee. The area is popular with skiers and climbers as it has some of the country’s highest peaks. Further north, Braemar village in Royal Deeside has lovely riverside walks and is home to the richly decorated and art-filled The Fife Arms . The road follows the River Dee east past several castles and wildlife-rich nature reserves before heading north again through ever-changing countryside towards Speyside, an area scattered with world-famous whisky distilleries.

South West Coastal 300

With stunning scenery, rolling hills and forests and dozens of historic buildings, the South West Coastal 300 is a 300-mile circular route along quiet country roads. Nature lovers can explore sandy bays, protected reserves and Scotland’s most exotic garden, Logan Botanic Garden , which is packed full of palms and tree ferns. The route also passes Galloway Forest Park, home to many picturesque walking and cycling trails and the UK ’s first Dark Sky Park and observatory, where keen stargazers can enjoy the night skies. For history buffs, there are plenty of castles, charming coastal villages and stately homes such as Dumfries House to book for the night.

Outer Hebrides

Not an official route, but the vast and varied landscapes and stunning coastal scenery make the western isles perfect for road and cycling trips. Starting at the Butt of Lewis in the north, drive south along the west coast, stopping to explore or stay in a traditional blackhouse village before continuing to the rocky moonscape of Harris. Visit Luskentyre bay’s miles of sweeping sands and turquoise waters backed by mountains. Further south lie the Uists, which, with hundreds of freshwater lochans, seem more water than land. At the end of the chain of islands is Barra and the Barra Isles, accessible by ferry. Spot planes landing on the beach at Barra Airport and drive over the causeway to Vatersay for more machair-backed dunes and pristine beaches.

Heart 200, Perthshire

Spanning Perthshire, Stirling and Scotland’s two national parks, this 200-mile circular route is split into six sections covering some of the country’s top scenery. Highlights include the Highland North, which passes Loch Tay and Loch Tummel (stay at the local inn for lovely views) and the charming conservation village of Fortingall. From here, take a detour into Glen Lyon, described by Sir Walter Scott as the ‘longest, loneliest and loveliest glen in Scotland’, which is particularly appealing in autumn. The Riverside East section includes an area popular for its riverside and forest walks such as the Hermitage, which follows the River Braan through an impressive stand of Douglas firs. Stop overnight just down the road in the twin villages of Dunkeld and Birnam – home to bakeries, pubs and the Scottish Deli.

Road to the Isles, Lochaber

The A830 road begins in the shadow of Ben Nevis and passes through spectacular highland scenery. This drive takes in the beautiful western coastline overlooking the Small Isles and Skye . After heading west along Loch Eil, the road winds through Glenfinnan, past its famed viaduct and picturesque Loch Shiel, into an area of rugged terrain known as the Rough Bounds. Eventually, the drive reaches a series of silvery-white beaches, pretty villages and wild Loch Morar. The area has plenty of campsites and holiday cottages and is popular with kayakers and wild swimmers who take to the calm sea, weaving between rocky outcrops and swimming in the bays.

North Coast 500

This popular 516-mile route takes you on a round trip through the most dramatic coastal and mountain scenery in the northern highlands. On the east coast, discover the fairy-tale Dunrobin castle and the windy fishing port of Helmsdale. Further north in Caithness, the vast expanses of peat bogs and moorlands known as the Flow Country are framed by spectacular cliffs and the pointed sea stacks at Duncansby Head. To the north west, there are isolated white beaches and smart stopovers such as Lundies House . As you drive further south anti-clockwise, the route winds past the distinctive mountains of Assynt and on towards Bealach na Bà – a notorious single-track mountain road with hairpin bends and far-reaching views of the Applecross peninsula.

The A82, West Highlands

The A82 road connects the central belt with the western Highlands , passing several spectacular sites along the way. Starting in Glasgow ’s city centre, the route heads north along the east bank of Loch Lomond and past the Arrochar Alps, which include the distinctively shaped Cobbler. Continuing north, the road passes through the stark Rannoch Moor before entering the famous Glen Coe. From here you can explore Glen Etive, which is a wonderful pit stop for wild swimming. The road passes through Fort William and wraps around Ben Nevis before continuing north past several lochs (including Loch Ness) and ending in Inverness.

Isle of Mull

Slightly less busy than Skye but with just as spectacular scenery, Mull is perfect for those seeking an island adventure. To get there, take a car ferry from Oban or Ardnamurchan before making your way along the rugged coastline. Start in the colourful harbour town of Tobermory, sampling seafood and exploring the local shops. Driving west from here, pass the Isle of Mull Cheese farm and café and the well-situated Glengorm Castle , which has guest rooms. Further along the coast, white beaches, cliffs, scattered isles including Staffa and its majestic Fingal’s cave are overlooked by Ben More, Mull’s highest mountain. South of here, a road leads west to more bays such as Fidden and the peaceful island of Iona.

Like this? Now read:

9 of the best road trips in the UK and Ireland

The best road trips in Ireland

The best places to visit in Scotland

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16 epic road trips in scotland: the most scenic drives in scotland.

Scotland is a dream destination for road trips. Scenic drives on winding roads lead through epic mountain landscapes and lush valleys, along fast-flowing rivers and beautiful coastlines, past waterfalls and castle ruins. A road trip is a perfect way to explore everything Scotland has to offer. Here are 16 ideas for epic road trips in Scotland including the most scenic drives in the country.

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

Apart from a few big motorways in southern and central Scotland, the majority of Scottish roads are scenic country roads. They hug the coastlines, connect beautiful villages and small towns and lead through stunning mountain scenery. 

Scotland from the roadside is a view you don’t want to miss!

A road trip is a perfect way to experience Scotland’s natural beauty and explore off the beaten path. 

With the help of some of Scotland’s leading travel bloggers, I put together a list of beautiful driving routes all over Scotland. From famous road trip loops to lesser-known hidden gems – read on for 16 epic ideas for scenic road trips in Scotland .

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

Looks like you’re planning a road trip through Scotland – go you! If you’re in the early stages you might find my guide to planning a trip to Scotland super useful. It contains everything you should know about travelling in Scotland: when to go, the best transport options, how to find accommodation, tips for your itineraries and more. And if you sign up for my FREE Scotland Trip Planning Checklist , you can make sure you don’t forget anything important. Find out how to choose the best Scotland itinerary for you! And finally, make sure you also read my practical guide to hiring a car in Scotland and review my top driving tips for Scottish roads !

Table of Contents

Scenic Road Trips in Scotland

South West Coastal 300

Distance: 300+ miles Start / End Point: Ayr Duration: min. 3-4 days As featured in my South Scotland itinerary

The south of Scotland might just be our best-kept secret – but I’m not one to keep those kinds of hidden gems from you. The South West Coastal 300 route is a mouthful, but also an incredibly varied self-drive route in Scotland.

Starting from the coastal town of Ayr, head south and inland to spend some time in the Galloway Hills and Forest Park – I recommend the area around Glentrool and Loch Trool to experience the local Biosphere and hike the local mountain range. 

Then head back north to Dalmellington for a night of stargazing at the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory. 

Continue with a visit to Drumlanrig Castle – an Outlander location to add to your itinerary – and explore the small towns of Sanquhar, Moffat and Dumfries.

The second half of the SWC300 hugs the coastline. Stop in the colourful artist village Kirkcudbright and browse the bookshops in Scotland’s National Book Town, Wigtown.

If you can, spend an extra day around Stranraer and Portpatrick to discover the Mull of Galloway – Scotland’s southernmost point – and Logan Botanic Garden.

A highlight on the road back north to Ayr is the stunning palace of Culzean Castle with its breathtaking views across the water to the Isle of Arran.

You might also like: My Top 20 Places to Visit in Scotland

The A82: From Glasgow to Inverness

Distance: 170 miles Start / End Point: Glasgow / Inverness Duration: min. 2-4 days As featured in my Best of Scotland itinerary

The A82 is one of my favourite roads to drive in Scotland. Most people who plan a road trip in the Scottish Highlands will find themselves on this road eventually. Yet they usually don’t spend nearly enough time on it to really appreciate everything it has to offer. 

Running from Glasgow to Fort William and on to Inverness, the A82 leads to and past some of the most iconic places in the Scottish Highlands.

Even though you could drive the entire route in 4-5 hours, I recommend spending at least 2 days on the route including an overnight stop around Glencoe or Fort William. There are many things to do in Glencoe !

However you could easily spend more time along this route and explore more in-depth, make time for detours or stop of scenic hikes.

Start early in Glasgow to beat the crowds to Loch Lomond and have Scotland’s largest loch all to yourself. Heading north, stop by the Falls of Falloch and Loch Tulla before you drive through one of Scotland’s wildest regions: Rannoch Moor.

From there it is only a stone’s throw to Glencoe – a must on every Scotland itinerary – and the scenic shores of Loch Linnhe. All around you, there are high mountain peaks, that offer hiking trails on all levels. 

After a night in Fort William – or more, there are many things to do in Fort William – continue your drive north. Stop for a gondola ride and leisurely stroll at the Nevis Range, drive down the narrow Great Glen towards Loch Ness. Stop in Fort Augustus for lunch and spend the afternoon exploring Urquhart Castle, going on a loch cruise and looking for Nessie.

The route ends in Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands and great starting point for a drive around the North Coast 500, the Aberdeenshire Coastal Path, or back down to the Cairngorms National Park.

You might also like: The most scenic stops between Glasgow and Fort William

A Road Trip on the Isle of Bute

by Ana from Lovely Scotland

Distance: 120 miles Start / End Point: Glasgow Duration:  1+ day

Every road trip to an isle starts with a ferry trip! So first things first: drive from Glasgow to Wemyss Bay and get aboard the Calmac ferry to Rothesay to let your adventure begin. You will love the views of the Southern Highlands and many islands in the Firth of Clyde during the brief sailing.

Even if the Isle of Bute is a small island there is plenty to do and to see there. My best advice, if you only can spend one day in this location, is to start with a visit to Rothesay Castle in the town centre. 

Then take the quiet road B881 going south until you get to Garrochty. Here, St Blane’s Church, Dunagoil Fort, the mythical Blackpark Stone Circle and a hundred fluffy sheep are waiting for you.

Nexdrive back north on the A884, a coastal road with stunning views over to the Isle of Arran, the Kintyre peninsula and the Kyles of Bute. I strongly recommend you to make a stop on Scalpsie Bay and end your road trip on Bute gazing at the sunset on Ettrick Bay. 

If you have a few extra days to spend on the Isle of Bute, make sure you also visit Mount Stewart, hike to a hidden WWII bunker with stunning views near Rhubodach and follow the West Island Way to Glencallum Bay.

You might also like: Which Scottish Isles to visit and why

Down the Kintyre Peninsula

Distance: 80 miles Start / End Point: Tarbert Duration: 1-4 days

Kintyre is not on many road trip itineraries for Scotland, because this finger-shaped peninsula on the west coast is a little bit out of the way. However, a road trip to the Kintyre peninsula is 100% worth it!

Begin in Tarbert, a colourful village at the top of Kintyre. Only a narrow strip of land, just over 1 mile wide, connects the peninsula to the rest of Argyll – a fact that gave it its nickname: “Scotland’s only mainland island”.

After a walk up to the ruins of Tarbert Castle view views of the bay and the Kyles of Bute in the distance, continue south on the road towards Campbeltown (A83). Stop at the Ballochroy Standing Stones and hop across to the Isle of Gigha from Tayinloan. 

Beaches, gardens and bays with crystal clear waters are waiting for you. The tiny island is owned by a community trust and is a great destination for an active family-holiday off the beaten track. 

I recommend spending at least one full day and a night on the island. If you don’t want to bring your car, you can also hire bicycles near the ferry terminal on Gigha.

Back on Kintyre, continue for a hearty lunch at Glenbarr Stores & Cafe, take in the beaches at Westport and Machrihanish and explore the Mull of Kintyre – made famous by no other than Paul McCartney.

Campbeltown makes for a great stopover to visit a whisky distillery and go for a stroll along the waterfront. Next, take the small country road leading north on the west side of Kintyre (B842). 

Visit one beach after the other, spot public art and ruined castles, stop for afternoon tea at the Drumfearne Tearooms or stay overnight near Carradale Bay. 

The final section of this drive leads along a narrow and winding single-track road with stunning views of the northern peaks on the Isle of Arran and bring you back to Kennacraig and Tarbert.

The Road to the Isles (A830)

by Nicola from Funky Ellas Travel

Distance: 45 miles Start / End Point: Fort William / Mallaig Duration: 1+ day As featured in my Best of Scotland itinerary

Beginning at the foot of Ben Nevis the so-called Road to the Isles winds its way west from the mountains towards Mallaig by the sea. Along the way, it takes in some of the most stunning scenery Scotland has to offer. 

Photo opportunities present themselves around almost every corner. Atmospheric lochs, majestic mountains and stunning beaches make this section of road one of my all time favourites.

Driving along the banks of Loch Eil you can’t help but gasp at the sparkling water overlooked by the heather covered hills. Glenfinnan, with the famous viaduct used in the Harry Potter films and the monument at the head of Loch Shiel, is a great stop. Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard at the start of the Jacobite Rising in the exact spot. If you can squeeze in a little hike up higher the views over the loch are outstanding – you might even spot the Jacobite Steam Train crossing the viaduct.

As you drive on and turn the corner, the ocean opens up in front of you and you get your first glimpse of the Small Isles, Eigg, Muck and Rum . 

This is where the road changes, as you emerge from the hills and the jurassic-like mountainous landscape out into the open coastal landscape. From the stunning white sand beaches to the turquoise waters of the west coast, it is like a shock to the system. 

If you find the beaches of Morar and Arisaig on a nice sunny day you are in for a real treat.

From Mallaig, either return to Fort William, drive south towards Ardnamurchan and Mull or take the car ferry over to the Isle of Skye.

Listen to ‘Road to the Isles’ – an episode about the drive from Fort William to Mallaig on my Scotland podcast!

Ardnamurchan Peninsula: From Mallaig to Tobermory

by Kate from Love from Scotland

Distance: 55 miles Start / End Point: Mallaig / Tobermory, Isle of Mull Duration: 1-2 days As features in my Hidden West Coast itinerary

Scotland’s west coast is a  road tripper’s dream , however, the best section – if you ask me – is not on the North Coast 500. Instead, drive from Mallaig across the Ardnamurchan peninsula and on to the Isle of Mull. 

Drive through the volcanic landscape of this remote peninsula. Visit white sands that challenge the Caribbean and indulge in those stunning west coast sunsets!

Ardnamurchan has castles, coos and miles of sea lochs to discover and the most westerly point of mainland UK, which is marked by the iconic Ardnamurchan lighthouse.

Sanna Bay is a breathtaking beach and the ruins of Tioram Castle challenges every other castle for the most dramatic in Scotland! Before you continue, swing by Ardnamurchan Distillery for a dram or two.

From Ardnamurchan jump on the Kilchoan Ferry to Tobermory for a slice of island life and continue exploring the Isle of Mull.

Note that many roads on the West Highland Peninsulas are single-track roads – here are some tips for how to drive on them !

Use my Ardnamurchan Guide to plan your trip!

