Scotland Grand Tour Road Trip Itinerary
The Scotland Grand Tour is a unique road trip that begins in Edinburgh and ends in Stirling, covering a total distance of 918 miles. Along the way, you will discover some of Scotland's most beautiful scenery, including Oban, Inverness, Thurso and St Andrews.
In Oban, you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Inner Hebrides, as well as the culinary delights of the area. In Inverness, you can explore the city's many attractions, such as the Inverness Cathedral and the Eden Court Theatre. Thurso is a great place to relax and take in the stunning views of the North Sea. Finally, St Andrews is home to the famous St Andrews Golf Course, and a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.
This road trip is suitable for all drivers, however it is recommended to be completed in 12 days. The best time of year to drive is from May to September, when the roads are usually in the best condition. However, be aware that road conditions can be poor in Scotland, so it is important to plan accordingly. Finally, this is a high budget road trip, so it is best to plan ahead and budget accordingly.
12
number of days
1,530 km
route length
high
budget
family
good for
on the left
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Edinburgh
Distance 1,530 km
Driving time 26.3 h
Pace: modest
397.7 kWh
Airports
EDI
,
GLA
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Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a bustling city stretching from the medieval Old Town to the Georgian New Town. With its stunning architecture, lively pubs and restaurants, and a range of cultural attractions, Edinburgh offers something for everyone. It is the perfect starting point for the Scotland Grand Tour.
When in Edinburgh, be sure to explore the Old Town, taking in the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The city also boasts a number of excellent galleries, museums, and theatres, including the National Museum of Scotland and the National Gallery. The annual Edinburgh Festival is a must-see, and the city's parks and gardens are perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
For those travelling by air, Edinburgh is served by Edinburgh Airport (EDI), located seven miles from the city centre. Car rental is available at the airport, making it easy to explore the city and its surrounding area. With its history, culture, and natural beauty, Edinburgh is a great starting point for the Scotland Grand Tour.
1
Edinburgh
- Oban
Distance 229 km
Driving time 3.4 h
Pace: fast
68.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Ready for an exciting road trip through Scotland? Start in Edinburgh, Scotland's capital city, and explore its vibrant culture, rich history, and exceptional architecture. Continue your journey to Glasgow, the country's largest city, and discover its eclectic mix of modern and traditional culture. On your way, take in the stunning views of the Scottish Highlands and visit some of the most iconic landmarks, such as the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and the Glasgow Cathedral. Finally, your journey ends in Oban, a picturesque coastal town located on the west coast of Scotland. While here, don't miss the chance to admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and visit some of the town's most popular attractions, including McCaig's Tower and the Oban Distillery. With a distance of 142mi and a driving time of fewer than 4 hours, this is one of the stages of a larger tour. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage.
Oban - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
Oban - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Oban
- Cannich
Distance 172 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: fast
51.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to one of the most beautiful road trips in Scotland! This stage of the tour starts in Oban, a charming fishing port and the gateway to Scotland's islands. From here, you'll drive 107 miles and it will take you less than 3 hours to reach Cannich.
Along the route, you will come across some of Scotland's most gorgeous landscapes, including the Caledonian Canal, Loch Lochy, and the Great Glen. Make sure to stop and take some pictures from the viewpoint at Loch Oich.
You can also visit some of the area's beautiful castles, such as Dunstaffnage Castle near Oban and Urquhart Castle on the shores of Loch Ness. If you love nature, you will also enjoy a visit to the Corrieshalloch Gorge, a dramatic glen with a spectacular view.
The journey will end in Cannich, a small village surrounded by forests and mountains. Don't forget to stop in the nearby Glen Affric Nature Reserve for some amazing views of the Highlands.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Cannich - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - www.iha.ie
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3
Cannich
- Inverness
Distance 44 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: modest
11.3 kWh
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Embark on a thrilling journey from Cannich to Inverness, a distance of 27mi that can be covered in less than an hour. Explore the picturesque areas of Strathglass, the woodlands of Carrbridge, and the stunning views of the River Nairn.
Start your journey from Cannich, a hamlet located in the Strathglass area, which is also home to the Corrimony Cairn, a Bronze Age burial chamber. Take time to explore the area and visit the ancient cairn.
Continue your drive to Carrbridge, a village that is well-known for its 18th-century packhorse bridge. Take a stroll along the river and enjoy the beauty of the native woodlands.
