Looking for the ultimate Scotland road trip itinerary? This itinerary is perfect for those wanting to see the best of Scotland in 6 to 10 days!
From the scenic Scottish Highlands to the stunning Isle of Skye to the bustling city of Edinburgh, Scotland has so much to offer visitors.
Known for its picturesque landscapes, gorgeous castles, whisky distilleries, and rich history and culture, the county is jam-packed with things to do and sights to see.
I actually visited Scotland for the first time as we were attending a wedding near Aberdeen. We decided to make it a long trip and planned an epic Scotland driving itinerary!
And, to say that I enjoyed Scotland is an understatement. The country literally blew me away with its beauty and I absolutely loved our itinerary; it felt like each place was even more beautiful than the last.
Here is the ultimate Scotland road trip itinerary!
About Scotland
Located in the northern part of the United Kingdom, Scotland borders England to the south and is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and North Sea.
Known for its scenic landscapes, the country is made up of lush rolling hills, rugged mountains ranges, and serene lakes (known as “lochs” in Scotland!). And did you know that Scotland has hundreds of remote offshore islands along its coastline?
Along with its incredible landscapes, Scotland is home to several cities. Edinburgh is the capital city and most well-known, but Glasgow, Inverness, Aberdeen and Dundee are all sizable cities as well.
The country has a long and interesting history, as well as a rich cultural heritage. These can be seen through its museums, historic castles, traditional music and dancing, Gaelic language, and even the cuisine.
Haggis — a savory pudding made of sheep parts — is the national dish of Scotland! The dish is loved by locals but often avoided by visitors… Tell me, will you be trying haggis?
Scotland is also a top destination for golfers… after all it’s the birthplace of the sport! My husband is a golf lover and was very excited to visit the iconic St Andrews Links.
When is the Best Time to Visit Scotland?
Scotland is infamous for its unpredictable weather… but, generally, visitors have better luck with the weather in the summer months!
From June to August, the weather is milder with more sunshine and longer daylight hours. Visiting during these months is perfect for those who want to enjoy all the outdoor activities. However, note that this is also the peak tourist season so some of the popular destinations can be quite busy.
Spring and fall can also offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds compared to the busy summer months. The shoulder season months (March to May, and September to November) will likely still be nice for sightseeing, hiking and exploring.
We visited in late May and really enjoyed the weather. While we got some rain here and there (it is Scotland after all!), it was mostly sunny and the temperatures didn’t get too cold. You’ll definitely want to be prepared for rain and wind at any time of year. Layering is key!
Winter can be quite cold with shorter daylight hours, so I wouldn’t recommend it for first time visitors if you want to maximize your time in Scotland.
How to Get to Scotland
Scotland has several international airports, with the most popular ones being Edinburgh Airport (EDI) and Glasgow Airport (GLA). Aberdeen Airport (ABZ) and Inverness Airport (INV) are also options depending on your destination. Many of the major airlines offer direct flights to Scotland from international destinations around the world.
Another option is to fly into London and drive or train to Scotland from there. London’s Heathrow Airport is the UK’s largest airport and serves hundreds of destinations across the globe.
Taking a train to Scotland can be a scenic and comfortable way to get there! There are direct train services from major cities in England, such as London, Manchester, and Birmingham, to Scottish cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow. The Caledonian Sleeper is an overnight train service that runs between London and Scotland, allowing you to wake up refreshed in your Scottish destination!
Coming from Los Angeles, we opted to fly into London as it was the most direct and cost effective option. After spending a few nights enjoying London, we took the train to Edinburgh and arrived in just 4.5 hours. Taking the train from London is a much faster option than driving which takes about 7.5 hours!
Driving in Scotland
Scotland has a well-developed public transportation system of trains, buses and ferries. However, renting a car will give you the most flexibility and allow you to explore remote areas that can’t be accessed by public transport.
In my opinion, you really need a car to be able to experience so much of the stunning beauty of the country… and you’ll definitely need one for this Scotland road trip itinerary!