A Road Trip on the Isle of Mull

Distance: 45 miles Start / End Point: Toberymory / Craignure, Isle of Mull Duration: 1-3 days As featured in my Hidden West Coast itinerary

The Isle of Mull is one of my favourite islands in Scotland, because it has everything the entire country has to offer, on such a small space: quaint fishing towns, high mountains, fascinating wildlife, white sandy beaches, a castle and even a forest! 

Instead of taking the direct road from Tobermory to Craignure, I recommend going the long way and drive a loop around the north-west of the island (B8073).

After cutting through the hills behind Tobermory, you will soon see the sea again. Your first stop is Calgary Bay, a sheltered beach with endless white sands and gorgeous views out to the ocean. 

From the beach make your way south towards Kilninian. Being a single track road, this route forces you to slow down, but gives you also plenty of opportunities to enjoy the views across to the Treshnish Islands, Gometra and Ulva. 

After you’ve passed Eas Fors Waterfall, take a break to explore the Isle of Ulva – which is worth an entire day of exploring it itself. Summon the boat to come pick you up (foot passengers only), take a stroll across this beautiful mostly uninhabited island and grab some lunch at the Boathouse.

Back on Mull, it is only a short way back to Craignure. Enjoy the views of Ben More, Mull’s very own Munro (= mountain over 3,000 ft) and surrounding peaks.

With a few extra days on Mull – I generally recommend 3 full days – plan a day trip to the south-east of the island, visit Iona and Staffa, venture out to the Treshnish Isles to see puffins or tackle the peak of Ben More on a clear day.

You might also like: 20 pretty villages and towns in Scotland

The West Coast of the Isle of Lewis

by Katie from Stories my Suitcase Could Tell

Distance: 50 miles Start / End Point: Stornoway, Isle of Lewis Duration:  1 day As featured in my Outer Hebrides itinerary

A road trip around the West Side of the Isle of Lewis can take you a brief morning, or a long, leisurely day – but you’ll probably end up doing the latter, because there is a lot to see ! 

The drive is a circular loop, but as a local, I always recommend first driving north-west from the main town of Stornoway to the village of Arnol. 

Your first stop will be the Arnol Blackhouse, an example of a traditional thatched home that islanders lived in until the turn of the 20th century.

Afterwards, grab some lunch from the locally-sourced menu at 40 North Foods in Bragar – you can either eat in or take food away to eat on one of the nearby beaches, Dalmore and Dalbeg.

Carry on along the loop until you reach the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, where you can wander around the restored homes and even hike up along the cliffs.

Next up is Dun Carloway Broch, an old Iron Age fort that’s as much fun to play in as an adult as it is as a child; it sits high on a hill with stunning views across the moorland and out to the Atlantic.

And finally, you’ll reach the highlight of the road trip, the famous Neolithic standing stone circle, the Callanish Stones. Aim to arrive around sunset, when these ancient stone giants will seem even more magical than usual.

If you have some a few extra days, add in a detour to the Butt of Lewis, the northernmost point of the island, or a drive over to Great Bernera, an island connected to Lewis by a small bridge. Bosta Beach on Great Bernera is among the most beautiful beaches in the Outer Hebrides.

You might also like: My Hiking Guide for The Hebridean Way

The Golden Road on the Isle of Harris

by Kay from The Chaotic Scot

Distance: 45 miles Start / End Point: Tarbert, Isle of Harris Duration: 1 day As featured in my Outer Hebrides itinerary

Drive just 5 minutes south from Harris’ main town of Tarbert and you will shortly be enveloped by otherworldly scenes, courtesy of the ‘Golden Road’ . 

Nicknamed for the cost of its construction, rather than the glow of the landscape, this is a scenic drive unlike any other. 

Visitors commonly describe the road as lunar-like, which is a truly accurate description; the composition of the ancient rock bears close resemblance to that of the moon! 

Stop in at the Clò-Mòr Harris Tweed Exhibition in Drinishader, and look out for the many abandoned croft houses which scatter the area. Continue onto ‘The Bays’ to go seal spotting at Finsbay and visit the medieval St Clement’s Church at Rodel.

Croft 36 at Northton is the perfect pit-stop for fresh pies, soup and cakes, before looping around the popularly photographed west coast. 

The paradisiacal beaches are even more dreamy in real life, particularly against a mountainous backdrop. Pull into the ‘Passing Place’ for a perfect shot of Seilebost, and explore Horgabost and Luskentyre on foot, before returning to Tarbert.

If you are looking for a reliable road atlas, check out  Collins Road Map Scotland !

The Best of Fife: From Edinburgh to St Andrews

by Gemma from Two Scots Abroad

Distance: 130 miles Start / End Point: Edinburgh Duration: 1-3 days As featured in my East Scotland itinerary

One of the lesser known road trips in Scotland starts by heading over the new Queensferry Crossing from Edinburgh to the Kingdom of Fife. Stop off and visit the world’s smallest light tower and enjoy the views of the Forth Rail Bridge. 

Then head to the historic capital of Scotland, Dunfermline, to see the Abbey and Palace, browse the new museum or catch a gig at the Alahambra. 

Next, head to Cowdenbeath to snap the street art murals and make a splash at Lochore Meadows just outside of Lochgelly. But this is only a selection of things to do around Fife .

Outlander fans will find Falkland of interest, before setting off for St Andrews (where Prince Will and Kate Middleton met) and the fishing villages of the East Neuk. 

Keeping on the coastal route, stop off at Kirkcaldy to see a show at the Adam Smith Theatre then hit the beaches of Kinghorn, Burntisland and Aberdour. 

Hikers, why not join the Fife Coastal Path for a stroll before heading back to Scotland’s capital.

You might also like: How to visit all the Outlander locations in Scotland

The “Other Highlands”: Exploring Perthshire

Distance: 140 miles Start / End Point: Perth Duration: 3 days

Perthshire is known as Scotland’s Big Tree Country, but it makes up a quieter section of the Scottish Highlands. A scenic drive on the leafy roads of Perthshire leads through beautiful woodlands, up scenic viewpoints, among towering mountains and through quaint Highland towns. This is particularly beautiful in autumn when the trees change colours.

Begin your road trip in Perth. You can follow this route in one day at a push, but taking 2-4 days allows you to explore more in-depth, go for hikes on forest trails and visit more castles and distilleries in the area.

Drive north on the A9, a fairly big road with many scenic places to visit along the way. Your first stop is Dunkeld for a short woodland walk at the Hermitage, a visit to Dunkeld Cathedral and a bite to eat from a bakery in the village. 

Next, visit the bustling Victorian town of Pitlochry. There are whisky distilleries, a lovely high street with shops and restaurants and trails along the River Tummel. A detour takes you to the scenic Green Footbridge near Killiecrankie and up to the stunning Highland viewpoint at Queen’s View.

Continuing along the A9, you will eventually get to Blair Atholl for a visit to Blair Castle and a walk up to the Falls of Bruar. Now, leave the big road and take a series of small country roads to Kinloch Rannoch and views of Schiehallion, an iconic cone-shaped Munro.

Aberfeldy with its walks, distillery and the bustling village, makes for a great overnight stop, before continuing your Perthshire road trip along the shores of Loch Tay. Consider a longer, alternative route through Glenlyon and the narrow Ben Lawers range road.

Stop to see the Falls of Dochart in Killin and make your way back to Perth via the scenic Highland villages of Comrie and Crieff.

Down the Scottish Castle Trail in Aberdeenshire

Distance: 115 miles Start / End Point: Aberdeen Duration: 3 days As featured in my East Scotland itinerary

Over 260 castles can be found in the region of Aberdeenshire, and 19 of the most beautiful palaces and ruins are part of the Scottish Castle Trail. It is possible to visit several castles in one day, but I recommend spending around 3 days exploring the area. Use my Aberdeenshire itinerary !

Leaving from Aberdeen, drive east into the Royal Deeside valley, a lush green valley east of the Cairngorms mountains. I recommend driving all the way to Balmoral Castle first thing to beat the crowds and visit the gardens of the Royal summer residence.

Slowly backtracking your steps our of the valley again, stop in Ballater for lunch or pick up snacks for a picnic at the Muir of Dinnet nature reserve . 

If you have an extra day, I recommend staying in the area for longer to go on a hike around Loch Kinord and explore nearby castles like the pink dream that is Craigievar Castle. 

Before returning to Aberdeen, make your way to the Stonehaven on the coast and walk to Dunnottar Castle , possibly the most beautiful site on the Scottish Castle Trail – period. 

Time your visit with sunset to see the castle glow in the golden hues of the evening sun, walk down the coastal path to Stonehaven and treat yourself with ice cream from Aunt Bettys.

You might also like: One Week in the North East of Scotland

The Aberdeenshire Coastal Path

by Victoria from The Aye Life

Distance: 150 miles Start / End Point: Aberdeen / Inverness Duration: 2-4 days As featured in my East Scotland itinerary

On the Aberdeenshire Coastal Path – between Aberdeen and Inverness – there is a plethora of stunning beaches, spectacular scenery, thousands of years of history and a notable change in Scottish accents. 

Taking the A90 from Aberdeen, heading north towards Peterhead, you will pass a beautiful little coastal village named Cruden Bay which is home to the spooky Slains Castle and a picturesque beach where Netflix ‘The Crown’ was filmed. 

Continuing further up north, drive down the bumpy road to Rattray Head lighthouse and learn about the history of Scottish lighthouses at the Lighthouse Museum in Fraserburgh. 

Further up the coast are the little fishing villages of Crovie and Pennan. Pennan, in particular, is known for playing film-set to ‘Local Hero.’ 

Following the coastal road will lead you through Banff, MacDuff, Gardenstown, Cullen and Portsoy. Portsoy hosts the infamous Portsoy Boat Festival which is definitely worth checking out. 

Turning onto the A96 at Fochabers, you can head towards Inverness via Brodie Castle, Nairn, Kilravock Castle, Cawdor Castle, Fort George, Castle Stuart and Culloden Battlefield.

Need even more Inverness inspiration? Check out these  things to do in Inverness .

Scotland’s Route 66: The North Coast 500

by Patricia from Mad About Travel

Distance: 305 miles Start / End Point: Inverness Duration: 5-8 days As featured in my Northwest Highlands itinerary

Highly publicised as “Scotland’s answer to Route 66”, I must admit that the North Coast 500 is possibly THE best road trip to do in Scotland. That is if you have at least 5 or 6 days. 

Starting and finishing in Inverness, this route will take you to some of the most scenic places in Scotland. The 500+ mile journey will make you fall in love with the rugged wilderness of the northern Highlands.

Driving up the Bealach Na Ba road to Applecross is a terrific experience, but so is exploring gorgeous castles like Dunrobin Castle or the ruins of Ardvreck Castle. 

There are plenty of waterfalls, gardens by the sea and some breathtaking beaches, along with the tall and shrouded peaks of Stac Pollaidh, An Teallach, Suilven or Ben Hope. 

Make sure you stop at some of the whisky distilleries en route and do not miss Smoo Cave.

You might also like: 30 EPIC Things to do on the North Coast 500

A Road Trip on Orkney

by Sonja from Migrating Miss

Distance: 50 miles Start / End Point: Kirkwall, Orkney Duration: 1-4 days

What better way is there to explore the nooks and crannies of an ancient isle like Orkney than by car? 

Driving from the capital of Kirkwall up to tidal island called the Brough of Birsay will take you past many of Orkney’s best attractions. Although there are several roads to take and much to explore, it can be done in a day at a push.

Your first stop will be Maeshowe, a tomb built by the Picts, but now famous for the Viking graffiti that covers its walls. Be sure to book a tour because spaces on tours fill up! 

Continue past the Standing Stones of Stenness to the Ness of Brodgar, a still-active archaeological site where they are uncovering a Pict settlement that’s changing what we know about the past. 

Just down the road is the famous Ring of Brodgar, one of the largest stone circles in Britain at 104 metres wide. All three of these places are free to enter!

Skara Brae is next, a stone-built Neolithic settlement, where you can take an after-hours tour to walk along the streets that were built thousands of years ago. 

Lastly, you can visit the ruins of the Earl’s Palace at Birsay, and if you time it right with the tide and you’re not over pre-historic wonders yet, you can walk across to the Brough of Birsay.

You might also like: My Orkney Travel Guide

The Coigach Peninsula in Wester Ross

by Susanne from Adventures Around Scotland

Distance: 60 miles Start / End Point: Ullapool Duration: 1 day A great detour on my Northwest Highlands itinerary

I discovered the Coigach peninsula by chance while staying in Ullapool. It turned out to be one of my most magical and scenic road-trips in Scotland!

Heading north from Ullapool on the A835, a turn off onto a single track road that takes you towards the Coigach Peninsula. Through a stunning mountainous landscape, it passes the instantly recognisable Stac Pollaidh which always reminds me of Close Encounters of the Third Kind .

I first followed the road to the village of Achiltibuie where numerous ruins of crofts lie abandoned in the nearby fields. This is a good point to stop and refuel with some tea and cake at the Piping School Café.

The road continues on through a remote landscape towards Achduart at the end of the track, which very much feels like the end of the world. Heading back and taking the circular route around the peninsula will bring you to a viewpoint with a superb panorama over the Summer Isles.

Further along, the road passes the beautiful beach at Achnahaird – this is where you return to the single track road leading back to the A835.

The road-trip route I took from Ullapool around the Coigach Peninsula was approx. 60 miles through some of the most breath-taking and remote scenery in Scotland.

You might also like: 10+ Day Trips from Inverness [Self-Drive & Guided]

Scotland is a paradise for self-drive holidays. Take this list of scenic road trips in Scotland and let it inspire many future adventures around the country,

Have you ever gone on a scenic drive around Scotland? Which route would you add?

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42 thoughts on “ 16 EPIC Road Trips in Scotland: The most Scenic Drives in Scotland ”

I am planning my retirement trip to Scotland for 2024 I hope to stay about 6 weeks thanks for all your tips and suggestions. How about cheaper places to stay? I have looked at VRBO tiny houses they look great. Ideas?

Hi Becky! You’ll find lots of VRBOs and AirBnBs all over Scotland – whether they are always necessarily cheaper is another question. I find sometimes these glamping pods can be a little overpriced, considering how small they are – especially when the interior is relatively basic. Have a look at hostels too – many have private rooms!

Hi hope your well, we are planning to first time travellers to scotland, thinking of coming four days, we where advise go Loch lomond to see best great scenic and lakes, we enjoy little bit of walking, because of short stay, love to drive to near places thinking of booking air bnd near lock lomond, kindly advise this area good start, happy alternative area as are flexible need guideance.

Hello there, I think you’re making the right choice to focus on Loch Lomond for your 4-day trip! It’s not far from Glasgow and Edinburgh, but really well-located in the southern Highlands. Plenty of mountain landscapes, scenic lochs and hiking trails to discover, without having to spent hours on the road to get there! I recommend looking for accommodation around Balloch (very central, good for all areas in the region), nearer Arrochar (great to also access Loch Long, Fyne and Awe) or near Callander (a bit better located to explore the Trossachs). Have a fab time planning your trip and hopefully it will be save to travel again soon!

