Are you prepared to start an unforgettable journey? Whether it’s North Coast 500, Wild Atlantic Way or Snowdonia 360 – each of these routes offers a unique experience for any traveller looking for an adventure. With breathtaking views and winding roads that lead to hidden gems, this is your chance to explore Scotland, Ireland or Wales like never before. Start planning your self-drive touring holiday today and discover why a road trip through one of these stunning regions is best.
Approaching the Five Sisters of Kintail in a Celtic Routes Land Rover
scotland’s north coast 500
overview of the route
The North Coast 500 is a 516-mile scenic route around Scotland’s northern coast. Starting and ending in Inverness, this loop takes you through some of Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes and attractions, from rugged mountains to pristine beaches. Along the way, you can explore charming towns and villages, take in breathtaking views from coastal cliffs or islands, visit historical sites like castles or battlefields, sample local delicacies such as whisky or seafood and experience outdoor activities like hiking or kayaking.
At the top of many people’s list is a visit to John o’Groats – an iconic spot that marks Scotland’s most northerly point. Here, you can take in the breathtaking views across the Orkney Islands while engaging in activities such as fishing trips or boat tours. Another must-see destination is Dunrobin Castle near Golspie – one of Britain’s oldest inhabited castles with its majestic façade overlooking a beautiful seascape. Loch Ness offers visitors a chance to cruise on its mysterious waters; Ullapool provides plenty of opportunities for walking trails; Applecross Peninsula boasts dramatic mountain scenery; and Cairngorm National Park teems with diverse wildlife species including wildcats and golden eagles.
Scotland’s North Coast 500 is the perfect road trip for those who want to get outdoors in remote and wild countryside, and for those who are keen on outdoor sports such as fishing, shooting, hunting, and hiking.
accommodation options:
There are plenty of accommodation options along the North Coast 500 route ranging from simple campsites to luxury hotels so there’s something for everyone no matter what your budget may be.
If considering camping you will need to be mindful of the weather, so one of the many glamping options such as yurts and log cabins may be a wiser choice. Pubs with rooms and Bed and Breakfasts are popular for budget-conscious travellers, and Scotland has plenty of these as well. But for those with a little more to spend, Scotland has an incredible range of boutique and unique accommodation options – why not stay a night in a Scottish castle or a traditional hunting lodge?
An incredibly popular option is to hire a motorhome and take your accommodation with you. However, motorhomes, caravans and campervans are not ideally suited to the narrow – often singletrack – roads in Scotland. Whilst Scotland is famous for its open access and wild camping laws, this does not extend to vehicles so make sure you camp in proper and legal locations. And, please, be respectful and leave no trace.
The North Coast 500 is an incredible route that offers stunning views, unique attractions and plenty of opportunities for exploration. It is well set up for tourists with a great variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets. But people visit Scotland and drive the North Coast 500 for its unrivalled nature – you’ll find stunning scenery and incredible wildlife around every bend.
Key Takeaway: The North Coast 500 is an iconic route around Scotland’s northern coast, offering breathtaking views and activities ranging from fishing trips to boat tours. With accommodation options from camping grounds to luxury hotels, it provides the perfect opportunity for everyone to enjoy a memorable getaway.
ireland’s wild atlantic way
overview of the route:
The Wild Atlantic Way is a 1,600-mile (2,500km) coastal route that stretches along Ireland’s western coast from Donegal in the north to Cork in the south. It offers stunning views of rugged cliffs, wild landscapes and charming fishing villages. The route passes through some of the most picturesque areas in Ireland such as Connemara, Achill Island, and Kerry.
highlights of the trip:
One of the highlights of this journey is Slieve League Cliffs which are amongst Europe’s highest sea cliffs standing at 600m tall. In the same area is the famous Loop Head Cliffs with the EIRE sign etched into the clifftop. The coastal scenery is a key attraction of this route, and many visitors will want to explore one of the many islands off the coast or at least take a boat trip to get another perspective on this wild, and rugged landscape.
Throughout the journey are many national parks, each with a different and unique landscape from the green, lush hills of the Killarney National Park to the barren, lunar-like landscape of the Burren National Park. There are many different ways to explore them on foot, by bike, or the historic jaunting cars – horsedrawn carriages.