Your final destination is Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. Explore the city and its attractions, including the Inverness Castle, the Victorian Market, and the iconic Caledonian Canal.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Inverness - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Inverness - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
Inverness - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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4
Inverness
- Ullapool
Distance 72 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: fast
21.6 kWh
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Welcome, road-trippers! This stage of your journey starts in Inverness, Scotland and ends in Ullapool, 45mi away, and can be completed in less than 1 hour.
Take a break in Ullapool and admire the stunning views of the Summer Isles archipelago. You can also explore the town’s harbor and visit the Ullapool Museum, a great place to learn about the region’s history.
If you’re a nature lover, you should definitely take a walk along the River Ness and enjoy the views of the Ness Islands. You can also explore the Inverness Castle and admire the city’s architecture.
On your way to Ullapool, take a detour to Corrieshalloch Gorge and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Falls of Measach and the surrounding hills.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check our “Itinerary” for this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Ullapool - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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5
Ullapool
- Thurso
Distance 219 km
Driving time 4.1 h
Pace: modest
56.9 kWh
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The road trip from Ullapool to Thurso is one of the most interesting stages of a larger tour. It starts in the seaside village of Ullapool, Scotland, and takes you through the historic Tongue, ending in Thurso. With a distance of 136mi and a driving time of fewer than 4 hours, you can take your time to explore the gems of this journey.
In Ullapool, visit the Ullapool Museum and learn about the local history and culture. Then, head to the magnificent beach of Loch Broom and take in the stunning scenery. The road then takes you to Tongue, where you can explore the Tongue Pier which is the ideal spot for watching the magnificent Northern Lights. Finally, you will arrive in Thurso, a small harbor town with picturesque views of the Pentland Firth.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along this route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Thurso - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
Thurso - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Thurso - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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6
Thurso
- Kirkwall
Distance 80 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: slow
18.3 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Thurso to Kirkwall! This 50mi journey will take you less than 3 hours to complete, so you can take your time to explore the most interesting places along the way.
To begin with, you can visit the Castle of Mey, a 16th-century castle located in the northern coast of Scotland. Here, you can admire the beautiful gardens and the stunning views of the North Sea. The Castle of Mey also has a museum and a café to enjoy.
Continue your journey to visit the Clootie Well, a traditional pilgrimage site located in the town of Tain. Here, people leave pieces of fabric or “cloots” in the well as an offering of good luck.
Before arriving in Kirkwall, make a stop in the coastal village of John o' Groats. Here, you can enjoy the stunning views of the sea, take a walk along the beach, or even take a boat tour to explore the area.
Finally, you can explore Kirkwall, the main city of the Orkney Islands. Here, you can visit the St. Magnus Cathedral, the Orkney Museum, and the Earl's Palace.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Kirkwall - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - nl.m.wikipedia.org
Kirkwall - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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7
Kirkwall
- St Andrews
Distance 531 km
Driving time 9.1 h
Pace: modest
138.1 kWh
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Are you ready for a thrilling road trip through Scotland? Start your journey in Kirkwall, home to Scotland’s most northerly cathedral and the beautiful St Magnus Cathedral. From there, take a 330mi drive to Elgin with its stunning ruins of Elgin Cathedral and Spynie Palace. Follow the River Spey to the beautiful town of Braemar, home to iconic Balmoral Castle and the Cairngorms National Park. Finally, arrive in St Andrews, the birthplace of golf and home to the beautiful St Andrews Cathedral and St Andrews Castle. Make sure to stop along the way to take in the beautiful Highland scenery. The whole trip should take fewer than 9 hours, so be sure to take your time and enjoy the journey. When you’re ready for more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
St Andrews - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - www.maxpixel.net
St Andrews - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - www.pxfuel.com
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8
St Andrews
- Stirling
Distance 121 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: modest
31.4 kWh
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A road trip from St Andrews to Stirling is an amazing experience. This route is only 82 mi long and takes less than three hours to complete. On your way you will find some of the most interesting places in Scotland, such as St Andrews Cathedral, the ruins of St Andrews Castle, Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument. In St Andrews you can explore the town's cobbled streets and its famous golf courses, or visit the local shops and cafes. At Stirling Castle you will be able to enjoy the breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside. The Wallace Monument is a must-see for any history buff, giving you the chance to learn more about Scotland's most famous freedom fighter. Don't forget to take some pictures at the top of the monument, as the views are truly stunning. And if you want to learn more about Scotland's history, you can also visit the Bannockburn Battlefield. To make the most of your journey, you can find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Stirling - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - pxhere.com
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9
Stirling
- Edinburgh
Distance 63 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: fast
18.8 kWh
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Stirling is a beautiful city located in Scotland, and the perfect ending point for the Scotland Grand Tour. It is located at the foot of the Ochil Hills and is an ideal stop for those who are looking to explore the countryside.
