Scotland is a land of myth and magic, where ancient castles stand guard over shimmering lochs, and misty mountains give way to bustling cities rich with culture. This Scotland round trip will take you from the vibrant streets of Glasgow to the tranquil beauty of the Highlands, the rugged charm of the Isle of Skye, and the historic grandeur of Edinburgh. Whether you’re here for the history, the hiking, or the haggis, Scotland promises an unforgettable adventure.

Stops along this Scotland Round Trip

Glasgow (2-3 days)

Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, is a cultural powerhouse brimming with art, music, and history. Known for its friendly locals and vibrant atmosphere, Glasgow is the perfect starting point for your Scottish adventure.

Sights

• Glasgow Cathedral: This stunning medieval cathedral, also known as St. Mungo’s, is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. It’s one of the few Scottish cathedrals to have survived the Reformation intact.
• Glasgow Necropolis: A Victorian cemetery perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of the city. The Necropolis is home to some fascinating monuments and is a peaceful place to reflect.
• Provand's Lordship: The oldest house in Glasgow, dating back to 1471. This medieval building has been restored to showcase life in Glasgow through the centuries.
• George Square: The heart of Glasgow, George Square is surrounded by historic buildings and statues of famous Scots. It’s a great place to start exploring the city.
• The Lighthouse: Scotland's Centre for Design and Architecture, offering a unique insight into Glasgow’s architectural history, with stunning views from the top of the tower.
• People's Palace and Glasgow Green: A museum and winter garden that tells the story of Glasgow’s social history, located in the city’s oldest public park, Glasgow Green.

Loch Lomond (2-3 days)

Just a short drive from Glasgow, Loch Lomond is Scotland’s largest freshwater loch and a gateway to the Highlands. It’s a place of breathtaking natural beauty, ideal for outdoor activities and peaceful retreats.

Sights

• Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park: A stunning area of natural beauty, perfect for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. The park is home to picturesque villages, serene lochs, and rugged mountains.
• Dumbarton Castle: Perched on a volcanic rock overlooking the River Clyde, Dumbarton Castle has a rich history dating back to the Iron Age. Climb the 500 steps to the top for stunning views.
• Balloch Castle: Located on the southern shores of Loch Lomond, this 19th-century castle is set within a country park, offering beautiful walking trails and gardens.
• Inchmurrin Island: The largest island on Loch Lomond, accessible by boat. It’s a tranquil spot for picnics, exploring ruins, and enjoying the loch’s serene waters.
• The Devil's Pulpit: A hidden gem, this deep sandstone gorge with a mysterious red river is the stuff of legends. It’s a bit of a trek, but the otherworldly scenery is worth it.

Glencoe (2-3 days)

Glencoe is one of Scotland’s most famous and dramatic landscapes. Known for its rugged mountains, deep valleys, and tragic history, Glencoe is a must-see for anyone seeking the wild beauty of the Highlands.

Sights

• Loch Leven: A beautiful sea loch surrounded by mountains, offering stunning views and great opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
• Glencoe Village: A small village nestled at the foot of the glen, Glencoe Village is a great base for exploring the surrounding area. The Glencoe Visitor Centre provides insights into the area’s history and geology.
• Glencoe Lochan: A peaceful lochan (small lake) surrounded by forest trails. It’s a lovely spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic.
• Sgorr na Ciche (The Pap of Glencoe): A challenging hike with rewarding panoramic views of the glen and Loch Leven. This distinctive peak is a favorite among experienced hikers.
• Aonach Eagach: One of the most famous ridge walks in Scotland, offering breathtaking views and a thrilling challenge for experienced climbers.
• Buachaille Etive Mor: An iconic mountain often featured in Scottish postcards, Buachaille Etive Mor is a popular destination for photographers and climbers alike.
• Loch Achtriochtan: A stunning loch surrounded by dramatic peaks, it’s a perfect spot for photography or simply soaking in the tranquility of Glencoe.
• Bidean Nam Bian: The highest peak in the area, offering challenging hikes and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Stob Coire Sgreamhach: Another peak in the Bidean Nam Bian range, offering equally spectacular views and a challenging climb for experienced hikers.

Isle of Skye (3-4 days)

The Isle of Skye is a place of myth and legend, where jagged mountains meet turquoise seas and ancient castles stand guard over rolling moorlands. It’s a dream destination for nature lovers and photographers.

Sights

• Quiraing: A landslip on the northernmost point of the Trotternish Ridge, the Quiraing offers otherworldly landscapes and some of the best hiking trails on the island.
• Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls Viewpoint: A dramatic coastal cliff resembling a kilt, with a waterfall that plunges into the sea. The viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline.
• The Storr: One of the most iconic landmarks on Skye, The Storr is famous for its striking rock formations, including the Old Man of Storr. The hike to the top is challenging but offers incredible views.
• Dunvegan Castle & Gardens: The oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, Dunvegan Castle has been the ancestral home of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod for over 800 years. The gardens are equally enchanting.
• Neist Point Lighthouse: Perched on the westernmost tip of Skye, Neist Point Lighthouse offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a prime spot for whale watching.