There are also numerous sandy beaches – called Strands – such as Streedagh Strand where visitors can enjoy activities like swimming or surfing. Another popular stop along the way is Inishbofin Island with its unique culture and friendly locals who offer boat trips around the island for tourists to explore its beauty further.
This route is great for people who want a holiday that can offer variety. Everything is on offer on this route from the historic houses and castles to the ancient, Celtic ruins. From lush valleys to barren rock formations. From quaint Irish fishing villages to the charming and vibrant Galway. From fine dining to a freshly poured pint of Guinness. And you can’t forget the warm hospitality on offer.
accommodation options:
Along this spectacular route, there are many accommodation options available ranging from luxury hotels to quaint bed & breakfasts or camping sites for those looking for an outdoor experience in nature’s embrace.
The route also has a vast number of hotels in castles, and we would encourage any visitor to spend at least one night in one of these historic homes. One of the great things about the Wild Atlantic Way is that many of the accommodation options are either family-owned or operated by small companies – all of which pride themselves on delivering well-known Irish hospitality.
Compared to Scotland, the route never feels remote even though the scenery is no less stunning. But an advantage of this is that there are many more accommodation options and vastly more hotels. Whilst finding accommodation in Scotland in the right place at the right time can make planning the North Coast 500 a real challenge, organising a trip along the Wild Atlantic Way is much easier.
The Wild Atlantic Way is a stunning coastal route with breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities for exploration. It’s perfect for those looking for variety and a warm welcome. It’s also the easiest route to plan and organise.
Key Takeaway: Take a journey along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way and experience some of the most spectacular scenery in Europe, from 600m high sea cliffs to serene sandy beaches. Enjoy activities like kayaking, and boat trips or simply take a scenic drive around this stunning route for an unforgettable adventure.
wales’ snowdonia 360
overview of the route:
By comparison, Wales is less well-known around the world. This means that a trip to Wales and the fabulous Snowdonia 360 route is quieter and cheaper.
Snowdonia 360 in the north and central Wales region is a scenic road trip that takes you through some of Wales’ most stunning landscapes. Technically the route starts in Bangor, circumnavigating Snowdonia National Park and taking you through delightful hamlets and towns over the Llyn peninsular, down the west coast to the Cambrian mountains before coming back to its origin.
Meandering through the remarkable Snowdonia National Park, you’ll behold a spectacular array of sights; from majestic mountains to pristine lakes and ancient castles to charming coastal towns. There is a real contrast in the scenery from the slate-dominated Snowdonia National Park, and the coastal paths and beachlined drive along the western coasts, to the lush, green desert of the Cambrian mountains. Wales is also famed for its castles – and claims more per capita than anywhere else on the planet.
There’s so much to see and do, but wherever you travel you will be surrounded by Wales’ rich history. Edward I’s 13th-century campaign to conquer Wales resulted in the construction of Conwy Castle, an iconic landmark that still stands tall today and offers breathtaking views over Conwy Bay from its battlements.
Other must-see attractions on this route include:
- Llanberis Pass with its striking mountain scenery up Mount Snowdon;
- Betws-y-Coed for a picturesque stroll through quaint, artisan shops and cafés;
- Beddgelert to wander along River Glaslyn;
- Harlech Castle perched atop a rocky outcrop offering unparalleled vistas;
- Criccieth Castle boasts stunning panoramas across Cardigan Bay;
- Portmeirion Village – an imaginative escape into fantasyland;
- Porthmadog Harbour Town features vibrant boats floating serenely in the waterway below and an opportunity to drive along the beach legally;
- Ffestiniog Railway – one of Britain’s oldest narrow gauge railways – which takes passengers on an enchanting steam train journey through Snowdonia’s rugged terrain; and finally Caernarfon Castle – another World Heritage Site erected by Edward I during his conquest of Wales.
Wales is our top recommendation for those looking to do some off-roading. It’s a real Mecca for enthusiasts who want to explore the many green lanes on offer. Spend several days exploring the world-famous Cambrian Circuit, a 102-mile route taking in the technical Strata Florida, the Elan Valley, Rhayader, and the Crychan Forest.