There are a few things to know about driving in Scotland. First (and most importantly!), they drive on the left-hand side of the road. This can feel weird at first if you’re not used to it, but you’ll get the hang of it quickly!
Another thing to be aware of while driving in Scotland are the roads. While the highways are easy to navigate, some of the roads in remote places, like the Highlands, are single-track roads with passing places. This can also take some adjusting if you’re not used to driving on a one track road!
Lastly, some of the roads are narrow and winding, so make sure to use caution while driving and be mindful of wildlife. There are sheep everywhere and they pass over the roads in some places!
6 – 10 Day Scotland Road Trip Itinerary Overview
This Scotland road trip itinerary can be completed in 6, 8, or 10 days, depending on where you chose to depart from. For example, if you only had 6 days, you could begin your trip in Edinburgh (day 1) and depart from Inverness (day 6) as both cities have international airports and train stations. Similarly, you could begin in Edinburgh (day 1) and depart from Aberdeen (day 8) via Aberdeen International Airport or train station.
- Day 1: Edinburgh
- Day 2: Kilchurn Castle, Castle Stalker, and Oban
- Day 3: Glencoe, and the Jacobite Train
- Day 4: Fort William to Isle of Skye
- Day 5: Isle of Skye
- Day 6: Isle of Skye to Inverness
- Day 7: Inverness
- Day 8: Inverness to Aberdeen
- Day 9: Aberdeen to St Andrews
- Day 10: St Andrews to Edinburgh
Alternate Itinerary Options:
The full 10 day Scotland road trip itinerary is essentially a loop around the country so you could really begin wherever you like along the way. Edinburgh is generally the most popular starting point as it’s such a well-connected city but, if beginning in Inverness or Aberdeen is more convenient for you, then this itinerary will work well too!
Ultimate Scotland Road Trip Itinerary: 6 – 10 Days
Day 1: Edinburgh
Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland and one of its most iconic and historically significant cities. Known for its stunning architecture, which combines medieval and Georgian elements, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time while exploring Old Town Edinburgh.
Once you’ve arrived and settled in, there are plenty of things to see with one day in Edinburgh!
Edinburgh Castle
One of the best things to do in the city is visit the famous Edinburgh Castle. At over 900 years old, this fortified castle is steeped in history and is the home of Scotland’s crown jewels. Visitors can explore on their own or take a guided tour — just make sure to reserve your tickets in advance during peak season!
The castle also has incredible panoramic views of the city from above, making it a great place to snap some photos.
Victoria Street
Located in Edinburgh’s charming Old Town, Victoria Street is a picturesque cobblestone road lined with colorful shops. And, it’s thought to be the inspiration for J.K. Rowling’s Diagon Alley!
The Royal Mile
Go for a stroll along the historic Royal Mile that connects Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It’s packed with pubs, restaurants, shops and little alleyways to explore.
Edinburgh Hotels
Looking for the best hotels in Edinburgh? Here are my top picks!
- Gleneagles Townhouse: Set in a beautiful, historic building, this hotel is a classic and lux choice.
- Kimpton – Charlotte Square: Excellent location near lots of shops and restaurants, plus lovely rooms and an onsite pool and gym.
- Virgin Hotels Edinburgh: Centrally located, this hotel has a gorgeous interior and a rooftop with stellar views.
Day 2: Kilchurn Castle, Castle Stalker & Oban
While I was researching and planning our itinerary, most guides I found recommended heading straight to Glencoe and Fort William from Edinburgh. However, there were a few castles I wanted to see a bit further south, as well as the city of Oban, home of the famous Oban Distillery. Also, the Isle of Eriska Hotel & Spa was recommended to us so we chose to base ourselves there for two nights… which meant a bit more driving but we found it was worth it!
