VisitScotland

Scotland's road trips.

Visit Scotland logo

Nothing beats the freedom of exploring a new place on your own personalised road trip. Stop off where you like, see what you like and enjoy the route at your own pace – the perfect holiday!

These spectacular driving routes are all scenic alternatives to the main roads, with a range of great attractions en route. Check out our suggestions for what to see and do on each of the routes and plan your ultimate Scottish road trip.

Get started

VisitScotland have produced this information in good faith and have taken reasonable steps to confirm the accuracy. We recommend that all information is checked with the businesses prior to visiting/booking. These 13 suggested routes are intended as a guide to help you plan your Scottish road trip. Please check exact directions and traffic conditions before you begin your journey. You can find more information and advice on driving in Scotland . 

Route Planner to Avoid Traffic

  • ALL MOTORWAYS
  • Southampton
  • West Midlands
  • East Anglia
  • Central Scotland
  • ALL REGIONS
  • LISTEN LIVE

Traffic Highland

  •   Highland
  • Nearby: Alcester Stratford On Avon Charlecote Redditch Evesham Warwick

There are no current incidents or roadworks within a 20 mile radius.

Current traffic around Highland

Highland roadworks, let's get social.

Get in touch with us or stay up to date with our latest news and updates.

Follow us on Facebook

Live Email Traffic Alerts

Get live email alerts whenever there is a traffic incident or roadworks on the on the roads you travel that may cause congestion or jams.

LEGAL NOTICE

Please remember that it is against the law to use your mobile phone, tablet or any electronic device without a hands-free kit whilst driving. If you're caught by the police using any device that can send or receive data whilst driving or riding a motorcyle you'll get an automatic fixed penalty notice, 6 points on your licence and a fine of £200. A court could also disqualify you from driving.

Elsewhere on the web:

National Highways Traffic

Official source of traffic updates.

Transport for London

Transport for London's (TfL) portal for transportation in London.

Traffic Wales

The Welsh government's traffic information service for Wales.

Traffic Scotland

Live traffic conditions and news for Scotland's road network.

Advertise on Traffic Update

Advertise to millions of motorists, holidaymakers and commuters.

Owned and operated by CliqTo Ltd.

Except where otherwise noted, content and photographs on this site are licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License . Owned, operated and copyright CliqTo Ltd 2024 and Chris Haycock . Registered company number 7575287.

Radio Jingle by Oleg Fedak from Pixabay D&B Business Listing

Travel disruption

Some emergencies, like severe weather, cause disruption and delay and in extreme cases can leave you stranded.

By following Ready Scotland’s advice, you can more easily adapt and respond to disruption - you might even be able to avoid it all together. Keep yourself and those around you safe.

What Can I Do?

  • During severe weather, consider whether you need to travel right now, or if you can wait until the weather improves;
  • Check the weather forecast , and keep up to date with the latest weather warnings;
  • Think about alternative routes or modes of travel and check public transport routes ;
  • Traffic Scotland host an interactive map  which provides information on all incidents, roadworks, and travel warnings on Scotland’s major roads. You can also check on road conditions using live traffic cameras  across the country before you set off;
  • If you do decide to drive, make sure your car is ready for a journey in poor weather e.g. check your tyre pressure, treads, lights and fuel levels;
  • In winter, think about getting winter tyres  or snow socks for your vehicle;
  • Pack an emergency kit  in your car.

Emergency Kit Basic List

  • A first aid kit;
  • Battery jump leads;
  • A torch and spare batteries;
  • A map for unplanned diversions;
  • A reflective warning sign.

Emergency Kit Cold Weather Additions

  • An ice scraper and de-icer;
  • A shovel for snow;
  • Warm clothes and boots;
  • Food, and a warm drink in a flask.

Before Travelling in Poor Weather

  • If travelling by public transport, be prepared for potential disruptions with warm clothes and boots, food and a warm drink in a flask;
  • Tell someone your destination and when you expect to arrive;
  • Allow extra time for your journey;
  • Take a fully charged mobile and charger with you;
  • Carry one or more emergency contact numbers on your mobile phone or in your wallet/purse. This means emergency responders can contact people who know you, and get important medical information as quickly as possible.

During a Journey

  • Avoid flooded roads: six inches of fast-flowing water can knock over an adult and two feet of water can move a car;
  • Adapt your driving style to the conditions. Your stopping distance is increased 10x when driving in snow and ice, and doubles in wet weather, so it makes sense to slow down and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front;
  • It’s not always obvious that the road is icy. Look for clues such as ice on the pavement or on your windscreen. If your tyres are making virtually no noise on the road, it could be a sign that you’re driving on ice;
  • Don’t brake heavily in snow or ice – it will just lock your wheels and you will skid further. Consider changing to a lower gear;
  • If your vehicle loses its grip, or ‘aquaplanes’ on surface water, take your foot off the accelerator to slow down. Do not brake or steer suddenly because you’ll have no control of the steering or brakes.
  • Ensure you (and your bike) are visible to other road users by wearing bright and light reflective clothing;
  • Consider heavier duty tyres to cope with slippery surfaces and get a routine bike maintenance check;
  • Get a good set of mud guards.
  • Search British Cycling for their useful range of Ridesmart guides to help prepare for winter weather cycling.

Emergencies when overseas 

  • Emergencies can happen when you are travelling or living abroad. Some natural hazard events are more likely to occur overseas than in Scotland so is important to know what to do in emergencies that might be different from the ones you could face at home. 
  • The UK Government Prepare website has information and advice about emergencies overseas. 

Find Out More

  • Get more information about driving in bad weather  from Traffic Scotland.
  • Traffic Scotland also has real-time traffic information .
  • Call Traveline on 0871 200 2233 for information on public transport.
  • Check the latest country-specific advice and information from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.  

Stay Informed

Ready Scotland regularly publishes alerts on both Twitter and Facebook. Follow and like our pages to keep up to date wherever you are.

follow us on twitter like us on facebook

JavaScript is required for the best user experience. Without it you will experience limited functionality.

Traffic & Travel

travel scotland road watch

Traffic and travel updates, roadworks information and information on incidents and accidents across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire including the A90, A947, A96, A92, A9119, A944 and the A93

Get the latest news straight to your inbox with the Aberdeen Live newsletter

travel scotland road watch

UK Live Traffic Cameras

Showing all 520 traffic cameras

Live traffic cameras in Scotland

Upgrade to uktraffic.live PRO to unlock live traffic camera maps

Layout : Wide | Full-width

Grid : 1 column | 2 columns   | 3 columns | 4 columns | 5 columns | 6 columns

travel scotland road watch

Plan your journey

Traffic Scotland and Traveline Scotland use the latest technology to deliver up to date travel information for Scotland.

Traffic Scotland

Through the Traffic Scotland service, Transport Scotland provides a high quality public service delivering traffic information for road users on Scotland's motorway and trunk road network.

24 hour monitoring at the Traffic Scotland Control Centre

Traffic Scotland uses innovative technology to monitor the roads and deliver live updates to drivers.

Find out more on the Traffic Scotland website

24 hour Traffic Customer Care Line

Transport Scotland also provides a 24 hour Traffic Customer Care Line dedicated phone service that can be contacted by calling 0800 028 1414. 

Traveline Scotland

Traveline Scotland provides up to date public transport timetable information to get you to your destination by the quickest route.

  • a journey planner showing public transport options between any two locations in Scotland, featuring all bus, coach, rail, Glasgow Subway and ferry routes,
  • departure boards for buses and departure times for Scottish ferry terminals and Glasgow Subway stations
  • news & Notices affecting public transport services,
  • contact details for all Scottish public transport operators.

travel scotland road watch

The best Scotland road trips to take in your lifetime

I n 2023, Scotland  welcomed 3.9 million international tourists – along with millions of visitors from other parts of the UK – to experience its eclectic mix of picturesque coastline, tranquil countryside, breathtaking remote islands and rolling hills. 

The country has a vast number of sights and landmarks worth visiting, but its modest size means that it is fairly easy to explore; visitors can easily drive across it over a period of a few days, and several of its main cities are within a few hours of each other.

Driving along rugged shores, beside pristine sands and through snow-capped mountains after skirting the edges of the lochs is surely one of the best ways to see the country.

To help you plan your Scottish road trip , whether you’re looking for a short route to get a taste of the countryside or want your whole driving holiday mapped out, here are some of the best routes in the country.

Read more on UK travel :

  • The best beaches in Scotland
  • The UK’s best road trips, from the North Coast 500 to the Atlantic Highway
  • Forget Lyon, go to Preston: How Lancashire forged a sublime food scene to rival the best in France

North Coast 500

Billed as the country’s ultimate road trip, this 516-mile route contains some of Scotland’s most amazing coastal scenery, including a wealth of charming fishing villages, rugged coastline and long stretches of golden sand. It starts and ends at Inverness Castle, and runs through towns and villages such as Ullapool, John O’Groats and Dingwall over a (recommended) period of between five and seven days.

