Scottish Highlands Express

A 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 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 you can stop at the charming village of Dunkeld or to visit the 13th-century Blair Castle.

Arriving near Inverness, you could visit the Battlefield of Culloden Moor, to see where the last battle on British soil occurred in 1746, marking "the beginning of the end for the Highlands." Nearby you could also roam around Clava Cairns, a series of tombs and standing stones dating back roughly 4,000 years.

Spend the night in the Inverness area.

Driving distance: 251 km / 156 miles

DAY 3: THE BEAUTY OF LOCH NESS AND GLEN COE

Today, you'll drive south all the way to Oban. Along the day there are many opportunities for fun stops and plenty of stunning scenery.

First, you'll drive along the mysterious Loch Ness. If there is time, you could visit the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition or explore the nearby Urquhart Castle ruins. Later, pass through Fort William. Don't miss the views of Ben Nevis before taking in the breathtaking Glen Coe valley.

Spend the night in the Oban area.

Driving distance: 180 km / 110 miles  

DAY 4: TROSSACHS NATIONAL PARK TO EDINBURGH

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.

On the way, you could stop by Loch Awe to visit the picturesque Kilchurn Castle. We also recommend having a walk by Loch Lomond in the village of Luss. For a fun photo opportunity, don't miss Doune Castle, featured in many movies and TV series. If time allows, you could also stop by Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s top attractions, or at the Kelpies, two impressive horse-head sculptures.

Spend the night in Edinburgh.

Driving distance: 240 km / 150 miles

DAY 5: 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.