Brechfa Forest has many popular routes including Dunlop Hill, one of the steepest and most challenging off-road trails in the area. In the south in The Brecon Beacons National Park there are many trails including the famous Sarn Helen, and even the Snowdonia National Park in the north has some routes that are much shorter and less challenging than the rest. Wales is the place to go if you want to get dirty.
accommodation options:
From camping sites to luxury hotels and traditional Welsh cottages, there are plenty of accommodation options available along this route to suit any budget or preference. From camping sites near riverside locations such as Llangollen or Betws y Coed to luxury hotels located close to popular tourist attractions like Portmeirion Village or Harlech Castle – there’s something for everyone.
For those looking for something more rustic but still comfortable then why not stay at one of many traditional Welsh cottages dotted throughout Snowdonia or stay on a farm? These provide great value while also giving visitors access to some truly unique experiences such as hiking trails right outside their doorsteps.
Unlike Scotland and Ireland, there isn’t really an option to stay in a traditional castle although there are some that get close like Conwy Castle Hotel or Peckforton Castle (technically in England). But Wales does have a great number of pubs and inns with rooms that combine great food with charming locations, and warm hospitality.
Snowdonia 360 is a breathtaking route that will leave you with lasting memories of the stunning landscapes and culture. It’s overlooked by many travellers and therefore travelling this route is often quieter and cheaper than Ireland and Scotland, but no less beautiful. It’s also a must-visit destination for off-road enthusiasts and history buffs.
Key Takeaway: This Snowdonia 360 route takes you through some of Wales’ most breathtaking landscapes, offering a unique experience with attractions such as Conwy Castle and Ffestiniog Railway. There’s something to suit all budgets too, from camping sites and traditional Welsh cottages to luxury hotels – so grab your bags and hit the road for an unforgettable journey.
planning your road trip adventure in scotland, ireland or wales
tips for planning a self-drive touring holiday:
When planning your self-drive tour, it’s important to consider all the details and start planning early. Accommodation does book up early, especially for the peak dates of the year around the school holidays. Scotland requires a lot more planning than other routes because it is genuinely remote – don’t forget to plan your fuel stops!
Start by researching your preferred route and plan your itinerary based on your interests and attractions along the way. Choose a route that enables you to explore as much of Scotland, Ireland or Wales as possible while still allowing for leisurely breaks. We always recommend a day or two as rest stops where you do little driving to recharge and undertake some activity like fly fishing or mountain biking. Take your time so that you can soak up the stunning scenery and explore. You may be driving, but make sure you have time to get out on foot, by bike or even by boat.
Before departing on your journey, ensure you have all the necessary supplies to make it a successful one; from snacks and drinks to maps/GPS devices (if needed), a first aid kit and spare tyre(s). A camera is a must, and binoculars are great if you want to spot wildlife. If travelling to Scotland consider midge repellant especially if travelling in the summer months when they’re most prevalent. Additionally, bring clothing appropriate for different weather conditions; Scotland and Wales are known for their wet climates while Ireland enjoys milder temperatures year round. Finally, pack layers; even on sunny days in summertime it can get chilly at night or when driving through The Highlands or along the blustery coastline.
Preparing your car before setting off is just as important as packing what’s inside it. Ensure tyres are inflated properly and check oil levels, and fuel levels regularly throughout your trip – having a breakdown cover isn’t a bad idea either. The roads on these routes are often single-track and there may be sections of unmade or badly damaged roads where tyres may get damaged.
If you’re travelling from abroad then make sure you understand the local driving laws, including the relevant speed limits. Watch out for wildlife that may be on or suddenly cross the road.
There are companies like Celtic Routes that can take all of the hassle of planning and preparing for your road trip. Using a company like ours may be a wise investment and ensure your precious vacation time is well spent.