The 500 ’s destinations offer a variety of things to see and do as you cross the countryside of Inverness-shire, Sutherland and Caithness. Whisky distilleries, trout fishing, canoeing and castle visits are just some of the activities, while the unspoilt landscapes of Sandwood Bay and Smoo Cave add to a plethora of dramatic cliffs, towering mountains and nature areas such as Beinn Eighe.

South West Coastal 300

The South West Coastal 300 is a route that aims to take in the majority of one of Scotland’s less-explored regions, extending for 300 miles (as the name suggests) through Ayrshire and the Dumfries and Gallowshire region. While it is possible to start anywhere, many trips begin in the town of Dumfries, head south to the coast and then eventually on to towns including Kirkcudbright, Stranraer and Ayr.

The circuit features the mountains of the Southern Uplands, picturesque coastlines, two lowland peninsulas and the most southerly point in Scotland at the Mull of Galloway. Sandyhills and Auchencairn are two scenic bays worth visiting, while Sweetheart Abbey and Caerlaverock Castle will provide some insight into the history of the local area.

North East 250

This circular 250-mile route begins in Aberdeen , extending to the north-eastern Moray Firth coast and as far south as the Cairngorms National Park. It mixes quaint towns and villages with the stunning countryside and shore of Aberdeenshire and Moray Speyside, offering plenty of opportunities to discover the region’s history, culture and traditions.

Notable stops include several castles (Balmoral and Ballindalloch), the coastal villages of Pennan and Portknockie, and the Royal Deeside area near the Grampian Mountains. While the hills and countryside of the Cairngorms may threaten to steal the show, the mixture of ragged rocks and fine sands on the beaches of the East and Moray Firth coasts is not to be missed.

The A82 itself is a major Scottish road running from Glasgow to Inverness, crossing the Highland Boundary Fault via the town of Fort William (which is also the gateway to Ben Nevis). The full 167-mile road takes in two of the country’s main cities while also running along several of its most important landmarks; however, many people choose shorter routes, such as Glasgow to Glencoe or Oban.

Nevertheless, if you want the full A82 experience, then the entire journey to Inverness is recommended. Known as one of Scotland’s most scenic drives, it passes through sites including Rannoch Moor, Glen Coe and both Loch Ness and Loch Lomond, where you can witness some of the most spectacular natural beauty in the country. Some may be tempted to factor in a climb of Ben Nevis or a dip in Loch Lomond, while others might want to stick to the castles and distilleries that you’ll pass.

Argyll Coastal Route

While this route may sound similar to the aforementioned A82 – it starts in Glasgow and ends in Fort William – it is a winding journey that goes west from Tarbet to Inverary and then south to Lochgilphead, before reaching Oban and carrying on up the coast (you can join the A82 from Fort William if you’d like to carry on to Inverness). This trip also includes views of Loch Lomond (An Ceann Mor is the best vantage point), the volcanic landscapes of Glen Coe and the towering Ben Nevis, but you’ll find differences as you explore the areas around Oban, Inverary and the rest of the coast.

Inverary Castle and the town’s jail will be the first notable sites on the trip; combined with the Auchindrain and Kilmartin museums, they’ll give insight into the history of the area. The Neptune’s Staircase lock flight – comprising eight locks on the Caledonian Canal – is one of the country’s quirkier tourist attractions, while Harry Potter fans can visit the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Isle of Skye

This isle is connected to the country’s northwest coast by the Skye Bridge, but can also be accessed via ferry from Mallaig. The roughly 300-mile round trip enters via the bridge (passing Eilean Donan Castle), taking you on a trip where you’ll be constantly surrounded by crystal-clear seas, towering peaks, craggy coast and a variety of natural phenomena, including sea stacks and jagged rock pikes.

While there are a number of historical sites – such as Dunvegan Castle – and idyllic towns like Portree, most of the must-see destinations on this circuit revolve around the isle’s natural beauty. The beaches of Claigan Coral and Talisker are good spots for swimming and water sports, while Fairy Pools offer wild swimming opportunities and a waterfall; the Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing and Neist Point are some of the mountainous wonders.

Borders Historic Route

This is the only tourist route that begins outside of Scotland, starting near Carlisle before crossing over into the lush greenery of the Scottish Borders. This relatively short trip is an 88-mile journey to Edinburgh that focuses on the region’s history, with stops at Gretna Green, Gilnockie Tower, Borders Textile Towerhouse and the National Mining Museum, before ending at one of the country’s most famous landmarks, Edinburgh Castle.

As well as learning about the textile industry and seeing a working coal mine, you’ll have the opportunity to sample the goods of a local brewery, walk and cycle in Dalkeith Country Park, and witness glassblowers and tartan weavers at Lindean Mill and Lochcarron of Scotland, respectively.

Launched in 2021, the Kintyre 66 is a trip that takes you through the farms, distilleries and seafood smokehouses of Kintyre, a 30-mile peninsula off the coast of Ayr. This is a route for those who value peace, serenity, quiet roads and the great outdoors; the largest town in the area, Campbeltown, has a population of less than 5,000.

Its 66 miles are replete with stretches of beach, areas of turquoise waters and sweeping views of the coast and country, and while there are some landmarks – such as the Mull of Kintyre Lighthouse and Skipness Castle – it’s the shoreline that is the real draw here. Sandell Bay, Carradale Bay and Torrisdale Bay are among the most pristine, while those who have more time may want to visit the nearby island of Gigha (a 20-minute ferry from Tarbert will take you there to experience the charming village of Ardminish and the ragged, craggy beaches and turquoise waters).

Read more: Best luxury hotels in Scotland – where to stay for style and scenery

The Independent is the world’s most free-thinking news brand, providing global news, commentary and analysis for the independently-minded. We have grown a huge, global readership of independently minded individuals, who value our trusted voice and commitment to positive change. Our mission, making change happen, has never been as important as it is today.

iStock-1254867475.jpg

Manhattanite

How To Plan An Epic Scotland Road Trip (Map, Itinerary + Tips)

Sheep seen on a Scotland Road trip

A detailed guide to help you plan an amazing Scotland road trip – including a map, 8 day itinerary, a free travel planner and a ton of helpful tips!

Have a dream of going on a Scotland road trip but have no idea where to start? In this comprehensive guide I will walk you through all of the important things you need to know to plan the best Scotland road trip. Let me help you figure out what to prepare, where to go, how to drive, what to see, things to do and what to pack! Also included is my Scotland road trip map and 8 day itinerary.

Doing a Scotland road trip was one of the most incredible experiences of my life, I’m not even exaggerating  a little . This experience is one for the bucket lists, so if you’re even the slightest intrigued – DO IT. I promise you won’t regret it. Its about time you explore Glasgow , Edinburgh and the Scottish highlands on the most epic Scotland road trip of your life.

Now, keep reading for my best tips on making your Scotland road trip the best one ever!

Table Of Contents

What to prepare for a scotland road trip, what to pack for a scotland road trip.

  • Tips On Driving In Scotland

Free Printable Scotland Road Trip Planner

  • DAY 1-2: Glasgow
  • DAY 3: Highlands Part I (The West)
  • DAY 4: Highlands Part II (Isle of Skye)
  • DAY 5: Highlands Part III (Loch Ness & Beyond)
  • DAY 6-8: Edinburgh

travel scotland road watch

This post contains affiliate links

Planning a Scotland road trip might seem overwhelming at first, but don’t worry. Let me break it all down for you and show you what and what to prepare for a Scotland road trip.

1. Research & Plan In Advance

There are an unlimited amount of beautiful things to see and do on a Scotland road trip, especially through the Scottish Highlands. Although driving around the highlands with no plan in mind sounds very zen, it’s not the best idea if your travel time or money is in any way limited – as it is for most people. The distances are big, and if you want to spend your time smart on your Scotland road trip you should have a plan.

Do proper research and figure out what things you and your travel companions want to prioritize, and plot it all into Google Maps. Play around with different driving routes and see what you can make time for on your Scotland road trip. Try not to stress, you’re already halfway there by reading this guide.

2. Rent A Car

Unless you’re doing a tour that includes transportation, getting around the outer parts of Scotland is hard without renting a car. There is honestly no way around it: Rent that car. As they may literally run out of cars, I recommend booking a rental car in advance, especially during peak season. I suggest making sure you’re booking one without a stick shift if you’re not used to it from before. Driving on narrow Scottish roads and on the left might be enough for most people, you shouldn’t have to worry about learning to clutch on top of it all.

