Days 1-2: Glasgow. Our 3 day Skye Road trip itinerary Isle of Skye Road trip itinerary: Day one. Finish at Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano with some of the best views over Edinburgh. From Edinburgh head north on the A9 towards Inverness, stopping in Pitlochry at the world renowned House of Bruar to stock up on kit- fine sport cloth… Spend the afternoon touring Dunvegan Castle and then watching the sunset at Neist Point. For a small fee, you can climb to the top of St. Rule’s Tower for spectacular views across St. Andrews! Scenic drives and short hikes will fill your day. It sits atop a steep crag, which gives it an excellent defensive position. Your grand tour of Scotland begins in the medieval city of Edinburgh. I also recommend checking prices directly with your chosen hotel, hostel or bed and breakfast. Is One Day Enough to Explore Orkney? On your second day on the Isle of Skye, you can go on one [or both] of the hikes I recommended in the earlier section, or drive around the stunning Sleat Peninsula. I appreciate your insights and thanks again for your terrific blog! Highland cows or ‘heilan coos’ are a Scottish cattle breed known for their long horns and shaggy ginger coats. Here are some fascinating facts about Stirling Castle: The Kelpies are 30 metre-high horse sculptures and they are the largest equine sculptures in the world. I put absolutely everything into this 10 day Scotland itinerary. © Copyright 2016-2020 Wayfaring Kiwi | Privacy Policy. For hostels I use Hostelworld, and I only book hostels with a rating of 8 or higher, if possible. Begin your travels home. Scotland Road Trip Map and Itinerary. You have a lot to see and do, so it’s best to get started. King Robert the Bruce is also rumoured to have sought refuge here while being hunted by the English. Check them out below, or click here to read all my Scotland guides. 10-day Scotland road trip itinerary. Twitter. (Note: I don't recommend picking up your rental car until Day 4 of this itinerary; you don't need a car in Edinburgh, and it's annoying to try to find parking there anyway!) Spend most of the day exploring the gorgeous Glencoe Valley and Glen Etive. Reception is intermittent in the Highlands, so make sure you print a copy and keep it with you. If you have less than 10 days in Scotland: It’s very possible that you don’t have 10 days to spend in Scotland—that’s fine! From Eilean Donan Castle, you are just ten miles from the Isle of Skye. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to “Your Places,” click Maps, and you will see this map on your list. When I visited in November, I barely saw one tourist on the road! Starting off in Glasgow, we’ll be checking out the major sites such as Glasgow Cathedral and Kelvingrove Art Gallery. Or if shopping isn’t your thing, there are a range of other interesting things to do. Glamping and camping: Recently Scotland has upped her game when it comes to glamping and eco-friendly accommodation. For this Scotland itinerary, you will need to rent a car. What was it and will I need it? On the drive to Glencoe, you will pass the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Today you will visit the Fairy Glen, the Quiraing, Mealt Falls, Brother’s Point, and the Old Man of Storr. It was ruined after the Scottish Reformation, but the foundations are still visible. While Edinburgh may be known for its pretty gothic architecture, Glasgow is known for its slogan ‘People Make Glasgow’. Europe - 10 days in Scotland in a camper van - Hi Any advice on Scotland in a campervan. Scotch Whisky Experience 4. Has my blog helped you with your travel plans? Disclosure: Wayfaring Kiwi is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Although this shows as an eight-day itinerary, we did stop and spend two nights in some places which we loved. In my ultimate 10 day Scotland itinerary you will see ancient castles, cathedral and abbey ruins, highland coos, and medieval buildings. Kelso is also a very pretty town, being the subject for many artists since the late 17th century! You can always add anything you’ve missed into a future trip to Scotland. You’ll want to rise early to make the most of your time here- there is plenty to see and do! The Royal Mile measures 1.81 kilometres, but this measurement system hasn’t been used since the eighteenth century. We took this opportunity to see more of the wonderful country I called home for 6 years. It once belonged to the Clan MacDonald of Sleat, but some time in the 14th century it was taken from them by the Clan MacLeod. Greyfriars Inn and The Keys Bar are popular pubs. The Drover’s Inn is one of the best pubs in Scotland and also serves hearty Scottish meals. It automatically scans the internet for discount codes and applies them to your cart during checkout. