Scottish Winter Escape

A self-drive tour at this time of year is an excellent way to discover Scotland's magnificent landscape at your own pace and in the tranquillity of the winter season.

This tour includes private transfers to and from the airport for comfort as well as 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, a private driver will escort you 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: EXPLORE THE CAPITAL

You have all day to explore Edinburgh at your leisure. You could join a walking tour to dig your teeth into the history of this old Scottish city and visit famous attractions, such as the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Depending when you're visiting, you could also pop by the famous Christmas market in Princes Street Gardens.

You can easily travel around the city centre on foot, so we recommend strolling along the historic Royal Mile or walking up Calton Hill for a fantastic view over Edinburgh.

Spend another night in Edinburgh.

DAY 3: ST ANDREWS AND DUNKELD

Your road trip starts today! Pick up your rental car and head into Fife. We recommend following the coastal route for a scenic drive through charming fishing villages. Stop by the historic town of St Andrews, known as the home of golf and Scotland's oldest university.

Later, continue onwards to Highland Perthshire. Take some time to wander through the lovely village of Dunkeld and the nearby Hermitage for a lovely forest walk. Look out for the roaring Black Linn Falls.

Spend the night in Perthshire.

Driving distance: 210 km / 130 miles

DAY 4: HIGHLAND SCENERY

Spend the morning in the picturesque town of Pitlochry. It is known for its Victorian charm, its proximity to mountains for hiking and being home to the smallest whisky distillery in Scotland, Edradour.

Later, you'll drive north to enter the Cairngorms National Park. You can stop for walks at the Pass of Killiecrankie, an impressive wooded river gorge, and at the charming Falls of Bruar. Wildlife enthusiasts may also want to take a short detour via the Highland Wildlife Park nearby.

You'll then drive west to Glenfinnan where you can visit the monument and admire the famous viaduct.

Spend the night in the Fort William area.

Driving distance: 235 km / 145 miles  

DAY 5: GLENCOE TO LOCH LOMOND

This morning, drive through Glen Coe, one of Scotland's most famous and scenic valleys. You'll then make your way south passing by the atmospheric Kilchurn Castle. It is closed in winter, but worth a stop for fantastic photos.

Later, you'll drive through the white-washed town of Inveraray along the shores of Loch Fyne before reaching Loch Lomond.

Spend the night in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs area.

Driving distance: 230 km / 140 miles

DAY 6: TROSSACHS NATIONAL PARK AND STIRLING

Today’s drive will take you back to Edinburgh. You can also choose to end your trip in Glasgow if you want to explore Scotland's largest city.

You'll want to stop by 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.

Later pass by the Kelpies, two impressive horse-head sculptures, before arriving in Linlithgow. It is best known as the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots.

Spend the night in Edinburgh.

Driving distance: 125 km / 80 miles

DAY 7: DEPARTURE FROM SCOTLAND

On your day of departure, a private driver will pick you up from your hotel to take you directly to the airport. 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.