Scotland Road Trips | Top 10 Scotland Touring Routes
Dreaming of a Scotland road trip? Whether you’re setting off in a campervan, car, or motorhome, Scotland’s touring routes offer some of the most breathtaking drives in the world. Picture yourself winding through towering mountains, along rugged coastlines, and past lochs teeming with wildlife. From famous scenic drives like the North Coast 500 to hidden gems in the Highlands and islands, this guide covers the top Scotland touring routes, plus where to stay, what to see, and insider tips to make your adventure unforgettable.
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- Getting to Scotland
- Where to stay while touring
- Best time for a Scottish road trip
- Top 10 Scotland touring routes
- Tips for a Scottish road trip
How to get to Scotland for your road trip
Depending on where you’re travelling from, there are several ways to get to Scotland. You can drive across the border from England, catch a train, hop on a coach, or fly directly into one of Scotland’s main airports.
If you’re flying, Scotland has six key airports that connect you to some of the country’s best touring routes. Hiring a car or campervan at the airport makes it easy to hit the road straight away:
- Edinburgh Airport: Perfect for starting the Borders Historic Route or the Forth Valley Tourist Route.
- Aberdeen Airport: A gateway to the North East 250, the Highland Tourist Route, the Deeside Tourist Route and the Angus Coastal Route.
- Glasgow International Airport: Convenient for the South West Coastal 300 and the Argyll Coastal Route.
- Glasgow Prestwick Airport: Best for accessing the South West Coastal 300.
- Inverness Airport: An ideal starting point for the famous North Coast 500 and the Highland Tourist Route.
- Dundee Airport: Handy for exploring the Angus Coastal Route.
If you’re driving to Scotland from England or Wales, it’s worth planning your route in advance and allowing time for regular rest stops. One of the most popular entry points to the country is Carter Bar, on the Anglo-Scottish border along the A68.
Here, two large boulders mark the exact point where England ends and Scotland begins. It’s a favourite photo stop among visitors, and the sweeping views over the Cheviot Hills also make it a scenic and memorable way to start your Scotland road trip.
Where to stay while touring Scotland
Finding accommodation while touring Scotland can be tricky, especially as you head into rural and remote areas. So, camping is a great way to immerse yourself in nature, fall asleep under star-filled skies, and wake up to the sounds of Scottish wildlife.
Camping in Scotland
We have over 40 campsites in Scotland, where you can safely pitch up and take advantage of handy on-site facilities, including toilets, showers, and washing machines. By booking in advance, you can secure your spot and enjoy a stress-free road trip.
Psst, many of our member-exclusive campsites are located right along Scotland's most famous touring routes. To access them, join the club today.
Wild camping in Scotland
Wild camping is permitted in certain areas of Scotland under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, but it comes with specific rules and responsibilities. Read our guide on wild camping for more information.
Although wild camping can be a budget-friendly option, it does come with challenges and potential risks. You’ll need to be mindful of where you pitch, follow local rules, and be prepared for limited facilities. For this reason, many road trippers prefer staying at campsites. By booking in advance, you’re guaranteed a pitch upon arrival and can enjoy a more convenient and stress-free experience. Additionally, campsites often come with added conveniences such as showers, waste disposal, and secure parking.
Best time for a Scottish road trip
Scotland is truly beautiful all year round, so no matter when you visit, you’ll have a magical experience. Each season offers something unique, from long summer days to snowy winter landscapes.
Summer Scottish road trip
Summer is the most popular time of year for a Scotland road trip, thanks to warmer weather and long daylight hours. During this season, you can enjoy clear skies perfect for stargazing, warm days ideal for visiting beaches and splashing around in waterfalls, and exciting summer events like the Highland Games and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
The downside of touring Scotland in summer is heavier traffic and campsites filling up quickly. To avoid disappointment, plan to set off early and book your accommodation well in advance.
You may also need to be mindful of biting midges and pack insect repellent. For more advice, check out our summer camping tips to stay cool and protected while travelling in the heat.
Spring Scottish road trip
Spring is usually quieter than summer, but it offers a burst of colour. Fields are filled with wildflowers, and you may spot newborn lambs and other wildlife. With mild weather and fewer crowds, it’s an ideal time for hikers and nature lovers.
