6 Scenic Road Trips in Scotland (with Itineraries Crafted by Locals)

Around every bend, you’ll find sweeping lochs, rugged mountains, quaint fishing villages and secret beaches. With endless possibilities, sometimes the hardest part is deciding where to go.

At Absolute Escapes, we create tailor-made self-drive holidays across Britain and Ireland, drawing on decades of experience exploring the hidden corners of Scotland – the country we’re proud to call home.

That’s why we asked not just one, but three, of our travel specialists to share their thoughts on their favourite Scotland road trip itineraries.

Read on, get inspired, and contact our friendly team to start planning your own unforgettable Scottish road trip.

Already know which destination you’re interested in? Jump to:

• North Coast 500
  • Alternatives to the North Coast 500
• Outer Hebrides
• Highland Perthshire, Cairngorms & Aberdeenshire
• Shetland & Orkney
• North East 250
• Escape to the Highlands

 

 North Coast 500

What makes it special:

• Jaw-dropping coastal scenery and diverse landscapes
• Scottish food & drink made with the finest local produce
• Friendly Highland hospitality
• Historic castles and ancient ruins

The North Coast 500 is arguably the crown jewel of Scotland’s road trip routes. This breathtaking loop takes you around the far north of the Scottish Highlands and is often referred to as Scotland’s answer to Route 66. It’s a journey that truly deserves a spot on your bucket list.

As you travel along this scenic route, expect to see rugged cliffs, pristine white-sand beaches, dramatic mountain ranges, and charming villages at every twist and turn.

How long should I spend?

We recommend allowing at least 10 nights to truly savour the North Coast 500. This gives you plenty of time to take detours, linger at viewpoints, and get a real feel for this spectacular corner of Scotland.

Many of our clients combine several of our Scotland road trip itineraries together, such as adding Orkney and the Isle of Skye to the North Coast 500, for an extended adventure.

Suggested itinerary:

• Inverness – 1 night
• Wester Ross – 2 nights
• Ullapool – 2 nights
• Durness – 2 nights
• Thurso – 2 nights
• Dornoch – 1 night

Your road trip begins in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, before heading west to Wester Ross and the dramatic Applecross Peninsula. Along the way, take in breathtaking mountain landscapes and stunning coastal views. Be sure to carve out some time for whale watching. Redpoint Beach is an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy panoramic views of the Cuillin Mountains on the Isle of Skye.

Continuing up the coast, this spectacular drive winds past dramatic mountain peaks, tranquil lochs, and hidden beaches, offering unforgettable views at every turn. Stop at Ardvreck Castle, a striking 15th-century ruin perched on the shores of Loch Assynt, and take in the raw beauty of the Highlands before arriving in the picturesque harbour town of Ullapool.

The adventure continues past secluded beaches and incredible landscapes, over Kylesku Bridge, before arriving in Durness. Explore Smoo Cave, a dramatic sea cave featuring one of the UK’s largest cave entrances, a cascading underground waterfall, and a blend of sea and freshwater formations.

The next stop on the road trip is Thurso, reached by a stunning drive along the northern coast, where golden beaches stretch to your left and wild, remote mountains rise to your right. From here, you can venture into the far north, with highlights like Dunnet Head (the northernmost point of mainland Britain) offering sweeping views across to Orkney.

For your final night, head south to Dornoch, famed for its wide sandy beaches and 13th-century cathedral. On the way, stop off at Dunrobin Castle, a grand, fairytale-like château, serving as the historic seat of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland.

This iconic 500-mile road trip loops back to conclude in Inverness, where you will bid goodbye to this unforgettable corner of Scotland.

To explore key highlights, inspiration, and seasonal tips, take a look at the North Coast 500 guide on VisitScotland’s website.

Top tip: Take your time; it’s about the journey, not the destination! While it may be tempting to rush through the route in a shorter time, doing so can mean missing out on what makes the journey so special. With the route’s growing popularity, narrow single-track roads, and countless breathtaking viewpoints and hidden gems to explore, travel times can often be longer than expected. Taking your time ensures a more relaxed, rewarding adventure.

Alternatives to the North Coast 500

Scotland’s beauty lies in its wide open spaces and peaceful villages, but that means popular routes like the North Coast 500 can sometimes get busy, and accommodation fills up quickly. We always recommend booking well in advance.

If you’d like something more off the beaten track, consider:

• North East 250 – Historic castles, dramatic coastlines, whisky trails, and wildlife spotting.
• Escape to the Highlands – Classic Highland scenery, hidden castles, and tranquil lochs.
• Scotland’s West Coast Road Trip – Sparkling coastline, colourful fishing villages, and world-class seafood.

