Scotland Winter World

This 8-day winter self-drive tour is an excellent way to discover the Scottish Highlands at your own pace, allowing you to stop when and where you want.

This tour includes a Historic Scotland Explorer Pass so you can visit some of the country's most famous attractions, including Edinburgh Castle, and many more.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN EDINBURGH

Upon your arrival in Edinburgh, make your way to your hotel in the city centre. For those arriving early in the day, we recommend spending the afternoon walking through the city, strolling along the Royal Mile and exploring the Old Town and New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also plenty of museums and landmarks to visit within the city centre, including the majestic Edinburgh Castle.

Spend the night in Edinburgh.

DAY 2: INTO THE HIGHLANDS

Your road trip starts today! Pick up your rental car and head into the Scottish Highlands. On the way stop by the charming village of Dunkeld and the nearby Hermitage for a lovely forest walk. Look out for the roaring Black Linn Falls. Continue on to the picturesque town of Pitlochry. You'll then enter into the Cairngorms National Park. If time allows you might wish to stop at Scotland’s highest distillery, Dalwhinnie, for a taste of the local whisky.

Spend the night in the Aviemore area.

Driving distance: 204 km / 127 miles

DAY 3: CAIRNGORMS NATIONAL PARK

Today you have a full day to explore the area surrounding Aviemore. You could go hiking up the Cairngorm Mountain or visit the Reindeer Centre where you can feed and pet the friendly reindeers that are free-roaming on the mountainside. At the height of winter, if there is a good snowfall you could go snowboarding or skiing on the slopes of the Cairngorms.

If you would prefer to have a relaxing day, take a loch-side walk by the tranquil Loch an Eilein or sample the wares of the award-winning Cairngorm Brewery.

Spend another night in the Aviemore area.

Driving distance: 40 km / 24 miles

DAY 4: THE BEAUTY OF LOCH NESS

Today, you'll discover the famous Loch Ness area before reaching the Isle of Skye. Travel via Inverness and take in the impressive landscape. You could take the time to explore the nearby Urquhart Castle ruins on the shores of the loch. Later, stop by one of the most recognised castles in Scotland, Eilean Donan Castle, for a beautiful photograph.

Spend the night on the Isle of Skye.

Driving distance: 232 km / 144 miles  

DAY 5: WINTER TRANQUILLITY ON SKYE

Today you have a full day to immerse yourself in the magic of Skye. Wander around the main village of Portree, full of colourful homes and boutiques. Then head north to the breathtaking Trotternish Peninsula, where some of Skye's most impressive natural wonders are located. That includes the “The Old Man of Storr” rock pinnacle, the beautiful Kilt Rock waterfall, and the Quiraing landslip.

Spend another night on the Isle of Skye or nearby.

Driving distance: 66 km / 41 miles

DAY 6: MORE OF SKYE AND LOCHABER

This morning, you can take in more of Skye's beauty before returning to the mainland. You may wish to visit the Talisker Distillery to sample the local whisky, or enjoy a walk to the mystical Fairy Pools at the foot of the Black Cuillin Hils.

In the afternoon, you'll leisurely make your way to Fort William. As you journey south, you'll pass through the Great Glen and we recommend stopping at the Commando Memorial for stunning views of Ben Nevis and the Mamore Mountains.

Spend the night in the Fort William area.

Driving distance: 212 km / 132 miles

DAY 7: TROSSACHS NATIONAL PARK AND STIRLING

Today’s drive will take you through the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park back to Edinburgh. You can also choose to end your trip in Glasgow if you want to explore Scotland's largest city.

This journey takes you past Scotland’s most famous valley, the magical Glen Coe, combining world-famous scenery and history. Later, don't miss Doune Castle, featured in many movies and TV series. You could also spend some time in Stirling, to visit Stirling Castle and the William Wallace Monument.

Spend the night in Edinburgh.

Driving distance: 261 km / 162 miles

DAY 8: DEPARTURE FROM SCOTLAND

Today you say goodbye to Scotland. If your flight is in the afternoon, you may take your last few hours to do some last-minute shopping, visit one of Edinburgh’s many museums, or take one last stroll through the charming city centre.