Autumn Scottish road trip
Watch as Scotland transforms into miles of warm tones, crisp leaves, and golden light. Autumn is a peaceful season, perfect for taking long walks or relaxing drives through the Highlands. Best of all, the atmosphere complements Scotland’s rich and spooky history, adding an extra layer of magic to your road trip.
Winter Scottish road trip
If you want to tick the northern lights off your bucket list, road tripping in Scotland in the winter may be your opportunity. You’ll get to see the country transform into a winter wonderland, with sheets of snow resting in the Highlands, and festive Christmas markets, lights, and music bringing cities to life.
Top 10 Scotland touring routes
1. North Coast 500 (NC500)
Arguably the most famous Scotland road trip and labelled as “Scotland’s answer to Route 66”, the North Coast 500 traces the main roads along the coastal edges of the North Highlands. Passing through over 500 miles of breathtaking coastal scenery, the North Coast 500 has been praised by visitors from around the world. This route passes three of our Scottish campsites, including,
Taking in everything the Highlands has to offer, this route is perfect for lovers of food and drink – passing breweries, distilleries and some of Scotland’s most revered restaurants. Starting and ending at Inverness, the route also passes historic castles, sandy beaches and diverse wildlife. For active campers, there’s a diverse selection of outdoor experiences to try, including surfing, kayaking, snorkelling, water rafting, mountain biking and hiking.
Distance: 516 miles.
Click here for the full North Coast 500 route.
Top 5 things to do on this Scotland road trip:
- Dunrobin Castle: The most northerly of Scotland’s great houses, Dunrobin Castle resembles a lavish French chateau and overlooks the Moray Firth.
- Smoo Cave: Situated around a mile east of Durness, Smoo Cave is a spectacularly dramatic sea cave engraved into the limestone cliffs in Sutherland.
- Duncansby Head: Marked by the charming lighthouse that overlooks the North Sea, Duncansby Head is the most north-easterly point on the British Isles and a popular pilgrimage spot for visiting tourists.
- Glen Ord Distillery: Sitting on the edge of the Black Isle, the Glen Ord Distillery takes visitors through the process of distilling traditional Scotch malt whiskey.
- Hebridean Whale Cruises: Operating from the North West Highland village of Gairloch, Hebridean Whale Cruises take you on a trip to see some of the ocean’s most beautiful creatures, including whales, dolphins, sharks and seals.
2. Argyll Coastal Route
Setting off from the banks of Loch Lomond and finishing in the loch-side town of Fort William, the Argyll Coastal Route is perfect for fans of expansive coastline, delicious seafood and breathtaking views. Stretching for nearly 130 miles, Argyll Coastal Route passes three of our West Scotland Club Site, including,
Encapsulating everything wonderful about the Scottish coast, this road trip passes the shimmering waters of sea lochs and the snowy peaks of towering Munros. On your way, uncover the fascinating history of the Kingdom of Dalriada and sample some locally-caught seafood at Loch Fyne.
Distance: 129 miles.
Click here for the full Argyll Coastal Route.
Top 5 things to do on this Scotland road trip:
- McCaig’s Tower: Sitting on top of Battery Hill and overlooking the harbour town of Oban, McCaig’s Tower is a prominent structure said to have been inspired by the Colosseum in Rome.
- Ben Nevis: Finishing your trip in Fort William leaves you on the doorstep of the UK’s tallest mountain, Ben Nevis. Standing at over 1,300 metres, scaling Ben Nevis is likely to feature at the top of your Scottish bucket list.
- Inveraray Jail: Step through the doors of this eerie 19th-century prison and experience what life was like for the prisoners who lived at Inveraray Jail.
- Kilmartin Museum: Located in one of the world’s most significant archaeological landscapes, Kilmartin Museum displays a diverse range of ancient artefacts found in the local area.
- Seafari Adventures: Jetting off from their base in Oban, Seafari Adventures offer wildlife and nature boat trips with a good chance of seeing whales, dolphins, sharks and seabirds.
3. Borders Historic Route
This Scotland road trip is the only one on this list that begins outside of Scotland. If you’re travelling by plane, you can land at Newcastle airport and start your journey there. The route picks up near Carlisle, passing through charming villages in the Borders before finishing in the historic Scottish capital of Edinburgh. Whilst on this road trip, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the heart of a Sir Walter Scott novel before uncovering the history of Scottish textiles and learning how Scotland became synonymous with tartan and kilts.