 

 Outer Hebrides

The Outer Hebrides are an archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean in the north west of Scotland, and offer a unique and spectacular road trip experience.

Why should you visit the Outer Hebrides?

• Tranquil beaches with white sand and turquoise water
• Unique Gaelic culture
• Wildlife watching opportunities

The islands are linked with a mix of causeways and car ferries, so you can easily island-hop your way from north to south or vice versa. You can reach the islands by car from a few ferry ports in mainland Scotland, the main ones being Oban and Ullapool.

How long do I need to explore the Outer Hebrides?

Our Hebridean Island Hopping experience ranks among our most popular Scotland road trip itineraries. This comprehensive 9-day journey allows you to fully immerse yourself in island life. While it’s possible to explore the Outer Hebrides in a shorter timeframe, we recommend allowing at least 5 nights to truly appreciate what these breathtaking islands have to offer.

Suggested itinerary:

• Isle of Barra – 2 nights
• North Uist – 2 nights
• Isle of Harris – 2 nights
• Isle of Lewis – 2 nights

Our suggested itinerary starts from the harbour town of Oban, where your Hebridean road trip begins by taking the Calmac ferry to the Isle of Barra. The Isle of Barra is a small but stunning island at the southern tip of the Hebrides, with white sand beaches. One of the beaches, Traigh Mhor, is even used as the Barra Airport runway at low tide, and is believed to be the only beach in the world where scheduled flights operate on a beach. In contrast to planes, it’s not uncommon to also see cows roaming the beaches of Barra.

From Barra, hop on the ferry to Eriskay and uncover the tale of Whisky Galore, when islanders salvaged 250,000 bottles of whisky from a nearby shipwreck. Head north by road across spectacular causeways and through the stunning landscapes of the Uists and Benbecula. North Uist is a remarkable island, dotted with sea and freshwater lochs that sparkle in the sunlight. From here, explore Benbecula, Berneray, and South Uist – perfect for walking, kayaking, and wildlife-watching.

Top tip: Why not learn how to say a couple of words in Scots Gaelic. The Outer Hebrides are among the last places in Scotland where Gaelic is spoken by its inhabitants as an official language. Impress the locals with a ‘Slàinte!’ (cheers) or ‘Madainn mhath’ (good morning).

Continue your journey north to the Isle of Harris, where dramatic landscapes and pristine beaches await. Stretch your legs by walking some of the Harris hills, discover ancient castles by deserted bays, and the island’s stunning shell-sand shores. North Harris offers rugged mountains ideal for more hillwalking and wildlife-spotting. Make sure to visit the shimmering sands of Luskentyre, arguably Harris’s most beautiful beach. Driving along Harris’s Golden Road will offer some of the most spectacular vistas of your road trip.

Your journey concludes in Lewis, the largest island in the Outer Hebrides, where the contrasting landscape of moors, lochans, and sweeping beaches is steeped in history. You will also have noticed that Harris and Lewis are the same landmass, but are considered separate islands. The capital of Lewis, Stornoway, serves as the cultural hub as it is also the largest town of the Outer Hebrides.

If you are a history lover, Lewis is home to some fascinating sites which you must include in your Hebridean road trip itinerary. Among them are the famous Standing Stones of Callanish in the west. If you continue along the coast and head north, you’ll find the Blackhouses at Arnol. These are traditional dwellings of the 19th century, which offer a fascinating insight into the living conditions of island crofters as they housed families and their livestock. Along the northwest coast, fishing and crafting villages dot the landscape, and the Butt of Lewis offers prime views of seabirds, whales, and dolphins.

What’s it like driving in the Outer Hebrides?

Driving in the Outer Hebrides is a unique and rewarding experience. The roads are mostly quiet, scenic, and well-maintained, with many single-track routes that require the use of passing places. Expect winding roads through dramatic landscapes, from coastal stretches to moorland and hills. Driving here is unhurried – ideal for soaking in the breathtaking views – but it also requires attentiveness, especially around wildlife, cyclists, and other road users.

A self-drive holiday in the Outer Hebrides is a trip of a lifetime, and should be firmly on your road trip bucket list.

For more local insight, ferry routes, and event listings, visit the official Visit Outer Hebrides website.

 

 Highland Perthshire, Cairngorms & Aberdeenshire

 

Highland Perthshire, the Cairngorms, and Aberdeenshire offer stunning scenic drives through the heart of Scotland, where towering mountains, ancient forests, and grand castles create a landscape full of adventure and heritage.

