Last Updated on the 6th of February, 2026
While we love Scotland’s compact, hilly capital and the craggy castle looming over the city, there is something extraordinary about taking a road trip along epic roads cutting through the rugged wilderness to the untamed islands on Scotland’s West coast.
The west coast of Scotland is quite dramatic and feels raw. It is brimming with incredible experiences and sights, offering plenty of stops, including the ultimate Scottish destination—the enchanting Isle of Skye.
The drive to the Isle of Skye takes you through some of the most amazing scenery in Scotland. You pass mountains, beautiful deer-filled glens, castles, and charming highland villages along the way.
It’s a place where nature has the upper hand, and we are mere guests. You’ll find low plains, high skies, and deep lochs, and the sheer scale of this glaciated landscape fills the senses.
So, if you are currently trying to plan a Scotland road trip itinerary, there’s no need to look any further!
Cause if you love spending time outdoors, then this could be the perfect Scotland road trip for you!
Read More: The Perfect Road-Trip Itinerary for 5 Spell-binding Days in Scotland
Overview of this 7-Day Scotland Itinerary
At the beginning of July last summer, we embarked on an epic road trip, exploring Scotland’s West coast by car.
As we live in Ireland and travel with two small children, we decided to take a ferry from Belfast to Scotland.
We left home early in the morning and drove to Belfast Port for one of the earliest departures. After two hours of sailing, we arrived at Cairnryan port and drove straight to Inverco Campsite, where a cosy mini lodge equipped with a microwave, fridge, and stunning views over the lake was waiting for us.
However, if you do need to fly into Scotland, then the 2 closest airports would be:
- Edinburgh Airport
- Glasgow Airport
*Good to know – As this road trip is planned with a car in mind, you also need to hire a car to get around and pre-book the ferry crossing from Armadale to Mallaig via CalMac ferry company.
Read More: How to Visit Enchanting Stirling Castle & Gardens in Scotland: An Easy Guide
A Quick Glance at The Route
For this itinerary, you’ll start in Glasgow by crossing the Erskine Bridge over the River Clyde and joining the A82.
It won’t be long before you reach the stunning Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond and travel to Crianlarich, home to the Green Welly Stop.
The route then weaves through windswept Rannoch Moor before reaching Glencoe, the site of the famous massacre, where you are greeted with amazing mountain views in all directions.
After that, you’ll cross the Skye Bridge and arrive on the Isle of Skye.
*Remember that there are many incredible West Coast routes and you can, depending on your interests, include other destinations such as the Outer Hebrides, Ullapool, the Ardnamurchan peninsula or even the Outer Hebrides.
Read More: Top 11 Things To Do In Edinburgh This Autumn That Are Good For Your Soul
Scotland West Coast Road Trip Main Stops
Here’s how you are going to spend a week road-tripping the West Coast of Scotland and some of the main stops you’ll make along the way:
Stop 1: Glasgow
Stop 2: Glencoe
Stop 3: Fort William
Stop 4: Eilean Donan Castle
Stop 4: Isle of Skye
Stop 5: Mallaig
Stop 6: Glenfinnan
Stop 7: Edinburgh
Read More: A Short Guide to the Best Attractions Along The Royal Mile In Edinburgh, Scotland
How much time do I need to road trip the West Coast of Scotland?
For the best experience, one week in Scotland gives you enough time to see the famous places without feeling too rushed.
But it all depends on the activities that you are planning as, for example, you might need to add an extra day if you plan on climbing Ben Nevis or exploring lesser-known corners of the Isle of Skye.
In general, an itinerary for 7 days in Scotland could comfortably include visits to Edinburgh, Loch Ness, Skye, Glencoe, and Loch Lomond. You might even fit in a day trip to Iona or a ride on the Jacobite Steam train.
If you have more days, then you can extend your stay to discover your chosen regions in more detail, take detours, and explore remote corners.
Read More: Your Essential Guide To Planning The Best Edinburgh Holiday In Scotland
Arrival at Glasgow and Settling In
Located on the banks of the mighty River Clyde, Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow is a culturally rich metropolis, serving as a perfect place to begin your 7-day road trip around Scotland.
