Scotland: A Guide to 5 Spectacular Road Trips That You Can't-Miss

The Scottish highlands: a road trip through stunning landscapes and historic sites.

Known for its rugged landscapes, picturesque villages, and majestic viewpoints, the Isle of Skye is a quintessential destination in Scotland that has practically mythic allure. My husband and I spent a few days driving around the island this summer, exploring the highlights and soaking in the tranquil beauty. Renowned for its breathtaking beauty and dramatic scenery, this ethereal island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike[1].

Congratulations on putting together a gem of a travelogue up there in Scotland and a fantastic website. We are planning for a 5-day trip to the Scottish highlands and Isle of Skye starting from Inverness. We will reach Inverness from London on the 13th evening and have booked a self-drive car to drive around the highlands for the next 5 days 😀[2].

From Fort William up to John O’Groats in the North, the highlands include places like Loch Ness, Aviemore, and the Cairngorms National Park. Rich in history and culture, the highlands are the wild lands of Scotland where once there were bloody battles and now live the friendliest people on earth[3].

The North Coast 500: a journey through remote villages and breathtaking beaches.

The North Coast 500 is mostly a coastal route and therefore there are numerous breathtaking beaches. The sand is soft, and the water although cold is a beautiful turquoise color. Hence, walking barefoot on the beach is one of the best things to do on the NC500[4].

The North Coast 500 is no exception to the great quality I have experienced across Scotland. With access to miles of coastline as well as vast lands for roaming game and growing produce, you will find a variety of culinary delights to satisfy even the most particular of foodies[4].

The NC500 route offers visitors the opportunity to see rugged landscapes, frolic on sandy beaches, spot wildlife, visit museums and heritage sites, stay in castles, sip whisky, sample the local produce, and get to know the people who live there. The route was designed to encourage more visitors to visit this sparsely populated region of Scotland and it has been very successful[2].

The Isle of Skye: a trip to the magical island with its rugged coastline and fairy pools.

Loch Eriboll is a gorgeous sea lock, with several great stopping points. One of the most beautiful is Ceannabeine Beach, with mountains on either side, even without a drone you’ll get some fabulous shots overlooking the beach. The name itself means ‘end of the mountains’[5].

From majestic waterfalls cascading down ancient cliffs to dramatic coastal formations carved by the forces of nature, Skye's natural wonders are a testament to the island's wild beauty. The natural attractions are what have drawn visitors to the island for generations. Here are some of the best natural attractions to see during your two-day visit to the Isle of Skye:[1].

Our advice? Take your time and enjoy the island's natural beauty and rich culture. Skye is a place that will stay with you long after you've left and is sure to inspire a sense of wonder and awe. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, the Isle of Skye is a destination that should be at the top of your list[6].

References

1. How to See the Best of Isle of Skye in 2 Days. (n.d.) retrieved March 20, 2024, from www.traverse-blog.com/isle-of-skye-2-day-itinerary/

2. Comprehensive North Coast 500 Road Trip Planning Guide. (n.d.) retrieved March 20, 2024, from independenttravelcats.com

3. The Ultimate Scotland Guide: Touring The Highlands of Scotland. (n.d.) retrieved March 20, 2024, from www.scotlandswild.com

4. North Coast 500 Highlights. The Top 20 Things To Do On The NC500. (n.d.) retrieved March 20, 2024, from www.rovingjo.com/north-coast-500-highlights/

5. Scotland’s North Coast 500 Route Planner, Map & 1-Week Itinerary. (n.d.) retrieved March 20, 2024, from www.heleninwonderlust.co.uk

6. Exploring the Isle of Skye: A Guide for First-Time Visitors. (n.d.) retrieved March 20, 2024, from www.scotlandswild.com