The city is home to some of Scotland's most iconic historical sites, such as Stirling Castle, the National Wallace Monument, and the Royal Burgh of Stirling. The city is well-known for its old cobbled streets and winding alleys, as well as its many excellent restaurants and pubs.
For those looking for a bit of adventure, there are plenty of activities to take part in. From the Stirling trails through the Ochil Hills to the golf courses in the area, there are plenty of outdoor activities for the whole family.
If you're looking for a bit of culture, Stirling also offers a variety of museums and galleries, such as the Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum and the National Wallace Monument.
For those traveling by car, Stirling is located just off the M9 motorway, making it easily accessible. Those arriving by air should fly into Glasgow International Airport (GLA), which is located just 30 miles away.
Stirling is a perfect ending point for the Scotland Grand Tour, offering plenty of activities, culture, and history. Whether you're looking for a bit of adventure or a more relaxed atmosphere, Stirling has something for everyone.
Edinburgh - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - www.publicdomainpictures.net
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Edinburgh
[detailsContainer]
Edinburgh - Scotland - Europe - Road Trip - www.publicdomainpictures.net
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Scotland Grand Tour Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Edinburgh
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End:
Edinburgh
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Distance:
1,530 km
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Stay:
12 days
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Getting there:
Edinburgh Airport (EDI),
Glasgow International Airport (GLA)
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When to drive:
June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the breathtaking Scotland Grand Tour, an 918-mile Road Trip that weaves through the country's captivating landscapes, historic cities, and iconic attractions. Starting from the capital city of Edinburgh and concluding in the historic city of Stirling, this journey invites travelers to immerse themselves in the heart of Scotland's natural beauty and cultural richness.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Edinburgh: Not just the starting point, but a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its majestic Edinburgh Castle, the historic Royal Mile, and the vibrant Edinburgh Festival held every August.
- Oban: Known as the 'Seafood Capital of Scotland,' Oban is a gateway to the isles, with awe-inspiring views of the Inner Hebrides and culinary delights that showcase Scotland's coastal bounty.
- Inverness: The cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is home to the legendary Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, and the lesser-known Victorian Market, offering a glimpse into local Highland life.
- Thurso: Britain's northernmost town, Thurso is a serene escape, with opportunities to spot the Northern Lights and access to ferries for Orkney, a group of islands rich in Neolithic history.
- St Andrews: This is not only a pilgrimage site for golfers but also a historic university town with medieval ruins, the impressive St Andrews Cathedral, and West Sands Beach, known from the film 'Chariots of Fire.'
Best Time to Go:
Travelers are encouraged to venture on this Road Trip between May and September when Scotland's landscapes are at their most vibrant. The longer daylight hours and milder weather conditions during this time provide the perfect setting for exploration and sightseeing.
Potential Risks:
Navigating Scotland's Roads requires vigilance due to sudden weather changes and narrow country lanes. Winter months can bring unpredictable conditions such as snow and ice, making travel more challenging.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The Scotland Grand Tour traverses five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh and the Heart of Neolithic Orkney.
- Scotland has a right to roam, meaning that with respect to private land and nature conservation, you can explore much of the countryside freely.
- The journey can be customized with detours to the Isle of Skye, known for its rugged landscapes and medieval castles, or the whisky distilleries of Speyside for a taste of Scotland's famous single malts.
A good choice for:
The Scotland Grand Tour is an epic exploration that offers a tapestry of experiences, from the wild Highlands to serene coastal towns and the buzzing cultural life of its cities. With strategic planning, including budget considerations and route optimization, this Road Trip can unveil the very soul of Scotland for curious travelers seeking an adventure steeped in history, nature, and tradition.
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