For anyone looking to rekindle their sense of discovery, Scotland has everything you are searching for in your next holiday destination. Whether you’re a nature lover, thrill seeker, or whisky connoisseur, you can have the experience you’ve ever dreamed of with a little preparation and planning.
why visit scotland?
There’s nowhere quite as magical as Scotland. From unforgettable scenery in the remote highlands to lively cities teeming with culture, Scotland offers incredible experiences all year round. As a destination that contains a multitude of hidden gems and best-kept secrets, touring holidays in Scotland are the perfect solution for families, couples and groups of friends looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Let’s take a look at how you can make the most of your Scotland driving holiday.
events in scotland in 2025
burns night: 25th january
Commemorating the life of Robert Burns, Burns Night is an annual event that celebrates literature and language, and includes ample servings of haggis and whiskey, too. Burns Night events can often take place both before and after January 25th, making January an exciting month in the Scottish events calendar. A history-themed tour of Scotland during this period offers a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the country’s literary heritage.
up helly aa: january – march
This inspiring Viking-themed fire festival is held across rural communities in Shetland, with the largest celebration taking place in Lerwick on the 30th of January. With plenty of torch-lit processions, the sight of legions of participants marching through the streets in Viking dress is really something to behold. Experience this unique cultural celebration during your visit.
stanza: scotland’s poetry festival: march 2025
Each year, thousands of poetry and literary fans descend on the picturesque town of St Andrews to enjoy some of the country’s best poetry. With over 100 readings and performances, StAnza is a must-see for any touring holiday in Scotland. While you’re in St Andrews, consider a stay at Rufflets, one of our handpicked properties in the area.
spirit of speyside whisky festival: 30 april-5 may
For those looking for something a little stronger, this five-day whisky festival takes place in Speyside, Inverness. Head to this renowned whisky region whilst touring Scotland for tastings, distillery tours, and live music performances. Our whisky-themed holidays are the ideal way to explore the region, and you can read more about the best stops in our guide to Scotland’s finest distilleries. The Dowans Hotel makes a perfect base for exploring Speyside.
cowal highland gathering: august
Hosted on the West Coast in Dunoon, the Cowal Highland Gathering is the largest Highland Games in the world. Featuring pipers, highland dancers, heavy events, and games categories that residents have competed in since 1894, this gathering adds an authentic taste of highland life to any Scotland self-drive holiday.
must-have scottish delicacies: food & drink
Whether you’re refuelling on road trip snacks, or want some guidance navigating Scottish menus, here’s just a flavour of the kind of food and drink waiting to be enjoyed while visiting Scotland. Our gastronomic holidays are designed to showcase the very best of Scottish cuisine throughout your trip.
the food
haggis
No trip to Scotland would be complete without a taste of haggis. This infamous savoury pudding consists of sheep’s pluck, onion, oatmeal and suet, mixed with spices and flavourings before being cooked in an animal stomach.
cranachan
Follow up your haggis dish with a serving of cranachan, an authentic Scottish dessert consisting of fresh, seasonal raspberries, and Scottish oats, all served with cream and a splash of whisky. There’s a reason why cranachan is considered the King of Scottish desserts.
tablet
Looking for something even sweeter? This sugary confection is enough to satiate any sweet tooth whilst visiting Scotland. Made from sugar, condensed milk and butter, tablet is flavoured with vanilla and occasionally nuts, making this the perfect comforting Scottish snack.
seafood: langoustines & scallops
Scottish langoustines and scallops are some of the top quality in the world and are preferred by top chefs for their delicate flavours and meaty textures. To preserve their natural flavours, scallops and langoustines are either eaten raw or cooked with simplicity, often pan-fried in butter and served as the perfect appetiser. For exceptional seafood, The Three Chimneys on the Isle of Skye is one of Scotland’s most celebrated dining destinations, and the Pierhouse Hotel on the shores of Loch Linnhe serves outstanding locally caught seafood.
salmon
Due to differing water temperatures, water types and the nutrition of the fish, Scottish salmon has a taste unlike any other salmon in the world, making it a staple feature in Scottish menus.
the drink
scotch whiskey
Aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years, Scotland is the homeplace of this refined drink. With over 140 malt and grain distilleries to explore across Scotland, this is the place to sample some of the finest malt or grain whiskeys in the world.
gin distilleries
Scotland also plays host to over 90 distilleries across the country, each with their own unique distilling techniques. As the home of 70% of all UK gin, don’t miss a gin distillery visit on your Scotland self-drive holiday.
irn bru
This carbonated soft drink has its trademark bright orange colour, and a unique sweet and tangy flavour, making it the perfect pick-me-up after a long day of touring Scotland. Try a can for yourself, and find out why it’s referred to as ‘Scotland’s other national drink’.
beers
For an authentic Scottish beer experience, you’ll find most breweries in the central Lowlands, most notably Edinburgh and Alloa. Offering both traditional brewing methods, and more modern, unique twists on craft brewing, Scottish beers offer something for every taste.
the lesser-known views in scotland
When visiting Scotland, it’s hard to miss an unforgettable view. But for those looking for something a little more off the beaten track, here are three hidden gems we think make the ideal addition to any self-drive holiday in Scotland. Our dedicated travel experts have driven every route and can build these stops into your personalised itinerary — find out more about why Celtic Routes is the best way to experience Scotland.