The city offers plenty to do, from visiting Glasgow Cathedral, exploring the Riverside Museum or catching a glimpse of the impressive displays of street art.
Some of the best things to do in the city:
- The Gothic Cathedral | is a fascinating sight and a must-see for your trip to Scotland. It’s where the late Queen Elizabeth II attended services twice to mark her Diamond Jubilee.
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum | is one of the best places to visit if you only have one day as it features more than 8,000 pieces of artwork and artefacts.
- University of Glasgow | Founded in 1451, the university is the second oldest in Scotland and an amazing place to explore to see the famous Cloisters, the Memorial Gates and the Hunterian Art Gallery.
*Top tip—If you are staying in Glasgow just for a night, I recommend booking a hotel in the city centre so that you can easily get around.
Day 1: Glasgow to Glencoe
Total Driving Time: Approximately 2 hours
Time to start your 7-day Scotland road trip!
Pick up your rental car at Glasgow Airport or at one of the pickup locations in the city before making your way northwest and officially entering the Highlands, where sweeping Scottish scenery steals the show.
The plan for today is to make a few stops along the route from Glasgow to Glencoe and take in some of the most impressive and spectacular landscapes in the UK.
- Stop One: Luss | With its serene atmosphere and traditional stone cottages, Luss is one of the prettiest villages in Scotland, located on the shores of Loch Lomond. Here, you can walk around and admire cute little houses, hit the walking trails or cruise on the lake.
- Stop Two: The Drovers Inn | Rumoured to be one of the most hunted hotels in Scotland, it makes for a great stop if you are feeling peckish or just want to soak up its 300 years of history.
- Stop Three: The Falls of Falloch | A picturesque 10-metre waterfall near Crianlarich offers a serene escape. It is said to be the favourite hiding place of the famous Scottish outlaw, Rob Roy.
Read More: A Local’s Guide: Some Of The Best Things To See and Do In Edinburgh’s New Town
Exploring Glencoe
The Scottish Highlands are rich in deep valleys and magnificent mountains, but nowhere does the landscape come together more dramatically than at Glencoe.
It doesn’t take longer than 20 minutes to drive through the rugged terrain, but it is worth staying longer.
Once you reach Glencoe, make sure to venture out to explore the wonderfully dramatic landscape on foot.
Some of the best things to do in Glencoe would be:
- Grab a bite at Glencoe Mountain Resort
- Wild swim in the meeting of the Three Waters
- Stop by the Three Sisters Viewpoint
- Visit the Lost Valley of Glencoe
- Photograph the Buachaille Etive Mòr
Day 2: Glencoe to Eilean Donan Castle via Fort William
Total Driving Time: approximately 2 hours
Time to leave the heart of the mystical Glen Coe Valley and head further up north to Fort William, the gateway to the highest mountain in the British Isles – Ben Nevis.
Fort William makes for a pleasant stopover and a great place to restock on supplies as well as take a ride in a gondola, which takes you halfway up Ben Nevis.
After visiting Fort William, head back to A82 and continue towards Eilean Donan Castle.
Sitting on a small tidal island at the meeting of three lochs, the castle is one of the most popular attractions in the Scottish Highlands and one of the most recognizable Scottish castles.
The castle we see today dates back to the 13th century and served as the seat of power for the Mackenzie and MacRae clans,
- Parking at the castle | There’s a large Pay & Display car park
*Good to know – you can only fly your drone outside of castle opening hours
Read More: What To See and Do In Edinburgh: 12 Amazing Ideas For First-Time Visitors
Day 3: Eilean Donan Castle to the Isle of Skye
Total Driving Time: Approximately 1 hour
Today is exciting as you’ll be crossing the Skye Bridge to reach the Isle of Skye, the largest in the archipelago that makes up the Inner Hebrides.
The bridge leads from the mainland at Kyle of Lochalsh over the sea to Skye, arriving in Kyleakin. The journey over the arched construction takes just a few minutes, offering incredible views of the Cuillins and beyond.
Kyleakin is an ideal base for exploring the Cuillin mountains and southern Skye.
