Scenic Road Trips in Scotland

The cities of Scotland may be filled with history and atmosphere; however, it’s the countryside in between that captures most visitors’ hearts. Quintessential Scottish landscapes of lochs, glens, and mountains begin right on the outskirts of Edinburgh, Glasgow, and other major cities, setting the stage for road trips that evoke the adventurous spirit of James Bond’s flight across the Highlands in Skyfall (2012).

Scottish roads are generally well-maintained, making driving an excellent way to get off the beaten path and avoid the large crowds at famous sights. Along your journey, you can stop at charming country pubs, explore ruined castles and ancient kirks (churches), stroll along windswept beaches, and find solace in quiet glens far from the busy tourists.

Here are five remarkable road trip itineraries that highlight the stunning grandeur of Skye, the cultural richness of Edinburgh, and the renowned whisky distilleries in Speyside, among other classic Scottish experiences. As you travel, enjoy rolling farmland, heather-clad hills, ancient castles, and haunting lochs, allowing Scotland’s stories to unfold around 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 expecting guaranteed sunshine, Skye has it all. This atmospheric island off the west coast is a tapestry of craggy peaks, towering sea stacks, and waterlogged shorelines, celebrated for its Gaelic culture and dynamic food scene. This round-trip route from Fort William allows you to cross the bridge to the island while passing grand Eilean Donan Castle en route, before returning to the mainland via the ferry to Mallaig.

Once on the island, begin a classic counterclockwise loop starting with a visit to Portree, Skye’s largest town featuring a picturesque harbor. Next, traverse the volcanic cliffs of the Trotternish Peninsula and explore the wild hiking terrain of the Duirinish Peninsula which boasts excellent dining options. Hikers and photographers alike will appreciate the jagged ridges of the Cuillin Hills.

In between these locations, you can discover castles, stunning beaches reminiscent of the Caribbean, and some of Britain’s best wild swimming spots, along with chances for bird watching during the ferry trips to the surrounding Small Isles, particularly vibrant 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 highlight of the country’s most famous driving route. The North Coast 500 starts and ends in Inverness, the charming capital of the Highlands, creating a massive loop around the northern edge of Scotland along its intricately indented coast.

By following the route counterclockwise, you can enjoy the mesmerizing scenery along the way. After passing through the moors and sandy beaches of the east coast, you’ll reach John O’Groats and nearby Dunnet Head, the northernmost point of mainland Britain. The northern coast showcases an increasingly rugged beauty as you continue westward, with bogs, cliffs, and traditional crofting villages.

Taking the trip at a relaxed pace allows you to explore fine local delicacies such as venison, smoked fish, and craft beer. Activities ranging from sea kayaking on the west coast to hiking the desolate peaks of Assynt will immerse you in Northern Scotland’s stunning landscapes.

Planning tip: When planning a road trip in Scotland, keep in mind that numerous accommodations on popular routes like the North Coast 500 often require two or more nights in peak summer. Advance planning is essential.

3. North East 250

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

Northeast Scotland is renowned for its whisky distilleries, Braemar (home to the Highland Games) and Balmoral Castle (the Scottish residence of the British Royal Family) – truly a quintessentially Scottish experience. The North East 250, inspired by the North Coast 500, encompasses these major attractions while highlighting a picturesque region often overlooked – featuring glorious glens, farmland, and rugged shorelines.

The village of Spittal of Glenshee, a favored base for winter skiing, serves as an ideal starting point, easily accessible from both Edinburgh and Dundee. Traveling clockwise, you’ll pass through the Cairngorms National Park, Britain’s largest national park, known for its towering peaks and exceptional hiking opportunities.

The North East 250 further traverses Speyside before reaching the Moray Firth shoreline and the bustling city of Aberdeen. This journey is adorned with castles, beaches, quaint villages, and historic estates; take the opportunity to sample local delicacies such as Cullen skink (a hearty fish soup) and delightful, peaty whiskies.

Local tip: When choosing which whisky distilleries to visit, do your research—trying to see them all would take months! Balvenie in Dufftown is an excellent choice: its small-group tours explore 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

While there might be more renowned road trips, this enjoyable itinerary along the A7 from the English border, passing through Hawick and Galashiels to Edinburgh, has plenty to offer for both body and spirit. This rolling landscape of villages and farmland once served as a battlefield for cross-border raids and reaches its conclusion at the imposing Edinburgh Castle.

The area’s industrial heritage is highlighted through educational centers focused on tweed, tartan, and glasswork, alongside an engaging mining museum. Visitors can enjoy diverse activities – anglers can cast their lines in search of salmon along the Tweed, while mountain bikers may want to hit the trails at Glentress and Innerleithen.

Additionally, you might explore ruined abbeys and author Walter Scott’s remarkable home, Abbotsford, showcasing the rich history of the Scots, while the undulating moors of the Scottish Borders take center stage.

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 rich cultural scene and lively pubs merit an overnight visit; however, you should aim to leave the suburbs by mid-morning to experience the transformation of hills into mountains and lochs winding into an increasingly dramatic coastline.

This journey combines two official tourist trails, winding north and west while traversing the renowned walking areas of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. Along the way, take in majestic views, savor excellent seafood, discover ancient standing stones, and experience kayaking on the lochs or whale watching offshore.

However, the main highlights come toward the end: Glen Coe presents breathtaking natural beauty coupled with a haunting tale of Highland betrayal, and Fort William serves as the base for ascents of Ben Nevis, the tallest peak in Britain standing at 4,413ft (1,345m). Expect a challenging climb that can take seven to eight hours from the visitor center.

Tips for Driving in Scotland

Keep in mind that while some road trips follow major “M” or “A” corridors, others venture along smaller roads for long stretches. These lesser roads are often narrow and lined with hedges, featuring few opportunities to overtake and can be obstructed by snow in winter. Therefore, always stay within speed limits, as the police take speeding and drunken driving very seriously in Scotland.

Be sure to fill up on petrol when you have the chance, as stations can be few and far between along the Highlands and islands. Be prepared to take your time; take a day or two to explore the local area at each overnight stay. The distances provided generally include diversions to soak in more scenery and opportunities for regular breaks, meaning that the journey is rarely a direct one.

This article was first published on June 9, 2021 and updated on March 6, 2024.