Ullapool (2-3 days)

Ullapool is a picturesque fishing village nestled on the shores of Loch Broom. It’s a great base for exploring the wild and remote northwest Highlands, with plenty of outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

Sights

• Loch Broom: A beautiful sea loch that stretches inland from Ullapool, offering opportunities for sailing, fishing, and wildlife spotting. The views across the loch are spectacular, especially at sunset.
• Isle Martin: A small, community-owned island in Loch Broom, Isle Martin is accessible by boat and offers walking trails, wildlife, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea.
• Ullapool Museum: Housed in a historic Telford church, the Ullapool Museum offers insights into the history and culture of the area, from its fishing heritage to its Gaelic roots.
• Beinn Ghobhlach: A mountain overlooking Loch Broom, offering challenging hikes and rewarding views of the surrounding landscape. The hike is steep but well worth the effort.
• Dundonnell Canyon: A dramatic gorge carved by the Dundonnell River, offering stunning scenery and challenging walking trails. It’s a great spot for those looking to explore off the beaten path.

Thurso (1-2 days)

Thurso is the northernmost town on the British mainland, known for its stunning coastal scenery, historic sites, and as a gateway to the Orkney Islands.

Sights

• Thurso Bay: A beautiful bay with a sandy beach and views of the Orkney Islands. It’s a great spot for surfing, beachcombing, or simply enjoying the coastal scenery.
• Thurso Castle: The ruins of a 12th-century castle overlooking the sea. The castle and its surroundings offer a glimpse into the area’s rich history and provide stunning views of the coastline.
• Holborn Head: A rugged headland with dramatic cliffs and sea stacks. The walking trails offer breathtaking views of the North Sea and are a great place for spotting seabirds.

Inverness (2-3 days)

Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a gateway to some of Scotland’s most famous sights, including Loch Ness and the Cairngorms.

Sights

• Inverness Castle: Overlooking the River Ness, Inverness Castle offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. While the interior is not open to the public, the grounds are lovely to explore.
• Clava Cairns: A prehistoric burial site dating back 4,000 years, Clava Cairns is a fascinating place to explore and is said to have inspired the stone circles in the “Outlander” series.
• Cawdor Castle and Gardens: A fairytale castle with beautiful gardens, Cawdor Castle is associated with Shakespeare’s Macbeth and offers a glimpse into Scottish history and aristocratic life.
• Chanonry Point: One of the best places in Scotland to see bottlenose dolphins from the shore. The dolphins are often seen playing in the waters just off the point, especially at high tide.
• Beauly Priory: The ruins of a 13th-century priory located in the village of Beauly. The peaceful setting and historic atmosphere make it a lovely place to visit.
• Urquhart Castle: Located on the shores of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic ruins. The views across Loch Ness are stunning, and the castle’s history is fascinating.

Elgin (1-2 days)

Elgin is a historic town in the heart of Moray, known for its ancient cathedral, whisky distilleries, and beautiful countryside.

Sights

• Elgin Cathedral: Known as the “Lantern of the North,” Elgin Cathedral is a stunning ruin with a rich history. Climb the towers for panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.
• Spynie Palace: The former residence of the Bishops of Moray, Spynie Palace is an impressive ruin with a fascinating history. The Great Tower is one of the largest surviving medieval tower houses in Scotland.
• Duffus Castle: A ruined medieval fortress located just outside Elgin. The castle’s location on a grassy mound offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Ballater (2-3 days)

Ballater is a charming village in the heart of Royal Deeside, known for its connections to the British royal family and its proximity to some of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes.

Sights

• Mount Keen: The most easterly Munro (a Scottish mountain over 3,000 feet), Mount Keen offers stunning views and a challenging hike. It’s a must for anyone looking to bag a Munro during their trip.
• Craigendarroch: A wooded hill offering beautiful walking trails and panoramic views of Ballater and the surrounding countryside. The name means “Hill of Oaks” in Gaelic, and it’s a lovely spot for a leisurely hike.
• Loch Kinord: A tranquil loch located within the Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve. The loch is surrounded by ancient woodland and offers peaceful walking trails and abundant wildlife.
• Cairngorms National Park: The largest national park in the UK, the Cairngorms is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and skiing to wildlife watching and scenic drives, the park offers endless opportunities for adventure.

Perth (1-2 days)

Perth, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Highlands,” is a historic city located on the banks of the River Tay. It’s a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside and offers plenty of cultural and historical attractions.

