Suggested Road Trip Routes

The North Coast 500 (NC500)

The iconic NC500 is a 516-mile loop around the northern coast of Scotland, starting and ending in Inverness. Experience rugged coastlines, pristine beaches, ancient castles, and charming villages. This route typically takes 5-7 days to fully appreciate. Highlights include Dunrobin Castle, Smoo Cave, and the Applecross Pass (Bealach na Bà). Accommodation ranges from luxurious hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. Driving can be challenging in parts, especially in winter, so ensure your vehicle is suitable and check weather conditions before setting off.

The Isle of Skye Loop

Explore the mystical Isle of Skye with this circular route. Discover dramatic landscapes, including the Old Man of Storr, the Fairy Pools, and the Quiraing. Visit the Talisker Distillery for a taste of Skye's famous whisky. This route is approximately 80 miles and can be completed in 2-3 days, allowing time for hiking and exploring. Consider staying in Portree, the island's capital, or in one of the many charming villages along the coast. Be prepared for narrow roads and changeable weather.

The Cairngorms National Park Explorer

Immerse yourself in the heart of the Scottish Highlands with a road trip through the Cairngorms National Park. Discover ancient forests, sparkling lochs, and majestic mountains. Visit Aviemore, a popular outdoor activity center, and explore the Rothiemurchus Estate. Hike to the summit of Cairn Gorm for stunning views. This route can be tailored to your interests and can take 3-5 days, depending on your chosen activities. Choose from a range of accommodation options, including luxury lodges and cozy guesthouses. Note that some roads within the park may be narrow and winding.

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Discovery

Explore the stunning scenery of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park with a scenic road trip. Discover shimmering lochs, rugged mountains, and picturesque villages. Visit the charming town of Luss on the banks of Loch Lomond. Hike to the summit of Ben A'an for panoramic views. This route can be completed in 2-3 days, allowing time for leisurely exploration. Choose from a range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels and cozy cottages. Be aware of potential traffic congestion during peak season.

The Argyll Coastal Route

Embark on a captivating journey along the Argyll Coastal Route, showcasing the dramatic beauty of Scotland's west coast. This scenic drive meanders through charming towns, past ancient castles, and alongside stunning sea lochs. Highlights include the iconic Castle Stalker, the picturesque fishing village of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull (accessible by ferry), and the enchanting gardens of Inveraray Castle. Allow 4-6 days to fully appreciate this route, with opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and indulging in fresh seafood. Accommodation options range from boutique hotels to charming guesthouses. Be prepared for winding roads and stunning coastal vistas.

Points of Interest

• Castles: Explore historic castles like Eilean Donan, Dunrobin, and Inveraray.
• Distilleries: Discover the art of whisky making at renowned distilleries like Talisker and Glenfiddich.
• Lochs: Marvel at the beauty of iconic lochs such as Loch Ness, Loch Lomond, and Loch Morlich.
• Mountains: Hike to the summits of iconic peaks like Ben Nevis and Cairn Gorm for breathtaking views.
• Villages: Explore charming villages like Portree, Luss, and Plockton.

Accommodation Suggestions

Cairngorm Escapes partners with a selection of luxury hotels, boutique guesthouses, and private castle rentals to ensure your road trip is both comfortable and unforgettable. Contact us to discuss your preferences and we will create a bespoke itinerary tailored to your needs.

Example accommodations include:

• The Fife Arms, Braemar
• Inverlochy Castle Hotel, Fort William
• Kinloch Lodge, Isle of Skye

Driving Tips for the Scottish Highlands

• Drive on the left: Remember to drive on the left side of the road.
• Single-track roads: Be prepared for single-track roads with passing places.
• Weather conditions: Check weather conditions before setting off, especially in winter.
• Wildlife: Be aware of wildlife, such as deer and sheep, on the roads.
• Fuel: Ensure you have sufficient fuel, as petrol stations can be sparse in remote areas.

For more driving information, please consult the UK Highway Code .

Map of Suggested Routes

Click on the map markers for detailed information about each route.

Responsible Tourism

At Cairngorm Escapes, we are committed to responsible tourism and preserving the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands. We encourage our guests to:

• Respect the environment and leave no trace behind.
• Support local businesses and communities.
• Learn about the local culture and traditions.
• Drive responsibly and considerately.

By following these guidelines, you can help us ensure that the Scottish Highlands remain a beautiful and sustainable destination for future generations.

Customer Testimonials

Don't just take our word for it! Here's what some of our previous clients have to say about their scenic road trips with Cairngorm Escapes:

"The North Coast 500 was an absolute dream! Cairngorm Escapes took care of everything, from the luxury accommodation to the detailed route planning. We couldn't have asked for a better experience." - Emily Carter, London

"The Isle of Skye is even more magical than the pictures suggest. The driving was challenging at times, but the views were worth it. Cairngorm Escapes made sure we had a comfortable and memorable trip." - David Lee, New York

Contact Us

Ready to start planning your unforgettable scenic road trip through the Scottish Highlands? Contact Cairngorm Escapes today to discuss your preferences and create a bespoke itinerary.

Cairngorm Escapes
15 High Street
Aviemore, PH22 1PU
Scotland, UK

Phone: +44 52 6151 0386
Email: enquiries@cairngormescapes.com

Our team of expert travel planners is available to assist you with every aspect of your trip, from route selection to accommodation booking and activity planning.