Discover the Beauty of Scotland Through the 12 Most Breathtaking Road Trips
Scotland is a land of enchantment, with rolling hills, towering mountains, sparkling lochs, and rugged coastlines. It’s a land of ancient castles, mystical ruins, and colorful cities. One of the best ways to experience the beauty and diversity of Scotland is through a road trip. There are countless scenic routes that will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, and we’ve narrowed down the top 12 for you to enjoy.
1. North Coast 500
The North Coast 500 is a 500-mile route that takes you through the rugged Highlands of Scotland. The route starts in Inverness and takes you along the north, west, and east coasts, before circling back to Inverness. Along the way, you’ll pass by jaw-dropping scenery, including white-sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, and imposing mountains. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit quaint fishing villages and historic landmarks, such as the Castle of Mey and Dunrobin Castle.
2. Edinburgh to St. Andrews
This route takes you through some of the most famous towns and cities in Scotland. Starting in Edinburgh, you’ll explore the Royal Mile and the stunning Edinburgh Castle, before heading through the Kingdom of Fife to the historic town of St. Andrews. Along the way, you’ll pass by picturesque seaside towns and over the famous Forth Road Bridge.
3. Perthshire
Perthshire, also known as “Big Tree Country”, is a stunning region in the heart of Scotland. It’s home to ancient forests, crystal-clear lochs, and rolling hills. The area is a paradise for wildlife lovers, with red squirrels, otters, and birds of prey commonly spotted. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit historic sites, such as Blair Castle and Scone Palace.
4. The Trossachs
Located in the heart of Scotland, the Trossachs is a region of stunning scenery and varied landscapes. This road trip takes you through winding country roads, past shimmering lochs, and into the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming towns and villages, such as Callander and Aberfoyle, and can also visit historic sites, such as the Rob Roy Visitor Centre.
5. Argyll Coastal Route
The Argyll Coastal Route takes you along the west coast of Scotland, through the rugged wilderness of Argyll. The route passes by historic castles, picturesque fishing villages, and dramatic sea views. Highlights include the town of Oban, known as the “Gateway to the Isles”, and the beautiful Isle of Mull.
6. Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is a magical place, with rugged landscapes, rolling hills, and crystal-clear lochs. This road trip takes you on a circuit of the island, allowing you to explore its rugged coastline, historic sites, and charming towns and villages. Highlights include the famous Cuillin Mountains, the Fairy Pools, and the historic town of Portree.
7. Wester Ross
The Wester Ross route takes you through some of the most remote and stunning landscapes in Scotland. This scenic drive takes you through the mountainous regions of Applecross and Torridon, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and lochs. Along the way, you’ll also have the opportunity to visit historic sites, such as the Eilean Donan Castle.
8. Firth of Clyde
The Firth of Clyde route is a scenic drive along the west coast of Scotland, taking in stunning views of the Arran mountain range and the picturesque fishing village of Tarbert. This route offers something for everyone, with historic landmarks, such as the Rothesay Castle, and beautiful coastal walks, such as the Inveraray Jail Trail.
9. The Borders
The Borders region of Scotland is a stunning area of rolling hills, quiet country roads, and charming towns and villages. This road trip takes you through the scenic Borders countryside, passing by ancient abbeys, historic castles, and picturesque towns, such as Peebles and Jedburgh.
10. West Highlands
The West Highlands route takes you through some of the most rugged and beautiful landscapes in Scotland. This road trip takes you through the stunning Glencoe valley, past the famous Ben Nevis peak, and along the scenic Applecross peninsula. Along the way, you’ll also have the opportunity to visit historic sites, such as the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
11. The Cairngorms
The Cairngorms region is a stunning area of mountain ranges, forests, and moorlands. This road trip takes you through the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, where you can explore stunning landscapes and visit historic sites, such as the Balmoral Estate and the ancient Corgarff Castle.
12. The Scottish Borders and East Lothian
The Scottish Borders and East Lothian route takes you through some of the most charming towns and villages in Scotland. This road trip takes you along quiet country roads, past ancient castles and historic landmarks, and into the heart of some of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes. Highlights include the charming town of Kelso, the historic Jedburgh Abbey, and the stunning coastline of East Lothian.
In conclusion, Scotland is a land of enchantment, with diverse landscapes and rich history. A road trip is the perfect way to experience the beauty of Scotland, and our top 12 routes are sure to leave you breathless with wonder. From the rugged Highlands to the stunning west coast, there’s something for everyone in Scotland’s diverse and stunning scenery.