3. Schedule In Extra Time

… in case something happens. You may get ill, have an accident of some sort, or your car may break down. Our itinerary was pretty full, but we were always within reach of our final destination (driving time wise). We also had an extra buffer since we were planning on s few days in Edinburgh before flying home. You should also get travel insurance , for the same reasons.

4. Book Accommodation In Advance

Although Scotland is a popular destination to visit, accommodation is still limited in the rural areas and I recommend you always book in advance. Not only to make sure you actually have a bed to sleep in, but for your wallets sake as well. It can get very expensive. With websites like Booking.com you can get free cancellation on a bunch of places, which makes it easy to change your mind and book another place if your plans change.

5. Take Prints & Prep Your Phone

Cell service can be very unstable in certain parts of the highlands. Even though there are hotels and restaurants with wifi every now and then, do yourself a favor and do some prep work instead of stressing with getting wifi every time you stop your car. Get prints or screenshots of your driving route, important addresses, hotel names & numbers, nearby restaurants, etc. I also recommend creating a travel map on Google Maps and downloading it on your phone so you can use it offline – game changer! You should also download some playlists on Spotify for the drive.

White car driving on a Scotland Road Trip

Deciding on what to pack for a Scotland road trip can be tricky. The content of your packing list will obviously vary with what season you’re traveling in and what activities you’ll be doing. I’ll leave the detailed packing list up to you, but here are some general tips on what to pack for a Scotland road trip to get you started:

  • Pack a selection of everyday outfits depending on season, preferably layers. Beware that similar to Norway and Ireland, the temperatures in Scotland vary a lot even in summer. So make sure to bring some warm layers like a neutral wool cardigan or knitted sweater you can wear over most outfits. Comfort is key for driving and experiencing the highlands, but I would also include a few nicer outfits for city life in Glasgow and Edinburgh .
  • Bring sportswear like tights and t-shirts if you’re hiking or doing other outdoor activities during summer. Hiking The Old Man of Storr we saw a young woman wearing a dress and the highest wedges I’ve ever seen.. Needless to say, she didn’t get far.
  • A waterproof jacket is a must in all seasons. I brought my favorite yellow raincoat, but although it looks cure in pictures it wasn’t ideal for active days. The lack of ventilation made it unsuitable for hiking, so if I suggest you learn from my mistakes and bring a jacket in a more breathable and windproof material if you’re planning on being active like us. The Arc’teryx Beta SL Hybrid Jacket is a great option. If you’re traveling during winter you should consider bringing a warm parka as well, like the Fjällräven Barents Parka which is both wind- and waterproof.
  • Comfortable outdoor trousers is also practical for outdoor activities. An elastic pair like the Fjällräven Abisko Trekking Tights are great for the warmer months, while the Fjällräven Vidda Pro Trousers are better for the colder months.
  • Gloves, a scarf and a warm hat are a must for the colder seasons.
  • Bring wool thermals in the colder months, or if its a cold summer.
  • I recommend packing one pair of sneakers or other comfortable shoes that go with most of your outfits. The kind you would wear on a regular basis back home.
  • If you like to dress up when in the city you can consider packing one fancier pair, but you could always just use your sneakers for that too.
  • Pack one pair of hiking shoes depending on season, weather conditions and your personal preferences. Preferably ones in a breathable and waterproof material, and with a good grip. I know a lot of people prefer hiking boots due to their ankle support, like  these waterproof Timberland boots . I personally find hiking boots bulky and heavy to wear and if you’re anything like me I recommend trying lighter shoes, like these waterproof  Salomon X Ultra hiking shoes  with Gore-Tex.
  • Consider bringing warm boots if you’re visiting Scotland in winter. It can be a real struggle to find winter boots which are both warm, waterproof  and  stylish. The nicest ones I’ve found so far are the Timberland Jayne Waterproof Boots and the Timberland Jayne Waterproof Teddy Fleece Boots .

Electronics & Misc.

  • Don’t forget to pack a durable and travel sized umbrella. I mean, it’s Scotland after all.
  • A powerful  Powerbank  is a must for charging your devices on the move.
  • A power adapter for UK outlets is always clever to pack.
  • Bring a reusable bottle for the road trip and your hiking adventures. Or even better, a Camelbak – my personal favorite hydration system. (PS: The tap water in Scotland is safe to drink).
  • A daypack for hiking and day trips is a must. The ever-faithful Fjällräven Kånken  will do on day trips, but for hiking I suggest you get a more comfortable daypack like the Osprey Daylite Plus . Especially if you’re bringing heavy camera equipment. Don’t forget to pack a rain cover !
  • A camera with extra batteries and memory cards. I recommend a light travel camera with interchangeable lenses and the option of shooting in RAW. My favorite is the  Sony a6500  camera with the  30mm 1.4 lens  for portraits and detail shots, and the  16mm 1.4 lens  for landscapes.
  • Waterproof  dry bags  are great to pack in any season to protect clothes, electronics and other items. A must if you’re bringing camera equipment while hiking in the rain.

Also Read: How To Avoid Overpacking

6 Tips For Driving In Scotland

When our Scotland road trip was getting closer, I remember becoming more and more anxious about how I would handle driving in Scotland. Every travel blog I read warned me about narrow roads and low cell service, but none of that sounded unfamiliar to me. One of the perks of growing up in northern Norway, I guess? But the one thing that stressed the hell out of me about driving in Scotland was the fact that I knew I had to drive on the left. Sounds familiar? Keep reading for my best tips on how to succeed when driving in Scotland.

1. Don’t Stress About Driving On The Left

I’ll admit, driving on the left side was super weird at first. But I swear you get used to it pretty fast! I suggest doing a practice drive when picking up the rental car, it helps a lot. The thing is that the cars are adapted for driving on the left, so as a driver you’ll sit on the right and use your left hand to change the gear. In other words, everything is opposite ‘your normal’, making the process surprisingly logical. (The exception is the pedals, which are located in the same place as you’re used to). Focus a little extra when you have to make a right turn and in roundabouts, and you’ll be fine.

2. Be Attentive Of Your Surroundings

Remember to always be attentive of your surroundings when driving in Scotland. Keep in mind that the weather can change suddenly, and be aware of possible wildlife (I almost hit a deer, eeek). And whatever you do, do NOT hit the breaks and stop for photos in the middle of the road. You should also let other cars pass if you drive slowly.

3. Use The Passing Places

The roads are narrow in the Scottish highlands, which is part of its charm. Wherever the road get sparticularly narrow you’ll see designated passing places (see photo above). Make sure to use them if you meet a car on a narrow road. The general rule of thumb is that whoever is closest to a passing place stops and wait for the other car to pass. If someone stops for you, it’s polite to give them a little wave or turn on the emergency button for a few seconds as a sign of gratitude.

4. Stock Up On Gas & Food

Gas stations and other service stops are few and far between, especially in rural areas like the Isle of Skye. Keep an extra eye on your gas tank indicator and stop to refill waaay before you need to. It might be helpful to mark gas stations off in your offline maps as well. Also make sure you use the correct fuel. For the same reason I also highly recommend you stock up on food, snacks and drinks for the drive. Trust me, running out of food and drinks while driving in a foreign country is no fun at all.

5. Laws & Signs You Should Know About

Laws and signs in Scotland are similar to the ones you’ll find all over Europe. I recommend you have a look here if you’re not used to European or UK signs, it can be quite helpful. Unlike most of Europe, the UK operates with miles instead of kilometers and all speed limits are stated in miles per hour (mph). The speed limit is usually 30 mph (48 km/h) unless signs show otherwise, normally in built-up areas. The limit often increases to 60 or 70 mph once you get out of built-up areas and/or hit larger roads. You should also note that Scotland has a zero tolerance for drinking & driving.

6. Get Insured

In addition to your regular travel insurance, make sure your rental car is insured in the best possible way. I know car rental companies make some serious bucks on this, but for us it was worth it to not worry. Imagine your car breaking down in the highlands. Not only will it get expensive getting it towed and renting a new car, but your plans & schedule will take the hardest hit. NOT worth it. We paid extra so that in case out car broke down in the middle of nowhere, not only would someone pick us up and tow the car – they’d also bring us a new rental car so that we could continue with our road trip! Although this didn’t happen to us, it was still worth every penny. 

Car driving on a Scotland Road Trip

Places To See – Our 8 Day Scotland Road Trip Itinerary

Since we only 8 days to spend we wanted our Scotland road trip to be as efficient as possible, although without stressing around too much. There were so many places in Scotland we wanted to see, and in order to find a realistic driving route we could all be happy with, we adding everything from our wish list into Google Maps.