However, many visitors prefer to travel further up to Portree, the island’s capital, as it is a great place for exploring the dramatic Trotternish Peninsula and the northern headland, including Dunvegan and the Old Man of Storr.
Once you arrive on the island, you are spoilt for choice. There’s the oldest working distillery on the island, the historic Dunvegan Castle and the magical Fairy Pools.
Read More: A Pocketguide To Help You Witness the Splendid Beauty Of Stirling Town In Scotland
Day: 3 – 5 Exploring the Isle of Skye
With its mysterious mountains, lochs and moors, the Isle of Skye is an ideal place to be astounded by nature.
It’s a place of captivation, too, as you’ll see in Fairy Glen, a landscape of babbling brooks and miniature cone-shaped hills and the Fairy Pools, said to be a favoured bathing spot for faeries.
My advice for those visiting Skye is that it is impossible to see the island properly in a few days as there is much more to the island than the few attractions that the majority of tourists plan on visiting.
The solution? If you are short on time, pin down one area of the island and take the time to explore it on a deeper level. We picked Portree, Trotternish Loop Drive and the lesser visited Uig.
Read More: Isle Of Skye Guide: 5 Amazing Stops You Should Visit On The Trotternish Loop
Day 6: Isle of Skye to Mallaig & Glenfinnich
Total Driving Time: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes
Today, you are leaving Skye behind and travelling to Armadale to catch a ferry to Mallaig, a pretty coastal town.
The ferry from Armadale to Mallaig is the main route for sailing to and from the Isle of Skye from the mainland and makes a good alternative to the Skye Bridge, especially for those who are staying in or around Fort William.
The ferry departs several times a day, and the sailing only takes 30 minutes. You can bring your car on the ferry, and although the boat is rarely full, I recommend booking in advance.
Once you arrive in Mllaig, travel via 830 to the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct to watch the Jacobite steam train cross the Viaduct.
Keep in mind that the train passes over the Glenfinnan Viaduct approximately 30 minutes after departing from Fort William. To see the train, you need to be at the Glenfinnan Viaduct viewpoint at these times to see the train passing over the viaduct:
- MORNING: The train passes over at approximately 10.45am and arrives at the viewpoint at 10.15am.
- AFTERNOON: The train passes over at approximately 3.10pm and arrives at the viewpoint at 2.40pm.
*Good to know- due to the popularity of the Glenfinnan Viaduct, car parking can be difficult in summer
- Where to stay nearby: Glenfinnan House Hotel: a lovely traditional hotel in Glenfinnan with stunning loch views.
Read More: 8 Amazing Reasons Why You Should Visit Edinburgh At Least Once
Day 6: Glenfinnich to Edinburgh
Total Driving Time: Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes
Ending on a high note, today’s plan is to drive from Glenfinnan to Edinburgh, and you are going to be blown away by the culture and history of Edinburgh.
You can either do the whole distance in one go or make a few stops along the way. Some of the places worth checking out along the way are Pitlochry, Aviemore, Dundee, Falkirk, Perth and Linlithgow.
Once you arrive in Edinburgh, you’ll be in awe of its elegant New Town’s Georgian avenues and the enchanting charm of the Old Town.
Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, an art aficionado, or simply seeking to immerse yourself in the city’s enchanting ambience, Edinburgh is a city that can appeal to every type of traveller.
- Where to stay in Edinburgh: The Balmoral Hotel – for a touch of luxury
Read More: Some Of The Best Things To See At The National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh
Additional Stops You Could Make Along The Way
- Queens View | On your way from Glenfinnan to Edinburgh, you can stop by the Queens View and Visitors Centre. Located in the heart of Highland Perthshire, offering a sweeping view along Loch Tummel.
- Fort Augustus | a wonderful place to embark on a discovery of the legends and mysteries of Loch Ness. You can explore the folklore of the elusive Loch Ness Monster, also known as “Nessie,” as you stroll along the picturesque Caledonian Canal or cruise the tranquil waters of Loch Ness.
