I love a good road trip. And while a lot of places in the UK are easily accessible by train, driving allows me to stop and soak up the scenery (there’s a lot of it!). I’ve done a few journeys around Scotland by car recently, and today I want to share a Scotland road trip itinerary. There’s a map, too.
Scotland Road Trip Itinerary
This is a road trip I’ve done twice in order to get from the east coast to the west for my beloved sailing trips in the Scottish Hebrides.
But even without the nautical part, the trip is still worth doing. And whether you have a handful of days or 10, it’s an itinerary that can fit into the time you give it (but it’s worth giving it as much time as you can).
Edinburgh
My journeys have started in the Scottish Borders, but to simplify things I’ll begin this Scotland road trip itinerary in Edinburgh. The city has a lot to do and see, and I like spending a few days here before heading out.
Fife
When I leave Edinburgh I travel to Fife, which is just north of the city and is rich in pretty towns and coastline.
My first stop is Kellie Castle. It not only has beautiful Victorian interiors but also a spectacular Arts & Crafts Movement garden.
St Andrews isn’t far from here, and its famous university and cathedral ruins make it worth a trip. It’s one of the most famous places in Scotland, and I’ve heard the golf is decent, too.
From St Andrews my Scotland road trip itinerary continues with a drive to Falkland Palace for another dose of garden goodness. This royal residence was built as a country retreat by James IV and James V in the 15th and 16th centuries.
Falkland itself is also lovely. This beautiful village was used as a filming location for Outlander, and it’s fun to look around the streets and squares before driving off.
Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park
From Falkland my Scotland road trip itinerary continues with a visit to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. It’s one of my favorite places to soak up natural scenery, what with the emerald waters and stunning views.
Fort William
Driving north from Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, I keep my eyes glued to the window as I go through Glen Coe (my boyfriend is driving, so it’s okay). The Highland scenery revs up here, and there’s a breathtaking view around every turn.
Soon I arrive in Fort William, where the stunning Inverlochy Castle Hotel makes a good stop. This 19th-century castle is a stunning baronial mansion and an amazing place to stay.
The views of Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the British Isles, are great on clear days. And that’s to say nothing of the interiors, gardens, and grounds.
Mallaig
From Fort William I start off for Mallaig. I drive through gorgeous scenery on the way, from moody lochs to spectacular beaches. I could spend an entire day on this stretch alone.
Oban
Once at Mallaig, my Scotland road trip itinerary turns back south towards Oban. The views of Loch Linnie sustain me along the route, and the seafood in Oban goes down a treat.
From here there are lots of boats and ferries to some of the best islands to visit in Scotland, too. I highly recommend taking a sailing trip in the Hebrides while you’re in the area.
Loch Etive
When I’m ready to leave Oban, I drive along the gorgeous edge of Loch Etive, keeping my eye out for the Highland cattle that like to stand in the water.
Then it’s back through Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, this time hugging the western shore of Loch Lomond itself.
Glasgow
Before I know it, I’m in Glasgow, one of the most underrated places in Scotland. This is another of my favorite cities in the UK, and I always spend as much time as I can here before heading east.
Stirling and Falkirk
On the way back to Edinburgh, I stop off in Stirling for its famous castle and the Wallace Monument, which commemorates William Wallace of Braveheart film fame.
From here I can’t help visiting The Kelpies in Falkirk. The largest equine sculptures in the world, they’re impressive to see up close.
My Scotland road trip itinerary ends back in Edinburgh, where I can’t wait to do it all again next year.
Scotland Road Trip Itinerary Map
If you want to replicate my route, the map of my road trip is below. I hope it helps you plan an epic adventure of your own.
And if you’re looking for more inspiration, I’ve written about 5 great UK road trips you can take to see the country.
Have you taken any road trips in Scotland? Where did you go?
Find this post helpful? Buy me a coffee!
New here? Join thousands of others and subscribe to the A Lady in London blog via email.
One of the links in this blog post is an affiliate link. At no cost to you, I earn a small commission when you click on it and make a purchase. It doesn’t affect the way you shop, and it’s a great way to support the A Lady in London blog.
Pin it!
You’ve got me ready to go! I really enjoyed your post, it looks like a spectacular trip especially for natural beauty. And it’s cool you posted the map showing your route, which is very helpful in trip planning.
Is Scotland your favorite country in Europe for natural beauty? Seems like it’s up there given how frequently you have been going!
I’m glad you enjoyed it! I love the natural beauty in Scotland, and it is definitely one of my favorite parts of Europe and the UK for it.
I love road trips! I spent a little time in Edinburgh on vacation a few years ago and it really made me want to explore the rest of Scotland. Great post!
Thanks!
Great trip and great post, essential! How many days did the itinerary take?
It can take as long as you give it. Please read the beginning of the blog post for more information.
I’m doing a lot of this road trip next month and I can’t waaaait! I reckon Glencoe to Fort William is going to be the highlight (along with the Harry Potter train to Mallaig!). Looking forward to Loch Lomond too!
Nice! Have a great time.
Oh this is great! I have been wanting to put a plan together, what I should see while I live in Scotland! I’ve only managed to go to the Highlands once so far and really want to go again. Since I live in Edinburgh, that is what I know best haha.
The pictures are really beautiful!
Thanks! I hope you have fun exploring more.
Such a great itinerary, hopefully we’ll get to visit Scotland again soon! We’ve only made it to Glasgow and a couple days in Inverness to far, but definitely want to explore more. I miss road tripping!
I hope you can sometime soon! You’ll love it.
Where did you stay during your road trips?
We stayed with friends and family, but there are plenty of hotels and accommodations along the route.
Heading to the Cairngorms Aug 30. My husband and son will do the Lairig Ghru (I did it 20 or so years ago). I look forward to the scenery. Will be checking the archives for advice about traveling the Dee etc.
Thanks for all your information.
ps I have to drive to pick them up…terrified.
You’re welcome!