Despite being less than a third of the size of the UK, there’s an endless amount of iconic routes in Scotland waiting to be discovered. Scotland’s cities have so much to offer in terms of experiences, food, and culture, but just off the beaten path along the country and coastal roads is where you begin to discover the real Scotland.
why driving in scotland is an experience not to miss
With rolling hills, crystal clear lochs, rich culture, and mouth-watering food, Scotland’s landscape offers an endless combination of adventures and inspiration. Some of Scotland’s most unique attractions are only accessible by car. By taking a self-drive tour of Scotland, away from the motorways and main roads, you can unlock a scenic alternative that shows you the real Scotland.
Let’s take a look at five of the most iconic driving routes in Scotland.
the cairngorms & highland whisky country
The Cairngorms are a stunning national park in the heart of the Scottish highlands. For those looking to immerse themselves in natural beauty, and also sample a flavour of Highland Whisky country, following this route through the Cairngorms is a must.
key destinations
Starting from Dunkeld, you can head north through the Cairngorms National Park, exploring this natural wonder as you go. Along the way, you’ll find Braemar, the home of the highland games, with Glenshee ski resort not too far away, complete with lifts and kit hire shops. After Braemar, head up to Speyside, and deep into highland whisky country. For a real taste of historic Cairngorms whisky, stop along the banks of the Tromie River at the Speyside Distillery, one of the most picturesque distilleries in Scotland.
route highlight
Along the way, catch a glimpse of royal residence Balmoral. Whilst the castle itself isn’t open to members of the public if the royal family are in residence, you can still experience the rolling lands that surround it by taking a hike through the grounds.
what is this route perfect for?
This stretch of iconic Scottish driving route is perfect for whisky lovers looking to marvel at the beauty of nature as you tour Scotland.
things to look out for
Along this stretch, you’ll head through the heart of Scotland’s Jacobite history. Make a stop at Fort George, and visit the Culloden battlefield, where the last battle on British soil was held, that ended the Jacobite uprisings.
bealach na ba pass
Translating to ‘the pass of the cattle’, this old drovers trail sees a very different kind of traffic nowadays. Engineered in a similar way to the mountain passes you’d find in the Alps, this stretch of road forms part of the NC500, one of the most iconic routes of Scotland, and offers simply stunning views.
key destinations
Starting from Applecross, the Bealach na Ba Pass takes a downhill decline, accompanied by a hairpin bend. Despite how it might look, the pass is perfectly safe to drive, and can be completed by any confident driver. Finish the pass and end your route in Kishorn, a picturesque village offering fresh seafood.
route highlight
Take a stop at a viewing point along the pass itself to really admire the views over Raasay, and potentially even the Isle of Skye on a clear day.
what is this route perfect for?
This iconic route of Scotland is perfect for those looking to experience the most stunning views of the west coast and sample some fresh local seafood after a day of driving.
things to look out for
Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for a secluded blue cabin after the pass. Here, you can stop for a refreshing glass of Picpoul, and some truly incredible seafood to compliment your touring holiday in Scotland.
north east coast
Scotland is filled with iconic driving routes, and along the North East coast, you can join one of the most famous: the North Coast 500. Even experiencing a slice of this iconic route of Scotland will leave you with a new appreciation for natural beauty and the Scottish coastline.
key destinations
As part of a route that stretches 516 miles, there are a variety of different destinations and routes to take along the North Coast 500. Perhaps start at Eilean Donan, an iconic 13th-century castle with views that have been featured in the likes of Highlander and James Bond movies.
Or depart from Kylesku, crossing the bridge before visiting Durness as you head over to the west via Tongue, and pass through the breathtaking Balnakiel beach along the way.
route highlight
For incredibly picturesque views of a freshwater loch, make sure to head along the mountain valley pass between Torridon and Gairloch. With the shores of Loch Maree on one side, and the rolling mountains on the other, this iconic route in Scotland offers incredible 360 views.
what is this route perfect for?