If you’re flying into Edinburgh, you could also start this driving route in the capital and work your way down south. Whilst exploring the Borders Historic Route, you’ll pass two of our popular Club Sites;
Distance: 89 miles.
Click here for the full Borders Historic Route.
Top 5 things to do on this Scotland road trip:
- Edinburgh Castle: Situated on Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is Scotland’s most visited attraction and boasts panoramic views across the city.
- Arthur’s Seat: If you’re looking to stretch your legs when touring Scotland by car, park up next to Arthur’s Seat and set off for a hike to the top. What was once an active volcano is now a popular hiking destination. If the weather’s good, bring along your own picnic food and admire the surrounding greenery and views.
- Abbotsford House: In 1811, iconic novelist and poet, Sir Walter Scott, purchased a modest farm and transformed the dwelling into an opulent castle. Wander through the house and discover the home that inspired his greatest works.
- Edinburgh Zoo: A great day out whilst on your Scottish road trip is Edinburgh Zoo. Set on 82 acres, Edinburgh Zoo is home to the UK's only giant pandas and more than 1000 other amazing animals.
- Stewart Brewing: Established in Edinburgh in 2004, Stewart Brewing takes you through the process of brewing their award-winning beer, and they offer plenty of samples along the way.
4. Deeside Tourist Route
When touring Scotland, driving through the heart of the north-western Highlands, from Perth to Aberdeen via the wilderness of the Cairngorms National Park, is an experience like no other. The Deeside Tourist Route is one of Scotland’s most epic road trips. It passes the pristine landscape of Royal Deeside and the fruitful farmland of Blairgowrie.
The Deeside Tourist Route is the ideal road trip for all campers interested in Scotland’s colourful history, passing museums, palaces and castles. Come face-to-face with some of Scotland’s wildlife at Mar Lodge Estate, including majestic red deer, soaring golden eagles and skittering pine marten.
The Club Sites you'll find en-route include;
Distance: 108 miles.
Click here for the full Deeside Tourist Route
Top 5 things to do on this Scotland road trip:
- Scone Palace: Located in the small medieval village of the same name, on the outskirts of Perth, Scone Palace is one of Scotland’s most important stately homes.
- His Majesty’s Theatre: Set in the heart of the Granite City, His Majesty’s Theatre is Aberdeen’s most distinguished, beautiful auditorium and consistently hosts Scotland’s best original productions.
- Blairgowrie Golf Club: Scotland is famed for its golfing heritage, so why not grab your clubs and take a swing at the luxurious Blairgowrie Golf Club? After a day of enjoying the surrounding scenery, return to the award-winning clubhouse for a Scotch whisky or bite to eat.
- The Black Watch Castle and Museum: Set in the cobbled city of Perth, the Black Watch Castle and Museum exhibits the iconic story of Scotland’s oldest Highland regiment, the Black Watch Regiment.
- Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve: Situated in the Cairngorms National Park, this nature reserve is home to untamed woodland, overgrown heathland, a glistening loch and Burn o’ Vat – a giant pothole carved during the Ice Age.
5. Highland Tourist Route
Running through the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, from Inverness to Aberdeen, the Highland Tourist Route is a wonderful way to explore the north-western Highlands. Collating some of Scotland’s best castles, battlefields and museums, the Highland Tourist Route is the perfect road trip for anyone fascinated by Scottish history.
Taking in over 116 miles of untamed Highland countryside, as well as two of Scotland’s best cities, this road trip also passes traditional whisky distilleries and a popular skiing resort. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you pass through the Cairngorms, especially capercaillie, red squirrels, ospreys, red deer and golden eagles.
Campsites en-route:
Distance: 116 miles.
Click here for the full Highland Tourist Route.
Top 5 things to do on this Scotland road trip:
- Culloden Battlefield: Culloden Battlefield is a powerful and emotive exploration into the 1745 Jacobite Rising and how this battle brought a tragic end to the movement.
- Fort George: Built in the wake of the Battle of Culloden, Fort George is one of Britain’s most impressive artillery fortifications and provides a fascinating insight into the life of an 18th-century soldier.
- Cawdor Castle: Famed for featuring in William Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Cawdor Castle is a magnificent example of Scottish Baronial architecture.