- Kyle of Lochalsh | A small village set on the Lochalsh peninsula, Kyle of Lochalsh is home to a busy harbour and beautiful nature. Besides the wonderful scenery, one of the top things to do is to walk to the Falls of Glomach, a 370ft waterfall which can be reached by an eight-kilometre trek through the enchanting Scottish countryside.
- Village of Plockton | Located on the shores of Loch Carron, Plockton is one of the most charming villages in Scotland, where you’ll find coral beaches, panoramic views and an array of marine life.
- Ben Nevis | Nestled near Fort William, Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the British Isles. The hike to its summit can take up to seven hours round trip. If you plan on embarking on a trek, you have to come prepared with the appropriate gear.
Read More: Your Guide To Some of Edinburgh’s Best Neighbourhoods Worth Exploring
Well, that wraps it up!
We hope you enjoyed our 7-Day Scottish Road Trip Itinerary and that it will prove useful for planning your trip to Scotland’s beautiful West Coast.
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Now, over to you!
Have you been on a road trip around Scotland? Let us know in the comments!
Let us know if you are plotting a visit to Scotland and have travel-related questions!
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OUR CROSSINGS 
It’s a long time since I was there, and there are changes, of course, but it’s still a stunning trip. Beautifully composed, Aiva. Thanks!
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Thank you kindly, Jo! As we live in such a close proximity to Scotland, we visit at least once a year and never get tired of witnessing its huge variety of magnificent natural attractions. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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We did a similar journey except from the Isle of Skye we continued up to John O’Groats and back. It was a fabulous road trip.
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I have yet to visit the wonderful John O’Groats village, but with its iconic location and jaw-dropping scenery, it would be a wonderful addition to his road trip itinerary for those travellers who have more than seven days to explore Scotland. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Scotland’s scenery is magnificent
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That’s so true, Sherre. By now, I’ve been to Scotland dozen times, yet on each occasion, its vast landscapes and natural scenery still take my breath away. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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You too Aiva
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🥰🥰🥰
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The Isle of Skye seems like the most magical place! Bookmarking this post for when I finally make it back to Scotland!
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The Isle of Skye is possibly one of the most popular places to visit in Scotland, and it really is no surprise! The distinctive scenery, magical fairy pools, charming towns and rugged mountains are simply incredible and a must-see when travelling to Scotland. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Thank you so much for sharing this rich and precious post, which brought back to my mind wonderful memories of those unique places. ❣️🙏❣️
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I am glad to hear that my post about Scotland brought back wonderful memories, dear Luisa 🙂 Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 I hope all is well 🙂 Aiva xx
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You are so very welcome my dear Aiva.
It’s my pleasure as always! 🧡
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🥰🥰🥰
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What a fantastic article, Aiva! I’ve always wanted to visit Plockton (I live in Scotland), but have never been. Your post has inspired me to explore a bit further! I also haven’t visited the fairy pools on Skye. I really should get out more and visit some of these wonderful places, lol! 🌸😊
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You have to visit Plockton! The lovely Plockton village has been on my Scotland bucket list for a while, and I am so delighted that I finally had a chance to visit last summer. It is one of the most charming villages with majestic views and pretty houses. Definitely a place to visit if you get a chance, either by car or by train. The view across the harbour was beautiful, with boats in the harbour, and the harbour itself was lined by a few palm trees and local craft shops; it was very picturesque. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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You’ve created a terrific itinerary. I’ve been to some of the places you write about. Scotland is special.
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I think when it comes to Scotland, it doesn’t really matter in which direction you choose to travel as there’s always something beautiful to see. Once we left Glasgow behind, we encountered a wide range of stunning landscapes, from the rugged Highlands with their towering mountains and deep lochs to the serene beauty of the rolling hills and enchanting castles. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Lovely post. We love Scotland as well and have already been to all of the places you mention in your post. They are stunning. We have been to Scotland three times but the last time was in 2004 so we would be due for another visit. (Suzanne)
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There’s just something alluring about the oportunity to discover the legends and landscapes, culture and cuisine that makes the Scottish people and their country so unique. I am glad that, just like me, you find this country beautiful. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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This is a great itinerary Aiva. I haven’t been to Scotland for many years, but looking at this makes me want to return. Maggie
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Thank you, Maggie. This is a great itinerary to whet your appetite for a trip to this land of haggis, bagpipes, and tartan kilts. Even the shortest visit here will show you why the country deserves its reputation as one of the most gorgeous places on the planet. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Absolutely fabulous Aiva. What beautiful scenery!