Kathi I plan going to see Scotland with my wife for 5 days, next month. We was thinking of catching a train to Inverness and then drive through Scotland finishing at Saint Andrews. Then catching a train back to London . Could you suggest a lovely route please ?

Hi Kevin, that sounds like a lovely plan for a trip! Have you had a look at my posts about Aberdeenshire & north-east itinerary? These two might be a good starting point for your itinerary:

https://watchmesee.com/blog/aberdeenshire-itinerary-three-days/ https://watchmesee.com/blog/north-east-scotland-itinerary/

If you’d like any more hands-on support with your itinerary, check out my itinerary services: https://watchmesee.com/watch-me-see-scotland-travel-consultation/

All the best, Kathi

What an epic list! I haven’t made it over to Scotland yet (I really should!). I will have to refer to this list when I go!

for all of those that have not been through the highlands, going through GLENCOE is a concrete must, i personally originate from DRUMNADOCHITT on the banks of Loch Ness, i have also travelled all over the world but there is absolutely nowhere like the highlands of SCOTLAND there is an atmosphere in the air that is very very hard to describe, but if you cme here you will feel it

I totally agree, which is why I mention Glencoe in the first road trip suggestion on this list 😉 It’s my number one recommended road trip in Scotland!

I found this website accidentally! I’m not one to comment usually on posts but I had to thank you because your Glasgow – Fort William trip helped me so much! I literally followed it and used it as a guide for my first trip to Scotland! Only a short bank holiday trip but I am MOST DEFINITELY returning. Fallen in love with Scotland & I am keeping you in my favorites! Thanks so much!!!

I’m glad to hear that you found my post useful! It’s such a wonderful area and one of the best road trips, in my opinion! You’ll have to come back though and see even more 🙂

Helpful post for further adventures in your beautiful country. Tucking this away for my next visit. Many thanks. Francesca, Southern California

Whoa, this is a super informative and well-written post! I love your blog. It’s SO informative unlike the spammy ones with no substance and 300-word articles. You have a new fan. I’ve pinned this for a bucket list item when I go to Scotland for a road trip.

Scotland looks so beautiful!

Doing a road trip in Scotland has long been on my to do list. What options! Looks like I’ll need to plan on spending a good chunk of time there. And the tips are great to know. Thank you!

Scotland is not one to see in one week 😀 The more time you have, the better!!

I love love love all these drives! We’re strongly considering to move to the UK so I’m gonna keep this handy for later. Just love your pictures 🙂

I visited Scotland last year in May, and instantly fell in love with this country. So beautiful! Thank you for this article.. it brings back lovely memories, and, more importantly, I have to save some of these drives you recommended for my next visit! 🙂

So much inspiration! I love Scotland though of my three visits I’ve stayed mostly in Edinburgh and relied on 1-3 day trips up to the highlands. I’d love to come back and see more of the county. Road trips look like the best option.

Road trips definitely give you the most freedom to see the landscape of Scotland in your own pace – tours are also a lot of fun, but they’re usually way too fast!

Oh You’re making me homesick! Great read and lovely pics. I’m and Edinburgh lassie but I studied in Glasgow (I’m sill biased though.. haha). I’m pretty familiar with the East coast up to Aberdeen and the shire but I’ve always wanted to explore the West more, so this is great inspiration!!

There’s just so much to see in Scotland – even if you’ve lived here all your life, it’s difficult to see it all! 🙂

WOW! Scotland looks beautiful and these road trips are a MUST do. I’ve only been to Edinburgh but now I want to return and do these road trips! Thanks for the helpful post.

I’ve been to Scotland twice but only stayed in Edinburgh for the most part. I’d love to return and explore its incredible wilderness and charming small towns. And this post is the perfect inspiration to plan my next adventure!

You’ve missed the best city then – Glasgow! 😀 You’ll have to come back and see more of the country too – it’s too beautiful to miss!!

A couple years ago I did the Pacific coast drive and loooveed it. I’ve been wanting to do another, but didn’t know where. I think this might be it! It looks so amazing!

It’s just a great place for a road trip – and wild camping in the most remote places! 🙂

I never knew Scotland was just so big that it took so long to drive! I want to do all of THESE!

It looks so small on the map – but there is just too much to see 🙂

My cousin went to Scotland for her honeymoon recently and I was so in awe of their pics and stories, Loved yours too, until recently I never realised how drop dead gorgeous it is. Loved these routes.

Oh you need to come – it’s the most beautiful country in the world (but I’m biased) 😀

Great Post! I love road trips and Scotland is so on my list. I hope I can do a road trip this or next year. Thank you for sharing these routes.

amazing pictures and series. I love long drives and adding driving around Scotland to the list after seeing this post. thanks for sharing

It really is the best way to see the country! Busses and trains only cover so much of the beautiful routes 🙂

What a ton of REALLY flipping useful information and yep, more dreamy photos. I keep thinking about Orkney since ready Amy Liptrot’s The Outrun – have you read it? If not DO! – so I think that would be my pick of this bunch…

Oh, I have not read it – I added it to my reading list! The Outer Hebrides are on the top of my list – going there in the summer, but walking across them rather than driving 🙂 Orkney next year!!

Beautiful post with surreal pictures. Wish I could get a chance to visit Scotland soon .

There are so many different landscapes here in such a small country – it’s crazy! Hope you get to see them all!!

These are some amazing roads! I’ve driven a few of those, and always love a road trip around Scotland!

I loved this post! So much routes and trips I want to do… Working with you is always a pleasure, Kathi ?

Love the tip interjections! Heaps of inspo as usual, Kathi. Arran, Lewis + Harris for me hopefully this year. Can vouch for NC500!

Arran is definitely also a beautiful road trip! And easily done in a day, unless you wanted to add in a few hikes! Definitely stop at the Machrie Moor standing stones – they’re so beautiful!

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Insider Guide: Best Road Trips In Scotland

Introduction.

Welcome to Scotland, a land of stunning landscapes, rich history, and unparalleled beauty. With its picturesque castles, rugged mountains, and breathtaking lochs, Scotland offers an ideal destination for road trips. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply seeking adventure, Scotland has something to offer.

Embarking on a road trip in Scotland allows you to discover the country at your own pace, immersing yourself in its stunning scenery and charming villages. From the famous North Coast 500 to the mystical Isle of Skye, there are endless possibilities for memorable journeys.

Scotland’s road network is well-maintained, providing easy access to its most scenic spots. With its compact size, you can explore a multitude of attractions in a relatively short amount of time. So, get ready to hit the road and experience the wonders of Scotland!

In this insider guide, we will explore some of the best road trips in Scotland:

North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 is often hailed as one of the greatest road trips in the world, and with good reason. This epic 500-mile route takes you along the rugged coastline of the Scottish Highlands, showcasing some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country.

Starting and ending in Inverness, the North Coast 500 takes you through picturesque villages, ancient castles, pristine beaches, and towering mountains. As you drive, you’ll be mesmerized by the dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and panoramic vistas that unfold before your eyes.

One of the highlights of the North Coast 500 is the magnificent Bealach na Bà, a winding mountain pass that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The route also takes you to famous landmarks such as the fairy-tale-like Dunrobin Castle, the dramatic Cape Wrath, and the enchanting Loch Maree.

Throughout your journey, you’ll have the opportunity to encounter wildlife in their natural habitat, including red deer, puffins, and even dolphins if you’re lucky. Make sure to pack your camera to capture these unforgettable moments.

The North Coast 500 is not just about the stunning scenery; it’s also a chance to immerse yourself in Scottish culture. Stop in charming villages along the way, indulge in local delicacies like freshly caught seafood, and visit traditional whisky distilleries to sample some of Scotland’s finest spirits.

With its diverse range of landscapes and attractions, the North Coast 500 offers something for everyone. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply in search of adventure, this road trip is guaranteed to leave you awe-inspired and longing to return to the Scottish Highlands.

Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye, located on the west coast of Scotland, is a mystical and enchanting destination that should not be missed on your Scottish road trip. Known for its dramatic landscapes, rugged mountains, and fairy-tale-like scenery, the Isle of Skye offers a truly magical experience.

To reach the Isle of Skye, you can take the Skye Bridge from the mainland or hop on a ferry from Mallaig. Once you arrive, prepare to be captivated by its breathtaking beauty. The island is a paradise for hikers, offering trails that lead to iconic landmarks like the Quiraing, Old Man of Storr, and Fairy Pools.

The Quiraing is a geological wonder, with its towering cliffs, jagged pinnacles, and sweeping landscapes. It’s a photographer’s dream and a must-visit spot for nature enthusiasts. The Old Man of Storr, a rock formation that juts out of the landscape, is equally captivating, providing stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.

No trip to the Isle of Skye would be complete without a visit to the Fairy Pools. These crystal-clear, turquoise pools, amidst the Cuillin Mountains, offer a magical setting that feels straight out of a fairy tale. Take a refreshing dip or simply enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.

Aside from its natural wonders, the Isle of Skye also boasts historic castles and charming villages. Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, is a must-see attraction, with its beautiful gardens and fascinating history. The colorful harbor town of Portree, with its iconic pastel-colored buildings, is another highlight, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and pubs.

As you explore the Isle of Skye, be sure to savor the local cuisine, including fresh seafood, delicious whisky, and traditional Scottish dishes. You’ll find numerous eateries throughout the island that serve up delectable meals using locally sourced ingredients.

With its otherworldly landscapes and captivating charm, the Isle of Skye is a true gem of Scotland and a destination that will leave a lasting impression on any road trip itinerary.

Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands are synonymous with natural beauty and untamed landscapes. This vast region in the northern part of Scotland offers a road trip experience like no other, with its towering mountains, shimmering lochs, and historic landmarks.

As you embark on a road trip through the Scottish Highlands, you’ll be immersed in breathtaking scenery at every turn. Marvel at the majestic peaks of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain, and let your eyes wander across the expansive moorlands of Rannoch Moor. Explore the mesmerizing Glen Coe, known for its dramatic landscape and storied history.

The Scottish Highlands are also home to some of the most iconic and picturesque castles in the country. Visit the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, perched on a tiny island at the confluence of three lochs. Step back in time at Urquhart Castle, located on the shores of Loch Ness, and delve into legends of the infamous Loch Ness Monster.

One of the most popular attractions in the Scottish Highlands is the famous Jacobite Steam Train, also known as the Hogwarts Express. This scenic train ride takes you through lush valleys, over breathtaking viaducts, and alongside picturesque lochs. It’s a truly magical experience for Harry Potter fans and nature enthusiasts alike.

While exploring the Scottish Highlands, be sure to sample the region’s renowned whisky. Visit a traditional distillery, such as Glenfiddich or Dalwhinnie, and learn about the distillation process while enjoying a tasting of Scotland’s liquid gold.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Scottish Highlands offer a wide range of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for red deer, golden eagles, and elusive wildcats as you venture through the untamed wilderness.

Whether you’re seeking tranquility, adventure, or a glimpse into Scotland’s rich history, the Scottish Highlands will leave you spellbound. As you drive through this picturesque region, you’ll understand why it has captured the hearts of travelers for centuries.

East Coast Road Trip

The East Coast of Scotland offers a captivating road trip experience filled with charming coastal towns, stunning beaches, and historic sites. Embarking on an East Coast road trip allows you to explore the diverse landscapes and rich heritage of this region.

Starting in the vibrant city of Edinburgh, your journey along the East Coast takes you through picturesque fishing villages, expansive sandy beaches, and rugged cliffs. Visit the historic town of St. Andrews, known for its world-famous golf courses and the ancient ruins of its castle and cathedral.

Continue your road trip north and discover the East Neuk of Fife, a string of charming fishing villages with colorful cottages and picturesque harbors. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in fresh, locally caught seafood while enjoying the sea breeze.

As you venture further up the coast, you’ll encounter the impressive Dunnottar Castle, perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the North Sea. Explore its ruins and learn about its fascinating history.

One of the highlights of the East Coast road trip is the opportunity to spot wildlife. Take a detour to the Isle of May, a nature reserve known for its seabird colonies, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills. Keep your eyes peeled for seals and dolphins as you drive along the coast.

Continue your journey to the picturesque town of Stonehaven, where you can visit the iconic Dunnottar Castle and enjoy a stroll along the sandy beach. Further up the coast, you’ll reach the historic city of Aberdeen, known for its granite buildings and vibrant cultural scene.

Before concluding your East Coast road trip, make a stop in the charming fishing village of Pennan. This idyllic coastal village gained fame as a filming location for the movie “Local Hero.” Take a walk along the beach and soak in the tranquility of this picturesque setting.

With its picturesque coastal towns, stunning landscapes, and rich history, an East Coast road trip is a delightful way to explore the diverse offerings of Scotland’s eastern shores.

West Coast Road Trip

Embarking on a West Coast road trip in Scotland takes you along some of the country’s most breathtaking and rugged coastline, offering panoramic views, enchanting islands, and charming seaside towns.

Your West Coast adventure begins in the bustling city of Glasgow, where you can soak up the vibrant atmosphere and explore its rich cultural heritage. As you head west, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of the Clyde Estuary and the picturesque town of Greenock.

The West Coast road trip takes you through the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, a haven of natural beauty. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the banks of Loch Lomond, the largest freshwater loch in Scotland, or hike up one of the surrounding mountains for breathtaking views.

Continuing along the coast, make a stop in the picturesque town of Oban, known as the “Gateway to the Isles.” From here, you can catch a ferry to the stunning islands of Mull, Iona, and Staffa, each offering their own unique charm and natural wonders.

As you drive north, be sure to explore the remote and rugged landscapes of Ardnamurchan Peninsula. This lesser-known gem boasts pristine beaches, ancient castles, and the famous Ardnamurchan Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Further up the coast, you’ll reach the captivating Isle of Skye, which deserves its own dedicated mention. Explore its dramatic landscapes, rugged mountains, and iconic landmarks such as the Quiraing and Fairy Pools.

Your West Coast road trip continues north to the charming village of Ullapool, nestled on the shores of Loch Broom. Indulge in fresh seafood, take a boat trip to spot dolphins or explore nearby hiking trails.

As you make your way towards the far reaches of the west coast, you’ll enter the enchanting region of the Outer Hebrides. Experience the unique culture and breathtaking scenery of islands like Lewis and Harris, South Uist, and Barra.

From there, you can either continue your journey north along the rugged coastline or begin your return journey, savoring the memories of the stunning landscapes, charming towns, and unique experiences you encountered along the West Coast road trip.

A West Coast road trip offers a chance to explore Scotland’s wild and untamed beauty, immersing yourself in its rich history and discovering hidden treasures along the way.

Cairngorms National Park

Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Cairngorms National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This expansive park boasts majestic mountains, tranquil lochs, and a wide array of wildlife, making it a must-visit destination on your Scottish road trip.

Cairngorms National Park is home to some of Scotland’s highest peaks, including Ben Macdui and Cairn Gorm. Hiking enthusiasts can challenge themselves with a trek to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and shimmering lochs.

The park is also renowned for its abundant wildlife. Keep an eye out for iconic species such as red deer, golden eagles, and the elusive Scottish wildcat. The park is a designated Dark Sky Park, meaning it offers unparalleled stargazing opportunities with minimal light pollution.

