Is it time for you to head north for a Scottish adventure?
From the rolling hills of the Borders to the majestic peaks of the Highlands, great cities, and islands, Scotland is a country rich in landscapes, culture and history. Once voted the best country to visit in the world, it packs a lot into a relatively small geographical area. Despite its size, Scotland is largely unpopulated, meaning that you can enjoy space to roam on Scotland road trips.
Cheaper Than Cars makes it easier to find competitive car hire across Scotland and the United Kingdom. With accessible pick-ups in Glasgow, Edinburgh and beyond, we take the hassle out of finding the right car for your big adventure.
Here are ten of the best Scotland road trips to spark your imagination!
North Coast 500 (NC500)
The North Coast 500 (NC500) is a spectacular 500-mile scenic route that winds its way through the remote and breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Starting and ending in Inverness, the NC500 takes you on a journey through some of the most dramatic and diverse terrains in Scotland. From the towering peaks of Assynt to the rugged cliffs along the northern coast, the route showcases the raw beauty of the region. Encompassing winding coastal roads, challenging mountain passes, tiny settlements and the remains of roadside castles, this is a bucket list adventure to be savoured.
Along the way, you’ll encounter landmarks such as Bealach na Bà, a challenging mountain pass that offers panoramic views of the Applecross Peninsula and the Isle of Skye. The route also passes by the historic and picturesque castles of Dunrobin, Ardvreck, and Eilean Donan, each steeped in centuries of Scottish history. The landscapes change dramatically, from the desolate beauty of the far north to the fertile fields of the Black Isle, ensuring a diverse and visually stunning road trip.
- Total Driving Distance: 500 Miles (805km)
- Driving Time: 5 to 7 Days
Isle of Skye Loop
The Isle of Skye is one of Scotland’s most beautiful destinations and a perfect introduction to the Western Isles. Beginning on the mainland side of the Skye Bridge at the Kyle of Lochalsh, this loop of the island takes you past renowned landmarks, including the iconic Old Man of Storr, a striking rock formation that stands against the backdrop of the Trotternish Ridge. You’ll explore the island’s capital of Portree, with its colourful harbour and array of shops, pubs and restaurants. Detours take you to gems such as the Fairy Pools, crystal-clear pools and waterfalls nestled in the shadow of the Black Cuillin mountains.
The landscape changes are the route continues, past the windswept cliffs of Kilt Rock to the lush greenery of the Quiraing. Along the way, you can learn more about the at-times troubled history of this corner of Britain, at The Skye Museum of Island Life. Dunvegan Castle and Gardens is the home of the MacLeod Clan who once dominated the island.
- Total Driving Distance: 160 Miles (257km)
- Driving Time: 4 to 6 Hours
The Scottish Borders Circuit
Often overlooked by more dramatic landscapes further north, the Scottish Borders have a rich, often bloody, but always compelling history. This trip through the Borders begins in Edinburgh and has a deserved place among the best Scotland road trips. Heading southwards from the capital, the route takes in sturdy stone towns, rolling hills, and historic abbeys.
Stopping at Melrose, known for the remarkable Melrose Abbey, a 12th-century Cistercian monastery with intricately carved stone details, the circuit continues through the Eildon Hills. Here you’ll be able to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the meandering River Tweed that marks much of the border between Scotland and England.
Jedburgh is home to a former Augustinian abbey whose Gothic architecture is steeped in Scotland’s medieval history. Towns such as Selkirk, Kelso, and Galashiels, keep alive their local heritage in the annual Common Ridings Festivals that celebrate Borders’ history and culture.
- Total Driving Distance: 250 Miles (402km)
- Driving Time: 7 Hours
The Malt Whisky Trail
Speyside is at the heart of Scotland’s whisky industry, and the Malt Whisky Trail allows you to visit iconic distilleries, learn more about how whisky is made, and enjoy great food and drink in beautiful natural surroundings. Beginning and ending in the town of Craigellachie, the tour typically takes in distilleries such as Glenfiddich, Macallan, Glenlivet, and others, giving you a unique insight into the craftsmanship behind these world-renowned Scotch whiskies.
Distillery tours will usually include guiding tastings, giving you the opportunity to experience the nuances in flavour and aroma that make each whisky unique. Beyond the distilleries, the trails weaves their way through Speyside’s rolling hills, farmlands and villages. As well as being whisky territory, this region is also popular with fishing enthusiasts. Home to fine country house hotels as well as boutique B&Bs, the Malt Whisky Trail through Speyside provides a treat for the senses.
- Total Driving Distance: 70 Miles (113km)
- Driving Time: 3 Hours
West Coast Explorer
The West Coast of Scotland is one of the most beautiful and romantic regions of the British Isles. Beginning in Glasgow and extending to Fort William, this favourite among Scotland road trips takes you on a journey through rugged mountains, serene lochs, and winding coastal landscapes. After leaving Glasgow, the first iconic stop is Loch Lomond, the largest freshwater lake in Great Britain. Heading further northwest, the route leads through the awe-inspiring beauty of Glencoe, a glacial valley flanked by towering peaks. The winding coastal road at Ballachulish and the monument and viaduct at Glenfinnan are other highlights along the route.
The drive continues through to Fort William, a planned Highland Town in the shadow of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles. Take in the breathtaking views along the shore of Loch Eil and appreciate the wild beauty of the West Highlands. Should you wish to go further afield, Fort William serves as an ideal base for expeditions further north and west.