Driving Overview:
- Edinburgh to Castle Kilchurn: 2 hour 15 minutes drive
- Castle Kilchurn to Oban: 34 minutes
- Oban to Castle Stalker: 28 minutes
- Castle Stalker to Isle of Eriska: 22 minutes
Kilchurn Castle
After the 2ish hour drive from Edinburgh, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful castle for your first stop of the day!
Built in the mid-1400s, Kilchurn Castle has a deep history and was once used as a garrison stronghold during the Jacobite rising. Today, the ruined fortress can be viewed only from the outside but is still absolutely worth a visit. Located on the serene Loch Awe with picturesque mountains in its backdrop, Kilchurn Castle is a photographer’s dream!
Oban
About half an hour from Kilchurn Castle, Oban is a little seaside town known as the “Gateway to the Scottish Isles.” Many whisky drinkers choose to visit the Oban Distillery for a tour and tasting. If you plan to visit, be sure to book a tour in advance!
For lunch, don’t miss eating fish and chips as Oban is known for its seafood. I recommend The Oban Fish & Chip Shop — it was delicious and had a large selection of fish choices!
Another popular attraction is McCaig’s Tower which is perched on a hill looking over town. It’s become somewhat of an icon of Oban and offers stunning panoramic views of town and the bay.
Castle Stalker
Once you’ve had your fill of Oban, it’s time to visit your last castle of the day!
Castle Stalker is uniquely set on a small islet in Loch Laich. The four-story tower is actually a private residence (can you imagine living there?!) but, don’t worry, you can still view it from the shore. It’s an absolutely stunning scene that looks straight out of a postcard!
And if the castle looks familiar to you, that’s because it was featured in the movie, Monty Python!
Isle of Eriska Hotel & Spa
Wow, this small luxury hotel was something special! Set on its own quaint island, the hotel is made up of a baronial mansion and beautiful, expansive grounds. There’s two restaurants, a spa, pool, and even a small golf course! And, it’s remote location makes it feel like a secret haven.
→ Book Isle of Eriska Hotel & Spa
After checking in, we had an incredible tasting menu dinner at the Main House Restaurant. We were blown away by the creativity and presentation of each dish. This was hands down the best meal we had in Scotland!
Day 3: Glencoe, Fort William & the Jacobite Train
Next stop on the Scotland road trip itinerary is the Glen Coe valley, one of the most scenic areas in Scotland. From there, we went on to hop aboard the Jacobite train to the coastal town of Mallaig. However, if you didn’t want to do the famous “Harry Potter” train, you could easily spend a few extra hours exploring the gorgeous Glen Coe valley before making the journey to Isle of Skye.
Driving Overview:
- Isle of Eriska to Glencoe: 41 minutes
- Glencoe to Fort William: 26 minutes minutes
- Fort William to Isle of Eriska: 58 minutes
- OR Fort William to Isle of Skye: 2 hours 21 minutes
Glencoe
The area of Glencoe is famous for its stunning scenery making it a great place for hiking, biking or just being outdoors. Many visitors choose to visit the area on a scenic drive, while others spend multiple days in the area to hike Ben Nevis, the UK’s tallest mountain.
We got up super early and drove the 40 minutes to Glencoe so we would have plenty of time to explore before heading to Fort Williams to catch the Harry Potter train.
We chose to drive through the Glencoe area and stop at different viewpoints. We visited the View of Three Sisters and the Meeting of Three Waters, and then drove down Glen Etive road which was famously featured in the James Bond film, Skyfall.
The scenery was insanely beautiful at every turn. The lush green hills, majestic mountains, babbling brooks, and waterfalls… I understand why this gorgeous valley is so popular and featured in so many films!
We had a quick and early lunch at the Clachaig Inn, which is located in the heart of the valley and has sweeping views of the mountains.
It’s also not far from where they filmed scenes of Hagrid’s hut in the Harry Potter films!
Jacobite Steam Train
Are you a Harry Potter fan like me? If so, you won’t want to miss riding on the Hogwarts Express, erhm I mean the Jacobite Steam Train!