For those seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures, the park offers a wide range of activities, including mountain biking, white-water rafting, and rock climbing. Traverse the rugged terrain, scale craggy cliffs, and feel the rush of adrenaline as you explore this diverse and exciting landscape.

In winter, Cairngorms National Park transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing across the snowy slopes, or take a leisurely walk amidst the glistening forest.

The park is also home to charming towns and villages, such as Aviemore and Ballater, where you can find cozy accommodations, delicious local cuisine, and friendly hospitality. Immerse yourself in the warm Scottish culture, indulge in traditional dishes, and learn about the park’s rich history and heritage.

With its diverse range of outdoor activities, breathtaking landscapes, and rich wildlife, Cairngorms National Park is a true gem of the Scottish Highlands. This natural playground is an ideal destination for those seeking adventure, tranquility, or simply an escape into the awe-inspiring beauty of nature.

The Borders

The Borders region of Scotland, nestled along the southern border with England, offers a road trip experience filled with scenic beauty, rich history, and literary connections. As you embark on a journey through the Borders, you’ll be enchanted by its picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and historic attractions.

One of the highlights of the Borders is its stunning countryside. Drive along winding country roads and be treated to rolling hills, expansive farmland, and quaint villages. Explore the lush valleys of the Tweed Valley and soak in the tranquility of the surrounding nature.

The region is also known for its rich history and medieval heritage. Visit the iconic ruined abbeys of Melrose, Jedburgh, and Dryburgh, where you can immerse yourself in the stories of the past and marvel at the architectural grandeur of these ancient structures.

The Borders is a region steeped in literary history, with connections to famous writers such as Sir Walter Scott and Robert Burns. Visit Abbotsford House, the former residence of Sir Walter Scott, and explore the home and gardens that inspired his works. In the village of Selkirk, you can visit the Haining, a mansion with ties to both Walter Scott and James Hogg, known as the “Ettrick Shepherd.”

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Borders offer a multitude of activities. Explore the trails of the Southern Upland Way, a long-distance walking route that stretches across the region. Take a scenic drive through the Moffat Hills or enjoy fishing in the Tweed River, renowned for its salmon and trout.

Not to be missed is the captivating town of Peebles, known for its charming architecture, independent shops, and vibrant arts scene. Visit the Eastgate Theatre, peruse the local art galleries, or simply wander through the town’s picturesque streets.

Throughout your journey in the Borders, be sure to sample the local culinary delights. Indulge in the region’s renowned lamb, fresh seafood, and delicious artisanal cheeses. Pair your meals with ales from the local breweries or sample a traditional Scottish whisky.

With its scenic landscapes, rich history, and literary connections, the Borders offers a road trip experience that will immerse you in the charm and allure of this captivating region in Scotland.

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, located just a short drive from Glasgow, is a stunningly beautiful destination that showcases the best of Scotland’s landscapes. From the tranquil shores of Loch Lomond to the rugged peaks of The Trossachs, this national park offers a memorable road trip experience.

Loch Lomond, the largest inland stretch of water in Great Britain, is the centerpiece of the national park. Its shimmering waters, surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests, create a picturesque setting that attracts visitors year-round. Take a boat trip on the loch, enjoy a leisurely stroll along its shores, or simply sit back and soak in the breathtaking scenery.

The Trossachs, often referred to as “Scotland in Miniature,” is a stunning region characterized by rugged mountains, pristine lochs, and charming villages. Drive through the narrow winding roads and be rewarded with breathtaking views at every turn. Stop by Loch Katrine, made famous by Sir Walter Scott’s poem “The Lady of the Lake,” and take a scenic cruise on its tranquil waters.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park offers a variety of activities. Hiking enthusiasts can explore a plethora of trails, such as the popular West Highland Way or the challenging climb up Ben Lomond. Mountain biking, fishing, and canoeing are also popular activities in the park, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in its natural beauty.

As you explore the national park, you’ll come across quaint villages and charming hamlets dotted throughout the landscape. Stop in the village of Luss, known for its picturesque cottages and stunning views of Loch Lomond. Visit the town of Callander, often referred to as the “Gateway to The Trossachs,” where you can find shops, cafes, and a friendly atmosphere.

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is not only a haven for outdoor enthusiasts but also a paradise for wildlife lovers. Keep an eye out for red deer, ospreys, and golden eagles as you traverse the park’s diverse habitats. Birdwatchers will delight in the opportunity to spot a variety of bird species, including the elusive capercaillie.

So, whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or simply a chance to reconnect with nature, a road trip through Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Scotland’s scenic beauty.

Orkney Islands

The Orkney Islands, located off the northeastern coast of Scotland, are a hidden gem waiting to be discovered on your Scottish road trip. This archipelago of approximately 70 islands offers a unique blend of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and a rich marine ecosystem.

Stepping onto the Orkney Islands is like stepping into a time capsule. Here, you’ll find ancient sites that predate the Great Pyramids of Egypt. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Skara Brae, a remarkably well-preserved Neolithic village that dates back over 5,000 years. Explore the standing stones of the Ring of Brodgar and the impressive stone circle of the Standing Stones of Stenness.

The history of the Orkney Islands is also tied to more recent events. Visit the Italian Chapel, a remarkable place of worship created by Italian prisoners of war during World War II. Learn about the islands’ role in both world wars at the Orkney Museum and the Orkney Aviation Heritage Centre.

But the Orkney Islands are not just about history. The archipelago is surrounded by pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and abundant wildlife. Take a boat trip to spot seals, puffins, and possibly even whales and dolphins. Breathe in the fresh sea air as you stroll along the shores of the Bay of Skaill or marvel at the towering sea stacks, the Old Man of Hoy.

Orkney’s capital, Kirkwall, is a bustling town with a charming mix of historic buildings, independent shops, and a lively harbor. Explore the magnificent St. Magnus Cathedral, one of Scotland’s most iconic medieval structures, or wander through the narrow streets, soaking in the atmosphere of this vibrant community.

The Orkney Islands are also known for their thriving artistic and creative scene. Visit the galleries and studios, where you’ll find a diverse range of artwork inspired by the islands’ landscapes and heritage. Don’t forget to indulge in the local cuisine, including fresh seafood and unique Orkney cheeses.

Whether you’re fascinated by ancient history, captivated by stunning landscapes, or seeking a tranquil retreat surrounded by nature, a visit to the Orkney Islands promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

A road trip through Scotland is a journey of a lifetime, filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable experiences. From the rugged Highlands to the charming coastal villages, Scotland offers a diverse range of road trip destinations that cater to every traveler’s preferences and interests.

Whether you choose to embark on the famous North Coast 500, explore the mystical Isle of Skye, venture into the majestic Scottish Highlands, or discover the hidden gems of the East and West Coasts, each journey offers a unique and captivating experience.

Throughout your Scottish road trip, you’ll be surrounded by stunning natural beauty, from towering mountains and shimmering lochs to picturesque castles and charming villages. The country’s compact size allows you to explore a variety of attractions in a relatively short amount of time, ensuring that every mile driven is filled with excitement and discovery.

Immerse yourself in Scotland’s rich history as you visit ancient castles, explore ruins of abbeys, and learn about the country’s literary legends. Indulge in delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood, hearty dishes, and the world-famous Scotch whisky.

But perhaps the true beauty of a Scottish road trip lies in the freedom and flexibility it offers. Drive at your own pace, stopping to admire breathtaking vistas, take scenic detours, or interact with friendly locals along the way. Let the open road guide you as you create your own memorable journey through this remarkable country.

So, whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or a deeper connection with nature and history, a road trip through Scotland is an experience that will leave you in awe of its beauty and longing to return time and time again.

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7 best road trips in scotland to take in 2024.

Scotland is PACKED with amazing places to visit and roads to drive, and since we spent 2 months exploring all the amazing road trips this country has to offer, we thought we would put together a guide on the best road trips in Scotland based on our very own experience! 

Some of these are “official” road trips, and the others are ones we have designed ourselves. 

So let's get started!

Travellerspoint

When is the best time to road trip Scotland?

Scotland is the sort of country that brings something unique to every season. 

If you don’t mind busy roads and tourist attractions, then you’ll love summer, and the fact it’s kind of the only time of the year you’ll get some sort of “heat” in Scotland!

The main problem will summer road-tripping Scotland is the midges.

They’re a real problem and if you don’t know what they are, they’re an insect that loves to bite! 

If you want to avoid the crowds and the midges, then we can recommend road tripping Scotland in the autumn months! 

That’s when we visited and we loved it. 

We didn’t experience too much rain, and we pretty much had the best places to visit in Scotland all to ourselves -- that was cool! 

Should I road trip Scotland in a campervan or car?

Naturally, we will say that road tripping in Scotland is best done in a campervan because we did it in our very own self-converted camper !

But, if you don’t have your own campervan, or it’s out of your budget to rent one, then driving is a good option. 

Check out our guide to the best car rental sites to see what's out there, or we've got an in-depth guide to the top car rental companies in Scotland .

With driving, you can either bring a tent and get adventurous on your sleeping arrangements or stay in the many amazing Airbnbs and hotels dotted around these Scottish road trip routes. 

The perk of having a campervan, however, is the ability to wild camp in Scotland. 

Wild camping in Scotland is AMAZING! You’ll find yourself waking up to some EPIC views, so if you get the chance to hire a campervan, then choose that for your Scottish road trip itinerary.

Enter ... Motorhome Republic

If you’re looking for a quick answer, then we suggest checking out Motorhome Republic . 

They are a search engine offering the largest array of motorhome and camper rentals across Scotland.

With useful filtering tools and on-hand support, they are the best way to begin any search for a rental.

How long do I need to road trip Scotland?

Short answer ... as long as you can spare! There really is so much to see in this incredible country.

Long answer, well, it will really depend on what you decide you want to see when planning out your road trip .

There are road trips in Scotland that will take a few hours, and others that will take a few days.

That’s the beauty of the country, you’ll find something to suit your needs. 

When I discuss the individual road trips in Scotland below, I’ll put the mileage covered and time estimated to complete so you can help make a choice based on your own personal time constraints. 

But if I had to tell you how long to put aside for an epic road trip in Scotland, at minimum I would say, give it 10 days! 

You may also like: Best Dog-Friendly Hotels in Scotland

The Best Road Trips In Scotland

1. south west coastal 300 .

• Length: 300 miles / 482 km
• Time: 2 days - 3 days
• Location: Dumfries - Dumfries 

This was the very first road trip we did when we entered Scotland and it’s an “official” one that’s advertised and promoted on the Visit Scotland website. 

I loved this Scottish road trip because it took us to the coastline and I was excited to see the sea!

This road trip will take you through some beautiful sights including amazing castles, forests, towns and more.

It will also take you to the most South westerly point in Scotland, the Galloway Lighthouse from where you can see the North of Ireland, Isle of Man, Wales & England. Pretty cool! 

Highlights of the SW300 Scottish Road Trip 

Some of my favourite highlights of the SW coastal route include: 

1. Calverock Castle : there are lots of great castles along this route but I just loved this one. It was empty when we visited, it’s located within a forest and it just looks so well maintained! Plus, it’s free to visit and walk around, so great if you’re on a budget. 

2. Mull of Galloway Lighthouse: I love lighthouses. I’m not sure where the love came from, but if there is a lighthouse on the route, I’m going to visit it! This one as I mentioned above is the most south-westerly point in Scotland and there is a tea room built into the side of the cliffs, which has amazing views, so I loved it. 

3. Culzean Castle : Another great castle, but more tourist established! It’s part of the Scottish national trust. I’ve written a guide on visiting it here, but it’s a dreamy castle where you can imagine beautiful weddings taking place. 

Suggested road trip itinerary for the SW300 

• ‍ Day 1 : Calverock Castle, Sweetheart Abbey, Mull of Galloway, Logan botanical gardens ‍
• Day 2: Culzean Castle, Electric Brae, Scottish Dark Sky Observatory

Optional day 3: take it slower, or add in extra spots for walking in the Galloway National Park

READ: Road Tripping the Southwest 300: An Itinerary

• Length: 500 miles/ 804 KM
• Time: 3-5 days 
• Location: Inverness to Inverness 

The NC500 (The North Coast 500) is, without doubt, the most popular and famous Scotland road trip there is.

It’s Scotland’s answer to Route 66 and it’s amazing! 

We actually spent a couple of weeks doing the NC500, but it doesn’t take anywhere near as long as that.

We were working whilst sightseeing so wanted to take it slow. 

But it’s the sort of Scottish road trip that you can dedicate as much time as you like to it. 

Just remember, since this is Scotland’s most famous road trip, it gets super busy in the summer months.

Expect traffic delays and the need to pre-book accommodation and/or campsites in advance. 

We did the NC500 road trip in autumn time and it was perfect.

We got lucky with the weather and only experienced a few days of rain and we were practically alone for the entire trip- which was perfect for us!

We absolutely loved the NC500 and it didn’t disappoint. ‍

It lived up to our expectations! 

Highlights of the NC500 road trip in Scotland 

1 Applecross mountain pass: This is a mountain pass road that made me feel like I’d just been transported to Norway. The scenery was amazing and the road was a little scary (which added to the excitement!) The little town of Applecross is great to visit too, it’s just so secluded, you honestly feel like you’ve entered a corner of the earth that no one really knows about! 

2. Smoo Cave: I love caves and we’ve visited some pretty vast and unique caves in our travels, and I can’t say I was expecting much from a cave in Scotland. But I loved it! This is a large cave that you can wander in (when the tide is low), check out the powerful waterfall hidden inside, and you can take a boat ride at certain times of the year! It was really cool, and it was FREE!

3. John O Groats: I really liked this spot on the NC500. It marks the furthest northern part of mainland UK, and it’s a cute place to visit in Scotland. Take pictures of the iconic different colour of houses (very Balamory style!), grab a coffee, check out the beer distillery and go spotting for sharks and whales!  

Suggested road trip itinerary for the NC500 

I’ll base this on a 5 day itinerary, but in my dedicated post on the NC500 I take you through both 3 day and 7 day road trip itineraries.

READ: 3, 5 and 7 North Coast 500 driving itinerary

3. Isle of Skye

• Length: 160 miles / 257 km
• Time: 3 days 
• Location: Eiliean Donan Castle > Armadale 

The Isle Of Skye is one of the many islands that Scotland has to offer.

I hope to visit many more in the future, but for now, the Isle of Skye is my favourite. 

I’d heard so many great things about this place before visiting and I worried it couldn’t possibly live up to my expectations in reality.

But, you’ll be happy to know that it did! 

The great thing about the Isle of Skye is that it’s small but mighty, so it makes for a perfect road trip in Scotland. 

You can drive the full isle of Skye in around 6 hours, but that’s without sightseeing, so if you want to truly see it all, then I would definitely recommend at least 3 days, simply because a lot of your sightseeing will include walking routes and hikes, and they will take up time! 

Highlights of the Isle of Skye road trip 

1. Old Man of Storr: this is probably one of the most famous attractions on the Isle of Skye. It’s essentially a hike within a dramatic landscape, but it’s epic. The hike itself will take around 2 hours round-trip and it’s tough-going up, but doable, even if you’re not fit (I don’t consider myself fit!). The views here are EPIC! And I suggest you go either at sunrise or sunset. 