First, we set aside a few days each in our first and last locations, Glasgow and Edinburgh. We scheduled in an extra day in Edinburgh since we figured we’d be tired from all the driving in the highlands (we were right about that part), and as a precaution in case something were to happen during our trip (it didn’t, but it was still worth it). Second, we played around with different driving routes, while checking suitable accommodation options, until we found the perfect compromise:

DAY 1-2: Glasgow DAY 3: Highlands Part I – Doune Castle – Loch Lomond – Glencoe – Eilean Donan Castle DAY 4: Highlands Part II – Isle of Skye – Sligachan – Old Man of Storr – Kilt Rock Viewpoint – Fairy Glen – Neist Point Lighthouse – Loch Ness DAY 5: Highlands Part III – Loch Ness – Urquhart Castle – Inverness – Culloden Battlefield – Midhope Castle DAY 6-8: Edinburgh

Our 8 day Scotland road trip itinerary might be a bit hectic for some people, and I’ll admit, it were three eventful days. But it was AMAZING and I wouldn’t change this adventure for the world. We personally like this way of travel, and although we would all love more time in Scotland it wasn’t possible at this time. Our Scotland road trip itinerary never seemed rushed and we took our time at every stop along the way. If you want a more relaxed trip and have more time on your hands, you could also easily do this road trip in 4 or more days. Heck, not even a month would be enough!

Our 8 Day Scotland Road Trip Itinerary

CLICK TO SEE MY SCOTLAND ROAD TRIP ITINERARY MAP

SCOTLAND ROAD TRIP DAY 1-2: GLASGOW

As mentioned previously, our Scotland road trip adventure started with two days in Glasgow. It rained pretty much the entire time, but it didn’t matter – we still loved every second of it. Impressive street art, delicious food, fun pubs, gorgeous architecture, lovely locals? Check x 6. So if you’re even considering skipping Glasgow on your Scotland trip, just cancel those plans right now.

Read: A Complete Guide To Glasgow

travel scotland road watch

SCOTLAND ROAD TRIP DAY 3: THE HIGHLANDS PART I

371 km | 5 hours, 21 minutes

Our alarms went off at 5AM our first day of the road trip. We went straight to the airport to pick up our rental car and by 7 AM we were already on our way to our first stop: Doune Castle. The first part of the drive was mainly highways, which don’t even exist in arctic Norway, so I’m sure even martians could hear the sighs of relief coming from Anette and I when native Detroiter Samantha volunteered to drive first. THANK YOU. Sam did great and the drive went surprisingly fast.

travel scotland road watch

DOUNE CASTLE (A.K.A. WINTERFELL & CASTLE LEOCH)

We stopped at Blair Drummond Smiddy Farm Shop for a quick breakfast and some much needed coffee before heading to Doune Castle. Smiddy’s is this adorable café, butchery and farm shop all in one, and their selection of local produce and specialties from Scotland were great. The perfect place to enjoy a meal and get some souvenirs. A couple of minutes more on the road and we arrived Doune Castle. We were so excited – our very first Scottish castle experience!

Doune Castle may look familiar. It’s a famous castle in Scotland that’s been a popular filming location throughout the years. Most people might recognize it as Winterfell from the first season of Game of Thrones, or as Castle Leoch in Outlander. Monty Python and The Holy Grail was also filmed here. In reality, the castle was built as the home of Regent Albany in the 14th century. In other words, there is a lot of interesting history to take in while walking in the footsteps of both fictional and real rulers.

Since we were there when they opened it thankfully wasn’t too crowded. Included in the entrance ticket is an audio tour, which was a very comfortable way of learning about the castle since you get to walk around at your own pace. The audio tour helps you imagine how life must have been like back in medieval times. It was an added bonus that the tour was narrated by Outlander’s own Sam Heughan (aka Jamie Fraser). He must have the most comfortable voice in history. It didn’t take long until the castle started to get crowded, however, so I recommend getting there early in the morning to avoid the worst. Visit their official website for updated prices and opening hours.

Scotland Road Trip - Doune Castle, known from Outlander and Game of Thrones

LOCH LOMOND & THE TROSSACHS

From Doune we continued driving northwest towards Glencoe. It was my turn to drive and I was grateful our highway days were over and the huge roads were replaced with narrow, rural ones instead. It was just like driving back home in northern Norway. You know, except the part about driving on the left side and nearly peeing in my pants the first few miles. It was the fun type of challenging though, and I quickly adapted to the UK style of driving.

We shortly entered the outer parts of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park and the nature was simply gorgeous. This was our first real encounter with the Scottish nature and we were shocked by how green and lush everything looked. It was a bit foggy but that only made the experience more magical. We pulled over by Loch Lubnaig to stretch our legs and it was so peaceful sitting by the water in complete silence. I wouldn’t mind seeing more of the national park, all the locals we talked to in Glasgow recommended it wholeheartedly.

Scotland Road Trip - Loch Lomond

After another hour in our cute little Ford, the beauty of Glencoe started to reveal itself. It was pouring rain, a little foggy, but we could still see the mountains and hilltops surrounding us. We couldn’t get over how green everything was! It sounds weird but it was like a different kind of green than we’ve ever seen while traveling. My favorite sights in Glencoe were The Three Sisters and the Skyfall location and I still get goosebumps whenever I think about those places. Once in a while, the sunlight would shine through the heavy clouds and turn the lush green a bit more yellow, before suddenly disappearing.. Leaving everything green and moody again. It felt a bit like magic.

We continued driving until we reached Glencoe Village, where we stopped to grab dinner at Glencoe Gathering . Their food was good and it was next door to cozy Glencoe Inn , which seemed like a great place to stay. The three of us all fell in love with Glencoe in our short stay, and if we had more time this is definitely a place we would spend a few days. There is so much to do in and around Glencoe, making it the perfect hub. We would love to hike The Three Sisters or even Ben Nevis – the highest mountain in the British Isles. Glencoe is a short drive form Fort William and the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct from Harry Potter. You can even catch the Jacobite train, aka the Hogwarts Express! I’m definitely spending more time in Glencoe on my next Scotland trip, preferably staying at lovely Glencoe House – it looks incredible.

Scotland Road Trip - Stop by Glencoe

EILEAN DONAN CASTLE

Our drive continued a few hours until we arrived Eilean Donan Castle . This is one of the most famous castles in the highlands and have been featured in movies like James Bond – The World is Not Enough , Highlander , Elizabeth: The Golden Age , Made of Honor , and many more. Since we got there quite late in the afternoon we almost got the entire place all to ourselves. The only people around were a couple of newlyweds having a photo shoot by the loch, and another couple from Spain who we randomly ran into while hiking the following day (small world, huh). The 13th century castle was such a beauty and we had a lot of fun walking around exploring the area and learning about it’s vivid history .

Since we got there after opening hours we didn’t get the chance to see the inside of the castle or visit the gift shop & café, so make sure you check their opening hours before visiting. We still enjoyed it a lot though, so I would still recommend stopping by even if it’s after they close. The little island the castle is located will be open regardless of their hours, so it’s still a fun experience.

Scotland Road Trip - Eilean Donan Castle

TIP: From Eiliean Donan Castle we drove directly to our hostel in Sligachan on the Isle of Skye, since we wanted to begin our hike to The Old Man of Storr early the next morning. It is also possible to find accommodation a bit closer to Eilean Donan Castle, like in Broadford on the Isle of Skye. Broadford is larger and has a larger selection of places to eat and places to sleep , which is perfect after a long day of driving and exploring.

SCOTLAND ROAD TRIP DAY 4: HIGHLANDS PART II (Isle Of Skye)

314 km | 5 hours, 25 minutes

travel scotland road watch

Day 2 of our roadtrip we woke up in Sligachan on the Isle of Skye. We stayed at Sligachan Bunkhouse which was right up our alley: Nothing fancy, you get a room with clean beds and shared bathrooms. But that was literally all we needed. The hostel has common areas which makes it social for those who would like to make new friends, and there is a kitchen on site as well.

The bunkhouse is located next to Sligachan Hotel , which has both a restaurant and bar, so we went there to enjoy a Scottish breakfast before heading out. The food was delicious, and they have a good selection og fluten free, vegetarian and vegan options. Sligachan Old Bridge and various hiking routes are right outside their doorstep, and the ultimate whisky legend Talisker Distillery is only 8 miles from the hotel. I would definitely stay here next time I’m in Sligachan.

Scotland Road Trip - Sligachan

TIP: If you would like to stay in an area of Skye with more dining options and things to do, you should consider Portree . Such a beautiful village! Broadford , as I mentioned previously, is also a great option.

THE OLD MAN OF STORR

Starting in Sligachan, we drove north on the beautiful Isle of Skye, enjoying the wonderful view until we reached the Old Man of Storr car park after about 30 minutes behind the wheel. There were a ton of parking spaces there, which indicates how popular this hike really is. We instantly recognized the magnificent rock formations that Storr is known for from the car park and it was very easy to spot the trail. The main trail quickly spreads into a large number of different pathways you can choose from, so we never felt like we were walking in a queue despite crowds growing with every hour.