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Thank you kindly, Francisco. Scotland’s landscapes are awesome enough by themselves. Yet part of their allure is an aura of mystery and the many legends that surround them. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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So true Aiva. That aura of mystery makes me really want to visit. Cheers and a good night.
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Excellent itinerary, Aiva. I’ve been fortunate to have visited Scotland several times, but I’d love to go again.
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Thank you kindly 🙂 There’s so much to love about Scotland. I am glad to hear that you had a chance to experience this charming, mysterious, and inspiring country for yourself. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Wonderful trip/photos. Enjoyed your daughters too.
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Thank you kindly 🙂 We all had a wonderful time exploring Scotland on a camping trip last year, especially the girls, as they had a chance to sleep under the stars and roast marshmallows on a campfire almost every single night. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Lovely! I enjoyed reading your detailed itinerary of Scotland’s West Coast: I’ve been to Glasgow, Edinburgh, and a bit of the Scottish Highlands when I visited almost a decade ago, but I did not do a road trip, as I’m not comfortable driving internationally (let alone on the left side of the road, haha). All the same, a road trip through Scotland looks stunning, as you get to see a lot more of the country than otherwise. Thanks for sharing, Aiva!
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Driving on the left side of the road can be challenging, especially on the single-lane roads that are often scattered with wandering sheep! I’ve been to the west coast of Scotland many times, yet I was still surprised by the staggering beauty of the dramatic landscapes of Glencoe. Touring Scotland’s west coast is a wonderful way to discover the history, ancient myths and legends as well as see many iconic sights and scenery. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Beautiful photography as always and your girls are very cute.
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Thank you so much 🙂 Last year’s road trip around Scotland was one to remember for all the right reasons. We had fabulous weather throughout it, and we found out that our kids sleep so much better and more soundly in a tent than they do at home. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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A road trip is always exciting, and what a great decision for you to do it in Scotland! The country is famous for its rolling hills and magnificent landscape, but what I like about your photos is that there was sun. Most images of this country that I have come across usually show beautiful countryside in gloomy light because of the moody weather. So, it’s really nice to see it in vivid colors.
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By now, we’ve been to Scotland many times and still can’t believe how much beauty is crammed into this wonderful country. The scenery is stunning, and there is so much history and culture to explore. It’s a beautiful country to explore at any time of the year, but even more so when the sun is shining. We’ve been fortunate enough to encounter many sunny days, and it makes a massive difference. When it comes to rainy days, it’s not all that bad. I think a bit of moody weather just adds to the beauty of Scotland! Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Scotland is very attractive and your photos reinforce this feeling. I regret having prepared so poorly my first trip to Scotland, which was also affected by the persistent rain. I hope to do better next time.
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I am sorry to hear that your first trip to Scotland was a washout – with the famously unpredictable Scottish weather (I’m talking four seasons in a day!), it pays to be prepared. Over the last few years, we’ve encountered a good few days with wild Scottish weather. One day, we were given picture-perfect walks under cloudless blue skies. The next day, we were battling against the wind, hood pulled tight as we pushed through the third torrential downpour of the day. Despite the weather, making time to enjoy the outdoors in Scotland is always worth it. So don’t be put off! Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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What a great itinerary, with lovely photos of each stop. I’ve yet to visit Scotland, but I’d definitely want to make at least some of these stops… especially the Isle of Skye. It’s just so pretty!
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Scotland’s landscapes and natural scenery really will take your breath away, Diana. I hope you get to explore this wonderful country one day and scale some of its famous peaks. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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The west coast of Scotland looks incredibly beautiful. Taking a road trip is a great way to enjoy and admire the scenery. We haven’t been before, but it’s high up on our travel list. And good to know it’s a good option to do with kids. Your daughters are so cute!