2. The Magical Fairy Glen: This is my favourite place on the Isle of Skye. It seriously feels like a completely different country that’s been plotted into a random bit of the island. It’s a natural phenomenon and reminds me of New Zealand (even though I haven’t been, it’s what I imagine New Zealand looks like!). Visit early to beat any crowds. 

3. Eilean Donan Castle: so this isn’t technically on the Isle of Skye itself (but within the region) and it’s just before the Skye bridge. But this is such a cool castle to visit. There is a bridge to walk over the water to visit the castle, and you can just imagine what it was like to be in this castle back when it operated! A real gem of a place to visit on your Scottish road trip. 

Suggested Isle of Skye itinerary

I’ve done a whole separate post on a suggested Isle of Skye road trip itinerary, but I’ll give you the basics here. 

• Day 1: Eilean Donan Castle, Sligachan Old Bridge, the “capital” of Portree, then a sunset hike at the Old Man of Stor. 
• ‍ Day 2: Mealt Falls & Kilt Rock, The Quariang (Walk Or Viewpoint), The Fairy Glen, Dunvegan Castles & Gardens (Neist Lighthouse for sunset if you’ve got time) ‍
• Day 3: The Famous Fairy Pools, Armadale Castle Gardens, Point of Sleat viewpoint, and visit a whiskey distillery! 

From Armadale, you can get the ferry across to Mallaig, or you can drive back out of the Skye bridge.

Read More: Best Places To Stay On The Isle Of Skye

4. Cairngorms National Park Route

• Time: 1 days 
• Location: Aviemore to Blair Castle 

So this isn’t an official road trip in Scotland, but one I’ve created based on our driving.

So if you want to experience the best that the Cairngorms National Park has to offer this is the driving route for you. 

If you’ve got a full day, then you might be able to squeeze everything in (at least in the summer months), but if you’re visiting in winter, or you just want to take things slower, then you can do this route in 2 days. 

Highlights of the Cairngorms National Park Route 

1. Braemar Castle & town : This is one of my favourite little towns in all of Scotland. It was soooo charming and I would move in tomorrow if I could! Not only that, but this town is home to one of the really cool castles in Scotland and it’s really nice when it's lit up at night. 

2. Cairngorm Mountain : This is a really cool place to visit, even if you’re not there for ski season. It offers amazing views over the whole of the Cairngorms national park. 

Read Also: Interesting Scotland Travel Statistics

Suggested road trip itinerary 

Aviemore > Cairngorm Reindeer Centre > Cairngorm Mountain > Balmoral Castle > Braemar Castle > Blair Castle 

5. Glasgow to Fort William 

• Length: 131 miles / 210 km
• Time: 2- 3 days
• Location: Glasgow to Fort William

If you’re looking for a short but sweet road trip in Scotland then this is the one for you.

This mini road trip will allow you to see the delights of Scotland, the epic beauty of Glen Coe and the chance to ride the Harry Potter train! 

If you want to do some hikes in Loch Lomond, then you’ll need the two days for this Scotland road trip to make it to Fort William. 

Highlights of the Glasgow to Fort William Scottish Road trip 

1. Glen Coe: Glen Coe is without a doubt one of my favourite places to visit in all of Scotland. This is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever laid my eyes on, and this road trip means you can visit. You should definitely make a stop at Rannoch Moor viewpoint, and the famous James Bond filming picture point. 

2. Riding the Jacobite: Fort William is home to the Jacobite, a world-famous train ride that is otherwise known as “The Hogwarts Express”. Yes, it’s the same company of the famous train used in the movie, and if you take the train ride to and from Fort William to Mallaig, you’ll go past some pretty famous Harry Potter filming locations , including the Glenfinnan Viaduct! 

3. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum : This is a really great place to visit in Glasgow, and definitely worth stopping by if you spend some time in the city! Glasgow is actually a really charming city and a great place to simply walk around too. 

4. Loch Lomond: This area of Scotland is massively popular not just with locals but tourists too. Loch Lomond is an EPIC loch with beauty on every corner. Whether you want to grab lunch in a local pub, take a boat on the loch, discover castle ruins, stay in some unique accommodation , or do a hike, Loch Lomond has it all! 

• Day 1 : Start early with Glasgow (make sure you see the best sights, including the outdoor harbor museum!), then head to beautiful Loch Lomond, if you like hiking, make sure you try the Ben Lomond hike (the highest peak in Loch Lomond!)
• ‍ Day 2: Make your way to St. Conan’s Kirk, a really cool and scenic church! Then head to Glen Coe and drive around the beautiful mountains, rivers and more. If you like walking, you’ll find lots of hiking and walking routes around Glen Coe! But either way, it’ll be one of the most scenic drives you’ll take in Scotland (you’ll constantly want to pull over for pictures!), and finish the day at Fort William ! 

On your 3rd day, you can either take the Jacobite train ride OR, if you’re feeling adventurous and the season is right, why not hike the highest mountain in all of the UK? Ben Nevis! 

READ: Ultimate guide to hiking Ben Lomond

6. The best of the Highlands

• Length: 520 miles / 840  km
• Time: 5-7 days
• Location: Glen Coe to Loch Ness (but not that simple :P) 

Bradley and I spent quite a bit of time in the Highlands of Scotland, so I’ve come up with this epic road trip that I think highlights the BEST that the highlands have to offer.

This is completely based on our own experience and the sights we saw on our Scottish road trip adventures. 

This road trip will basically allow you to undertake the best parts of the NC500, alongside some of the best sights that the Scottish highlands have to offer, so you really get to experience everything, and the slower you can take the trip, the better it will be! 

You can even make this trip more EPIC, by combining the Isle of Skye road trip with it! 

Highlands of the Scottish Highlands road trip 

1. Glenfinnan Viaduct: This is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Scotland and I don’t think any Scottish road trip would be complete without visiting here. It’s honestly one of the most picturesque places we’ve ever witnessed. 

2. Kylesku Bridge : The bridge itself is pretty cool, but really it’s this whole area in general that is just beautiful. Driving this area of Scotland is a real treat, and we got to meet so many highland cows and deer along the way. It was amazing! 

3. Inverness city : Inverness is often regarded as the “capital” of the highlands and we both really loved it! It’s a city, but it’s not overly big and you can easily see all the best sights in one day. From the charming Victoria Market, to Inverness castle! This is a great place to pick up any souvenirs for your road trip too.

4. Loch Ness: Imagine going all the way to Scotland and not trying to find the famous Loch Ness Monster! Loch Ness isn’t too far from Inverness, so it’s a leisurely and beautiful drive. There are wild camping spots right on the lake too. You can get boat trips out on Loch Ness which will give you a chance to learn about the history of the legend of the Loch Ness Monster, and the chance to actually spot Nessie! 

Book your Loch Ness Boat Tour right here in advance!

Suggested itinerary for The Highlights of the Highlands Road trip 

• Day 1: Start in Glen Coe and make your way to Fort William and Glenfinnan to see the Viaduct , then head towards Mallaig and take the ferry across to the Isle of Skye!  ‍
• Day 2: If you want you could sightsee some parts of the Isle of Skye, or if not, just head over the Skye bridge to visit the Eilean Donan Castle. Then make your way up to the cute town of Gairloch! Try the mountain coffee Co for delicious coffee! Make sure you stop at Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve for a really beautiful viewpoint. 
• Day 3: Make your way to Kylesku bridge and stop along the many lochs, beaches and viewpoints along the way, then head up to BettyHill!
• Day 4: From Betty Hill, it’s time to visit the most northerly part of mainland Scotland, John O Groats! Afterwards, make your way down the North East coast and enjoy the beautiful views and castles on the way. 
• Day 5 : If you haven’t made it close to Inverness yet, then get closer and spend the day sightseeing the beautiful city of Inverness! 
• Day 6: Make your way to Fort Agustus to get ready for your Loch Ness boat tour, and you’ll be driving alongside Loch Ness for the entire drive too. 

7. The City Hop 

• Length: 150 miles/ 241 KM
• Time: 3 days
• Location: Edinburgh to Edinburgh 

If you love cities, then you’ll enjoy this mini road trip of 3 of the best cities that Scotland has to offer.

You can even experience some local nature and lochs too in the form of Loch Lomond, which doesn’t take you off route! 

Since Edinburgh is a popular place to fly into and rent a campervan (or hire a car ) this would be one of the more convenient road trips from Edinburgh, especially if you’re short on time! 

This isn’t a long driving road trip in Scotland, but your time will be taken up with all the awesome sightseeing you’ll have to do. 

Highlights of the City hop road trip 

1. Ben Lomond : If you like hiking, then you’ll love Loch Lomond. There are so many scenic hikes and viewpoints around this area, and if you like a challenge, you can hike the highest peak in the Loch Lomond area, which is Ben Lomond. 

2 . Stirling Old Town : The old town of Stirling is super cute and quirky. The first thing I saw when we arrived was a shop selling only handmade bagpipes, and I thought, this is Scotland! There’s also the beautiful Stirling Castle to see, among many other great attractions.

3. Harry Potter heaven : Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and it’s bursting with amazing sights to see, including Edinburgh Castle, but it’s also really popular with tourists for another reason! J.K Rowling wrote all of the Harry Potter books whilst living in the city, and you’ll see constant sources of her inspiration for Harry Potter as you walk around the famous sights Edinburgh has to offer. 

• Day 1 : Get sightseeing in the beautiful capital city of Edinburgh, and honestly, that’ll probably take you a full day! 
• Day 2 : Head to the beautiful town of Stirling and check out the highlights, then make your way to the beautiful Loch Lomond. Try and get some time to do the Three Lochs Forest Drive, which is like another mini road trip, within a road trip! 
• Day 3: Head to Glasgow and sightseeing all the amazing things to do there! 

Then make your way back to Edinburgh from Glasgow...which won’t take you long at all! 

Tips for road tripping Scotland 

Before I leave you, I just want to point out a few of tips which may help planning your Scottish adventures easier. 

• ‍ The further north you go, the fewer shops there are - I mean this in terms of, if you’re a vegetarian or vegan, the choice of shops becomes less, so I would suggest stocking up on what you regard as essential items in a larger city before you begin your adventure!  ‍
• Book the Jacobite ahead of time: This is a world-famous train ride, so it sells out we only really got a seat because tourism was low when we visited, so if you know you want to do it, book at least a month in advance.  ‍
• Fuel is cheaper in supermarkets: Fuel is available throughout the island of Scotland, but it’s cheaper at supermarkets such as Morrisons and Tesco, so top up there when you can.  ‍
• Scotland road trips are electric car-friendly: There are lots of electric charging points on all of these road trips in Scotland, so if you’ve got an electric car, don’t fret!
• I mentioned it above, but if you need a recommendation for a campervan rental company in Scotland , then we can suggest Motorhome Republic as the top choice. 
• People are REALLY friendly in Scotland, so don’t be afraid to wave from your car! 
• Use these routes as a guide to planning your Scotland road trip itinerary. There is so much to see in Scotland and it's always better when you can add your own stops and routes, really go off the tourist trail! ‍
• Consider staying in some unique spots - We spent a few nights on a private lighthouse cottage when on the Isle of Skye and it was an unforgettable experience. With 2 months in Scotland, it was nice taking some time to have a proper bath and a log fire! So if you can spare a few nights, then consider staying in some unique locations you won't find elsewhere. For more tips, check out my guide on the most romantic hotels in Scotland .

So there you have it, my guide to the best road trips in Scotland as voted by me!

I hope you’ve enjoyed this post and hopefully, you’ve got some inspiration for planning your next Scottish road trip. If you’ve got any questions or suggestions to add to this post, then please do drop me a comment below!

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The 12 best road trips around Scotland

Hostelworld Blog | Posted on October 31, 2019 |

Whatever type of Scotland road trip you’re planning, there are many different routes you can take to see the most of this wild, beautiful, rugged country. There are plenty of road trips in Scotland that are planned by tour companies, but there’s also the flexibility of tailoring your own trip depending on what you want to see and how much time you have. Want to discover the best road trip in Scotland? We’ve broken it all down for you, so you can prepare for the greatest road trips that the country has to offer!

A Scotland road trip is perfect for backpackers who are thrill-seekers, adventurers, beach lovers, history lovers and all those in between. While you might be used to using trains or buses to get around as a backpacker, renting a car and having a driving tour is an exciting way to see Scotland. We’ve suggested some attractions, when you could visit, where to stay and possible itineraries. We have also estimated the length of the road trip, but your trip may be longer or shorter depending on what you decide to do! Here are 12 of the best Scotland road trips .

Quiraing, Portree  📸: @aridley88

Best Scotland Road Trips:

• North Coast 500: the best Scottish road trip for the ultimate getaway
• Fife Coastal Route: the best Scottish road trip for beach lovers
• Angus Coastal Route: the best Scottish road trip for the all rounder
• Argyll Coastal Route: the best Scottish road trip for classic road trip lovers
• Highland Tourist Route/Aberdeen to Inverness: the best Scottish road trip for history buffs
• Galloway Tourist Route: the best Scottish road trip for thrill-seekers
• Harry Potter road trip: the best Scottish road trip for Harry Potter fans
• Deeside Tourist Route: the best Scottish road trip for lush landscapes
• Borders Historic Route: the best Scottish road trip for learning about Scottish life and culture
• South West Coastal 300: the best Scottish road trip for getting off the grid
• Perthshire Tourist Route: the best Scottish road trip for those who want to spoil themselves (while on a budget)
• Isle of Skye: the best Scottish road trip for photographers

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The best time to take a Scotland road trip

Spring/summer.

With longer and warmer days, spring or summer would be the easiest time to admire the dramatic coastlines on a driving tour. This is a great time to find your inner adventurer and take part in activities like kayaking, mountain biking, surfing and hiking.

Autumn/winter

If you’re headed up north, then this is the best time to see the Aurora Borealis ( Northern Lights ) and the many stellar constellations at night. There are still plenty of things to do indoors, such as a visit to one of the many whiskey distilleries or tasting the Scottish cuisine (we promise haggis is actually pretty tasty!) When planning what to see, check online for opening times as a lot of attractions are closed during the winter.

The best time of year for white-water rafting is in the colder months! There are lots of snow sport locations in Scotland, with Cairngorms National Park being a popular choice.

The Isle of Skye is incredibly popular with travellers during the peak season of around early April to mid-October, with July and August being the busiest. If you consider going around November, you’ll find that it will be much easier to drive around and get those all-important Instagram shots!

Useful info

• If you’re a young backpacker it’s best that you research different car hire companies, as some don’t loan to people under 25 – or make it very difficult to do without spending a lot of money.
• Check if your driver’s licence from your country legally allows you to drive in Scotland.
• Consider getting a GPS navigation system, as some areas are remote and difficult to reach.

When going on a road trip in Scotland, it’s probably easiest to hire a car from one of the main cities (Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Aberdeen). The main companies located in Scotland are: Hertz , Avis , Thrifty , Alamo , Budget , Europcar and Enterprise .