Easily reached from Edinburgh or Glasgow, this route is ideal for those looking to explore Scotland’s wild beauty and rich culture.

Suggested itinerary:

• Pitlochry – 2 nights
• Cairngorms National Park – 2 nights
• Royal Deeside – 3 nights

Begin your journey in Perthshire, where we recommend stopping in Dunkeld, a scenic town on the River Tay surrounded by forests and lovely independent shops and eateries.

Our favourite things to do in Dunkeld:

• Grab a pastry and a coffee from the ARAN Bakery
• Stroll through The Hermitage, a must-see stop on a Highland Perthshire road trip
• Enjoy the views of the River Tay with a drink in The Taybank’s idyllic beer garden

Continue on to Pitlochry, a Victorian town in Perthshire surrounded by lochs, rivers, and forest trails.

What are some of the best things to do in Pitlochry?

• Visit Queen’s View for a panoramic vista over Loch Tummel
• Explore the wooded Falls of Bruar
• Enjoy a dram at Blair Atholl Distillery

Continue north into the Cairngorms National Park, where Aviemore provides a lively base for exploring one of the UK’s most beautiful wild areas. The scenery here is spectacular year-round, from summer hikes to winter snow sports.

Best things to do in the Cairngorms:

• Hike in the Cairngorm Mountains
• Stroll through Caledonian pine forests
• Relax at Loch Morlich beach, the highest sandy beach in the UK.

From Aviemore, head east through Royal Deeside. Stop in Braemar for Highland Games history, a tasty lunch at The Fife Arms or explore the scenic trails around Balmoral Castle, the Royal Family’s summer retreat. The road along the River Dee is especially breathtaking, framed by moorland and pine forest.

Next, journey into Aberdeenshire, home to Scotland’s Castle Trail with over 260 castles and historic sites.

Highlights of visiting Aberdeenshire:

• Clifftop ruins of Dunnottar Castle near Stonehaven
• The pink turrets of Craigievar Castle
• Visit one of the region’s haunted castles, if you’re feeling brave (ghost stories are part of the charm here)

Aberdeenshire’s coastline offers quiet fishing villages like Pennan and Crovie, perfect for a peaceful stop. Inland, whisky lovers should make time for a distillery visit in Speyside, one of Scotland’s top whisky regions.

What’s the driving like in Highland Perthshire, the Cairngorms, and Aberdeenshire?

Driving here is a pleasure, with quiet, scenic roads winding through some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes. Some rural stretches are single-track, especially in the Cairngorms, so it’s best to take your time and enjoy the journey.

To help plan your visit, browse the Cairngorms National Park’s official visitor site for walking routes, wildlife tips, and seasonal updates.

Top tip: Autumn (September – November) is a great time for a road trip in Highland Perthshire and the Cairngorms. Perthshire is home to most species and some of the oldest and tallest trees in Scotland, so seeing these in their vivid autumnal colours is very special.

 

 Shetland & Orkney

For those with an appetite for adventure, a road trip to Scotland’s northernmost archipelagos – Shetland and Orkney – offers an unforgettable experience.

Why visit Shetland & Orkney?

• Explore stunning natural landscapes
• Uncover rich Viking heritage
• Discover remarkable Neolithic sites, such as Skara Brae and Jarlshof

To help you experience the very best of Shetland and Orkney, we have carefully crafted an 8-night itinerary that includes an overnight sailing to Lerwick.

Suggested itinerary:

• Overnight ferry – 1 night
• Shetland – 3 nights
• Orkney – 4 nights

Leaving the bustling city of Aberdeen behind, you will first set sail for Lerwick, the largest town in the Shetland Isles.

Shetland offers a unique blend of natural beauty, Norse heritage, and peaceful seclusion. Its striking cliffs, white sand beaches, and windswept moorlands provide breathtaking scenery and endless opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching.

Nature lovers flock to Shetland to see puffins nesting on sea cliffs, orcas patrolling coastal waters, and colonies of seals basking on quiet beaches.

In the south of mainland Shetland lie the ruins of Jarlshof, where layers of human history stretch back over 4,000 years. In the west sits Stanydale Temple, where archaeologists continue to debate its ancient ceremonial role to this day.

A day trip to Unst or Yell from the mainland provides the chance for you to experience the raw, untouched beauty of some of the most remote parts of the UK:

• Unst boasts dramatic cliffs, Viking longhouse sites, and the Hermaness National Nature Reserve.
• Yell is also a haven for wildlife, particularly otters and seabirds, and offers coastal landscapes waiting to be photographed.