From April to October, the train runs twice a day from Fort William to Mallaig (roundtrip). The entire experience takes about 6 hours, with 2 hours aboard the train to Mallaig, 2 hours to explore Mallaig, and 2 hours to return to Fort William.
The scenery from the train ride is spectacular with views of valleys, lochs, and other Harry Potter filming locations like Dumbledore’s grave (located on Loch Eilt). But, the most famous spot is the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which is featured heavily in the Harry Potter films!
Mallaig is a small town and fishing port on the west coast of Scotland. On your visit, you can either stroll around and eat some fish and chips at one of the restaurants, or take a short wildlife cruise to spot dolphins or whales. If you’re visiting as a Harry Potter fan (and I’m guessing you are if you’re on the train!), don’t miss stopping at Haggard Alley. It’s a Harry Potter souvenir shop where you can pick out a wand, purchase a potion, or indulge in some chocolate frogs.
Book your Jacobite steam train tickets well in advance as they sell out months before. Even if it’s sold out, keep checking back to see if any seats have opened up… that’s how I was able to snag our tickets. You never know, you could get lucky!
Fort William Hotels
While we stayed a second night at the gorgeous Isle of Eriska Hotel, you could choose to stay in the Fort William area if you preferred not to do as much driving. Here are my top picks for Fort William hotels!
- SeaBeds: This luxury 1-bedroom hideaway is located right on the shore of Loch Linnhe. Enjoy scenic views from the balcony or hot tub!
- Inverlochy Castle Hotel: An iconic luxury castle hotel that will have you feeling like Scottish royalty!
- Sheraton Apartments: Affordable apartment style lodging that is perfect for families or groups of friends.
Day 4: Isle of Skye
It’s time to visit one of Scotland’s most beautiful and well-known islands: Isle of Skye. It’s widely regarded as one of the best places to visit in Scotland! This day will be spent driving to Isle of Skye, visiting the Eilean Donan Castle, and settling into your hotel for the evening.
Driving Overview:
Depending on where you stayed after your third day and where you plan to stay in Isle of Skye, your drive time will vary between 2.5 – 4 hours. We chose to go back to the Isle of Eriska Hotel after the Jacobite train (but you could easily stay in Fort William instead!), and then we stayed at a hotel on the farthest point of Isle of Skye so it was definitely a longer drive for us! Here are the sample drive times that will depend on your lodging:
- Fort William to Portree: 2 hours 24 minutes
- Isle of Eriska to Portree: 3 hours 22 minutes
- Isle of Eriska to Flodigarry Hotel: 4 hours
Eilean Donan Castle
This majestic castle is literally on your way to the Isle of Skye so it’s definitely worth a stop!
Situated on a small tidal island where three lochs meet, Eilean Donan Castle is renowned for its breathtaking setting and picturesque views, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
The origins of Eilean Donan Castle can be traced back to the 13th century when a fortified structure was built on the island to defend against Viking invasions. Over the centuries, the castle has undergone several modifications and expansions under various owners, including the MacRae and MacKenzie clans.
Today, the castle is a popular tourist attraction and visitors can explore various rooms, including the Banqueting Hall, the bedrooms, the kitchen, and the weaponry display.
Flodigarry Hotel
We waited until the last minute to book our accommodations on Isle of Skye and we found that almost all hotels and lodging were fully booked up — especially in Portree, the island’s largest town.
We were able to get a last minute room at the Flodigarry Hotel at the very north of the island. While it was remote, we actually ended up loving our stay at this charming hotel!
Located in a grand Victorian house set on a hilltop, the hotel has sweeping ocean views. And it’s remoteness made it feel like a hidden gem, world’s away from the main tourist drag!
Along with it’s cozy rooms, the Flodigarry Hotel has a charming bar — with an excellent gin martini! — and a lovely restaurant. We had a delicious dinner there and were very impressed with the creativity and presentation of our meal.