Prices vary depending on the size of the car. It’s also cheaper for a manual car rather than an automatic.

A basic manual car hire from Edinburgh for 4 days is around £80. A basic automatic car is around £80-100.

For a basic manual car hire from Inverness, it’s around £100-130 for 5 days. An automatic car is around £180-200 for 5 days.

Cars can be rented from Stirling for around £50-70 for a manual and £90-100 for an automatic over 3 days.

1. North Coast 500: the best Scottish road trip for the ultimate getaway

This is the Route 66 of road trips guys. Hailed as one of the best coastal touring routes in the world, the North Coast 500 is a must do if you’re planning a Scottish Highlands road trip. Running over 500 miles through Scotland’s North Highlands, this is your chance to see sparkly beaches, ancient castles and draw-dropping coastlines. Prepare your Insta, this is a contender for the best road trip in Scotland.

Dunrobin Castle,  📸: @colinhorn

Major attractions

• Historic ruins: Hill o’Many Stanes, Sinclair Girnigoe Castle , Whaligoe Steps , The Broch
• Museums: Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Experience
• Castles: Dunrobin Castle, Inverness Castle
• RSPB Scotland Dunnet Head Nature Reserve (the most northerly mainland point in Britain)
• LOTS of whisky distilleries (47 to be exact)

Length of road trip

5-7 days (13 hours 35 minutes driving time)

Around 30 minutes from Inverness is the small town of Alness, where there are plenty of eating options. The neighbouring town Dalmore also has its own whisky distillery that was founded in 1839, and they offer hour-long tours.

Head further up the road to Dunrobin Castle . This fairy-tale like castle is open from April to October and is the perfect place for an afternoon stroll.

Drive to the Hill o’Many Stanes – which is around 200 small stones in rows. They are estimated to be around 4,000 years old and were predicted to be used for religious ceremonies. These stone arrangements are super rare in Europe so it’s definitely worth a visit!

Settle into the town of Wick for the afternoon and evening. Explore the historic town and head to Wick sea for some stunning views of the Scottish coastline.

First stop is the Sinclair Girnigoe Castle . These ruins were originally two castles with Girnigoe estimated to have been built between 1476 and 1496 and the Sinclair castle built around 1606. Throughout history it has been desired for its strategic position.

Next stop by Sinclair’s Bay for some Instagrammable views. The day’s major stop is RSPB Scotland Dunnet Head Nature Reserve , which is the most northerly mainland point in Britain. It’s free entry, but donations are recommended. Here, look out at the stunning cliffs as time stops for a moment. In the town of Dunnet and Dunnet Bay you can take surfing lessons (if the weather permits it!)

Smoo Cave, 📸: @colinhorn

If you didn’t get enough beach yesterday, have a morning walk along Strathy Bay. Drive 20 minutes further to Strathnaver Museum, which explores the history of this town that’s been inhabited for over 8,000 years! Have a hot soup in town at The Store Café to recharge – then hit the road again!

Admire the coastline, you’re at one of the most northerly points in the UK. Base yourself at the town of Durness for the night. Close by is Smoo Cave – the largest coastal cave in the UK! Explore, take selfies, do your thing.

Today’s a big driving day – so chill back, put some music on and admire the views right from your car seat.

If you’re an avid hiker, stop by the stunning Eas a’ Chual Aluinn – Britain’s highest waterfall. This is quite a hike from the end of the road, so only attempt it if you feel physically capable. It will take most of the day (upwards of 5 hours).

If you want to visit somewhere more reachable, check out Inchnadamph and the River Caves . These are the entrances to the largest cave system in Scotland. Stop by the local hotel of the Inchnadamph for some lunch.

Drive along to Torridon for the afternoon and evening. If you want to get in touch with the rough Scottish wilderness, stop by Beinn Eighe Nature Reserve for some great walking trails suitable for all abilities.

Drive to Achnasheen for food and savour the stunning landscape as you head back to Inverness. Why not make a short detour to Loch Ness and try to find the famous Loch Ness monster, or add another day to your trip? Lastly stop off at Glen Ord Distillery in Glen Ord to celebrate your once-in-a-lifetime road trip in Scotland!

Loch Ness, 📸: @ramon_vloon

Where t o stay

• Inverness is a great starting point for the road trip. Take a day to look around the city; Inverness Cathedral and Inverness Castle are beautiful attractions to see! There are also some excellent hostels in Inverness that are close to the city centre, including Bazpackers Hostel .
• Loch Ness is a great place to stay overnight (or many nights), as you’ll probably spend forever looking for the Loch Ness Monster!
• The Lochside Hostel is right by the sea so you can search the waters right from your dorm room.
• If you’re looking to stay far up north in the middle of your road trip, there’s Durness Smoo Youth Hostel in Durness, which would put you right in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, situated right between the sea and green pastures.
• On your way back to Inverness, why not stay at Torridon Youth Hostel where you can enjoy a glass of single malt around the panoramic mountains?

2. Fife Coastal Route: the best Scottish road trip for beach lovers

A breeze in comparison to the (Loch Ness) monster that is the North Coast 500, the Fife Coastal Route tour of Scotland follows along the Firth of Forth coastline over 77 miles, while passing through charming little fishing towns, historic castles and endless beaches.

Edinburgh , 📸: @danoolvnoutchk

• Dunfermline Palace and Abbey
• Kingsbarns Distillery
• Scottish Fisheries Museum
• Devilla Forest
• Royal Burgh of Culross
• Kirkcaldy Galleries
• Deep Sea World
• Aberdour Castle – the oldest standing castle in Scotland
• St Andrews University
• Fife Coastal Path: a walking path that takes you through the beach, towns and parks

1-3 days (2 hours 10 minutes driving time)

Spend the first day in either Stirling or Edinburgh. Soak up some culture, hire a car and prepare for your road trip to the starting point of Kincardine. See attractions such as the Royal Burgh of Culross and the Dunfermline Palace and Abbey.

Have lunch in Dunfermline or in the neighbouring seaside towns of North Queensferry and Inverkeithing. Then head to Aberdour Castle and the town of Burnisland for some history and charming coastal views. Stop in the town of Kirkcaldy and admire the Kirkcaldy Galleries featuring art from local artists.

Settle in Anstruther for the evening and take a walk along the beach. Why not grab some fish and chips to finish the perfect day?

Head to the town of St Andrews to see the famous St Andrews University – the next stop on your driving tour. Take the optional whiskey distillery tour at Kingsbarns Distillery along the way and try some authentic scotch whiskey (it might be early, but we won’t judge).

Drive up to Tentsmuir forest for a nature walk or mountain biking. Then on to Newport-on-Tay, where your coastal tour is now complete!

Where to stay

Kick Ass Greyfriars , Edinburgh

• Think about staying in the fascinating cities of Stirling or Edinburgh before your road trip as they both have so much to do! Check out our free things to do in Edinburgh .
• Kick Ass Greyfriars in Edinburgh’s city centre is super funky and in a very lively area.
• In Stirling, the Willy Wallace Hostel is only a 2 minute walk from the station, so it’s convenient to get to from a different part of the UK or from Edinburgh airport.
• Along the coast, the Murray Library Hostel in Anstruther is a great base point to explore the neighbouring fishing villages and coastal views.
• For the end of your trip, the St Andrews Tourist Hostel is in a perfect location to explore the lively and historic university town.

3. Angus Coastal Route: the best Scottish road trip for the all rounder

The Angus Coastal Route extends from where the Fife Coastal Route ends, so if you’ve got some extra time and want to soak up more of the Scottish coast on your tour of Scotland why not combine two road trips in one? Along this road trip why not soak up the culture of the city of Dundee, swim in the beach, or explore some castles?

Dunnottar Castle 📸: @rosssneddon 

• V&A Dundee
• Arbroath Abbey
• House of Dun
• Dunnottar Castle

1-2 days (1 hour 40 minutes driving time)

Starting in Dundee, take some time to explore this culturally rich city. Dundee has a Victoria and Albert Museum (the only one outside London), which exhibits the different eras of design. There’s also Broughty Castle , Mills Observatory and the McManus Galleries to visit on your driving tour.

Drive to the coastal town of Arboath and check out the Arbroath Abbey. Founded in 1178, it’s now a ruin which you can explore. Stop by some of the beaches along your drive, like Lunan Bay. Visit the House of Dun, a Georgian mansion where you can stroll along the gardens like you live there. Then hit up the coastal town of Stonehaven for lunch and check out Dunnottar Castle which sits high above the green sea cliffs.

Drive up to Aberdeen for the end of your tour of Scotland.

Citi Hostel Aberdeen

• In Dundee, Dundee Backpackers Hostel is located conveniently on the high street, around the town’s pubs, bars and clubs. Pre-road trip party sorted!
• Check out our hostels in Aberdeen and maybe consider extending your road trip. Citi Hostel Aberdeen is modern, sleek and right in the centre of town!

4. Argyll Coastal Route: the best Scottish road trip for classic road trip lovers

Another one of the best road trips in Scotland is the Argyll Coastal Route . This road trip combines both mountains and coastline for a priceless experience in the form of a driving tour. Gain an understanding of traditional Scottish culture as you cruise through many different lochs.

Ben Nevis, Fort William  📸: @nitin_mathew

• An Ceann Mor: a manmade viewpoint to look at the sprawling landscape of Loch Lomond
• Inveraray Jail
• Auchindrain: a museum about Scotland’s last Highland farming township
• Kilmartin Museum: learn about the historic monuments that surround the area of Kilmartin Glen, including ruins of a 15 th century tower house
• McCaig’s Tower: monument built in 1897 as tribute to a local family in the town of Oban
• Castle Stalker
• Glencoe Folk Museum
• Glen Nevis: the highest mountain in Scotland

2-3 days (2 hours 55 minutes driving time)

Start your road trip in the town of Tarbet, around 1 hour 15 minutes from Glasgow. Make the trip up to An Ceann Mor in Loch Lomond, where you’ll be welcomed to breathtaking mountain views from the viewpoint. Head to Loch Fyne Restaurant and Oyster bar for some delicious seafood, or head into the town of Inveraray. Here you can also go to Inveraray Jail in a fun interactive museum.

Along the driving tour you could stop at Auchindrain, which is a museum dedicated to Scotland’s last remaining Highland farming town. Make your way to other historic spots like Kilmartin Museum , an ancient stone formation. Then head to the town of Oban for the night.

Head to Castle Stalker in the town of Portnacroish for some lush views and top it off with a pint at the Old Inn . Drive to the town of Glencoe where you can visit the Glencoe Folk Museum (open late March – end of October) for some insights into the history of the town.

Complete the coastal drive at North Ballachulish.

Castle Stalker, 📸: @ascend_film

Day 3 (optional):

If you have an extra day, stay in the town of Glencoe and then head to the far-west coastal town of Ellenabeich for sea-animal watching. Or you could spend some time in Ben Nevis for hiking or mountain biking. In winter, it’s a great skiing spot.

• On your 2-3 day exploration, the town of Oban is the perfect base.
• Oban Backpackers is a bright and spacious hostel which is a 10-minute walk from the ferry, bus and train stations.
• Spending a night in Glencoe is a great way to end your Scottish road trip, with Glencoe Youth Hostel a popular choice with backpackers.

5. Highland Tourist Route/Aberdeen to Inverness: the best Scottish road trip for history buffs

Spanning over 116 miles, this Scotland road trip is perfect for history buffs as you’ll see many castles and museums along your journey on the Highland Tourist Route . Let’s take you back in time…

Cairngorms National Park, Ballater 📸 : @mili_vigerova

• Gordon Highlanders Museum: located in Aberdeen, it shows the history of the Gordon Highlanders Regiment up to the Cold War
• Pitfichie: a forest that’s perfect for adventurers, mountain bikers and horse riders
• The Lecht 2090: skiing and snowboarding base
• Glenlivet Distillery
• Grantown Museum
• Cawdor Castle
• Fort George
• Culloden Battlefield and visitor centre

2-3 days (2 hours 50 minutes driving time)

Culloden Battlefield, 📸 : Danny Nicholson

Starting in Aberdeen, head to the first museum on the driving tour: Gordon Highlanders Museum . Here you can learn about the history of the Gordon Highlanders and their service to the British Army.

Move on to Pitfichie Forest, which is a popular stop for mountain biking (with 3 different cycling routes). Or if it’s winter, stop by The Lecht 2090 at Cairngorms National Park, a must-visit for any Snowsports fan. You might want to add a day or two to your road trip! In summer it transforms into a great mountain biking track.

Top off a busy day with a whiskey and a distillery tour at the legendary Glenlivet Distillery , which is open from mid-March to early November (check their website for specific times). Located ten miles from Tomintoul, not only does it offer straight whiskey, but also whiskey cake at their coffee shop!

Explore the small town of Grantown and visit the Grantown Museum; which includes local art and history about the Clan Grant. Drive along the vast Scottish mountains to Cawdor Castle , a picturesque castle dating back to the middle-ages. The castle is open from mid-April to early October (check their website for specific times). Stop by Fort George for some history and dolphin spotting, then drive to the final spot, the Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre , and learn about the Jacobite uprising.

Black Isle Hostel , Inverness

• Starting your journey in Aberdeen , Aberdeen Youth Hostel has a social space with a café.
• Inverness has many options to wind down from your Scottish Highlands road trip, such as the ideally located Black Isle Hostel .

6. Galloway Tourist Route: the best Scottish road trip for thrill-seekers

This Scotland road trip is great for all adventurers and adrenaline junkies! With a range of hiking trails, the 92-mile Galloway Tourist Route will get your heart rate spiking.

Scottish Dark Sky Observatory , 📸 : Colin Baird

• Dumfries Museum
• Robert Burns’ birthplace
• Outdoor activities: mountain biking, kayaking, ziplining etc
• Scottish Dark Sky Observatory
• Visit to Seaside town of Ayr

3-4 days (2 hours 10 minutes driving time)

From the starting point of Gretna, head to the town of Dumfries to explore. Here you can see the Dumfries Museum and Camera Obscura (open during winter), telling the local history and displaying artefacts. The town is known for its charming farmer’s market and its medieval stronghold ruins. If you’re a fan of poetry, there’s a Robert Burns road trip that you can take which shows you his birthplace, places that inspired his writing and his gravestone.

First stop – Dalbeattie! In this quaint little town lies a great adventure. This is a great location to mountain bike. Even if you’re a newbie, this is something all adventurers should try out, because the views are one in a million – and the sunset atop the mountains is something you won’t forget. This is just one of the seven mountain biking regions in Scotland , so why not make a whole tour out of it?

Threave Castle, 📸 : William Marnoch

Stop by Threave Castle on your tour of Scotland – this haunting ruin is only reachable by boat! Spooky. Tickets to get across start from £3.60. Along the drive, consider stopping at Galloway Kite Trail for some great walking trails and viewpoints. Then head to the Galloway Activity Centre for some fun! Here you can do water sports like kayaking, sailing and windsurfing on Loch Ken. Or if you like dry land, there’s archery, mountain biking, ziplining and climbing – even laser tag. It’s not just for kids!