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each point of interest. There is a café in the downstairs lobby that serves excellent food. If you were tack on another 3 day trip (not Ireland) where else would you suggest going after (or before) a 7/8 day trip in Scotland? For the adventurous looking for a challenge, there is a hike to the summit of the Old Man of Storr. For a budget accommodation with a brilliant location that is clean, modern, friendly, and quiet, you cannot beat this place. Glasgow is often an overlooked destination in Scotland. Bed and Breakfast: Whitestone House is a great budget bed and breakfast. Keep yourself and others safe- remember to check the government guidelines and plan ahead before you travel. I have a 10 yr. old son so everything is very helpful for our upcoming London/Scotland trip. The house lies along the line of the Antonine Wall, a Roman fortification which was built in AD 142 (20 years after Hadrian’s Wall). The Glenfinnan Viaduct was used in the filming of the Hogwart’s Express. In 1452, James II had the Earl assassinated and his body was flung from a castle window down into the gardens. You won’t have time to complete both of the hikes I recommend below, however, you can see both of these locations from your car, so you could easily visit them both in the evening. Here’s the itinerary for our 10 day epic Scotland road trip! Here is a sample 7 day Scotland itinerary. Real Mary Kings Close 3. What can you see with 10 days in Scotland? At whatever point you wish, catch the train to Edinburgh (taking around an hour) and spend the last part of your tour there. The Official North Coast 500 route begins and ends in Inverness at Inverness Castle. Day 5 Scottish Highlands Itinerary: Isle of Skye to Edinburgh. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, links, etc. Hostels: I stayed at Inverness Youth Hostel and recommend it for a comfortable hostel stay; Bazpackers is a great modern hostel. ), in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited. It’s located just 25 minutes south-west of Pitlochry. The ultimate 10 day Scotland itinerary- created by a local. Drive the whisky trail for several days, visiting places like Glenfiddich, Glenlivet, and so many more. Take your pick from 50 of the world's best travel adventures. If you click the star next to the title of the map, this map will be added to your Google Maps account. Incredibly scenic, this is definitely getting off the main tourist trail in Scotland. Today, drive to Glencoe and explore Glencoe, with plans to do the hike tomorrow.Read more about the hike on the Walk Highlands website. Go Hiking or Spend More Time on the Isle of Skye. The rooms are small and nothing fancy but the hotel is clean and quiet. Cheers, Julie. We will have to be in London for a few days either way and can’t decide what to combine it with. Bla Bheinn (Blaven) is one of the most spectacular hikes on the Isle of Skye. The whole point is to pick and choose the things you want to do. My top tip is to take a photo from the street, looking up, and also from the balcony, looking down the street. Renting a Campervan in Scotland. Whereas Edinburgh is perfect for tourists, with its castle, medieval architecture, and historical background, Glasgow is a city centered around the people who live and work here. The pretty River Tweed is located near the site of the abbey and wraps around the Scottish Borders like a bow. The castle was rebuilt many times over the course of Scotland’s bloody history. Required fields are marked *. You won’t miss these three dramatic mountains- one of the most beautiful sights in Scotland. Midrange Hotel, double room with two people:  $75 – $200 2. I recommend hiring a car to complete this itinerary; you will see a lot more of Scotland this way. When you arrive on the island, you’ll make your way around the east coast of the island to discover its natural beauty. You’ll be surprised by how many incredible attractions you can fit in a Scotland itinerary in 10 days! , Hello Shelley. After lunch, spend the afternoon at Dean Village. It is known for its unusual mix of Romanesque and early Gothic architecture. Here are some estimated costs (all prices are in USD): Rental car:  $50 to $75 per day for a midsize car Bonnie Scotland may be on the small side, but there is plenty to see and do. You will explore the four abbeys in the area, which is also a popular cycle route. It’s a translation of your driver’s license. The Trotternish Loop contains the most popular, most epic scenery on the Isle of Skye. Dean Village is a small, residential area in Edinburgh. Also- don’t forget to download the printable version of my 10 day Scotland itinerary. Bed and Breakfast: Scotland has a fantastic array of bed and breakfasts. The oldest football in the world was found in the Palace at Stirling Castle. Dryburgh Abbey is one of the most romantic places in Scotland. Day 4:  Isle of Skye I have wanted to do this forever and Im sure I could spend … This seven-day Scotland touring itinerary has something for everyone, whether you're an urban connoisseur or a