Isle of Skye Hotels
We stayed at the enchanting Flodigarry Hotel but if you’re looking for other lodging options closer to Portree… Here are my top picks for Isle of Skye hotels!
- Cuillin Hills Hotel: One of the best hotels on the island, the Cuillin Hills Hotel has breathtaking views looking over the harbor of iconic Portree.
- Skeabost House Hotel: This sprawling property is just 10 minutes from Portree, and has cozy rooms and scenic views.
- Home Farm Apartments: This affordable apartment style lodging is in a quiet area of Portree within walking distance to shops and restaurants.
Day 5: Isle of Skye
As your first full day on the gorgeous Isle of Skye, our itinerary takes you through the northeast section of the island to visit the Fairy Glen, Old Man of Storr, and the Kilt Rock.
Driving Overview:
If you stay in Portree, as many visitors do, here is the suggested driving itinerary:
- Portree to Old Man of Storr: 14 minutes
- Old Man of Storr to Kilt Rock: 12 minutes
- Kilt Rock to Fairy Glen: 33 minutes
- Fairy Glen to Portree: 26 minutes
As we started from the Flodigarry Hotel, our itinerary for the day was a bit different:
- Flodigarry Hotel to Fairy Glen: 34 minutes
- Fairy Glen to Kilt Rock: 33 minutes
- Kilt Rock to Old Man of Storr: 12 minutes
- Old Man of Storr to Flodigarry Hotel: 23 minutes
The Fairy Glen
The Fairy Glen is an otherworldly landscape situated in the village of Uig, about six miles northwest of Portree. The glen is made up of small, cone-shaped hills and winding paths, all surrounded by stunning panoramic views of the Isle of Skye’s dramatic scenery. One of the notable features of the Fairy Glen is the spiraling grassy hills, often referred to as “fairy hills” or “fairy mounds.”
This ethereal landscape is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a fairy-like experience in Scotland!
We weren’t sure what to expect when we visited (would it be worth going?)… but both my husband and I loved it! The Fairy Glen really does feel like another realm out of a fairy book. We had a blast wandering around the grassy hills, finding little babbling brooks, and, of course, taking lots of photos!
Kilt Rock
Kilt Rock is a striking 200-foot sea cliff with a waterfall that drops dramatically into the sea below. The cliff face of Kilt Rock is made of basalt columns, which were formed through volcanic activity (millions of years ago!). These columns have a distinct appearance, resembling the pleats and folds of a Scottish kilt, hence the name “Kilt Rock!”
Visitors can admire Kilt Rock from the designated viewpoint located along the A855 road. This viewpoint offers a panoramic vista of the cliffs, the waterfall, and the surrounding coastal landscape.
Definitely don’t miss stopping at Kilt Rock… It’s a quick visit and really encapsulates Scotland’s rugged beauty!
Old Man of Storr
The Old Man of Storr is one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks on the island, attracting visitors from around the world.
This large pinnacle of rock stands tall and proud, reaching a height of about 165 feet. To reach the Old Man of Storr, visitors can hike from the Storr car park located on the A855 road. The path is well-marked and maintained, although it can be steep and challenging in certain sections. The hike typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours round trip, depending on your pace and the time spent exploring the area.
While we opted not to do the full hike, we did drive to Storr and did some exploring on foot. The views and the scenery are absolutely breathtaking… I can only imagine the hike is unbelievable!
Day 6: Isle of Skye
For the sixth day of this Scottish road trip itinerary, it’s time to finish exploring Isle of Skye. We’ll head to the majestic Dunvegan Castle, have lunch at the famed Three Chimneys and The House Over-by, visit the magical Fairy Pools, and stop by the Old Sligachan Bridge.
Driving Overview:
After our final day on Isle of Skye, we decided to press on to Inverness as it would’ve taken us over an hour to get back to our hotel on Isle of Skye (in the wrong direction). We were happy with our choice and that we got to wake up in Inverness instead of driving more! However, if you’re staying in Portree, you may prefer to just make the 35 minute drive back there for the evening.