For the afternoon and evening head to the peaceful town of New Galloway for a traditional pub meal and a rest after an exhausting day. Take the optional drive to the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory , giving crystal clear views of the night sky and the sprawling mountains. They offer guided tours of the constellations and planets, but you’ll need to book in advance.

The final day to take in the stunning Scottish landscapes. Drive to the town of Ayr to finish your road trip. This popular seaside town is a great place to explore further and makes this driving tour one of the best road trips in Scotland (IMO).

7. Harry Potter road trip: the best Scottish road trip for Harry Potter fans – obviously!

This isn’t totally a Scottish road trip, as it includes a train trip (aboard the Hogwarts Express) and is spread out around Scotland. It could also be done completely by train, so if your budget doesn’t stretch for a rental car, then this is a great alternative! With this Scotland road trip, you’ll become the ultimate Potterhead!

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glenfinnan 📸: @jack_anstey

• JK Rowling’s writing locations
• The bridge that the Hogwarts Express crosses – and where Ron and Harry fly the car!
• Loch Morar (AKA Hogwarts Lake)
• Glen Coe (Hagrid’s Hut)

Admire the city of Edinburgh where JK Rowling wrote Harry Potter in many of the cafes.

Spoon : This is where she wrote the majority of the first novel, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. It was originally a coffee shop called Nicolson’s Café, but has since changed ownership.

The Elephant House : labelled the ‘birthplace of Harry Potter’, this café is very popular with tourists. It’s also supposedly hosted other writers such as Ian Rankin.

Balmoral Hotel : This is where JK Rowling wrote most of the final instalment, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – room 552 to be exact.

Drive (or take the train) from Edinburgh to Fort William. It takes about 4 hours, so this would be a full day trip. There are some charming hostels in Fort William so why not snuggle up under the fire and read Harry Potter in the very land that inspired it? We think that sounds magical.

Glen Coe,  📸: @helloiamtuan

You’ve got your acceptance letter, now It’s time to go to Hogwarts! Take The Jacobite train , AKA the Hogwarts Express(!!), to Mallaig. Make sure you book ahead of time because this train journey is VERY popular – and we’re afraid you can’t use your invisibility cloak. An adult day return ticket is £37.75. The train crosses over the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct – the bridge in the movies! When in Mallaig take a trip to see Loch Morar, which was used as Hogwarts’ Lake throughout the films.

Return to Fort William to see some more of the filming locations. 35 minutes away is Glen Coe, which featured in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban as the setting for Hagrid’s Hut. Under an hour from Fort William is Loch Arkaig, which served as the setting for Dumbledore’s resting place in the Deathly Hallows Part 1 and the dragon escape in Part 2. There is a lot to explore, so take your time to research!

• In Edinburgh you can stay at the very Harry Potter-esque Belford hostel – it’s a converted church!
• Fort William has some excellent hostels like Fort William Backpackers and Glen Nevis Youth Hostel .

8. Deeside Tourist Route: the best Scottish road trip for lush landscapes

The Deeside Tourist Route runs for 108 miles from Perth to Aberdeen (or vice versa). It varies in landscape as it covers national parks, farmland and the Royal Deeside.

Lochnagar, Ballater 📸: @paulrysz

• Cairngorms National Park
• Scone Palace
• Royal Lochnagar Distillery
• Cambus O’May Cheese Co
• Drum Castle
• Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve

1-3 days (2 hours 55 minutes driving time)

Starting in the pretty city of Perth, drive to nearby Scone Palace . Here you can learn about the lengthy history of Scotland’s kings, including the famous Macbeth. The palace and grounds are open from 1 st April to 31 st of October. Within the grounds of Scone Palace is a great café with even greater views.

Drive up to Braemar and base yourself there for the night. Here you can see Mar Lodge Estate, which is a section of Cairngorms National Park. In winter you can try your luck at snowboarding or skiing at Glenshee ski centre. There’s also Braemar Castle, to cross another castle off your list. Finish the night with a scotch whiskey at the Royal Lochnagar Distillery (seasonal opening times are on their website).

Stop by the Cambus O’May Cheese Company to learn about the historic process of cheese-making.

Nearby is the Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve, inside the Cairngorms National Park. This reserve contains the Burn o’ Vat – a giant pothole created in the Ice Age. Plus, there are heaps of hiking trails for you outdoor lovers.

Stop by the town of Banchory for lunch, it has quaint restaurants and teahouses, including Number One Community Café that has affordable meals and is run entirely by volunteers.

Not hungry? Banchory is a great place for mountain biking, hiking or even a round of golf! Head up to Drum Castle to learn about its varied history starting from medieval times (check the website for seasonal opening times). Then embark on your final location of Aberdeen!

Howies Aberdeen offers both British and Scottish food, including dishes like haggis and Cullen skink. Why not warm up with a hearty meal to finish your epic road trip?

Cairngorms National Park , 📸:  Manuel Osdoba

Where to stay:

• With a 10 rating on Hostelworld, Bankfoot Inn just next to Perth is a safe bet. Indulge in their FREE breakfast and feel welcomed into their homely environment. There’s also Perth Youth Hostel which is open from June to August. Check out more hostels in Perth here.
• Along your journey, Braemar Youth Hostel is a great resting stop for the first night. Further into the road trip, Ballater Hostel in the small town of Ballater is another great choice.

9. Borders Historic Route: the best Scottish road trip for learning about Scottish life and culture

The Borders Historic Route Scottish road trip runs from Gretna Green to Edinburgh for a charming sightsee of cute villages and green countryside.

Edinburgh Castle, 📸: @joerga

• Gilnockie Tower
• Lochcarron of Scotland
• Abbotsford House
• Stewart brewing
• Dalkeith Country Park

2-3 days (2 hours 20 minutes driving time)

As this starts on the border with England in Gretna Green, it might be easiest to hire a car from the town of Carlisle and spend a couple of days exploring – Hadrian’s Wall is not a far drive away! Then head to the first location of the driving tour – Gilnockie Tower . Here you can also visit the Clan Armstrong Information Centre to learn about the local history.

Drive to the town of Hawick for lunch and some exploring. Here you can check out Hawick Museum, Wilton Lodge Park or Hermitage Castle. Drive to the town of Selkirk to settle in for the night. If you need to get some shopping done, check out Lochcarron of Scotland – an iconic Scottish textiles company. You can even go on a mill tour to see how they make their tartans.

Driving from Selkirk, head to the glorious Abbotsford House which was home to the writer Sir Walter Scott. There’s an affordable café on the grounds for a good lunch spot. Take the time to explore the neighbouring town of Galashiels. Edinburgh is just over an hour away from there, so why not stop at some attractions along the way like Stuart Brewing , Dalkeith Country Park or Midlothian SnowSports Centre in wintertime?

As you arrive in Edinburgh, take some time to explore this richly vibrant city. St Christopher’s Inn in Edinburgh has its own sports bar with delicious dinners! Guests of the hostel also get an extra 25% off.

Castle Rock Hostel , Edinburgh

• For the start of your Scottish road trip, stay in the country-style hostel Hillside Farm Bunk Barn in Carlisle.
• Edinburgh has some high-quality hostels , and if you’re keen to match the castle theme of your road trip then why not stay at Castle Rock Hostel ? There’s also St Christopher’s Inn which has a great party vibe.

10. South West Coastal 300: the best Scottish road trip for getting off the grid

Whether you need an escape from the big city or just a quick breather, the South West Coastal 300 road trip will have you feeling rejuvenated and at one with nature. Set over 300 miles, this is a big Scottish road trip that you should set aside a lot of time to do.

Culzean Castle,  📸: Andy Muir

• Sweetheart Abbey
• Coastal town of Kirkcudbright
• Mull of Galloway Lighthouse
• Culzean Castle
• Moat Brae – Peter Pan’s birthplace

Length of trip

Starting in the town of Dumfries, check out attractions like Moat Brae – the place that inspired Peter Pan, Robert Burns’ house or Dumfries museum. Check out the 13 th century ruins of Sweetheart Abbey close to Dumfries.

Stop in the town of Kirkcudbright for food, where in summer they have a large farmers market. Basecamp café at Laggan Outdoor offers locally sourced food with picturesque views of the coast. Here you can also do activities such as ziplining and Segway tours. Then drive to the Isle of Whithorn, where the local museum tells its unique history of bringing Christianity to Scotland.

Stop by Mull of Galloway Lighthouse for some spectacular sunset views (closed in the winter), before driving around the coast and then heading to the village of Stranraer for the evening.

Mull of Galloway Lighthouse,  📸:  Colin Baird

Admire the stunning coastline as you drive right beside the ocean for most of the day’s journey. Stop by the little town of Girvan for food and then drive on to Culzean Castle (closed in winter). This domineering castle dates back to 1792. US President Eisenhower was even gifted part of it after his many visits! The castle is open from late March to late October but check their website for specific dates. Choose to stop by the town of Ayr, then treat yourself to a dinner under the stars at the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory.

From the town of Sanquhar, venture around the north of the driving route to marvel at the grand mountain ranges. Stop by the town of Moffat for a pint at some of its pubs and bars. Consider stopping by the town of Lockerbie to learn about the town’s influence in modern history, before completing your journey in Dumfries.

11. Perthshire Tourist Route: the best Scottish road trip for those who want to spoil themselves (while on a budget)

The Perthshire Tourist Route will have you feeling in touch with the natural settings and rocky coastlines that you’ll see out of your window. Take the time to hike around some of the national parks on this road trip to really understand Scotland’s beautiful and untamed landscapes. This is the best road trip in Scotland for those on a budget with a taste for luxury.

When backpacking it can be hard to treat yourself, but this tour has some great indulgences like whiskey distilleries and a chocolate factory. So yeah… you’ve been good, why not live in luxury for a bit?

Glen Artney, Crieff 📸: @fredmarriage

• Library of Innerpeffray
• Drummond Castle and Gardens
• Comrie Croft/Crieff walks
• Glenturret Distillery
• Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery
• Iain Burnett The Highland Chocolatier

This road trip starts in the small town of Greenloaning. As you drive along, there are some significant landmarks worth seeing, like The Library of Innerpeffray – the oldest library in Scotland! Also visit Drummond Castle Gardens – its stunning formal gardens were created in 1490. If you’re in the mood for some adventure, head to Comrie Croft where there are many mountain biking tracks. Stop for lunch at the Glenturret Distillery and explore the town of Crieff.

Drive up to the town of Aberfeldy. Here there’s an ancient house on the bank of Loch Tay. There’s also a museum teaching about the Iron Age period in Scotland. If you still haven’t had enough whiskey, close by is Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery. But here’s the real treat: in the town of Grandtully is the Highland chocolatier – Iain Burnett . Once you’re full to your stomach, drive to Ballnluig for the end of your road trip!

• Stay in Perth for a night before beginning the road trip and get to know this fascinating town. Check out all of our hostels in Perth !
• For the end of the trip, drive to nearby town Pitlochry , where there are some great options. Pitlochry Backpackers has a movie lounge and a pool table, while Pitlochry Youth Hostel has an accommodating lounge room with beer and soft drinks available.

Pitlochry, 📸: @stuchy

12. Isle of Skye: the best Scottish road trip for photographers

My-oh-my, the Isle of Skye . Leaving arguably the most stunning road trip for last, the Isle of Skye is a must-visit for anyone seeking some of the best landscapes our earth has to offer. Here you can truly feel in another world.

Be mindful of visiting this island though, as it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Scotland and overcrowding is on the rise. Think about going in the off-season after August to make this tour of Scotland a sustainable one.

Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye  📸: @czermak_photography

• Trotternish Loop
• Mealt Falls
• Old Man of Storr

The Isle of Skye is 2 and a half hours from Inverness, so that’s probably the best place to stay and hire a car from before starting. From Edinburgh it’s around 5-6 hours and from Glasgow it’s around 5 hours – they’re all stunning road trips in their own right!

Drive in to the town of Broadford, where there are restaurants, pubs and accommodation. Here you can kayak, fish and bike ride. From there, drive to the main town of Portree, where you can find great food options. Nearby you can see the Old Man of Storr – a scenic walk around a large pinnacle of rocks. Nearby are Loch Mealt and Kilt Rock – two picturesque sites worth seeing!

Drive along to Staffin, where the rock formations of Totternish Loop and Quiraing lie. The Columba 1400 Restaurant is a good stopping point for food, as the café windows overlook The Quiraing.

Then drive to the most northerly point to Duntulm Castle along the Trotternish Peninsula. Here you’ll find ruins which are free to roam around!

Skye Coastline , 📸: @simonmigaj

Drive to the town of Dunvegan to see Dunvegan Castle , which has long been home to the Macleod Clan. Dunvegan Bakery has some delicious sweet and savoury treats to take along on your journey.

Skye Museum of Island Life is not far away and will give you more of an understanding about this breathtaking island and its inhabitants.

Stop by the town of Uig for a traditional pub lunch at The Pub at the Pier. Explore the picturesque Fairy Glen – a range of tiny green hills – and the standing stones of Eyre.

Head down to Dun Beag Broch next to Struan to see ruins from the Iron Age that was once a tower built around 2000-2500 years ago.  Drive to the famous Talisker Distillery for a tour and warm up with a glass of scotch. Talisker Bay is a spectacular walking spot caved in by looming cliffs.

Drive further inland to explore some of the mountains and hiking trails along your drive back to Inverness. This part of Skye is really for true adventurers. Stop by Sgurr a’ Ghreadaidh and Sgurr na Banachdaich for some brilliant hiking trails (but these are recommended for experienced and dedicated hikers as they are hard to access). Further down is Cuillin waterfalls, which if brave enough you can swim in!

If you’re looking for something more accessible, Glamaig is closer to the main A87 road. It’s still a very tough walk, and if you’re experienced enough the top viewpoints are some of the best in Skye.

If you plan on hiking in Skye, take some time to research as you’ll need to find the right hiking trails for your capabilities and that are easily accessible.

Skyewalker Hostel , Isle of Skye

• There are a lot of great hostels on the Isle of Skye thanks to its popularity with backpackers.
• In Broadford, start your journey by staying at Skye Basecamp .
• The Skyewalker Hostel (yes it’s Star Wars themed) is located in Portnalong and gives some of the best views of the glittering sky with a massive see-through tent.
• There’s the shabby chic hostel The Cowshed in Uig, which is a short walk to the Fairy Glen.

Skye , 📸: @tmarquis

To sum it all up…

With our guide to the best road trips in Scotland there’s no need to feel like an outlander! Grab your clan, a bottle of whiskey and a fire playlist (because it’s cold out there) – and you’re good to go. We hope you’ve enjoyed this list of the best road trips in Scotland.

Love some of these activities and not others? Why not make your own Scottish whiskey tour or mountain biking tour from the places listed here? Let us know in the comments!

