Your Guide To Scotland’s Scenic Drives [Top 10 Picks]

1. The North Coast 500: Scotland’s Ultimate Road Trip

Overview Of The Route

• Bealach na Bà:A winding, single-track road that climbs over 2,000 feet, offering spectacular views over the Applecross Peninsula.
• Dunrobin Castle:A fairytale-like castle near Golspie, known for its stunning gardens and falconry displays.
• Smoo Cave:A large sea cave near Durness, featuring a dramatic waterfall and boat tours.
• John o’ Groats:Often considered the northeastern tip of mainland Britain, offering panoramic views and a famous signpost marking distances to various global destinations.

• Best Time to Drive:Late spring to early autumn for the best weather and road conditions.
• Accommodation:Book well in advance, especially during peak tourist season, as options can be limited in remote areas.
• Driving Tips:The NC500 includes some single-track roads and hairpin bends; drive cautiously and be prepared to use passing places.

2. The Road To The Isles: From Fort William To Mallaig

• Glenfinnan Viaduct:Famous for its appearance in the Harry Potter films, this railway viaduct offers a breathtaking view, especially when the Jacobite Steam Train passes over it.
• Loch Shiel:A stunning freshwater loch surrounded by mountains, perfect for a photo stop or a short walk.
• Arisaig:A picturesque village with beautiful white sandy beaches, ideal for a relaxing break.

• Best Time to Drive:Summer months offer the most daylight and the chance to see the Jacobite Steam Train.
• Accommodation:Mallaig and the surrounding areas have several hotels and B&Bs, but booking ahead is advisable.
• Driving Tips:The road is well-maintained, but watch out for slow-moving vehicles, especially during peak tourist times.

3. The Isle Of Skye: A Drive Through Mystical Landscapes

• The Old Man of Storr:A towering rock formation that offers stunning views over the surrounding landscape. A hike to the top is a must for adventurous travelers.
• The Quiraing:A landslip on the Trotternish Ridge, offering one of the most spectacular drives on Skye, with numerous photo opportunities.
• Dunvegan Castle:The ancestral home of the Clan MacLeod, this historic castle is set amidst beautiful gardens.

• Best Time to Drive:Late spring to early autumn for the best weather and visibility.
• Accommodation:Skye is popular with tourists, so book your accommodation well in advance.
• Driving Tips:Roads on Skye can be narrow and winding, so take your time and be prepared for occasional single-track sections.

4. The Argyll Coastal Route: From Tarbert To Fort William

• Inveraray Castle:A beautiful 18th-century castle set amidst stunning gardens, offering tours and insights into the history of the Clan Campbell.
• Loch Fyne:Famous for its oysters, Loch Fyne is also a stunningly scenic loch, perfect for a seafood lunch stop.
• Oban:Known as the “Gateway to the Isles,” Oban is a bustling port town with a rich history and plenty of opportunities for island hopping.

• Best Time to Drive:Spring and summer offer the best weather and the chance to enjoy seafood fresh from the loch.
• Accommodation:Oban and Inveraray have a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly B&Bs.
• Driving Tips:The route is well-paved, but be prepared for occasional narrow sections and coastal winds.

5. The Borders Historic Route: From Carlisle To Edinburgh

• Melrose Abbey:A stunning ruin of a medieval abbey, believed to be the burial place of Robert the Bruce’s heart.
• Abbotsford House:The former home of Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s most famous writers, now a museum dedicated to his life and work.
• Rosslyn Chapel:A 15th-century chapel shrouded in mystery and famous for its intricate carvings, featured in the novel and film "The Da Vinci Code."

• Best Time to Drive:The route is accessible year-round, but spring and autumn offer beautiful landscapes with fewer crowds.
• Accommodation:The Borders region has many charming B&Bs and inns, perfect for an overnight stay.
• Driving Tips:The roads are generally good, but some sections may be narrow and winding, especially near historical sites.

6. The Fife Coastal Route: From North Queensferry To St Andrews

• The Forth Bridge:An iconic railway bridge and UNESCO World Heritage site, offering breathtaking views of the Firth of Forth.
• Anstruther:A picturesque fishing village known for its award-winning fish and chips, as well as the Scottish Fisheries Museum.
• St Andrews:The home of golf, St Andrews is also famous for its historic university, beautiful beaches, and the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral.