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Thanks so much, Linda! At first, I wasn’t sure if camping with a 1,5-year-old for a week would be a good idea as the weather in Scotland can turn into a washout in a matter of minutes, but we ended up having a memorable time, and the girls loved it. The magnificent west coast of Scotland exudes wild beauty. With each mile as unique and breathtaking as the last, discovering the endless beauty and scenic swathes of the coastline promises unending appeal. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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A stunning trip with so many beautiful photos Aiva. We drove a good deal of this route on our honeymoon in 1977, bouncing along in our little Austin Mini. We merely drove through Glasgow and unfortunately never got to the Isle of Skye. Scotland is so beautiful and there is a chance we may get to see it and perhaps Ireland this year. Fingers crossed. Thanks for sharing. Happy Tuesday. Allan
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Thank you kindly, Allan 🙂
As the weather forecast was in our favour, we managed to see, do and photograph quite a lot within a week. If you like towering castles, legendary lochs, imposing mountains and oodles of culture, then this is a great part of Scotland to visit. Fingers crossed you get to visit Scotland and Ireland this year.
I am taking girls to Edinburgh for an Easter break, but before I do, I have to apply for Electronic Travel Authorization, which is a new requirement for permission to travel to the UK which has been phased in since November 2023. Also, from 24 July 2026, a levy of 5% on overnight accommodation will be applied to a maximum of five nights. As you can see, a lot has changed since your last visit to Scotland.
Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Thanks for creating a great post and itinerary. Definitely full of ideas for any upcoming Scotland trips. X
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There’s so much to see and do on Scotland’s West coast that this itinerary can be easily extended for another week or so. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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What a wonderful guide to a journey I would absolutely love to do one day, Aiva. As always your photos are stunning 🙂 xx
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Thank you kindly. Scotland may be a small country, but it offers an impressive variety of destinations and landscapes. We’ve been very lucky with the weather conditions and it made such a big difference when exploring Scotland. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Great guide to visiting so many places along that stretch. I will say that between the beautiful scenery, highland cows, and of course riding the Harry Potter train sounds like a fantastic trip. That is a really lovely picture of your sweet kids 🙂
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Going on a ride on the Harry Potter train is a trip well worth taking. The scenery is stunning, the comfortable first class carriages offer wonderful views and the stop at Mallaig is just enough to look around the harbour, browse some shops and get something to eat. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Aiva, this is such an incredible and in depth guide for Scotland. I am definitely inspired to visit the West Coast after reading this!
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Thank you kindly. It goes to show you that you don’t have to travel far to have a wonderful and memorable time. On this road trip, in addition to spectacular scenery, you also get to see the real-life Harry Potter Train and hear the loud train whistle – just like in the movie. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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I do remember such lush beautiful scenery driving through Scotland, although I didn’t hit all the places you recommend. How wonderful to just take a ferry over! Although we saw some of the Highland Games, I’m sorry I missed a Highland cow. Your photo reminds me of the Icelandic horses. Thanks for another great post, Aiva.
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Highland cows are one of Scotland’s most beloved symbols, but to see them, you need to know where to look. On one of the first road trips around Scotland, we drove 1,700 miles all over the country and somehow didn’t see a single Highland Cow – it was terrible. I admittedly didn’t do research in advance and just figured I’d “get lucky and see some”. Sadly, that wasn’t the case. When I traveled back to Scotland the following year, I was more intentional about finding some cows. I researched places ahead of time where I might be able to see some. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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I would love to do this trip, and the Husband even more so. He would throw in more Hebrides, so we’d have to add more time. I’m particularly intrigued by the EIlean Donan castle and the Glencoe Mountain Resort. There are lots of things I’d like to do all over the world, but this is one adventure I think we actually have a reasonable chance of doing in our lifetimes.
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Adding a ferry ride to Hebrides would make this road trip even more exciting as they are full of wild beauty. The Glencoe Mountain Resort is a wonderful place to visit as it is located in an area of outstanding natural beauty on Rannoch Moor and offers stunning views of the iconic Buachaille Etive Mor. Their chair lifts provide easy access to spectacular panoramic viewpoints and a variety of exciting biking and walking trails. If you visit in winter, you can even go skiing. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx
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You had me at Harry Potter train and highland cows. 🙂 Fantastic pictures, too!