Resources: Best Travel Apps ~ Click to read

Keep reading:

🌟 The best hostels in Scotland

🌟 14 totally secret things you never knew you could do in Scotland

🌟 The ultimate guide to backpacking Scotland

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A car-free trip in the Scottish Highlands: I’d have missed so much if I’d driven

A popular circuit round Scotland’s wild north coast draws thousands of drivers – but there’s so much more to experience by public transport and on foot

T here’s a party atmosphere round the lighthouse on Chanonry Point near Inverness, the UK’s best place to see dolphins from land. It’s an hour after low tide and there are pipers, picnics and kids running barefoot over long, evening sands. Already in late spring, the sun barely seems to set in the Highlands. The kelp-strewn pebbles are glowing as I walk from the bus stop near Fortrose cathedral ( bus 26/26A from Inverness) along one side of the promontory. The dolphins don’t show up. But, somehow, it’s fine – the first of many reasons to return. It’s still light as I walk back along the beach for a 9pm bus, past wild lupins and views of Fort George and pink clouds over the Moray Firth. I’m in Inverness at the start of a week exploring Scotland’s wild north coast by train and bus.

The North Coast 500 is a victim of its own success. Devised in 2015, in the style of America’s Route 66, this 516-mile circular road trip round northern Scotland draws thousands of drivers and motor homers every year to narrow roads with bottleneck passing places. Locals complain that the route’s popularity has driven up house prices and talk in terms of pre- and post-NC500. A few cyclists cover all or part of the route by bike. I’m exploring some of it by public transport and on foot. It takes a bit of planning. I’m used to the mild frustration of missing an hourly bus; missing a weekly one is another matter. But first, there’s an epic railway journey to enjoy.

The Far North Line winds past coast and woodland, moor and mountain on its four-hour journey from Inverness up to Thurso (advance tickets £16 each way, scotrail.co.uk ). One end of Cromarty Firth, one of three huge estuaries, is all reedbeds, waterbirds and hares in the long grass. The far end is studded with disused oil rigs, towed here when they’re not needed in the North Sea. Across the wide blue of Dornoch Firth, I can just make out Skibo Castle , a huge baronial mansion that was the Scottish home of steel tycoon Andrew Carnegie. Later, there’s a half-timbered station house and a glimpse of turrets above the trees as we pass Dunrobin Castle . The railway runs beside the sea between Brora and Helmsdale, past miles of deserted sand and rocks bristling with cormorants.

In the middle of blanket-bogged Flow Country , we stop at Forsinard, where the old station house is an RSPB visitor centre and a surfaced trail leads through bird-rich lochans. Some kids on the path wave cheerfully at the train and a deer runs past the window. Broch, broch, hut circle, cairn insists the map in gothic lettering. I can usually see only the more recently ruined circular sheepfolds, but it’s clear this is a huge and ancient landscape. There are intricately carved Pictish stones and Viking shield bosses at the North Coast visitor centre in Thurso.

After half an hour’s onward journey, through cotton-grassed moorland dotted with glittering lochs, I arrive on bus 803 in Melvich. I walk through dunes to the beach, where oystercatchers are flying over peat-tinged waves. In neighbouring Portskerra, there are purple orchids, columbines and carpets of squill with starry sky-blue flowers beside a clifftop path and the clear, sheltered waters of the harbour are perfect for a bracing high-tide dip. Warming up in the Coastline Coffee Shop , I tell a fellow swimmer I’m worried about missing the twice-daily weekday bus along the coast tomorrow and she laughs and says someone would probably give me a lift.

Very early next morning, I do catch bus 274 to Bettyhill , where the Strathnaver Museum reopened in April 2023 after a big refurbishment. In an old church near the white sand beaches of Farr Bay, the museum houses all kinds of curios from a bronze age beaker to a dog-skin buoy. There’s plenty of info about Clan Mackay and the Highland clearances that still feel freshly tragic to some people living locally. “I hate sheep,” says one woman, whose grandfather was forced to move. Later, rambling along quiet lanes near Tongue, I pass a roadside memorial to the local Gaelic poet Ewen Robertson. He wrote poignantly about the clearances, which evicted crofting communities from the land they had farmed. Some of Robertson’s best-known lines curse the sheep and the perfidious duke for making Sutherland a desert.

From Tongue, it’s a four-mile walk to Kinloch Lodge , where a group of us are meeting for a hike, through blue milkwort flowers and aromatic bog myrtle, to remote Loch an Dithreibh. It’s organised by the team from Feragaia , a distinctive alcohol-free Scottish spirit, distilled in Fife from a bunch of plants like west coast sugar kelp, lemon verbena, and blackcurrant leaves from a farm in Perthshire. The hike is led by a ranger from Wildland , a long-term conservation project that featured in David Attenborough’s Wild Isles. Their work includes re-establishing woods and restoring wetlands.

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Kinloch Lodge, where we’re staying, is one of Wildland’s portfolio of posh properties. Outside, the many peaks of Ben Loyal are crowned with cloud or lit by a coppery sunset. Other places to stay locally include the Tongue hotel , a Victorian lodge with wood panels, open fires and mountain views, recently revamped by the Highland Coast Hotels group (doubles from £158 B&B). There’s a hostel too, right on the coast near the wide Kyle of Tongue (doubles from £70, room-only).

Next day, I follow a signed path over the rust-red Rhian Burn, through streamside bluebells and bright yellow broom flowers, up to Castle Varrich . The steel viewing platform, added by Wildland in 2017, looks out over mountains and sea loch. Back down in the village, there are gnarled beech trees, duck eggs for sale, a lone fisher on the crumbling pier, and Tongue House, another former seat of Clan Mackay. The Norse Bakehouse serves up home-cooked Italian food, and the blue-and-gold view from the garden is one of many postcard-ready seascapes.

I’m leaving tomorrow via Inverness, where the Caledonian Sleeper , taken over last year by the Scottish government, sets off six nights a week (seats from £55 Inverness to Crewe and London Euston). Walking to the bus stop in Tongue next morning, past heather-sunk rocks with strange markings, the sunshine is bright enough to keep the midges at bay. There are so many things I might have missed if I drove along this road instead of walking: a marbled white butterfly on the coconut-smelling gorse, wood sorrel under lime-green birches, the sound of mountain streams, and the cuckoo calling hoarsely over the valley.

This trip was supported by Feragaia and Visit Scotland

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10 Best Road Trips in Europe [2024 Europe Road Trips Guide]

F act: road trip destinations don’t get much better than Europe. From the winding alpine roads of Switzerland and France to the spectacular coastal routes in Italy and Ireland, there are more incredible road trips in Europe than you can shake a stick at!

Furthermore, there are road trips for all occasions and interests. The best road trips in Europe take you through wine country, around lakes, into ancient towns, and up sweeping mountain passes. Truly, whether you have an afternoon or an entire month available, if you’re looking for an epic adventure, a cultural experience, or a simple break from the city, there’s a European road trip that’s up to the task.

The tricky part’s deciding which one to do first! To help, we’re going to reveal 10 of the best Europe road trips available – whether you go in a car, a campervan , or on a motorbike. Let’s dive in.

The Best Road Trips in Europe

Wild atlantic way in ireland.

The Wild Atlantic Way is an epic road trip that runs 1600 miles (2600km) along the west coast of Ireland. One of the world’s longest-defined coastal routes, it starts from Derry in the north and ends at the pretty town of Kinsale, County Cork, in the south.

Wild in both name and nature, driving the entire distance will reveal the very best of Ireland’s rugged, ancient, and weather-beaten coastline. You’ll pass through stunning countryside and picturesque villages, bearing witness to historic monuments, towering cliffs, and legendary landscapes at every turn.

A few highlights of the route include:

• The magical Cliffs of Moher
• Slieve League (a mountain in Country Donegal whose name in Irish means “mountain of stone pillars”)
• The lively and historic town of Galway, and
• The Ring of Kerry (another famous European road trip)

North Coast 500 in Scotland

The North Coast 500 (NC500) is Scotland’s answer to Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. Widely regarded as the best road trip in Scotland, it brings together 500+ miles of the country’s most impressive scenery, sights, and attractions.

Passing through the notorious Highlands, your mind will boggle at the remote and unblemished beauty on display. Quaint fishing villages, sugar-soft white sand beaches, age-old lochs, rugged mountains, and sites of historical significance are just a few of the hidden gems you can expect to encounter.

Starting and finishing in Inverness – the UK’s northernmost city – you hug the coast of Scotland along a series of existing roads that form a loop around the top of the country. This road trip was actually only established in 2014 but quickly became popular among locals and visitors alike. A few highlights of the route include:

• The huge Smoo Cave, which was formed by both sea and rainwater (making it unique in the UK)
• The ruins of Ardvreck Castle at Loch Assynt
• The wildlife (especially the infamous highland deer!)
• The mile-long Corrieshallock Gorge, complete with a Victorian suspension bridge that crosses it

Check out our guide to things to do in Edinburgh, Scotland .

Atlantic Road in Norway

Often referred to as one of the most beautiful drives on the planet, the Atlantic Road in Norway is a real sight to behold. A unique route and remarkable feat of engineering, the road connects Averoy with the mainland, snaking out over the ocean in a series of small islands and bridges.

Proof that the best road trips in Europe aren’t always the longest, the Atlantic Road itself is only 5 miles (8km) long. Officially, it runs from Karvag to Vevang. However, it forms one section of a longer National Tourist Route between Bud and Kristiansund – the entirety of which is worth driving.

A phenomenal road trip, it’ll be a struggle to keep your eyes on the road as you gaze at the coastal scenery – views that chop and change depending on the weather conditions you happen to experience at the time.

Explore more of Norway! Here are the best things to do in Oslo , family-friendly things to do in Bergen , and our guide to exploring Norway’s fjords .

Almafi Coast in Italy

The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most popular travel destinations. And for a good reason! This 30-mile (50km) stretch of coastline is unlike any other on the planet.

Colorful old villages sit atop sheer cliffs, with cerulean waters below reflecting the blue skies and blazing sun above . Beautiful beaches and hikes litter the area, matched only by the mass of restaurants, bars, shopping opportunities…and tourists!

Trust us, a road trip along this inimitable coastline is hard to beat. Driving down the Amalfi Coast road, otherwise known as the SS163, will leave you speechless.

A staggering stretch of tarmac, it hugs the cliffs and winds through pristine, pastel-colored towns – starting in Sorrento and heading south past Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, and Vietri sul Mare. Take it slow, stop to explore each town, and fall in love with the aptly-named Divina Costiera (AKA the Divine Coast).

Arctic Coast Way in Iceland

You’ll find another of the best road trips in Europe in Iceland. One of the most picturesque countries on earth, it’s full of incredible sights and natural wonders – as well as infamous driving routes that take you past some of its most iconic attractions.

Chief among Iceland’s famous road trips is the Arctic Coast Way. This epic, 560-mile (900km) journey runs along the country’s northern coast, encompassing six peninsulas and just as many islands. The whole route takes anywhere from 3 to 12 days to drive, and a 4×4 is recommended for the trip.

This is nature at its finest, and you’ll pass a huge array of unforgettable attractions. Indeed, it’d require an entire article to provide a complete list of Arctic Coast highlights! To keep things short, here are a select few items to add to your Iceland road trip itinerary:

• The Hofsos swimming pool, with its mindblowing views over the ocean
• The Hofsos basalt columns that rival the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland
• Humpback whale watching
• The geothermal sea baths at Husavik
• The Arctic Henge in Raufarhofn

Transfagarasan Highway in Romania

Welcome to what’s arguably Romania’s best-known road – not to mention one of its most popular tourist attractions.

Over 93 miles (150km) in length and with countless twists and turns, the Transfagarasan Highway looks like it was built solely to please road trippers! Expect switchback after switchback through a stunning landscape , leading up to an impressive high point of 6500 feet and exceptional views over the surrounding area.

The road cuts a striking sight – especially from above. Another amazing feat of engineering, it winds back and forth up a beautiful natural gorge, passes through tunnels, and crosses the Vidraru Dam (offering a fantastic look at the eponymous lake in the process).

Be sure to take your time and stop at the viewing points as you go. This is partly to stay safe on the ascent! But, with so much beauty on display, it’s mainly so you can make the most of the Transfagarasan Highway’s unbelievable scenery.

Ready to explore the Romanian capitol? Here are 10 great activities in Bucharest, Romania to enjoy with kids .

Route Napoleon in France

Route Napoleon isn’t just one of the best road trips in Europe. It’s also one of the most famous.

Following an escape route that Napoleon Bonaparte took in the early 19 th Century, the journey takes you 200 miles (325km) from the coastal town of Golfe-Juan, in the French Riviera, all the way north to the city of Grenoble.

The route’s as scenic as it is historic, too, passing a wide range and ever-changing landscapes from sweet-smelling lavender fields and pine forests to rolling hills, rocky outcrops, gorges, and mountains. Get ready for stunning vistas and equally impressive roads at every turn.

Trekaroo Tip: You can stick with tradition and attempt this Europe road trip in the same direction as Napoleon (from south to north). Yet many people choose to do it from north to south instead. That way, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea when you approach the French Riviera at the end.

Romantic Road in Germany

Romantic in both name and nature, this wonderful road trip is one of the very best in Germany. The Romantische Straße , as it’s called there, is 285 miles (460km) long and takes you through a slew of charming towns and jaw-dropping countryside, complete with ancient castles that look like something straight out of a Disney movie!

As for how long this road trip takes, consider giving yourself between three and four days to go from the start, in Wurzburg, until the end in Fussen. To prolong your German adventure, we recommend spending another couple of days in Munich afterward. Located just over 1.5 hours away from Fussen, the Capital of Bavaria is a popular travel destination in its own right.

Oberalp Pass in Switzerland

Searching for another iconic European road to drive down? Look no further than Oberalp Pass (AKA Route 19) in Switzerland.

Located at over 6,719 feet (2,048m) above sea level, this high mountain pass in the Swiss Alps connects the Graubunden and Uri cantons. However, all you really need to know is that it’s utterly phenomenal! Just under 20 miles long, the pass runs from Disentis to Andermatt and provides unbelievable views of the surrounding mountains at every twist and turn in the road.

Steep and riddled with switchbacks, the pass is magnificent. Take note, though: Oberalp Pass is usually impassable between the end of October through April (although the final dates depend on how much snow and meltwater are present).

Read our full guide to visiting Switzerland with kids .

Glossglockner High Alpine Road in Austria

Last but not least on this list of the best road trips in Europe is the Glossglockner High Alpine Road in Austria – the highest paved mountain road in the country.

Popular with cyclists and sports car enthusiasts alike, this memorable toll route climbs up to an almighty 8215 feet (2504m) above sea level in a mere 30 miles (48km), with no fewer than 36 hairpin bends along the way. It runs from Fusch-Furleiten in Salzburg to Heiligenblut in Carinthia, taking you into the stunning Hohe Tauern National Park in the process.

Once again, this European road trip isn’t available all year round. It’s usually open from the start of May until the end of October, although inclement weather conditions can restrict access to the road at any time of year.

As you can tell, thanks to its countless scenic roads and awe-inspiring landscapes, this diverse continent across the pond is a haven for anyone with a penchant for road trips. In fact, there are so many routes available that picking one can feel impossible!

With any luck, the options in this post will have given you some useful inspiration for which European road trip to do first. From the stunning Swiss Alps to the rugged coastline of Ireland, any of them is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Danny Newman is a digital nomad and freelance writer with a deep passion for travel. He’s also mad about #vanlife and offers fellow enthusiasts wide-ranging advice and inspiration on the topic over at campervantips.com .