Sights

• Kings Park: A beautiful public park offering panoramic views of Perth and the River Tay. The park is a lovely spot for a stroll, picnic, or simply relaxing in the fresh air.
• Scone Palace: Just outside Perth, Scone Palace is the historic crowning place of Scottish kings. The palace and its gardens are open to the public, offering a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s royal history.
• Perth Museum and Art Gallery: A small but interesting museum located in the heart of the city, showcasing the history, art, and culture of Perthshire.
• The Black Watch Castle and Museum: A museum dedicated to Scotland’s famous Black Watch regiment, offering insights into the regiment’s history and its role in Scottish and global conflicts.

Edinburgh (3-4 days)

Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is a city steeped in history, culture, and charm. With its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and lively arts scene, Edinburgh is a must-visit destination on any Scotland itinerary.

Sights

• Princes Street: Edinburgh’s main shopping street, offering stunning views of the Old Town and the castle. The street is lined with shops, cafes, and the beautiful Princes Street Gardens.
• Scott Monument: A striking Gothic monument dedicated to the famous Scottish writer Sir Walter Scott. Climb the narrow staircase to the top for panoramic views of the city.
• St Giles' Cathedral: Also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, this historic cathedral is a must-see for its stunning architecture, beautiful stained glass, and historic significance.
• The Scotch Whisky Experience: Learn about Scotland’s national drink at this fun and interactive attraction. The tour includes a ride through the whisky-making process and a tasting of some of Scotland’s finest whiskies.
• Edinburgh Castle: Perched atop an extinct volcano, Edinburgh Castle is Scotland’s most iconic landmark. Explore the castle’s historic rooms, see the Crown Jewels, and enjoy spectacular views over the city.
• Greyfriars Kirkyard: A historic graveyard known for its association with Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal dog who guarded his master’s grave for 14 years. The kirkyard is also said to be one of the most haunted places in Scotland.
• Museum of Edinburgh: Located on the Royal Mile, this museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of Edinburgh, from its medieval origins to the present day.
• Palace of Holyroodhouse: The official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, Holyroodhouse is a stunning palace with beautiful gardens and a rich history. It’s also home to the ruins of Holyrood Abbey.
• Calton Hill: A hill in the center of Edinburgh offering panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. The hill is home to several monuments, including the National Monument and the Nelson Monument.

Good to Know

• Language: English is the official language in Scotland, but you’ll also hear Scots Gaelic and Scots dialects, especially in rural areas. Don’t be surprised if you pick up a few new words during your visit!
• Currency: The British Pound Sterling (GBP) is the official currency in Scotland. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in more remote areas.
• Transportation: Scotland’s public transportation system is reliable and convenient, with trains, buses, and ferries connecting most destinations. However, renting a car offers more flexibility, especially for exploring rural areas.
• Safety: Scotland is generally very safe for travelers, but it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in busy tourist areas. The weather can change rapidly, so be prepared with appropriate clothing and gear.

Getting There

• By Air: Scotland has several international airports, with major hubs in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen. Direct flights are available from many major cities worldwide.
• By Train: Scotland is well-connected to the rest of the UK by train, with services running frequently from London and other major cities. The scenic East Coast and West Coast rail routes are popular options for traveling to Scotland.
• By Car: If you’re driving from England, Scotland is easily accessible via the M6 motorway, which becomes the A74(M) in Scotland. The drive offers beautiful scenery, especially as you approach the border.

Best Time to Travel

The best time to visit Scotland is during the late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are lush and vibrant. Summer (July to August) is also a great time to visit, especially for festivals like the Edinburgh Fringe, but it can be busier with tourists. Winter (December to February) offers a quieter, more atmospheric experience, with the chance to see snow-covered landscapes and enjoy Scotland’s famous Hogmanay celebrations.

For Foodies

• Haggis: Scotland’s national dish, haggis is a must-try for any visitor. It’s traditionally served with “neeps and tatties” (turnips and potatoes) and a dram of whisky.
• Scottish Seafood: Scotland is known for its fresh seafood, including salmon, haddock, and shellfish. Don’t miss the chance to try a seafood platter or fish and chips by the coast.
• Cullen Skink: A hearty Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions. It’s the perfect dish to warm you up after a day of exploring.
• Whisky: Scotland is famous for its whisky, and no trip is complete without a tasting. Visit one of the many distilleries for a tour and a sample of the “water of life.”
• Scottish Shortbread: A classic Scottish treat, shortbread is a buttery biscuit that’s perfect with a cup of tea. You’ll find it in shops all over Scotland, often in decorative tins that make great souvenirs.

Scotland offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for a round trip. Whether you’re exploring ancient castles, hiking through rugged landscapes, or enjoying the vibrant city life, this journey through Scotland will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Slàinte mhath! 🍻🏴