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The Jacobite Steam Train is often regarded as one of the greatest railway journeys in the world and is certainly one of the most scenic train journeys in Scotland. And when it comes to Highland cows, aka Scottish Highland cattle, they for sure have taken the world by storm with their incredible appearance, long hair and big personalities. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Thank you, Aiva. You, too.
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🥰🥰🥰
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Ever so lovely. I find it so nice that you should explore unusual destinations close to your home. You’re probably spoiling your kids who will think travelling all around is “normal”. 😉
Just the two hours ferry ride across the sea is adventure…
Thanks for sharing.
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Scotland has all the essential ingredients for the perfect road trip – there’s the beautiful ever-changing scenery, incredible attractions and welcoming towns and villages. On this particular road trip, we camped our way around Scotland. It was a proper family adventure with campfires, roasted marshmallows and many nights under starry skies. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx
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🙏🏻🤗💕
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Great blog post Aiva. All these places are on my bucket list especially Skye. Maybe one day. In the meantime I enjoyed reading about them in your post
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I hope you get to visit the Isle of Skye one day as there is something so dramatic about the mountains and big sky that erupts into the most colourful sunrises and sunsets. It took us 6 hours and 40 minutes to reach Portree from Cairnryan Port, but it was so worth it! Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Bookmarked! The scenery is remarkable, I would certainly love to visit and this itinerary looks perfect!
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The scenery around the west coast of Scotland is stunning and well worth seeing. Here, you can explore the mysterious Loch Ness, pass through the striking Cairngorms National Park, walk up Britain’s highest peak, Ben Nevis, or discover the rugged coastline of the Isle of Skye. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Beautiful photos Aiva of some very special spots. The Glencoe Mountain Resort looks wonderful.
Think I mentioned before that I visited the Isle of Skye back in 1985 when solo backpacking around the world for 12 months. I hitched around John O Groats before catching a ferry across to the Orkneys.
Your photos make me want to return to Scotland! x
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Thank you kindly 🙂 I am glad to hear that you included the Isle of Sky on your solo trip across the world. I can only imagine how different the wonderful island looked back in 1985. We had an amazing time spending 5 days on the island and exploring the dramatic Isle of Skye with its amazing scenery, myths, and legends. I loved hearing tales of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s escape from the mainland against the backdrop of the jagged Cuillin Mountains. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Aiva, it looks so beautiful there, and I love all your incredible nature photos! It is so neat that today visitors have the opportunity to explore the historical landmarks like the Eilean Donan Castle. Thank you for sharing this amazing guide!
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Thank you kindly 🙂 I love visiting Scotland as there’s so much to see and do, especially when it comes to natural marvels and historical castles. You know, Eilean Donan Castle is a truly iconic and beautiful location in Scotland, and I am so glad that I had a chance to finally see it in person – the castle’s stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings make it a photographer’s dream. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Aiva, I think this might be one of my favourite of your posts ever! My bestie has been planning a trip to Edinburgh, but I’ve been less enthusiastic because I’ve been there before (and so recently). But this road trip would be perfect. We’d get to see Edinburgh, but also things that I’ve never seen before.
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Thank you kindly – I am glad to hear that you enjoyed my post 🙂 I’ve been to Edinburgh many times, too, but always wanted to escape to the west coast of Scotland to take in the scenery and visit the Isle of Skye. I am so glad I finally made it happen, as it turned out to be one of the most incredible road trips. It’s amazing how much you can actually see and do within a week. I hope you get to explore beyond Edinburgh. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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This itinerary is absolutely fantastic! I love how detailed it is with drive times, must-see stops, and even little tips like drone flying and parking. The mix of big highlights (like Eilean Donan Castle and the Isle of Skye) with hidden gems (Plockton and The Falls of Falloch) really makes it feel balanced and doable. Your photos add so much charm too—Scotland looks magical through your lens. Definitely bookmarking this for when I plan my own trip!
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