• Best Time to Drive:Late spring to early autumn for the best weather and the chance to enjoy the coastal scenery at its finest.
• Accommodation:St Andrews and the surrounding villages offer a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to cozy B&Bs.
• Driving Tips:The coastal road is generally easy to drive, but be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists, especially in the smaller villages.

7. The Galloway Tourist Route: From Gretna To Ayr

• Caerlaverock Castle:A unique triangular medieval castle with a moat, known for its impressive architecture and historical significance.
• Galloway Forest Park:Known as Scotland’s "Secret Coast," this forest park offers miles of walking trails, wildlife watching, and some of the darkest skies in the UK for stargazing.
• Culzean Castle:A grand 18th-century castle perched on a cliff overlooking the Firth of Clyde, with beautiful gardens and extensive grounds.

• Best Time to Drive:The Galloway Tourist Route is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer are particularly lovely when the forests are in full bloom.
• Accommodation:Consider staying in one of the quaint villages or near Galloway Forest Park for easy access to outdoor activities.
• Driving Tips:The route is generally quiet with well-maintained roads, but keep an eye out for wildlife crossing, especially in the forested areas.

8. The Snow Roads Scenic Route: From Blairgowrie To Grantown-on-Spey

• The Spittal of Glenshee:A historic site at the gateway to the Highlands, offering dramatic landscapes and hiking opportunities.
• The Lecht Ski Centre:A popular destination for winter sports, the Lecht also offers stunning views and activities during the summer months.
• Tomintoul:The highest village in the Highlands, Tomintoul is known for its whisky distillery and the nearby Glenlivet Estate, offering scenic walks and wildlife spotting.

• Best Time to Drive:The route is accessible year-round, but be prepared for snow and ice in the winter. Summer offers the best conditions for exploring the surrounding areas.
• Accommodation:There are several inns and guesthouses along the route, with options ranging from budget-friendly to more luxurious stays.
• Driving Tips:The Snow Roads include some of Scotland’s highest roads, so be prepared for steep climbs and descents. Winter tires or chains may be necessary during colder months.

9. The Heart 200 Route: A Loop Through The Heart Of Scotland

• The Trossachs National Park:Known as the “Gateway to the Highlands,” the Trossachs offer lochs, forests, and mountains to explore.
• Stirling Castle:One of Scotland’s most important historical sites, offering insights into the nation’s past and stunning views over the surrounding countryside.
• The Hermitage:A beautiful woodland walk near Dunkeld, featuring towering Douglas firs and a picturesque waterfall.

• Best Time to Drive:Spring and autumn are particularly beautiful, with blooming flowers in the spring and vibrant foliage in the autumn.
• Accommodation:The route passes through several towns and villages, offering plenty of options for overnight stays, including Stirling and Perth.
• Driving Tips:The roads are well-maintained, but some sections may be busy, especially around Stirling and Perth. Plan your journey to avoid peak traffic times.

10. The Angus Coastal Route: From Dundee To Aberdeen

• Broughty Castle:Located on the banks of the River Tay, this 15th-century castle offers stunning views and a small museum.
• Arbroath Abbey:The ruins of this medieval abbey are historically significant as the birthplace of the Declaration of Arbroath, a key document in Scottish history.
• Dunnottar Castle:Perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the North Sea, Dunnottar Castleis one of Scotland’s most iconic and photographed castles.

• Best Time to Drive:Summer is ideal for exploring the beaches and coastal towns, though the route is accessible year-round.
• Accommodation:Dundee, Arbroath, and Aberdeen all offer a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to cozy B&Bs.
• Driving Tips:The coastal road is straightforward, but watch out for sharp bends and occasional high winds along the cliffs.

FAQs About Scotland Scenic Drives

What Is The Best Time Of Year For A Scenic Drive In Scotland?

Are There Any Specific Driving Precautions I Should Take In Scotland?

Can I Do These Scenic Drives In A Rental Car?

How Long Should I Plan For Each Scenic Drive?

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