Beyond the landscapes and archaeology, the communities here have a distinct cultural identity. Norse heritage is reflected in local festivals like Up Helly Aa and folk music. The Shetland Isles are also brimming with local crafts, including knitwear and textiles inspired by Shetland’s culture and environment.

As your exploration of Shetland comes to an end, retrace your steps to Lerwick, where your ferry to Orkney and the next part of your adventure awaits.

In the heart of Kirkwall, the largest town on the mainland, you will find the magnificent St Magnus Cathedral, a Romanesque masterpiece dating back to 1137. Stroll through Kirkwall’s town centre and explore the variety of local shops, cafes, and galleries before immersing yourself in everything Orkney has to offer.

Perhaps most famous for its prehistoric wonders, Orkney is home to some of the best-preserved archaeological sites in Europe. On mainland Orkney, you will find the jaw-dropping stone circles of the Ring of Brodgar and the prehistoric village of Skara Brae, a UNESCO World Heritage site. To delve into more recent history, be sure to visit Scapa Flow, a natural harbour steeped in wartime history.

The Visit Orkney website is a great resource for discovering more about the islands’ history, ferry schedules, and seasonal events.

We highly recommend a day trip to some of the smaller Orkney islands:

• Travel to Hoy by ferry and marvel at the iconic sea stack known as the Old Man of Hoy before visiting the Scapa Flow Museum in Lyness.
• To the north, just a short ferry ride from Tingwall, awaits the island of Rousay. Packed with over 160 archaeological sites such as Midhowe Broch and Chambered Cairn, this island is a must-see for those wanting to further explore Orkney’s Iron Age and Neolithic period.

As your journey through Shetland and Orkney draws to a close, it’s time to make your way back to mainland Scotland. Why not return via ferry to Scrabster (near Thurso) and take in the eastern leg of the North Coast 500 as you make your way south?

Our Shetland & Orkney: Escape to the Edge self-drive holiday invites you to slow down, connect with the past, and experience a corner of Scotland few ever forget.

To learn more about Shetland’s heritage, crafts, and festivals, visit the official Promote Shetland website.

Top tip: Reaching Scotland’s northernmost isles requires thoughtful planning, and our local specialists are on hand to manage all the details. With the logistics covered, you’re free to unwind and enjoy your extraordinary escape.

 

 North East 250

The North East 250 (or Scotland’s best-kept secret, as we like to think) may be the road trip for you.

Highlights of the North East 250:

• Royal castles
• Whisky tasting in Speyside
• Dolphin spotting on the Moray Coast

This circular route starts from Aberdeen and includes everything you could wish for on a Scottish road trip – beautiful castles, breathtaking natural scenery, wildlife, and, of course, whisky.

Suggested itinerary:

• Royal Deeside – 2 nights
• Speyside – 2 nights
• Moray Coast – 2 nights
• East Coast – 2 nights

Leaving the ‘Granite City’, our NE250 road trip takes you through Royal Deeside, home to some of the most beautiful castles in the country. We recommend visiting Crathes Castle & Estate, just outside of Banchory, before continuing to reach Ballater and Braemar. Royal Deeside has been a favourite holiday retreat for British royalty since the 1850s, when Queen Victoria began visiting. Today, you can explore Balmoral Castle, the Royal Family’s Scottish residence, and enjoy wandering through its grounds, gardens, and exhibitions.

After exploring Royal Deeside, the route will take you north through the Cairngorms National Park before reaching Speyside or ‘Whisky Country’ as it is commonly known. Home to the highest concentration of distilleries in the world, the region is defined by the River Spey, which flows through lush valleys and gentle hills, creating a scenic backdrop for walking, fishing, and exploring charming towns. We recommend exploring Glenfiddich Distillery in Dufftown and taking a trip to Ballindalloch Castle, located in the magnificent Spey Valley.

Continue north and head towards the spectacular Moray Coast.

Best things to do in the Moray Coast

• Take a boat trip from Findhorn to look for dolphins, seals, porpoises and orcas
• Spend a relaxing day at East Beach in Lossiemouth
• Explore the nearby Elgin Cathedral, a remarkable 13th-century ruin that remains one of Scotland’s most impressive medieval landmarks
• Head to the Scottish Dolphin Centre at Spey Bay for a chance to see bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat
• Stop in Cullen and try the famous Cullen Skink – a hearty, traditional Scottish soup that’s a local favourite

As you follow the North East 250 route, you’ll reach the wild and dramatic coastline of the North East, dotted with hidden bays, stunning viewpoints, and charming villages. Make your way to Cruden Bay, known for its wide stretch of pink sand and rolling dunes. Step into Scotland’s rich past as you continue along the Castle Trail, heading inland to discover Fyvie Castle & Gardens – a striking example of 13th-century Scottish architecture. For a contrasting experience, explore the scenic ruins of Tolquhon Castle in nearby Tarves. The East Coast also boasts some of the world’s most historic and scenic golf courses, including the renowned Cruden Bay Golf Club.