- Portree to Dunvegan Castle: 41 minutes
- Dunvegan Castle to The Three Chimneys and The House Over-by: 12 minutes
- The Three Chimneys and The House Over-by to Fairy Pools: 48 minutes
- Option 1: Fairy Pools to Inverness: 2 hours 39 minutes
- OR Option 2: Fairy Pools to Portree: 35 minutes
- *Note: the Old Sligachan Bridge will be on your way home whether you’re returning to Portree or continuing on to Inverness.
Dunvegan Castle
Dunvegan Castle is situated on the shores of Loch Dunvegan, in the northwest part of the Isle of Skye. This historic fortress is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland and has been the stronghold of the MacLeod clan for over 800 years!
One of the highlights of Dunvegan Castle is its stunning setting. The castle is nestled amidst beautifully landscaped gardens and overlooks the tranquil waters of Loch Dunvegan. Visitors can choose to visit the castle, gardens or even book a boat trip on the loch to see the seal colony!
Lunch at The Three Chimneys and The House Over-by
If you’re a foodie like me, then you won’t want to miss dining at The Three Chimneys and The House Over-by!
Located along Loch Dunvegan, this charming and stylish restaurant has an absolutely gorgeous setting. Arriving for our lunch reservation, we were excited to spot some seals in the loch on a little island!
The menu features modern Scottish cuisine using local ingredients and lots of fresh seafood. Of course, you’ll find Scotland’s favorite dish, Haggis, as well as salmon, scallops, and langoustine.
And you won’t leave hungry — the portions are sizable and the ingredients are rich and flavorful. I had the Twice Baked Souffle made with Strathdon Blue cheese, aliums, and potato dumplings… Wow, talk about comfort food!
Lastly, the service was just incredible. Our server was very knowledgable and friendly. After telling him how taken we were with the flaky Scottish salt, he brought us a jar from the kitchen to take home with us!
The Fairy Pools
The Fairy Pools are a series of enchanting and crystal-clear freshwater pools famous for their crystal-clear waters. The pools are made up of a series of waterfalls, cascades, and pools of various sizes. The pools are interconnected, with each one having its own unique characters. Some pools have natural rock formations that create mini waterfalls and plunge pools, while others are more calm and tranquil.
To reach the Fairy Pools, visitors can park at the designated car park near the Glen Brittle Campsite. From there, it’s a scenic walk of approximately 2.5 miles along a gravel track to reach the pools.
Note that the popularity of the Fairy Pools has increased in recent years, so it can get quite busy during peak tourist season. To avoid crowds, it’s advisable to visit early in the morning or during weekdays if possible. We visited in the mid-afternoon and the parking lot was full — we were eventually able to snag a spot but it definitely gets crowded!
Old Sligachan Bridge
The Old Sligachan Bridge is a historic stone bridge located in the central part of the Isle of Skye. It spans the River Sligachan and is particularly scenic, with the majestic Cuillin Mountains in the background.
It has become a popular spot for photography, capturing the essence of Skye’s wild and untamed beauty!
Plus, legend has it that anyone brave enough to dip their face in the water below the Old Sligachan Bridge will be granted eternal beauty by the faeries. While I wasn’t brave enough to dip my face in the chilly waters, my husband did… Now, only time will tell if the legend holds true!
Day 7: Inverness
Inverness is known as the capital of the Scottish Highlands and is often a starting point for those visiting Isle of Skye. Although small in size, this city is still worth a full day on this Scotland road trip itinerary.
Walk along the River Ness
Inverness is built around the beautiful River Ness and going for a stroll along the river is a great way to explore the city and take in the views. There are walking paths along the river banks and footbridges so you can easily cross from one side to the other!
Visit the Inverness Cathedral
The Inverness Cathedral was built between 1866 to 1869, and is located along the shores of the River Ness. It’s the most northerly Anglican Cathedral in the UK and costs £2 to enter.