Key Takeaway: It’s important to research the best routes and attractions when planning a sel-drive tour, so you can get the most our of your journey. Pack the essentials for your trip, including food and drinks, entertainment, as well as appropriate clothes for the changeable weather. Before setting off ensure your car is roadworthy with tyres inflated properly – don’t forget breakdown cover too.
benefits of taking a self-drive touring holiday in scotland, ireland or wales
Taking a self-drive touring holiday in Scotland, Ireland or Wales can be an incredibly rewarding experience, one that can provide many unforgettable memories. Enjoy the independence of a self-guided tour, and travel at your own pace doing the things that make you happy.
flexibility and freedom on your journey:
When travelling by car, there are no set itineraries or schedules that need to be followed; instead, you can choose where to go and when without being restricted by public transport timetables or tour operators’ itineraries. You can take as long as you like in each place of interest, stopping for lunch or spending a few days exploring before moving on to the next destination. This allows for greater spontaneity during your journey so that if something catches your eye along the way – such as a beautiful lake or an intriguing castle – then it’s easy enough to make a detour and explore further.
Enjoy Unique Experiences and Unforgettable Memories: A road trip is one of the best ways to discover hidden gems off the beaten track while experiencing local culture first-hand through its people, food, and traditions. Whether it’s chatting with locals over tea in Northern Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway area or sampling some traditional Welsh cakes in Snowdonia National Park – these are moments which will stay with you forever. Furthermore, driving through stunning landscapes such as Scotland’s Highlands will give you plenty of photo opportunities for those special memories that last a lifetime.
Key Takeaway: Self-drive touring holidays in Scotland, Ireland and Wales offer the perfect blend of freedom and flexibility for travellers to explore at their own pace, while taking advantage of unique experiences along the way. These trips provide an unbeatable opportunity to create unforgettable memories as you journey through some truly spectacular landscapes.
frequently asked questions – the routes
what is the best route for the north coast 500?
It takes a minimum of five days to complete and covers 516 miles (830km) of stunning scenery including dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, historic castles, whisky distilleries and charming towns. But we recommend spending at least 7 days in Scotland, ideally 10-12 if you want to visit the major cities like Edinburgh or Glasgow. The most popular route starts from Inverness and then heads west along the north coast via Ullapool before turning south through Torridon towards Applecross. From there it follows the rugged east coast back to Inverness via John O’Groats and Wick. There are several variations of this route but all will provide you with an unforgettable experience. At Celtic Routes, we have our own take on the classic route which avoids the crowded, touristy parts and gets you off the beaten track.
is the wild atlantic way worth it?
The Wild Atlantic Way is absolutely worth it. This stunning coastal route stretches from Donegal to Cork and offers some of the most breathtaking views in Europe. Take a leisurely journey along the Wild Atlantic Way with plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, shopping, dining and more. This remarkable journey offers a range of activities, from tranquil retreats to exciting escapades – something for everyone. With its beautiful scenery and endless possibilities for exploration, the Wild Atlantic Way is sure to provide an unforgettable experience that will leave lasting memories.
what is the best month to do the north coast 500?
March to October is a good time to do the North Coast 500 but the best month to do the Scotland 500 is May. This time of year offers mild temperatures and longer days, making it ideal for exploring the scenic countryside. The roads tend to be less populated during this season, allowing you to take your own path and discover at your own speed. May is an ideal time to visit Scotland as many attractions open up, allowing you to make the most of your journey. With a little bit of planning ahead, a self-drive tour through Scotland can be an unforgettable adventure.
is the north coast 500 worth it?
The North Coast 500 is worth it. Exploring the North Coast 500 allows you to experience Scotland’s breathtaking scenery, its rich history and culture, and its vibrant wildlife – all from the convenience of your car. The route takes in stunning coastal views, ancient castles, wildlife reserves and charming villages – all accessible from the comfort of your car. Whether you are looking for an adventure or simply to relax, the North Coast 500 has something for everyone – making it well worth considering when planning a self-drive holiday in Scotland.
conclusion
No matter which road trip you choose, Scotland, Ireland or Wales offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in Europe. From the rugged North Coast 500 to the Wild Atlantic Way and Snowdonia 360, these self-drive touring holidays will provide an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. So why not plan your next road trip adventure today?
A self-drive tour is an ideal way to discover the beauty of this part of the world, allowing you to take in its stunning scenery and unique attractions. Discover the best road trip for you – whether it’s the North Coast 500, Wild Atlantic Way or Snowdonia 360 – and let us help plan your perfect self-drive touring holiday. Enquire now to learn more about our amazing itineraries!