- Grampian Transport Museum: Located between Aberdeen and the Cairngorms National Park, the Grampian Transport Museum takes you on a tour through the history of travel and transport in the northeast of Scotland.
- Gordon Highlanders Museum: Take a trip to the Gordon Highlanders Museum in Aberdeen and uncover the compelling 200-year story of the Gordon Highlanders, from the Napoleonic Wars to the present day.
6. Moray Firth Route
Passing the glistening waters of the Beauly Firth, Dornoch Firth, and Cromarty Firth, the Moray Firth Route is an idyllic road trip soaking up the beauty of the northern Highlands. On your way, you’ll experience some breathtaking views from locations such as Struie Hill and Fyrish Monument, as well as enjoy some traditional Scottish drinks at the Black Isle Brewery and Dalmore Distillery.
Meandering for over 80 miles, from Inverness to Loch Fleet, the Moray Firth Route passes through the rugged landscapes of Sutherland and Easter Ross. Take a trip to Rogie Falls and the Falls of Shin to see two of Scotland’s most spectacular waterfalls.
Campsites en-route:
Distance: 80 miles.
Click here for the full Moray Firth Route.
Top 5 things to do on this Scotland road trip:
- Rogie Falls: Situated off the main road to Ullapool, the Rogie Falls are a series of waterfalls on the Black Water, surrounded by a network of delightful walking routes.
- Beauly Priory: Today only beautifully preserved ruins remain, but Beauly Priory was once a Valliscaulian monastic community and home to a group of monks from Burgundy, France.
- The Falls of Shin: Most famous for being one of the best places in Scotland to view salmon leaping upstream, the Falls of Shin is a waterfall on the River Shin in the midst of a peaceful pine forest.
- Inverness Museum and Art Gallery: Displaying a diverse array of artefacts and collections from the local area, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery exhibits an exclusive insight into the unique history and culture of Inverness and the Scottish Highlands.
- Fyrish Monument: Sat upon Fyrish Hill, overlooking the peaks and lochs of the Scottish Highlands, the Fyrish Monument was commissioned by Sir Hector Munro, who served as a general in India and wanted the monument to represent the Gate of Negapatam in Madras, India.
7. North East 250
Exploring everything for which Scotland is famous, the North East 250 takes in whisky distilleries, mountain passes, ancient castles, rugged coastline, quaint seaside villages and the Granite City. You can start this circular route from whichever point is most convenient for you. At over 250 miles, this road trip allows you to experience many of Scotland’s diverse landscapes.
Tracing the coastline of north-eastern Scotland before coming inland through the Cairngorms National Park, the North East 250 incorporates interesting history, adrenaline-filled activities and some of the country’s best driving roads. This route has ideal stop-overs at two of our fantastic Scottish Club Sites, namely:
Distance: 250 miles.
Click here for the full North East 250 route.
Top 5 things to do on this Scotland road trip:
- Peterhead Prison Museum: Now a museum dedicated to telling the stories of the prison officers that worked here, Peterhead Prison was arguably Scotland’s most notorious prison from 1888 to 2013.
- Drum Castle: Located near the village of Drumoak in Aberdeenshire, Drum Castle is home to over 700 years of Scottish history, and it’s surrounded by acres of ancient oak trees, fragrant roses and local wildlife.
- Museum of Scottish Lighthouses: Housed in an 18th-century lighthouse perched upon Kinnaird Head, the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses exhibits Scotland’s maritime history.
- Bow Fiddle Rock: Situated just off the coastline near Portnokie, the Bow Fiddle Rock is a unique bow-shaped geological structure and a photographic attraction for tourists.
- Gordon Castle and Walled Garden: Take a walk through the beautifully restored Walled Garden at Gordon Castle, with over 200 years of interesting history, rare plants and espaliered trees.
8. South West Coastal 300
One of Scotland’s newest road trip routes, the South West Coastal 300 collates over 300 miles of thinly populated Scottish countryside, winding tarmac and breathtaking panoramic views.
This route passes through a diverse list of landscapes, including sandy bays and ancient forestry. Whilst touring through Scotland, stop at the numerous seaside villages, each one prettier than the last.
This circular route follows the coastal road of Dumfries and Galloway, taking in part of a UNESCO Biosphere and the Galloway Forest Park. The South West Coastal 300 is the perfect road trip for exploring the unique character and beauty of South West Scotland.