The hike was incredible, and the rain and clouds didn’t hurt. Frankly, they set the perfect moody tone Scotland does better than any other place. We walked around exploring for hours, enjoying ourselves completely. The hike isn’t too hard and it should be within reach for people in any shape – just take your time if it gets hard. You can do it. Remember to bring water and some snacks or food if you plan on spending some time up there like us.

Wear suitable clothes for the weather and maybe bring an extra shift so that you can change at the top if you get sweaty, as it can get quite windy up there. Unless it’s super slippery there isn’t necessary to bring hiking boots for this trip in our opinion, if you have sneakers with a good grip you should be fine. However, if you’re an inexperienced hiker it might be a good idea to wear hiking boots for extra balance and grip. We ran into a few people that couldn’t make it up there due to wearing high heels, so please be smarter haha.

Scotland road trip - Ole man of storr hike

KILT ROCK VIEWPOINT

After our hike we continued driving north until we arrived Kilt Rock Viewpoint. From this observation point you get to see two major sights on the Isle of Skye: Beautiful Mealt waterfall and Kilt Rock (a rock that resemble a kilt). There were a lot of other tourists there when we visited so we didn’t stay long, but it was a wonderful sight nonetheless. Ohh and there was a man in a kilt playing the bagpipe when we were there, which was fun.

A short drive from the viewpoint we reached Staffin, a community with some restaurants and accommodation options. We were pretty hungry from our adventurous day, so we stopped at the first place we saw that served food. Turns out we got lucky – Columba 1400 is number one on TripAdvisor in this area. They had good and filling food, highly recommended after an active day outdoors.

travel scotland road watch

TIP: There is a lot more to see & do in this area. For instance, you can check out real dinosaur foot prints not far from Kilt Rock Viewpoint (as long as you time it with the tide, which we did not). The Quiaraing , a popular hiking destination, is also in this area.

THE FAIRY GLEN | CASTLE EWAN

After dinner we continued driving north towards Uig. Although you can reach Uig by driving through The Quiaraing, we continued driving the A855 around the top of Isle of Skye. Although I hear the Quiaraing is supposed to be breathtaking, the drive around was insaaane as well. There’s just something about the rock formations by the Scottish coast, it’s so beautiful.

Once we reached the western side of Isle of Skye we headed towards The Fairy Glen – a strange and unique landscape in the middle of nowhere. It’s hard to explain exactly what it is. I would say it’s like a miniature Scotland within one area; you’ve got lush green grass, sheep, a glen, and loads of tiny hills you can climb and trails you can follow. We walked around there for an hour or so, climbing Castle Ewan (the most popular little top) and it was a really lovely place to visit. There weren’t too many other visitors at the time, but I hear it can get very busy at times. Maybe we did something right by arriving in late afternoon? Who knows.

Scotland Road Trip Fairy Glen & Castle Ewan

NEIST POINT LIGHTHOUSE

After The Fairy Glen we continued further west on Skye until we arrived Neist Point Lighthouse. In addition to The Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse is probably the Scottish landmark I’ve seen the most on Instagram . And I completely get why. The landscape is incredible with it’s dramatic cliffs rising straight from the wavy turquoise ocean, with an iconic lighthouse at the very outer cliff. There is also loads of adorable sheep running around eating and playing.. YOU GUYS THERE WERE SO MANY CUTE SHEEP!

It’s approximately a 15 minute walk from the parking area to the lighthouse, but with all the wonderful sights around I can almost guarantee the walk will take a larger toll on your schedule. Be aware that there is a steep staircase down the first part of the trail, which can be a challenge for people with walking disabilities, FYI. You can still see quite a lot from ‘above’, though!

Although I wish we got to experience more of the western part of Skye, we had to drive straight to our hostel by Loch Ness after visiting Neist Point Lighthouse. But before we left Skye we had the most amaazing drive in the sunset along the B884 road towards Sligachan. I can’t even begin to describe how beautiful it was! The perfect end to our Isle of Skye visit.

travel scotland road watch

TIP: The western part of Skye has a lot more to offer than we had time for, like loads of amazing nature and lovely villages. If you have more time than us you should consider visiting Dunvegan Castle & Gardens which looks amazing! Or the The Talisker Distillery which is also located here.

SCOTLAND ROAD TRIP DAY 5: HIGHLANDS PART III (Loch Ness & Beyond)

308 km | 4 hours, 11 minutes

travel scotland road watch

LOCH NESS & URQUHART CASTLE

Loch Ness was literally the first thing I saw when I opened my eyes the morning of day five. I had to enjoy the view for a while, try to take it all in. We stayed at The Lochside Hostel , which is the perfect option if you’re on a budget or if you want to socialize with other travelers on your trip. The common areas were super cozy, and you can even take a swim in Loch Ness if you want – the Lochside has it’s private beach. If you value more comfort and privacy, the Tigh Na Bruach B&B might be a better fit for you.

A short drive from our hostel was Urquhart Castle; One of Scotland’s largest castles once upon a time. It served as a medieval fortress for 500 years and played a vital role in many conflicts during this time . The government troops blew up the castle at the end of the Jacobite Risings, and only Urquhart’s ruins remains. The castle is still a beautiful sight, especially since it’s marvellous location – overlooking the Loch Ness. You have to purchase a ticket to enjoy the castle up close, but it is really worth every cent. The gift shop was also really cool! It’s a very popular destination so I recommend arriving slightly before they open to hopefully avoid the worst crowds.

If you want to really experience Loch Ness up close I suggest you take a cruise for the very best view of the loch and the castle. Who knows, maybe you’ll get to see Nessie? You can also combine a Loch Ness cruise with a visit to Urquhart Castle – the perfect combo.

Scotland Road Trip - Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle

From Urquhart Castle it only took us roughly 30 minutes in our tiny Ford to get to Inverness. It was the most charming town we’d seen in ages so we spent most of our day here exploring and wandering the lovely streets of the town.

Our first stop was Leakey’s Second-hand Bookshop in Church Street. Oh my gosh, I can’t even begin to describe how much we loved this place. The bookshop is enormous and is located in an old church, creating a special atmosphere not only book lovers like ourselves will appreciate. We browsed around and hung out in their comfortable couch before buying a few ones each. Worth a visit, even if you just want to have a quick look. Inverness has plenty of other stores too; something for everyone for sure.

Inverness also has a castle and we got a great view of it while crossing Ness Bridge, towards Columba Hotel. If you want the best view of River Ness and the town from above, you can visit Inverness Castle Viewpoint right by the castle. Check out The Castle Tavern for food when you’re in the area. We enjoyed some coffee and dessert at SO COCO , but they recently closed permanently, what a shame.

Scotland road trip - Inverness

CULLODEN BATTLEFIELD

It’s impossible to visit Scotland without learning a little about the dark and interesting history of this beautiful country. One of the most important battles of Scottish history took place at Culloden Moor, a mere 20 minute drive outside of Inverness. The Battle of Culloden took place on April 16th 1746 and was the final confrontation of the Jacobite rising. Although the battle only lasted one hour, it was a violent and bloody one, leaving 1,500 – 2,000 Jacobites wounded or dead. The conflict was the end of the Jacobite rising, leaving Great Britain with the power, and was actually the last pitched battle that was fought on British soil.

Honestly, I probably would never have visited Culloden Battlefield if it wasn’t for Outlander’s role in making me interested in the history of Scotland. And I’m very grateful it did, because the history is really interesting. The battlefield itself is free of charge to visit, but if you want to put what you see into context there is an award winning visitor centre with both a museum, café and a shop at the grounds too. Tickets are only £11 and they include an audio tour (available in six languages).

travel scotland road watch

TIP: We drove the A9 south from Culloden Battlefield towards Edinburgh, following the outer parts of Cairngorms National Park . And it was such a wonderful area! I recommend you explore more of this park if you have the chance.

MIDHOPE CASTLE (A.K.A. “LALLYBROCH”)

Any Outlander fans who regognize this castle?? That’s right, it’s Lallybroch! When we saw it was only a 40 minute drive from Edinburgh we had to stop by before returning our rental car in Edinburgh. It was late afternoon and we got the entire place to ourselves. It felt so surreal walking around the property with no one else around.

From Midhope Castle it’s only a 15 minute drive to Blackness Castle, another Outlander location. This 15th century fortress was used to represent Fort William in Outlander (remember where Jamie was punished by Black Jack Randall in season one?). 

It’s definitely possible to visit these Outlander locations without renting a car, but it’s significantly cheaper to book a tour than to order a taxi between the locations (and to/from Glasgow or Edinburgh). This one day tour offers visits to both Midhope Castle, Blackness Castle, Doune Castle (mentioned earlier in this post) and a few more. The price is really good, too! 

