Scotland is one of the most suitable countries in the world for self-driving travel, with mountains, lakes, coastlines and historical sites intertwined to form a magnificent landscape.
Let's take a look at some of the most worthwhile self-driving routes, and provide detailed prices, tickets, opening hours, transportation methods and best travel times to ensure that everyone's journey is smoother.
Scotland
Video:VisitScotland
Highland Tourist Route
This route is 116 miles long, from Aberdeen to Inverness, along the way there are **four castles, Culloden Battlefield, Fort George and Cairngorms National Park** attractions.
Tickets and opening hours:
Culloden Battlefield: General tickets are about £11, opening hours: 10:00 - 16:00 every day
Fort George: General tickets are about £9, opening hours: 9:30 - 17:00 every day.
Cairngorms National Park: Free, open all day.
Transportation: It is recommended to rent a car and drive yourself, the route is 116 miles long and takes about 3 hours to drive.
Best time to travel: June to August, when the weather is warm and suitable for outdoor exploration.
North Coast 500 (NC500)
This self-driving route is 516 miles long and is known as Scotland's "Route 66". It starts in Inverness and circles the northern part of the Scottish Highlands. You can enjoy the magnificent coastline, mountains, lakes and many historical sites along the way.
Tickets and opening hours: Most attractions are free and open all day, such as beaches, mountains, lakes, etc. along the way.
Transportation: It is recommended to rent a car, and the entire trip is recommended to be arranged for 5-7 days to fully experience the beautiful scenery along the way.
Best travel time: June to August, the weather is relatively stable and the sunshine time is long.
Notes:
Road conditions: Some sections are Single Track Roads, and you need to pay attention to avoid oncoming vehicles.
Refueling: There are fewer gas stations in some areas, so it is recommended to keep the tank at least half full.
Anti-mosquito: There are more mosquitoes in the Highlands in summer, so it is recommended to carry mosquito repellent spray.
Argyll Coastal Route
This 129-mile route stretches from Tarbet to Fort William, and you can enjoy the magnificent scenery of the west coast of Scotland along the way, including **Loch Lomond and Oban**.
Tickets and opening hours:
Loch Lomond cruise: Standard tickets are about £15, and operating hours vary according to the season.
McCaig's Tower: Free, open all day.
Transportation: It is recommended to rent a car, and the whole journey takes about 3 hours.
Best time to travel: April to August, the weather is mild and suitable for coastal excursions.
South West Coastal 300 (SWC300)
This 300-mile loop around the Dumfries and Galloway area, along the way you can see spectacular cliffs, countryside and port towns.
Tickets and opening hours:
Mull of Galloway Lighthouse: Free admission, the lighthouse is open from 10:00 - 17:00.
Portpatrick: Free, suitable for coastal walks.
Transportation: It is recommended to rent a car, the whole journey takes about 3-5 days.
Best time to travel: June to August, suitable for coastal activities.
Snow Roads Scenic Route
This 90-mile Highland self-driving route passes through Cairngorms National Park and is suitable for tourists who like alpine scenery.
Tickets and opening hours:
Highland Folk Museum: Free admission, opening hours: 10:30 - 17:30.
Balmoral Castle: General tickets £15, opening hours: April to July, 10:00 - 17:00 daily.
Transportation: It is recommended to rent a car, the whole journey takes about 2 hours.
Best time to travel: June to August, but the autumn (September-October) leaves are also beautiful.
Fife Coastal Route
This route starts in Kincardine and travels 77 miles along the east coast, passing fishing villages and historic cities such as St. Andrews.
Tickets and opening hours:
St. Andrews Cathedral Ruins: General tickets £9, opening hours: 9:30 - 17:30.
Anstruther Fishing Port: Free, you can taste the famous fish and chips (Fish & Chips).
Transportation: It is recommended to rent a car, the whole journey takes about 2 hours.
Best time to travel: May to September, suitable for coastal travel.
Are you ready to start your Scottish road trip?
Scotland has a variety of self-driving routes. Whether you like mountains, lakes, coastlines, or historical sites, there are options for you here. Lykkers, which scenic road do you want to try the most? Come and plan an unforgettable road trip!