Campsites en-route:
Distance: 300 miles.
Click here for the full South West Coastal 300.
Top 5 things to do on this Scotland road trip:
- Culzean Castle: Set on a dramatic clifftop, surrounded by woodland and a rugged coastline, Culzean Castle is one of Scotland’s most impressive fortresses.
- Logan Botanic Garden: Located at the southwestern tip of Scotland, Logan Botanic Garden’s collection of unusual and beautiful plants makes it Scotland’s most exotic garden.
- Sweetheart Abbey: Founded by Lady Dervorgilla of Galloway in the late 13th century, Sweetheart Abbey is a romantic red-sandstone ruin and an interesting insight into Scotland’s turbulent history.
- Mull of Galloway Lighthouse: Built by Robert Stevenson in 1828, the Mull of Galloway Lighthouse is perched on the edge of a high cliff at Scotland’s most southerly point.
- Devils Beef Tub: Grab your camera and walking boots and head to the Devils Beef Tub. North of the Scottish Town of Moffat, the Devil's Beef Tub is a dramatic hollow formed by four hills. There are many walking routes to explore this landscape, including exploring Moffat town while seeing Devil's Beef Tub.
9. Forth Valley Tourist Route
Forth Valley Tourist Route is one of Scotland’s shortest road trips. It’s perfect for those camping in Edinburgh but looking for a scenic adventure. This Scottish driving route follows the south bank of the Firth of Forth, and despite it being only 43 miles long, it’s packed with great attractions.
Distance: 43 miles.
Click here for the full Forth Valley Tourist Route.
Top 5 things to do on this Scotland road trip:
- Forth Rail Bridge: Opened in 1890, this famous bridge is recognised worldwide. It’s the world's first steel structure and a key milestone in the history of modern railway engineering. It not only holds the record as the world's longest cantilever bridge, but it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Antonine Wall: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site is the Antonine Wall. The Wall was built around 142 AD by the Romans to mark the northwest frontier of their empire. It was a symbol of their power and authority.
- The Kelpies: Book yourself a tour to view the Kelpies. These are the world's largest equine sculptures you can view from the outside and in. On a tour, you’ll be able to marvel at the complex yet creative engineering of these phenomenal works of art.
- Stirling Castle: Pay a visit to one of Scotland's largest castles. Its impressive architecture, scenery and history make for a fun day out for the whole family. Various guided tours are available for all ages, so you won't miss anything.
- Blair Drummond Safari Park: A great activity for the whole family is Blair Drummond Safari Park. You can drive through the grounds, where you’ll come across over 300 animals, including giraffes, rhinos, monkeys, tigers, lions and more. You can also see a fun dinosaur display, birds of prey exhibit and chimp island. If you don't fancy driving through the park, you can also explore on foot.
10. Angus Coastal Route
Travel from Aberdeen to Dundee, or Dundee to Aberdeen and discover the wonders of the Angus Coastal route. You’ll be driving along the east coast of Scotland and passing a range of charming towns, stunning nature reserves and fun attractions.
Distance: 68 miles.
Click here for the full Angus Coastal Route.
Top 5 things to do on this Scotland road trip:
- Aberdeen Harbour: A great place to spot dolphins is Aberdeen Harbour. You can see them from the shore or get a closer look by booking a boat tour. If you want to learn more about the history of Aberdeen Harbour, visit the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, which is close by.
- Dunnottar Castle: Sitting on top of a 160-foot rock and surrounded by the North Sea, Dunnottar Castle was once home to one of the most powerful families in Scotland. It’s a breathtaking place to photograph and a history lover's dream visit. The castle is both romantic and carries haunting stories ready to be told.
- St Cyrus National Reserve: This unmissable nature reserve has towering volcanic cliffs, beautiful beaches and a diverse range of wildlife. If you’re lucky, you may be able to spot some great sea creatures, including seals, dolphins and killer whales.
- Dundee Science Centre: For a fun and educational hands-on learning experience, the Dundee Science Centre is a great family visit. When visiting, you’ll find a sensory zone, a space play area, an operation theatre for curious kids wanting to learn more about the human body and multiple live exhibitions.
- Lunan Bay: At Lunan Bay, you’ll find views of the dramatic Angus coastline, sandy beaches, towering cliffs, and the crumbling ruins of a red castle.
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