- Total Driving Distance: 130 Miles (209km)
- Driving Time: 3.5 Hours
The Cairngorms National Park
The Cairngorms National Park offers visitors a diverse tapestry of landscapes, wildlife and cultural heritage in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Road trips through this stunning region typically begin in Aviemore, a gateway town and ski resort, surrounded by the towering peaks of the Cairngorms mountain range. The route leads on through expansive moorlands, ancient forests, and serene lochs, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Along the way, you can stop at Balmoral Castle, the much-loved Scottish residence of the Royal Family. The route also takes you through Braemar, where Scottish traditions run deep, not least at the annual Braemar Gathering. In the park, you may red deer, golden eagles, and even the elusive ptarmigan. Heading through Glenmore Forest Park, where the waters of Loch Morlich and the ancient Caledonian Pine Forest, add to the park’s sense of magic. There are countless mountain routes to discover, either on foot or by bike. Should you feel less energetic, the panoramic views from the top of CairnGorm Mountain can be accessed by a funicular railway.
- Total Driving Distance: 100 Miles (161km)
- Driving Time: 3 Hours
The East Neuk of Fife
Beginning in the village of Elie and extending to St Monans, the East Neuk is the eastern corner of the historic ‘Kingdom of Fife’. Renowned for its picturesque fishing villages, charming harbours, and vibrant cultural scene, the East Neuk is a popular getaway for people from the central belt cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow. Anstruther is home to a bustling harbour the Scottish Fisheries Museum, its waterfront lined with colourful houses and seafood restaurants. Crail is a traditional east coast fishing village, with narrow wynds and a historic market area.
Pittenweem is another historical settlement, now home to a vibrant arts community and hosting the annual Pittenweem Arts Festival. In St Monans, huddled fishing cottages with their gable ends set against the sea, create a picture-perfect scene. Walk along the coast to the historic windmill and take in the coastal views. The East Neuk of Fife is a perfect blend of maritime heritage, coastal beauty, and thriving small-town charm.
- Total Driving Distance: 30 Miles (48km)
- Driving Time: 1.5 Hours
The North East 250
Beginning and ending in Aberdeen, this circuit of North East Scotland showcases the rich diversity of this corner of the country. The route is growing in popularity among Scotland road trips and is filled with ancient castles, mountains, rolling farmland, coastal views, and history-rich sites. Along the route, you’ll encounter the picturesque coastal town of of Stonehaven, known for its stunning cliffs, and historic Dunnottar Castle.
Turning inland, the route heads through Speyside, the heart of Scotland’s whisky industry, before winding through the Cairngorms National Parks, where the landscape transitions from rolling hills to snow-capped mountains. Hugging the rugged coastline of the Moray Firth, the route passes through charming fishing villages like Cullen and Pennen, takes in the coastal cliffs of Portsoy, and the historic architecture of Elgin.
- Total Driving Distance: 250 Miles (402km)
- Driving Time: 8 Hours
The South West Coastal 300
Located in a quiet, often overlooked corner of Scotland, the South West Coastal 300 begins and ends in the ancient fortress town of Dumfries. The journey takes road trippers along the rugged coastline of the Solway Firth, through charming seaside villages, and into the heart of Galloway Forest Park. Along the way, there’s a host of pretty small towns to discover, including Castle Douglas, known for its local produce, and Kirkcudbright, a vibrant haven for artists with Georgian architecture and a historic harbour. Wigtown was Scotland’s first book town and is today home to a number of bookshops and hosts an annual literary festival.
The route continues through the coastal villages of Portpatrick and Mull of Galloway, each providing breathtaking views of the Irish Sea. The Mull of Galloway is home to the southernmost point in Scotland and is marked by a dramatic lighthouse. Popular stops along the way include Threave Castle and Logan Botanic Garden. The Galloway Forest Park provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities and has one of the darkest skies in Europe, making it perfect for skygazing.
- Total Driving Distance: 300 Miles (483km)
- Driving Time: 9 Hours
The Argyll Coastal Route
Stretching along the Firth of Clyde and Loch Fyne, the Argyll Coastal Route begins in the town of Tarbert and follows the rugged coastline of the Argyll and Bute region, providing breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding landscapes. From Tarbert, the route takes you through the scenic Kintyre Peninsula. One of the highlights along the way is Inveraray Castle, a stunning neoclassical mansion nestled on the shores of Loch Fyne.
The route continues through the town of Inveraray, known for its picturesque harbour, historic jail, and the impressive All Saints’ Church. The Crinan Canal is another popular stopping, a picturesque waterway connecting Loch Fyne to the Atlantic Ocean. Further north, the Argyll Coastal Route leads through the town of Oban, a bustling tourist hub and gateway to the Western Isles. Following the shores of Loch Linhe, you may catch a glimpse of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain. The circuit concludes in Helensburgh on the Firth of Clyde, where you can unwind on the waterfront or explore the nearby Glenarn Gardens.
- Total Driving Distance: 200 Miles (322km)
- Driving Time: 6 Hours
Get Ready For Your Big Scottish Adventure
Scotland is a country that inspires. With its stunning natural landscape, vibrant cities, and friendly welcome, it’s the perfect place for an extended road trip.
Cheaper Than Cars makes it easy to find the right car for Scotland road trips whatever your budget.