Scotland road trip - Midhope Castle aka Lallybroch

SCOTLAND ROAD TRIP DAY 6-8: EDINBURGH

After three amazing days on the road we returned our rental car and replaced nature life with city life in Edinburgh. We spent three lovely days here sightseeing, shopping, enjoying ourselves in wonderful Edinburgh before heading home. The city of Edinburgh was very different from Glasgow, and it was charming in a completely different way. There were a lot of beautiful buildings and fun things to do, and we truly enjoyed it. A perfect way to end our Scotland road trip adventure!

Read: The Ultimate Guide To Edinburgh

Scotland Road Trip - Edinburgh Castle

Pin For Later.

AAAAH what an epic trip we had!! Thank you, Scotland. I hope you found this Scotland road trip guide helpful, and that you’ll trip will be just as amazing as ours were. Don’t forget to enjoy the scenery while driving!

travel scotland road watch

Other Posts You Might Enjoy

Enjoyed this Scotland road trip map & itinerary guide? Here are some other posts you might enjoy as well:

Fun Things To Do In Glasgow, Scotland A Perfect Weekend In Edinburgh – Itinerary Ideas Magical Things To Do In Dublin At Christmas How To Spend A Perfect Weekend In Manchester, England

Psst! Have you read these posts?

How to book cheap flights, a local’s guide to bodø, norway, a perfect weekend in edinburgh: itinerary ideas, 10 reasons why you must visit hamarøy on your norway …, 63 comments.

' src=

Great detailed post for anyone planning a trip to Scotland. I lived in Scotland for close to three years and broke up my highlands visits into 4 trips over that time. I think the highlands are magical, I particularly love Glencoe and Isle of Skye. Definitely saving this one!

' src=

Thank you so much, Dee! Living in Scotland for 3 years sounds like a dream come true!

' src=

I’ve been obsessed with the Scottish Highlands as long as I can remember! The castles are a DREAM and I also love all the sheep haha. And your photos are STUNNING. Need to plan a trip back there ASAP…

Yaaay another sheep lover! 😁🐑 hahah. Thank you so much Kelsey, I truly recommend this trip, not to be missed ✈️ Hope you get to visit Scotland soon 🌼

' src=

Love your sheep obsession 😉 I really love sheep as well. Thank you for all these great tips. You’ve seen so many things in three days! We always love to take our time while traveling, but of course, if you don’t have much time you can see so many things if you just plan it out. I’m extra excited to make it to Scotland one day!

Thank you, Roxanne! And I’m glad to hear I’m not the only traveler with a sheep obsession hahah 😂🙈

Yeah I like to take my time while traveling as well, but with school & work it’s not always easy and I sometimes choose to take advantage of every minute ☺️ Really glad we did that on this trip as we got to see so much. The next trip was way more chill though 😄 I love the balance! Thanks for stopping by ❤️

' src=

Great post, very descriptive and your photos are stunning! Love all the fluffy sheep ❤️ I went trekking in the Scottish Highlands while back and even though it was raining and moody most of the time it was one of my favorite holidays. Thank you for reminding me!

Thank you so much, Helena! Yes the sheep are so darn cute 😍 Sounds like you had an amazing trip to Scotland too. I found the moodiness an added bonus really, it wouldn’t feel as ‘authentic’ if it was sunny the entire week in Scotland 😄

' src=

I am just in the process of planning my trip to Scotland, so glad to come across this post. I loved all the details you have mentioned, made it so easy to plan my trip! Thank you

That’s great, fun to hear its helpful! Hope you’lk have an amazing trip 😄❤️

' src=

I need to go back. I’ve only been into the highlands once and didn’t have nearly enough time there. I love Scotland and grew up right on the border but on the England side. Your pics inspired me to want to visit again, hopefully soon

Awe I hope you get to go back asap 😍 such a beautiful place

I want to cry because I want to go here so bad! Your photos look incredible and I’m loving all the nature. This is literally my dream place! Looks like you visited the best spots.

I think that is the nicest compliment I’ve ever heard! Thank you so much 😌🌼 it’s even prettier in person, hope you get to go soon!

' src=

I’ve been wanting to visit Scotland for the longest time! This area seems amazing. I really love all your photos :D. Thank you for sharing this post 😀

Thank you! It’s even more beautiful in real life 😍

' src=

My hubby and I want to do a road trip in Scottland in 2020 or 2010, I thought this post was very helpful in giving me some idea of what to look forward to!

Thats great, hope you get a great trip 😄😄

' src=

I love your blog! I cant wait to visit Scotland–its my #1 bucket list “to-do”

Thank you so much! Scotland was incredible, you’re gonna have such an amazing time!

' src=

Your pictures were amazing, my boyfriend and I are planning a trip to Scotland in March and I would love to know the camera and lens you shot these photos with?

Thank you so much Kaila! Most of these were taken with my Canon 6D camera and a Tamron 24-70mm f2.8 in RAW. Edited with my own presets in Lightroom 😊☺️

You’re gonna have so much fun! What are you planning on seeing? 😄

' src=

Oh Scotland! My dream location. I had a trip booked and had to cancel it due to illness. Need a redo stat! Loooove your photos! So dreamy!

Thank you so much 😄 ohh I’m so sorry you had to cancel, hope you get to go soon ☺️ it was an incredible trip, will never forget it!

' src=

Hey Tina! Great article and your photography is gorgeous. I recently came back from Scotland where I opted to do a tour because I was nervous about driving on the other side of the road. Some of the roads in the Isle of Skye seemed damn near impossible. Did you ever get in trouble over there? I really want to go back and explore at my own pace but the driving looks super iffy. Thanks so much,

Hi you! Thank you so much, that means the world to me! Honestly, the roads on the Isle of Skye were not that crazy to me due to growing up with similar ones in northern Norway. I was more nervous driving in the cities. But it all went super smooth, no trouble at all! Got used to driving on the left pretty fast, and on the iffy & narrow roads everyone drive pretty slowly and it never felt unsafe or anything like that. I would probably feel more stressed in the winter months, though. It was an incredible experience and you should try it! I’m 100% sure you can do it too 🙂

' src=

Thank you so much for taking the time to do this and for including such stunning shots! I am in the middle of planning a trip and your itinerary and advice have been helpful.

Thank you so much, Ariane, it means so much ☺️ I’m glad it could be helpful!

' src=

Love seeing people explore my home! Your photos are beautiful!

Awe thank you 🌸 You’re lucky to come from such a beautiful country 😍

' src=

Great post! Your pictures from your trip are great.

Thank you <3 <3

' src=

I’ve been meaning to visit Scotland for ages! Lovely pictures and lots of good info, will save this for when I actually start planning a Scotland trip!

Thanks Greta, glad you found it helpful 😄

' src=

I loved Scotland! It quickly became one of my favourite countries. I love your advice to leave extra time because there are always places you want to stop in at spontaneously during a Scottish road trip.

Right?? We wanted to pull over every other second 😂

' src=

I would love to visit Scotland one day although I’m a little bit intimidated by the potentially harsh weather! But the scenery looks just so incredible that it would probably be worth it regardless of the weather haha! PS your photos are amazing.

Ohh don’t be! I swear, it is so charming in any weather! 😄

' src=

Wow! This is such a useful guide! We want to go in the summer and will definitely save this for our trip!

Yayy! I hope your trip is amazing 😍😍

Seriously bookmarking this for my future trip there – really great post! You told us everything we need to know. My hubby and I have wanted to do this trip for a LONG time!

Happy to help, thanks for reading Andi 😄❤️ Can’t wait to hear about your take on Scotland once you go 😄

' src=

Wow I love how detailed this post is ! So much good information and the photos are gorgeous 🙂

Thank you so much Lauren 😄🌸

' src=

I did a Scotland road trip few years ago and I can’t tell you how many fond memories reading this has brought back. I love how detailed this guide is as there are definitely some spots that I overlooked and now feel like I need to go again to fully explore the region.

Thank you so much, Charu ☺️

' src=

I love both Scotland and reading your post on it especially with the beautiful photos! Great tips and an excellent road trip itinerary. I have driven about 1/3 of that and would love to go back and do this route! 🙂

Thanks Vanessa! I wanna go back too 😍🌸

' src=

This is such an awesome + comprehensive guide! I went to Scotland for the first time back in 2016 and we went to a number of the same places you did, but I’d love to go back again for a more in-depth visit someday. There was so much to explore there and it was so pretty! :] I love the fluffy sheep!

Awe thank you so much! Scotland is breathtaking, can’t wait to go back either 😍

' src=

Many years ago, I lived in Scotland for some time. Now a lot has changed! But still, this is the perfect place for me! I plan to be there after quarantine! Thanks for sharing!