Grab a Coffee
There are tons of cute little coffee shops around town where you can get your caffeine fix and a quick breakfast. We loved Grain and Grind for their delicious lattes and pastries!
Leakey’s Bookshop
I love visiting old bookshops and this one did not disappoint! Leakey’s Bookshop is home to Scotland’s largest collection of old, rare and second-hand books. The seemingly endless shelves are stacked with books and it’s easy to get lost in there for hours!
Live Music at Hootananny
Hootananny is a local pub with live, traditional Scottish folk music and traditional dishes like haggis and neeps and tatties. Stop by for dinner and music for a full Scottish experience!
Inverness Hotels
Looking for the best hotels in Inverness? Here are my top picks!
- Ness Walk Hotel: We stayed at this lovely hotel along the River Ness and we loved that we could walk everywhere! Our room was comfortable, the service was very friendly and we enjoyed the food at the restaurant.
- Culloden House Hotel: If you want more of a grand, historic Scottish feel, then you can’t miss staying at the lux Cullodden House Hotel! It’s about a 10 minute drive to Inverness but it’s a great location if you’re interested in seeing the Culloden Battlefield.
- River Ness Hotel: This Radisson property is in a superb location nnear the river and features all the modern amenities and comforts you’ll need.
Day 8: Inverness to Aberdeen
Continuing on our Scotland road trip itinerary, this day is a great opportunity to see some of eastern Scotland’s famous castle — including a unique pink castle that makes for some great photo opportunities!
Driving Overview:
If you wanted to go directly from Inverness to Aberdeen, it’s just a 2.5 hour drive. However, I would recommend stopping at some of eastern Scotland’s most beautiful castles along the way!
- Inverness to Balmoral Castle: 1 hour 49 minutes
- Balmoral Castle to Craigiever Castle: 41 minutes
- Craigiever Castle to Aberdeennn: 45 minutes
- OR Inverness to Aberdeen direct: 2 hours 23 minutes
Balmoral Castle
The impressive Balmoral Castle is famous for being a residence of the British royal family and, specifically, Queen Elizabeth’s summer holiday home.
I wasn’t able to visit since the castle was not open for visitors during my trip… But, the castle grounds are open to the public on specific dates over the fall and winter months — so make sure to check their website for opening dates!
Visitors can enjoy a relaxed stroll around the grounds, view the exterior of the Castle, and also visit the gift shop and cafe.
Craigiever Castle
I knew I wanted to visit Craigiever Castle ever since seeing a photo of it online a few years ago…
It’s one of the more unique castles in Scotland as it’s pink and looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale book!
While the castle itself is closed for renovations until 2024, we enjoyed walking around the outside and taking photos. It’s location in Aberdeenshire is very picturesque as well.
Explore Aberdeen
With a quick stay in Aberdeen, I’d recommend visiting the the historic area of Old Aberdeen. Spend the rest of the day wandering around the cobblestone streets and take in the historic architecture!
Aberdeen Hotels
Looking for the best hotels in Aberdeen? Here are my top picks!
- Malmaison Aberdeen: Located in Aberdeen, this grand hotel is an excellent choice for a comfortable, cozy stay.
- The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa: On the outskirts of Aberdeen, this grand Victorian manor makes for a lux getaway.
Day 9: Aberdeen to St Andrews
From Aberdeen, the drive to St Andrews isn’t too long! I’d recommend stopping along the way to see some more of eastern Scotland’s iconic castles. Or, if you’re eager to play some golf at St Andrew’s iconic courses, you could head directly there!
Driving Overview:
- Aberdeen to Dunnottar Castle: 25 minutes
- Dunnottar Castle to Glamis Castle: 43 minutes
- Glamis Castle to St Andrews: 40 minutes
Dunnottar Castle
Dunnottar Castle is a ruined medieval fortress perched atop breathtaking cliff surrounded by the North Sea.
