Escape the mundane and explore the wild beauty of Scotland on a road trip full of adventure and wonder.
As a travel enthusiast, I have always been captivated by the beauty and charm of Scotland. Recently, I embarked on a road trip adventure through this magnificent country, covering some of the most breathtaking spots along the way. If you are planning on visiting Scotland, then a road trip is the perfect way to explore the country’s rich history, culture, and natural wonders. In this article, I am excited to share my itinerary and experiences with you, so that you can plan your own adventure and have the time of your life in Scotland!
Itinerary
I started my road trip in Scotland by flying into Edinburgh and renting a car. My itinerary took me through the Scottish Highlands and along the North Coast 500, a popular driving route that offers stunning views of the rugged coastline and scenic countryside.
My first stop was in the town of Inverness, where I checked out the famous Loch Ness and took a boat tour to see if I could spot the elusive Nessie. Sadly, I didn’t see anything out of the ordinary, but the beautiful scenery made up for it.
Next, I drove to the Isle of Skye, which is known for its dramatic landscapes and picturesque villages. I spent a few days exploring the island, visiting the famous Fairy Pools, hiking up to the Old Man of Storr, and admiring the views from the Quiraing.
From Skye, I headed north to the town of Ullapool, which served as a base for exploring the surrounding area. I took a boat tour to the Summer Isles, where I saw seals, dolphins, and various seabirds. I also went hiking in the nearby mountains and visited the impressive Corrieshalloch Gorge.
After Ullapool, I continued along the North Coast 500, stopping in small towns and villages along the way. I visited the beautiful beaches of Durness, explored the castle ruins in Dunrobin, and hiked along the cliffs at Dunnet Head, the most northerly point on mainland Britain.
My road trip ended in Inverness, where I returned the rental car and caught a flight back home. Overall, I spent about two weeks on the road, but I could have easily spent more time exploring Scotland’s many attractions.
Places to Visit
As I embarked on my road trip through Scotland, I was amazed by the varied landscapes and breathtaking views that greeted me at every turn. From the rugged Highlands to the scenic islands and picturesque coastal towns, Scotland has a lot to offer for nature lovers and explorers. Here are some of the places that stood out for me:
1. Edinburgh
My journey started in the country’s capital, Edinburgh. As soon as I arrived, I was struck by the city’s charm and history, with its towering medieval castle and winding cobblestone streets. I highly recommend visiting the Royal Mile, where you can explore many shops, cafes, and restaurants that offer a glimpse into Scotland’s rich culture and heritage.
2. Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is a true gem of Scotland, with its rugged mountains, dramatic coastlines, and quaint villages. I spent a couple of days here, taking in the stunning scenery and hiking some of the island’s famous trails. The Fairy Pools, Old Man of Storr, and Quiraing offer some of the most breathtaking sights, and I must say, I was not disappointed.
3. Loch Ness
A trip to Scotland wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the legendary Loch Ness. I was fascinated by the stories of the elusive Loch Ness Monster and couldn’t wait to see if I could catch a glimpse of it myself. While I didn’t see the monster, I did take a boat tour that offered stunning views of the loch and the surrounding valleys.
4. St Andrews
St Andrews is a charming coastal town, known for its famous golf course and historic university. I loved exploring the town’s winding streets and visiting the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral and Castle. The town has a vibrant atmosphere and is perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
5. Glencoe
Finally, Glencoe is a must-visit destination for any nature lover. The valley is renowned for its rugged beauty and dramatic landscapes, and I was blown away by the sweeping vistas of the towering mountains and sparkling lochs. A hike along the Devil’s Staircase offers some of the most breathtaking sights in Scotland, and I highly recommend taking the time to explore this magical region.
Overall, Scotland is filled with natural beauty, fascinating history, and vibrant culture. I hope my experiences and recommendations inspire you to plan your own road trip and discover the wonders of this incredible country.
Activities/Tours/Services
As a travel enthusiast, I always try to explore different activities and tours during my road trips. Scotland had a lot to offer in terms of tours and activities. I went on a ghost tour in Edinburgh, which was quite spooky but also informative about the city’s haunted history. I also did a whisky tasting tour in Speyside, where I learned about the process of making Scotland’s national drink and tasted some of the finest whiskies.
One of the most unique experiences I had was a falconry session in Aberdeenshire. I got to hold and fly different types of birds of prey, including eagles and owls. It was amazing to see these majestic birds up close and learn about their behavior in the wild.
I also visited the Isle of Skye, where I went on a boat tour to see the famous Cuillin Mountains and the wildlife in the area. It was breathtaking to see the rugged coastline and the wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and sea eagles.
Lastly, I would highly recommend hiring a campervan or a motorhome to explore Scotland. It gave me the freedom to travel at my own pace and stay in some of the most beautiful spots in the country. There are several rental companies that offer this service, and it’s a great option for those who love the outdoors and want to immerse themselves in Scotland’s natural beauty.
Accommodation and Dining
When it comes to finding a place to stay and eat in Scotland, I’ve had some great experiences. In Edinburgh, I stayed at a cozy bed and breakfast that was budget-friendly and offered a delicious Scottish breakfast each morning. The staff was incredibly friendly and gave me some great recommendations for local restaurants to try.
When I wanted to splurge a bit, I stayed at a luxury hotel in the Highlands with stunning views of the mountains and lochs. The room was spacious, the bed was comfortable, and the restaurant on-site served some of the best seafood I’ve ever had.
As for dining, I made sure to try some of the local cuisine and must-try dishes. In Glasgow, I had haggis, neeps, and tatties at a traditional pub and was pleasantly surprised by how tasty it was. I also tried cullen skink, a creamy smoked haddock soup, in a small fishing village on the coast.
But it’s not all about trying new foods. I also enjoyed simple meals like fish and chips from a street vendor in St. Andrews and a bacon roll from a local bakery in Inverness.
Overall, I found that Scotland offered a range of accommodation and dining options to fit any budget or preference. And with so many delicious dishes to try, I couldn’t resist indulging in the local cuisine.
Tips and Advice
As someone who has experienced driving in Scotland firsthand, I highly recommend renting a car to fully immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes. However, it’s important to keep in mind that driving in Scotland is quite different from driving in other countries, especially if you’re used to driving on the right side of the road. Make sure to take your time and drive cautiously, especially on narrow and winding roads.
The weather in Scotland can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack for all types of weather. Even in the summer months, I experienced rain and chilly temperatures. It’s always a good idea to bring waterproof clothing and layers to stay warm.
As for cultural norms and etiquette, I found the locals in Scotland to be incredibly friendly and welcoming. However, it’s important to be respectful of their customs and traditions. For example, in some areas, it’s customary to greet someone with a handshake, while in others, a friendly nod or smile will suffice.
Finally, safety should always be a top priority for travelers, especially when exploring new places. Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with emergency numbers and procedures in case of an emergency.
Overall, Scotland is a beautiful and welcoming country that I highly recommend visiting. With a bit of preparation and an open mind, a road trip in Scotland can be an unforgettable adventure.