From your base on the East Coast, it is a short drive back to Aberdeen, where your journey along the North East 250 first began.

Visit the official North East 250 website for maps, attractions, and route tips.

Top tip: As you make your way back to Aberdeen, be sure to stop by Newburgh Beach to admire the 400-strong seal colony. They gather at the mouth of the River Ythan and can be spotted all year round.

 

 Escape to the Highlands

If you are looking to spend a week exploring classic Highland landscapes, ancient castles, and tranquil lochs, look no further than our Escape to the Highlands itinerary.

Conveniently starting in Edinburgh, this self-drive holiday is the best way to explore the best of Scotland in seven nights. This scenic route weaves its way through the Highlands and back, connecting iconic sights, hidden gems, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country.

Suggested itinerary:

• Edinburgh – 1 night
• Fort William – 1 night
• Isle of Skye – 2 nights
• Inverness – 2 nights
• Pitlochry – 1 night

Your first destination is Edinburgh, Scotland’s magnificent capital city. Spend the afternoon exploring Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and the Palace of Holyrood House. After a day of exploring, head for refreshments at one of the many pubs in Edinburgh’s historic Grassmarket.

You will then head north to begin your journey to the Scottish Highlands. Travel past Stirling and prepare for a breathtaking drive through the atmospheric landscapes of Glencoe, leading you deep into the majestic Scottish Highlands. Your journey today ends in Fort William, at the base of Ben Nevis – the tallest mountain in Britain. Fort William is known as the ‘outdoor capital’ of the UK and is the end of Scotland’s iconic long-distance walk, the West Highland Way.

From Fort William, your road trip continues west towards Mallaig, where your ferry to the magical Isle of Skye awaits. Skye is frequently recognised as one of the most beautiful islands in the world. During your time on Skye, explore the dramatic landscapes of the Quiraing and the Old Man of Storr. Visit the enchanting Fairy Pools, where crystal-clear waters cascade through rocky terrain. We also highly recommend a visit to Dunvegan Castle, the historic seat of the MacLeod clan, set beside a picturesque loch. For whisky fans, a tour of Talisker Distillery is not to be missed, and we highly recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment.

Leaving Skye makes for such a scenic journey as you make your way over the bridge to Kyle of Lochalsh. Passing the strikingly beautiful Eilean Donan Castle, your journey continues to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. During your time in this region of Scotland, we highly recommend taking a cruise along Loch Ness and visiting the Culloden Battlefield.

As your time in Scotland nears its end, your final destination will be the beautiful Highland Perthshire. As you leave Inverness, travel through the beautiful Cairngorms National Park and marvel at the impressive mountain scenery. Home to one quarter of the UK’s rare and endangered wildlife species, the Cairngorms are the perfect place to explore some of Scotland’s tranquil forests and scenic woodland walks before reaching Perthshire. Be sure to take a stroll around the charming towns of Dunkeld and Pitlochry and explore the ancient Birnam Wood, famously referenced in Shakespeare’s Macbeth.

After exploring Highland Perthshire a little further, it’s time to make your way back to Edinburgh, where you started your epic road trip through Scotland.

Top tip: As you make your way north from Edinburgh, be sure to visit the impressive site of Stirling Castle and learn about the key role this site played in the Scottish Wars of Independence. If you have time, you may also wish to visit the iconic Wallace Monument.

 

Ready for an Incredible Scottish Road Trip?

If you couldn’t already tell, you are spoiled for choice with road trips in Scotland. Whether you’re drawn to the remote charm of the Outer Hebrides, the classically Scottish scenery of the Highlands and North Coast 500, or the rich heritage of Shetland and Orkney, there’s a perfect itinerary for every kind of traveller.

If you have been inspired by our recommendations, we would be delighted to arrange an unforgettable self-drive holiday for you. For a great starting place, take a look at our favourite Scotland road trip itineraries to browse our suggested routes.

Once you’ve chosen the route that’s right for you, or like the sound of one in this blog, simply send us an enquiry. Our expert team will take care of all the arrangements, leaving you free to enjoy a trip of a lifetime in Scotland.

If you have any questions we haven’t covered above, please get in touch – we’d be happy to help. You can call us on +44 (0)131 610 1210 or email us at enquiries@absoluteescapes.com.

Lois Brown, Katie Rogen & Kate Brown