wilderness fan. You can even do a tour with whisky! They also have changing exhibitions and displays- so there is bound to be something new to see every visit. Before you head off on your road trip around the Isle of Skye, you can stop at the large Co-Op shot in Bradford to get groceries and cheap fuel! But first, deciding whether you want to travel by campervan or motorhome. There is a large tomb within the ruin of the abbey where this famous Scottish writer is buried alongside his family. Based on your thoughtful descriptions and responses in your blog, we are guessing you had a good reason, and were wondering what it was. The city is famed for its Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture, and is home to a lot of Scotland’s cultural institutions. There is a huge car park where you can park up and walk down to see the huge equine statues. Get settled into your hotel or bed & breakfast and get ready to explore the awesome Isle of Skye. Suggested time: I recommend spending an hour exploring the village of Luss. So, that was how our order was determined. Just picture violet, heather-clad mountains contrasted with glittering blue sea and rocky shorelines and this will give you an indication on just why this drive is one for the Scotland bucket list! Iceland doesn’t have to be expensive. While this is a five-day itinerary, you could most definitely spread this out longer as there is just too much to see and do along the way! It has appeared in many films, including Highlander and the James Bond film The World is Not Enough. 1. From the Isle of Skye, drive through Glencoe (you can still see it, but you will have limited time for hiking and the detour to Glen Etive) and spend the afternoon in Glasgow. Prince Henry of Scotland (1114–1152) is buried here, as well as several of the Dukes of Roxburghe. You will drive alongside Loch Lomond for 25 miles- and there will be lots to see out the window! The Three Sisters is a lively sports bar that is usually thriving that also plays your classic dance tunes. National Museum of Scotland 5. The Battlefield of Culloden is the site of the fateful final Jacobite Uprising in 1746, where supporters of Bonnie Prince Charlie clashed with the Duke of Cumberland’s government troops. After the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314, Robert the Bruce destroyed Stirling Castle to stop it falling into English hands. 4. We highly recommend The Scran & Scallie. Dec 9, 2019 - If you're planning a trip to Scotland, driving is the best way to go. For more info, read our full post on Dean Village. So what is the best option for car rental in Scotland? Hiking option #3 is the legendary Aonach Eagach. Another handy trick I recommend is searching for additional discounts using Honey. The town is easily navigated on foot, and it’s possible to see mostly everything in St Andrews in one day. So without further ado lets get exploring. High end hotel, double room with two people:  $200+. But along the way we saw an important war memorial, the tallest mountain in Scotland, famous scenery locations, and had a photo stop at a famous castle. >> Read more: Common questions about visiting Scotland answered. Visit the real Tom Riddle’s grave, or just enjoy the fascinating architecture of a Scotland graveyard. It is a truly spectacular building- make sure you visit the cloisters located inside the main building. Follow the path back into the town and marvel at the famous colourful houses along Portree harbour, and go for a spot of shopping in the town centre. Tweed View is also a great wee bed and breakfast. Spring, summer, and fall are the best seasons to visit Scotland. By continuing to browse this website you are agreeing to our use of cookies. If you’re planning a trip to Scotland, driving is the best way to go. There is a fantastic view of Linlithgow Palace from across the Linlithgow Loch. The Necropolis is a stunning Victorian graveyard located behind Glasgow Cathedral. It’s quiet, it’s beautiful, and it’s off the beaten path. On your journey to Scotland’s largest island, you’ll discover two ancient castles. Hiking option #2 is the Kintail Saddle. You have a lot to look forward to! ).Live music: Stramash is a large and popular with tourists and locals, and has everything you want and need in a music bar. It has some of the best Gothic church architecture in Scotland. It is thought to be the burial place of St Nicholas after a stone urn was discovered with his supposed remains. Airbnb is also great if you’re travelling with others as they don’t charge per person- just for the entire property. This local restaurant is located off of the Royal Mile in a local neighborhood in Edinburgh. You can add the Malt Whisky Trail into the above itinerary between Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye. Glencoe itinerary walk away groups of many smaller islands stretching off the northern of. 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