balnakeil beach
These white sandy dunes and crystal clear, turquoise waters would make anyone think that they’d driven to the Bahamas. This picture-perfect beach is the ideal stop for a breath of fresh sea air without the crowds, perfect for Scotland driving holidays. Balnakeil sits on the far north coast, making it a highlight of our NC500 Classic tour. Stay at the nearby Kylesku Hotel for stunning views and exceptional Highland hospitality.
allt ceann locha
Located in north Scotland, this hidden gem provides breathtaking views that are truly off the beaten track. Whether enjoyed from the car, as you drive around this loch, or up close and personal walking the loch routes, Allt Ceann Locha is a must-see for those wanting to tour Scotland by car. Our nature and wildlife holidays are perfect for discovering locations like this, and a Land Rover is the ideal vehicle for navigating the more remote Highland roads.
bow fiddle rock, portknockie
This natural landmark was formed millions of years ago and has since been considered to offer one of the most unique views for anyone touring Scotland. Particularly during May and August, visitors can catch a glimpse of a sunrise through the rock’s arch. This coastal gem sits along the Moray Firth, and can be included as part of our Highlands and Islands tour. Read more about Scotland’s most scenic drives for more inspiration.
historic places to visit in scotland
Scotland is rich with cultural and historic sites, and our history-themed holidays are designed to bring the country’s past to life. For a more comprehensive guide, explore our article on the best castles in Scotland.
fort george
Created by George II to defend against Jacobite unrest, this 18th-century fortress is one of the most impressive fortifications in the UK, if not Europe. Fort George is a breathtaking artillery fortification near Ardersier and features an impressive garrison, cannon display and arms collection. Discover Fort George and experience how soldiers lived and worked here over the centuries.
invergarry castle
Invergarry Castle has played its part in Scotland’s rich history, with particularly notable involvement during the 18th-century uprisings. Originally the seat of the powerful Clan MacDonell of Glengarry, this truly is a hidden historic gem, offering breathtaking views over Loch Oich. You’ll pass through this area on our Scottish Highlands and Skye tour.
eilean donan castle
Sitting on the meeting point of three lochs, Eilean Donan Castle hides a wealth of rich Scottish history, dating right back to the 13th century. The castle has undergone a myriad of renovations, and after being partially destroyed during Jacobite uprisings, it was later restored and reopened in 1932. Eilean Donan Castle is now one of the most iconic images in Scottish culture and has even been featured as backdrop in Hollywood hits such as Highlander (1986) and The World is Not Enough (1999). This iconic stop features on several of our Scotland tours, including the Ultimate Scotland itinerary.
dunrobin castle
The stately home and gardens atDunrobin Castle are the perfect location for appreciating architectural and historic magnificence. As Scotland’s northernmost castle, Dunrobin is the oldest continuously occupied house in the country, with brief stints in its history as a naval hospital during the First World War. With views overlooking Moray Firth, explore Dunrobin Castle for yourself, and discover how generations of Clan Sutherland have lived. Dunrobin is a highlight of our NC500 Classic route, and the Royal Golf Hotel Dornoch or Dornoch Castle make excellent overnight stays in the area.
scottish pop culture locations
Scotland’s dramatic landscapes have provided the backdrop for some of the most beloved film and television productions. Our movie destinations holidays are built around visiting these iconic filming locations.
harry potter
Visit the cafe in Edinburgh where Rowling first thought up the incredible stories for her novels, or take a look through the graveyard where she drew inspiration for some of her characters’ names. Or, if you’re looking to reenact some of your favourite Harry Potter scenes whilst touring Scotland, take a trip to Glenfinnan Viaduct, where the Hogwarts Express travelled on its way to the school. Read our full guide to Harry Potter locations in the UK for the complete list of filming spots you can visit.
outlander
This incredibly popular Amazon Prime series is renowned for its Scottish setting, making it the perfect location for any Outlander fan visiting Scotland. Visit where the stone circle stood at Kinloch Rannoch (which fans of the show will recognise as Craigh na Dun). Or take a trip to Midhope Castle to see Lallybroch, with a special estate vehicle pass as you tour Scotland by car. For the full rundown, see our guide to Outlander filming locations in Scotland.
game of thrones
Throughout HBO’s record-breaking television series Game of Thrones, there are ample family castles and keeps that look like they were plucked straight from the Scottish highlands. Doune Castle made its appearance in the pilot episode of this series, being used as the inspiration for Winterfell, the home of House Stark, and was featured in several exterior shots. Game of Thrones fans may also want to explore our Northern Ireland tours, where many of the series’ most famous scenes were filmed along the Causeway Coast.
Ready to enjoy a perfectly planned adventure whilst visiting Scotland?
Enquire about your Scottish self-drive tour now, and let us craft an itinerary tailored for you, so you can sit back and relax, and experience this inspiring country at its very best. You can also book a call with one of our Scotland specialists to start planning your trip.
Not sure which Scotland tour is right for you? Browse all of our Scotland self-drive holidays, from the Scotland Short Escape to the Ultimate Scotland adventure. Every tour includes a premium vehicle delivered to your door, handpicked accommodation, and a personalised mobile app with your day-by-day itinerary.