' src=

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for this! Amazing. Planning my trip now as I sit at home during quarantine!

Your comment made my day! So happy you found it helpful, I hope you have a wonderful trip once quarantine life is over 😀

Thank you!! Looking forward to your Edinburgh blog!!!

' src=

This is such a comprehensive guide. I never really had Scotland in my priority list of places to visit but your guide makes me want to visit it soon!

Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Jes. Glad you liked it & that it inspired you!

' src=

I stumbled upon this post when planning a road trip to Scotland myself this autumn. Your post was very elaborate and helpful 😊! Thanks so much! Also the photos are simply stunning! I can’t wait now!

Thank you so much, Marjolein! Glad it was helpful 🙂 I’m sure you’ll have an amaaazing trip to Scotland

' src=

At what month did you travel to Scotland? Great blog by the way! Will definitely visit Scotland soon

Thank you so much! We visited in June!

' src=

loved your trip! we plan to go this year too! may i ask what travel camera setup you use? I have a few lenses to choose from but can’t decide 😀 also, these colors :O did u use a preset for these?

Thank you so much, I’m glad you found my Scotland road trip guide helpful. If I remember correctly, I used a Canon 6D with a Tamron 24-70mm f/2.8 lens on this trip. Since then I’ve made the switch to Sony and I find choosing lenses sooo difficult – so I feel you! I love a low aperture, and having a zoom lens while traveling is ace in my opinion. I shot the images in raw, and then used my own presets to edit them in Lightroom 🙂 I hope you have an amazing trip!!

' src=

we gaan in september naar schotland

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Manhattanite.co is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Legal Terms & Privacy Policy .

keep in touch

Las Vegas News

  • Entertainment
  • Investigations
  • Latest Headlines
  • Top 100 Restaurants
  • Things To Do In Vegas
  • What Are They Hiding?
  • NV Primary Results
  • 2024 Election
  • Clark County
  • Nation and World
  • Science and Technology
  • Road Warrior
  • Las Vegas Weather
  • East Valley
  • North Las Vegas
  • Summerlin/Centennial Hills
  • Remembering Oct. 1, 2017
  • Deborah Wall
  • Natalie Burt
  • Remembering Jeff German
  • Police Accountability
  • Alpine Fire
  • 100 Years of Growth
  • Dangerous Driving
  • Raiders News
  • Golden Knights
  • UNLV Football
  • UNLV Basketball
  • Nevada Preps
  • NBA Summer League
  • Sports Betting 101
  • Las Vegas Sportsbooks
  • National Finals Rodeo
  • On TV/Radio
  • MMA and UFC
  • Casinos & Gaming
  • Conventions
  • Inside Gaming
  • Entrepreneurs
  • Real Estate News
  • Business Press
  • Sheldon Adelson (1933-2021)
  • Debra J. Saunders
  • Michael Ramirez cartoons
  • Victor Joecks
  • Richard A. Epstein
  • Victor Davis Hanson
  • Drawing Board
  • Homicide Tracker
  • Faces of Death Row
  • Kats’ Cool Hangs
  • Arts & Culture
  • Home and Garden
  • Las Vegas Hiking Guide
  • RJ Magazine
  • Today’s Obituaries
  • Submit an obit
  • Dealer News
  • Classifieds
  • Place a Classified Ad
  • Provided Content
  • Real Estate Millions
  • Internships
  • Service Directory
  • Transportation
  • Merchandise
  • Legal Information
  • Real Estate Classifieds
  • Garage Sales
  • Contests and Promotions
  • Best of Las Vegas
  • Nevada State Bank
  • Verizon Business
  • Touro University
  • P3 Health Partners
  • Adult Health
  • Star Nursery
  • Partner Articles
  • Ignite Funding
  • Supplements
  • Travel Nevada
  • Subscriptions
  • Newsletters
  • Advertise with Us

icon-x

  • >> News
  • >> Politics and Government

Biden’s Vegas visit means extra security, traffic disruptions this week

President Joe Biden will spend two days in campaigning in Las Vegas. Air and road traffic will be affected, and police are planning extra security.

President Joe Biden exits Air Force One at Harry Reid International Airport, Monday, July 15, 2 ...

President Joe Biden landed safely at Harry Reid International Airport on Monday evening, marking the start of his two-day visit to Las Vegas.

After Air Force One landed, a group of local officials and dignitaries, including U.S. Rep. Steven Horsford, , D-Nev., and former Gov. Steve Sisolak, greeted the president after he stepped off the plane’s stairs.

Air Force One’s arrival was expected to result in air traffic disruptions at all Las Vegas Valley airports.

Earlier Monday afternoon officials took to the the airport’s X account to alert motorists about traffic delays around the facility’s vicinity.

“Expect delays between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. as Air Force One arrives at LAS,” the airport’s social media post read. “Drivers, be advised of temporary road closures including the airport connector tunnel.”

The post also suggested anyone heading to the airport around the cautioned time frame should allow for additional time or to find an alternate route.

It was unclear where Biden’s motorcade will travel to once he arrives in Las Vegas, but wherever his motorcade travels will affect evening traffic.

The Metropolitan Police Department said Monday they worked with federal partners to prepare for Biden’s visit and will add extra resources to security details for each of the locations the President will visit.

Metro also noted motorists should prepare for road closures over the next three days.

“Everyone will see an increased presence of LVMPD officers throughout the valley,” the department said in a statement.

Details of what highways and state roads that might be temporarily shut down as the motorcade makes its way through the valley weren’t available, according to Nevada Department of Transportation spokeswoman Kelsey McFarland.

“NDOT is usually exempt from permitting requirements for road and ramp closures for the President and Vice President of the United States when they visit Nevada,” McFarland said in an email. “NDOT is notified by law enforcement just before ramps and state highways need to be closed to accommodate these high-profile visits.”

With specifics unknown, based on previous presidential visits the 215 Beltway, Interstate 15, U.S. Highway 95 and Las Vegas Boulevard have all been affected by motorcade travel.

On Tuesday, Biden is scheduled to make two appearances in the Las Vegas Valley. The first is scheduled to begin at 9:30 a.m., as the president takes part in a discussion at the 115th NAACP National Convention at Mandalay Bay. This stop could include traffic impacts on the Strip, I-15 and surrounding roads, such as Russell Road and Hacienda and Tropicana avenues.

The other event Biden will attend Tuesday is the Vote to Live Prosperity Summit with Horsford at an undisclosed location in North Las Vegas. The summit is planned to take place between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.

On Wednesday afternoon, Biden will deliver the keynote speech at the UnidosUS Annual Conference sometime between 12:30 p.m-2:30 p.m. at the MGM Grand Conference Center.

Potential road impacts surrounding this event include Las Vegas Boulevard, Tropicana, Koval Lane, and depending on where the motorcade is traveling from, I-15 and the 215 could also be impacted.

Once Biden’s trip is over, he’ll head back to Reid Airport where he’ll depart, rolling road closures will also again occur as the presidential motorcade makes its way to the airport. Roads that could be affected are Tropicana, Paradise Road, I-15 and the 215 Beltway.

As Air Force One departs Las Vegas, ground stops will again be in place at valley airports.

Contact Mick Akers at [email protected] or 702-387-2920. Follow @mickakers on X.

How much did Nevada collect in unused cash-out tickets this year?

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is introduced before speaking a ...

It’s not just that Trump sent mixed messages Thursday night in Milwaukee. He squandered an opportunity to show a more human side of himself.

travel scotland road watch

Former President Donald Trump spoke before the Republican delegates at the party’s national convention in Milwaukee, just days after he survived an attempted assassination.

President Joe Biden speaks about an executive order in the East Room at the White House in Wash ...

The White House announced certain undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens will be allowed to apply for legal residency while remaining in the country.

Marley Webster watches as Jaime Melendez prepares his tacos at his taco stand at the corner of ...

Sidewalk vendors operating in North Las Vegas will have to pay a $150 license fee every year.

travel scotland road watch

The Oakland A’s plan to pay for the $1.5 billion Strip stadium with a combination of public money, debt and equity contributions.

Lou Dobbs appears at the Conservative Political Action Conference, CPAC 2024, at National Harbo ...

Former president Donald Trump called Dobbs, who joined Fox after two stints on CNN, a friend and a “truly incredible Journalist, Reporter, and Talent.”

travel scotland road watch

The Las Vegas Stadium Authority received the draft development agreement for a new ballpark for the Oakland Athletics.

Nye County Judge and former Las Vegas city Councilwoman, Michele Fiore, held morning court in t ...

A day before Pahrump Justice of the Peace Michele Fiore was scheduled to face a federal judge on wire fraud and conspiracy charges, she was holding court for other people accused of breaking the law.

