Scotland: 12 Day Road Trip

Castles, lochs, Highland cows, and the most magical landscapes make Scotland a must-visit for your bucket list. We ended up in Scotland on a whim and I was much more impressed than I ever dreamed possible. Basically, when I found out the official animal of Scotland is the unicorn and there are REAL fairy glens around every corner I was a goner. There are dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, 790 islands, over 3000 castles, and magic everywhere. The Scots have their own lovely variety of English, and a native Celtic language called Gaelic, making them so fun to listen to! Here’s a sample road trip through the land of the Scots for your enjoyment: 

Day 1-2

You’ll definitely need to rent a car to experience all that Scotland has to offer, and make sure you pre-book well in advance as this is a small airport. You may need to go around the car park a few times before you get the hang of the right-hand driving and backwards roundabouts, but once you get that sorted the roads are pretty easy to navigate. Unless you get stuck in tractor traffic, or in some weather, or a big semi truck is coming in the opposing lane…. Actually driving in Scotland is a little bit scary after all. But it’s worth it!!! 

One night is nice in Inverness. This allows you to acclimate to the time change and sink into your first cozy pub. Get yourself some hot Hagis and take a deep breath, it just feels good to be there. Around Inverness, you may want to visit a mysterious stone circle or explore the charming city if you have the time and the energy. 

Days 2-3

Inverness is at one end of Loch Ness, so you will get to see most of the lake on your way towards Fort Augustus. I liked Fort Augustus for its cobblestone streets and cool vibes. Flags fly and bells toll creating a lot of great energy there. However, it is touristy and crowded so I recommend instead staying in the small town of Drumnadrochit instead. 

Make reservations in advance so you can have tea with Highland cows at Quila Cridhe Tea Room. Highland cows are irresistibly cute and have an excellent temperament, making them perfect guests for tea. The establishment is adorable, the set menu is delicious, and you get to spend as much time as you want admiring the fluffy coo’s.

Of course, be sure you save time to take a scenic boat cruise across the legendary loch in search of Nessie. There is even a museum and visitor center in town so you can learn more about the surrounding are and ecosystem. It is really a stunning lake, but the only monster I found was driving my car that day:) 

En route to Skye: 

Consider a stop at Eilean Donan Castle on the way to or from the Isle of Skye if time permits. It is situated on the corner of three lochs and the scenery is breathtaking. Tours of this iconic 13th century masterpiece are offered daily.  

Day 3-6:

We recommend booking accommodations in Portree, which is a two hour drive from Loch Ness. Three days in the Isle of Skye will be packed full and you still may not experience all that you want to see. If you want to take more time hiking and exploring, absolutely stay longer! Portree is an adorable little port town that is centrally located and always bustling, so it may be in your interest to stay outside of town a little ways. We rented an adorable bed a breakfast and loved it.

On your first full day, take the scenic loop north on A855 from Portree, picking some points of interest along the way. We chose to stop at Old Man of Storr first, but it was rammed with tourists and we chose not to hike there. Next we visited Kilt Rock for the stunning viewpoint (in the beautiful sunshine) and then hunted for Dinosaur footprints at An Corran Beach a few minutes later (where it poured on us). From there we crossed through the Quiraing, and chose to take a nature walk at the Fairy Glen (in perfect weather again). You can stop at Skye Brewery or get lunch in Uig along the way, or bring a picnic lunch with you. Just be sure to pack layers and plan to experience every season multiple times throughout the day. 

On your next full day, make your way to Skyeskyns for a unique experience touring a working sheepskin tannery. After that, take a picnic and relax at the stunning Coral Beach, which is a relaxing walk along turquoise water and white sandy shores. Finally, discover the wild beauty of the island by hiking out to the dramatic Neist Point Lighthouse for sunset.

On your final day and perhaps as you depart the Isle of Skye, make a stop at the Fairy Pools, finishing up at Sligachan River, where legend says you will be granted eternal beauty by dipping your head for seven seconds. We did not stop there, but maybe you’re into it. 

En route to Lismore: 

Drive through more of the dramatic Scottish Highlands today and take some little detours. The Glenfinnan Viaduct Trail offers stunning scenery for any photographer, while Glencoe delivers fascinating Scottish history. 

Day 6-8

Take a ferry to the peaceful Isle of Lismore, known as the Great Garden of Scotland. Nestled in Lock Linnhe with a population about 170, the island is only 10 miles long and enjoys a mild climate year round. To get to the island, take a ferry from Oban or Port Appin. The only car ferry leaves from Oban but we recommend leaving your car on the mainland and taking the passenger ferry from Port Appin. You won’t need a car on the island since it is so small, and instead you can enjoy a guided bike ride around the island. Use your one full day to explore the fascinating historical sites such as the Medieval Parish Church, Shop and Post Office, cafe, small school and Gaelic Heritage Center. We highly recommend staying at the coastal gem of Ballimackillichan Croft, a lovely bed and breakfast with such amazing hosts. Enjoy a wander around the garden breath in the salty air with Ben Nevis seen in the distance. The views are just stunning. 

Day 8-10

Explore the vibrant Scottish culture with the incredible music and art scene in Glasgow. There are dozens of fabulous museums and several walking tour options to get lost for the day! Don’t miss the historic Glasgow Cathedral and nearby Necropolis, some of the oldest sites in the city, and perhaps even take a spooky night tour. If that’s not your thing, there are great distillery and bar options and a thriving night scene to enjoy. One full day here is perfect.  

Day 10-12

Your final destination on this Scotland road trip will probably leave you feeling a little sad. We understand, the Scottish folk can be infectious. Spend your final full day walking through the enchanting old town or go big and attend one of the city’s famous festivals that fill the streets with performance and energy. If you have yet to tour a castle, you’ve saved the best for last as Edinburgh Castle is stunning. After your visit, continue down the Royal Mile and follow your nose to some Fish and Chips for your last little taste of the land of Scots. 

We hope you get a chance to take a road trip and enjoy Scotland as much as we did! Scotland left me with a profound sense of comfort and congeniality that makes me long to visit again. The dazzling landscapes, deeply rooted history and hospitable people make Scotland special, but the magic that flows in the veins of the land make Scotland irreplaceable.