While the 15th century castle is largely in ruins, it’s position on the rocky cliffs and surrounding dramatic landscapes make for a really epic visit!
The history of Dunnottar Castle dates back to the Early Middle Ages, and it has played a significant role in Scotland’s history. It was originally a Pictish fortress and later became a medieval stronghold. The castle was frequently involved in conflicts, including battles during the Wars of Scottish Independence.
I really loved stopping at this castle as the scenery was so unique and dramatic.. It was lovely to just take in the views and get some beautiful photos!
Glamis Castle
Glamis Castle is a historic and majestic castle located in Angus, Scotland. It is renowned not only for its architectural beauty but also for its rich history and connections to Scottish royalty.
The castle was the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother before she became the Queen Consort of King George VI. The Queen Mother spent her early years at Glamis and it is where she gave birth to Princess Margaret.
Today, Glamis Castle is open to the public and is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore its historic rooms, learn about its history, and enjoy the beautiful gardens and extensive grounds.
Rusacks St Andrews
We ended the day at the iconic hotel, Rusacks in St Andrews, with breathtaking views of the Old Course at St Andrews Links.
It’s definitely a great hotel option for golf lovers… but even as a non-golfer, I loved our stay at this hotel!
The hotel has a great historic vibe and wonderful dining options. Their traditional Scottish pub, One Under Bar, is the spot to get a beer and some pub food. Or, if you want a higher end dining experience, 18 is their rooftop restaurant with views of the Old Course and West Sands Beach. The hearty food was incredible — especially the steak and cheddar soufflé!
St Andrews Hotels
Looking for the best hotels in St Andrews? These are my top picks!
- Old Course Hotel St Andrews: This iconic hotel is the perfect stay for golf enthusiasts! It overlooks West Sands Beach and the Links Golf Course — plus it’s home o a luxury spa, fitness center, pool, and award-winning restaurant.
- Rooms at the Saint: Conveniently located in town, this hotel is known for its spacious rooms and friendly service.
- Greyfriars Inn by Greene King Inns: This affordable inn has cozy rooms, it’s own charming pub, and a great walkable location in St Anddrews.
Day 10: St Andrews to Edinburgh
If you didn’t get a chance to explore the charming town of St Andrews on your arrival day, make sure to set aside the morning of your final day on the Scotland road trip itinerary to wander around town. While small in size, St Andrews is lovely and it’s location along the sea makes for some great photos!
Driving Overview:
- St Andrews to Edinburgh: 1 hour 14 minutes
St Andrews Links
The Old Course at St Andrews is one of the most famous golf courses in the world and one of the most important in golf history. Golfers from all around the world come to play this iconic course that has sweeping sea views.
If you’re a golfer, then this is a must while visiting St Andrews!
Explore the Cobbled Streets
St Andrews is fairly small and it easily explored on foot. Spend an hour or so exploring the charming cobblestone roads that are home to plenty of shops and local pubs.
St Andrews Castle
One of the most famous attractions in town is the St Andrews Castle. While the castle is mostly ruins, it’s packed with hundreds of years of Scottish history and is an interesting place to visit. Plus, the castle has beautiful scenery and sits on a rocky promontory that overlooks a small beach called Castle Sands and the North Sea
What to Pack for Scotland
Scotland’s weather is notoriously unpredictable, so it’s best to pack layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Even in summer, it can get chilly in the evenings, especially in the Highlands. Make sure to pack waterproof clothing, rain jackets, and appropriate footwear for outdoor activities like hiking. Since I live in Laguna Beach, I didn’t have a proper heavy duty rain jacket so I ended up buying this rain jacket from Amazon and it worked perfectly! I also packed a couple dresses to wear with tights and boots, lots of sweaters, vests, blanket scarves, and hats.
That’s it for my Scotland road trip itinerary! From majestic castles and rocky coastlines to Harry Potter filming locations and charming cities, Scotland has so much to offer… now you’re ready for your unforgettable Scottish road trip!
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