This stretch of road offers the kind of photography opportunities you see in car magazines. This route is also ideal for nature lovers, as you’re likely to come across Scottish wildlife such as red deer and eagles, especially through the Torridon area.
things to look out for
This stretch of road is well known for being the place where drivers have spotted Scottish stags on the side of the road. Keep your eyes peeled for an impromptu Scottish visitor.
isle of skye
As the most northerly of the Inner Hebrides Islands, the Isle of Skye is also one of the most famous islands and plays host to some iconic routes of Scotland too. Stay at Hotel Eilean Iarmain on the Sleat peninsula for a traditional Gaelic welcome, and dine at The Three Chimneys, one of Scotland’s most celebrated restaurants.
key destinations
No visit to the Isle of Skye would be complete without a stop at the Fairy Glen. These lush green hills and ponds would make anyone feel like they’d wandered into the Shire. Explore the town of Portree and pass by the pastel-coloured buildings, or perhaps spot an otter along the way too. Then finish at the Oyster Shed, where you can learn to shuck an oyster by hand, and even sample some local, freshly caught seafood for lunch.
route highlight
Located on the shores of Loch Harport, the Talisker Distillery is the oldest operating distillery on the Isle of Skye, and a must-see for this iconic route of Scotland. Stop in to sample iconic Scottish whisky flavourings.
what is this route perfect for?
This stretch of Scottish road is perfect for avid hikers and nature lovers. Visit the Old Man of Storr, a famous hiking route with views overlooking the Sound of Raasay, or experience some Scottish greenery by visiting the Fairy Pools.
things to look out for
As the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, Dunvegan Castle is an essential item on any Isle of Skye itinerary. The estate and castle are absolutely worth a visit, and perfectly positioned for a stop at Coral Beach after you’ve explored the grounds.
south east coast
This stretch of Scottish driving route spans the breathtaking South East coastline. With the North Sea on the one side, with a rich wealth of forestry and parks on the other, this route offers plenty to explore.
key destinations
Leave Edinburgh through the UNESCO World Heritage Forth Bridge, and travel further North into Fife. From there, you can wind your way north through the Lomond Hills Regional Park, where you’ll witness a wealth of Scottish wildlife in its natural habitat.
Alternatively, you can take the coastal route, taking in some ancient castles along the way. Key destinations along this route include Dunnottar Castle, a dramatic fortress on top of a 160 ft rock enveloped by the twinkling North Sea. Once the fortress of the Earls Marischal, Dunnottar Castle has been the site of some truly fascinating events in Scotland’s history.
Or stop for a visit at Findlater Castle, whose name derives from the Norse words for ‘white cliffs’. You’ll quickly see why this breathtaking stop has earned its name, as you marvel at the sheer 90 ft cliffs that surround the castle on three sides.
route highlight
If you’re looking for a stunning Scottish forest that features incredible beaches and coastline too, be sure to stop at Tentsmuir Forest. This pristine forest has a magical air about it, perfect for exploring miles of sandy beach and thick forest rich with wildlife.
If you’re taking the coastal route, look out for signs for Bow Fiddle Rock. This natural coastal formation has been forged by the power of the waves over the years, now in a unique bow shape. This great photo opportunity is just 15 minutes down the road from Findlater Castle.
what is this route perfect for?
This route is ideal for explorers who want to see the best of Scottish wildlife. With otters and seals visiting from the North Sea, to stags, and deer, and in the wealth of National Forests along the Southeast coast, this is perfect for nature lovers.
things to look out for
As you wind through Tentsmuir Forest, keep your eyes peeled for incredible nature like red squirrels, roe deer, or even seals on the sand.
These are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the kinds of iconic routes of Scotland. With so much to explore on self-drive tours of Scotland, you just need the perfect route to experience it.
Take the hassle out of planning your perfect route, and enquire now.
faqs
- What are the roads in Scotland like?
The roads in Scotland range from main motorways, all the way to single-track roads. There is different etiquette for how you should drive on these different roads in Scotland, so be sure to do your research before starting your trip.
- What license do I need to drive in Scotland?
Like the rest of the UK, drivers in Scotland are required to have a valid and full driving license. If you don’t possess a UK driver’s license, most car rental companies will accept a foreign license under certain regulations, which you can verify on the UK Government website. To drive a Celtic Routes vehicle, for example, you must have held a driving license for at least two years from the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, United States, Canada, New Zealand or South Africa.
- Are Scottish roads easy to navigate?
Well-known driving routes are demarcated with brown road signs, making them easy to spot and navigate your way through. If you prefer to navigate using your phone, our Celtic Routes in-vehicle app means you can follow your personalized map.
- Where can I find more hidden gems like these?
Simply chat with the Celtic Routes team about the kind of adventure you’re looking for, and we’ll use our wealth of local knowledge to construct an itinerary that’s full of hidden gems and spots off the beaten path.
further reading
- Check out our Ultimate Guide to Driving in Scotland
- Take a look at Our full guide to visiting Scotland in 2024
