Rugged Scotland
Drive through areas famed for landscape and unspoiled breath-taking scenery. Discover rich farmland in the South, historic houses and castles, and the islands sitting on the most north westerly edge of Europe, the Outer Hebrides.
Exploring Scotland is easy. In the countryside, the roads are excellent, well signposted and largely toll free. Distances between towns are short and driving is on the left hand side of the road, same as in New Zealand.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Edinburgh
Explore Edinburgh, a UNESCO World Heritage-site.
Day 2: Edinburgh – Scottish Borders (142km)
At the southern gateway to Scotland lies the seductive Borders region, an exciting area with an often bloody history.
Day 3: Edinburgh – Stirling – Oban (196km)
Travel to Stirling, pass through the traditional town of Callander, then via Crianlarich to Oban along the beautiful shores of Loch Awe.
Day 4: Oban – Isle of Mull – Isle of Staffa
Explore the beautiful Isles of Mull and Staffa. Ferry over to Mull, a spectacular, rocky island with views of rugged Scotland. Embark on the sea journey to Staffa with columns forming the cathedral-like structure of Fingal’s Cave. Visit the Isle of Iona and the abbey.
Day 5: Mull – Mallaig – Isle of Skye (198km)
A short ferry ride from Mull to Lochaline takes you to Morvern and Ardnamurchan peninsulas, perfect for nature lovers seeking solitude and rare species of wildlife. Cross over to the Isle of Skye and visit the Armadale Castle and wander through the magnificent gardens.
Day 6: Isle of Skye
Enjoy a day on this dramatic island. Visit Dunvegan Castle, tour around the island’s coastal road towards Uig, stop at Skye Folk Museum.
Day 7: Skye – Loch Ness/Invergarry – Glencoe (223km)
Travel back to the mainland via the Skye Bridge for magical views of Eilean Donan Castle. Look out for Nessie as you drive along the shores of Loch Ness and follow the Great Glen to beautiful Glencoe.
Day 8: Glencoe – Loch Lomond – Glasgow (223km)
Stroll along the River Clyde Walkway and discover Glasgow’s rejuvenation.
Customise this itinerary to travel at your own pace.
Highlights worth seeing along the way
Walk the Royal Mile – From Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, in the heart of Edinburgh, this is a vibrant area packed with historical sites and some great eating and drinking spots.
Explore the Borders region heritage sites – This is a land of strong traditions and a turbulent history. Today you will discover the friendly towns and picturesque villages, castles, abbeys and museums.
Visit Rosslyn Castle – 10 kilometres south of Edinburgh is the mysterious, richly decorated late-Gothic chapel featured in ‘The Da Vinci Code’.
Stirling Castle & Wallace Monument – Visit one of Scotland’s most important fortresses and the nearby Wallace Monument which offers a wonderful view of Stirlingshire from the top of the 67 metre high tower.
Learn how to smoke salmon – The Inverawe Smokehouse in Taynuit is a family run smokery and the best place to try some traditional Scottish food. You can also enjoy walks along the nature trails.
Spot the seals at Dunvegan Castle – Take an exhilarating 25 minute boat trip to see the seal colony and enjoy the unique views of the Outer Hebrides across the Minch.
Visit to iconic Eilean Donan Castle – Located on its own little island, surrounded by the forested mountains of Kintail, this setting is truly breath-taking.
Our favourite places to stay:
• Novotel Edinburgh Centre, Edinburgh
• Oban Bay Hotel, Oban
• The Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa, Isle of Mull
• Uig Lodge, Isle of Skye
Choosing your Rental Car
Take into consideration the size of the vehicle you require. We strongly recommend a minimum 1.4 litre for two adults. If the vehicle is to be used for day touring from a central base and not for transporting your luggage, a smaller vehicle may be adequate. We suggest you book your car before leaving home as this will save money and ensure you get the car of your choice.
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Image credit: © VisitScotland & Paul Tomkins