Dana White, CEO of Ultimate Fighting Championship, speaks during the Republican National Conven ...

UFC President Dana White introduced former President Donald Trump on the last night of the Republican National Convention.

Former President Barack Obama speaks in Athens, Greece, June 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Petros Giannak ...

Former president Barack Obama has expressed concerns about Joe Biden’s candidacy, and Nancy Pelosi has said he could cost Democrats the House, according to sources.

recommend 1

IMAGES

  1. 5 DAY SCOTLAND ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

    travel scotland road watch

  2. SCOTLAND

    travel scotland road watch

  3. 16 EPIC Road Trips in Scotland: The most Scenic Drives in Scotland

    travel scotland road watch

  4. The perfect road trip through Scotland. A travel guide with a detailed

    travel scotland road watch

  5. This Ultimate Scotland Road Trip Guide helps you plan your road trip in

    travel scotland road watch

  6. 5 reasons to road trip Scotland

    travel scotland road watch

VIDEO

  1. Scotland Road Trip Day 4

  2. Scotland

  3. Step forward and tread lightly. Scotland is Calling

  4. A Scotland Road Trip

  5. Scotland In 60 Minutes

  6. Scotland Road Trip Tour in Auto Trail V line

COMMENTS

  1. Current incidents, accidents & road closures

    Direction: Northbound & Southbound. Incident type: Closure. Start time: 18th of July 2024, 7:01pm. The A9 in both directions is currently closed at Golspie due to essential overnight roadworks. Motorists are advised that amnesty periods are in operation at 2000, 2100, 2200, 2300, 0000, 0200 and 0400.

  2. Traffic Scotland

    Check your route for immediate or future travel below. Current incidents, traffic congestion and planned roadworks for future travel will be shown for the best route automatically. ... Scotland's Trunk Road Network passes through some of the country's most popular beauty spots. Loch Ness, Loch Lomond, and the North Coast 500 are all ...

  3. Live traffic cameras in Scotland

    Traffic Scotland provides information on how to access live traffic cameras from the trunk road network. Explore our real-time traffic updates today. ... Travel news; Green hub; Winter hub; Data hub; Traffic Scotland Radio. Follow us on Twitter. Care Line 0800 028 1414. Home Traffic Information Traffic Cameras.

  4. Live traffic & travel news for Scotland

    More details. Traffic returned to normal. Last updated 16 minutes ago. Find All incidents in Scotland. Listings of All incidents in Scotland and the surrounding area. From The National.

  5. Scotland Road Trip Itinerary Planner & Route Map

    Check out our suggestions for what to see and do on each of the routes and plan your ultimate Scottish road trip. Get started. Discover 13 of Scotland's most spectacular driving routes, from the Fife Coastal Route to the epic North Coast 500. Interactive planner with routes, distances and must-see attractions on the way.

  6. Roadwatch traffic news

    Check Roadwatch from the AA for the latest traffic news and weather information, 24/7. x. The AA theaa.com FREE - In Google ... and you can even choose a route which avoids motorways or the Congestion Charge. Make sure to read our travel Ts&Cs first. Plan a route. Our route planner will check traffic and give you the quickest and easiest route ...

  7. Highland Traffic reports & updates. Live traffic map, news, delays

    Highland traffic watch - latest real-time problems and travel reports with issues, conditions and traffic flow for a smooth journey. START. FINISH. HOME; MOTORWAYS. M1; M11; M2; M20; M25; M27; M3; M4; M5; M6; M62; M8; M9; ... Traffic Scotland. Live traffic conditions and news for Scotland's road network. YOUR AD HERE. Advertise to millions of ...

  8. Prepare travel disruption and delay

    Traffic Scotland also has real-time traffic information. Call Traveline on 0871 200 2233 for information on public transport. Check the latest country-specific advice and information from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. By preparing for the event of travel disruption, you can more easily adapt and respond in any situation.

  9. Traffic & Travel

    Traffic & Travel. Traffic and travel updates, roadworks information and information on incidents and accidents across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire including the A90, A947, A96, A92, A9119, A944 and the A93. Get the latest news straight to your inbox with the Aberdeen Live newsletter.

  10. Live traffic cameras in Scotland

    A90 Todhills North. A90 Todhills South. A9000 Ferrymuir Rd Rbt. A9000 Ferrymuir Road Roundabout. A92 Charleston (N) A92 Charleston (S) A92 Cluny East. A92 Cluny East. A92 Cluny West.

  11. Live traffic updates in Scotland

    View live traffic updates below, or by using our traffic information map on the homepage. You can also tune into our Traffic Scotland internet radio service which provides frequent national and regional traffic and travel information bulletins. Details on major projects and roadworks can be found here. For all other roadworks on the trunk road ...

  12. Traffic management updates

    13. Traffic Updates. Keep up to date with planned traffic management and road works. Real time traffic information is available on the Traffic Scotland website .

  13. Plan your journey

    The Traveline Scotland app (in association with Traffic Scotland) includes: a journey planner showing public transport options between any two locations in Scotland, featuring all bus, coach, rail, Glasgow Subway and ferry routes, departure boards for buses and departure times for Scottish ferry terminals and Glasgow Subway stations.

  14. Route Planner

    © Automobile Association Developments Ltd. 2018 . uk breakdown; european breakdown; motorbike breakdown; report a breakdown; insurance; car insurance; home insurance ...

  15. Traffic News

    Live Traffic Reports. It's simple to get live RAC traffic reports for your area, which means you'll always stay informed about delays, slow-moving traffic and any other incidents that could affect your journey. Select the 'Location' tab and you'll be able to get traffic news for your location by adding your postcode, city or town. You ...

  16. O.L.R.W Travel Information (ROADWATCH SCOTLAND) Oban

    About this group. Please use this page for any road travel and important issues in Oban and surrounding areas.... Private. Only members can see who's in the group and what they post. Visible. Anyone can find this group. History. Group created on January 13, 2015. Name last changed on October 6, 2019.

  17. The best Scotland road trips to take in your lifetime

    The best beaches in Scotland; The UK's best road trips, from the North Coast 500 to the Atlantic Highway; Forget Lyon, go to Preston: How Lancashire forged a sublime food scene to rival the best ...

  18. The 13 Best Road Trips in Scotland: Epic Scotland Road Trip Guide

    I got together with other top travel bloggers to bring you a comprehensive guide to Scotland road trip ideas and the very best road trips in Scotland. From Scotland's Route 66 - the most famous highland 500 route - to other scenic Scotland drives around islands and between cities, a Scottish road trip is the perfect way to explore this ...

  19. Latest travel news and updates

    Travel news. Find out about current incidents, weather/travel warnings, major roadworks and major events impacting Scotland's trunk and motorway road network. You can find public transport links on this page.

  20. Motorcyclist dies in crash which saw road closed for hours

    A 21-year-old man has died after his motorbike was involved in a crash with a tanker truck in East Lothian. Emergency services were called to reports of the crash on the B1345, around 1.5 miles ...

  21. Live traffic & travel news for Scotland

    A70 Dalry Road Dalry. Find All incidents in Scotland. Listings of All incidents in Scotland and the surrounding area. From The National.

  22. Scotland Road Trip Planner: Free, Extensive & By a Local

    Another reason you will want to plan your road trip route carefully is to make sure you don't miss out on the hidden gems that Scotland has to offer. Some of the most popular destinations and rough travel times are listed below: Edinburgh to Glasgow - 1h15. Edinburgh to Inverness - 3h30. Edinburgh to Fort William - 3h30.

  23. How To Plan An Epic Scotland Road Trip (Map, Itinerary + Tips)

    Free Printable Scotland Road Trip Planner. Our 8 Day Scotland Road Trip Itinerary (w/map) DAY 1-2: Glasgow. DAY 3: Highlands Part I (The West) DAY 4: Highlands Part II (Isle of Skye) DAY 5: Highlands Part III (Loch Ness & Beyond) DAY 6-8: Edinburgh. This post contains affiliate links.

  24. Weather warnings in Scotland

    Traffic Scotland provides information on regional weather alerts that could impact your journey. Explore our real-time traffic updates today. ... amending your travel plans if necessary. People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It's easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone ...

  25. Biden's Vegas visit means extra security, traffic disruptions this week

    President Joe Biden landed safely at Harry Reid International Airport on Monday evening, marking the start of his two-day visit to Las Vegas. After Air Force One landed, a group of local officials ...

  26. Storm Jocelyn

    Storm Jocelyn - Travel Advice. The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for wind for far north and western parts of Scotland (from 6pm on Tuesday 23rd January). Strong winds are expected in association with Storm Jocelyn, leading to possible disruption to travel. There is also a yellow weather warning issued for wind for the rest of ...