Unwind In Scotland | 7 Day Self-Drive

Day 1: Glen Coe and Aviemore

After you arrive in Glasgow, take your rental car on a journey through the scenic Scottish Highlands to get to Aviemore. Enjoy the sights as you head into the heart of The Trossachs National Park. If you’d like stop and take any photos at your leisure. Continue your drive and stop for lunch in the extraordinary Glen Coe. Situated deep in the Highlands, its valley and steep mountains of Glen Coe were formed by a mixture of icy glaciers and volcanic explosions. Visit the Three Sisters of Glen Coe and learn about the area’s rich history. From there, make your way to Aviemore where you will settle in to accommodation for the evening.

Overnight in Aviemore

Day 2 : Urquhart Castle & Fort Augustus

Today you will journey to Fort Augustus as you make a loop around Scotland’s legendary Loch Ness. Take route A9 to head northwest drive through the Highland cultural haven of Inverness. From there, continue your drive with another stop at Urquhart Castle. Home to famous tribes and clans throughout many years, this castle is stands on the shores of Loch Ness. Once you’ve toured its intriguing interior, hop on a Loch Ness boat cruise, and see if you can spot Nessie, Scotland’s mythical monster. After you’re done searching, visit Fort Augustus – the most southern tip of Loch Ness on the Great Glen Way. Here you can take in spectacular views of Loch Ness and walk around the lovely stores for some authentic Scottish goods. Return to your accommodation for the evening and settle in.

Overnight in Aviemore 

Day 3 : Speyside & Cairngorms National Park

From Aviemore, venture west to one of the hearts of Scotch Whisky – the Speyside. Along your way, take in the lovely scenic landscape as you navigate your way west through the rugged Scottish Highlands. The Speyside is a region found throughout Cairngorms National Park. With stunning landscape, you’ll want to get out of the car and walk around this Scottish gem. The Speyside is also home to half of Scotland’s whisky distilleries, so you’ll have plenty options to visit and have yourself a “wee dram”. A great option is The Glenlivet Distillery. Take the tour and learn the history of the whisky as you discover the irrepressible spirit of the distillery, itself. After you’re done exploring, return to your accommodation in Aviemore for the evening.

Overnight in Aviemore

 Day 4 : Stirling Castle

As you depart from Aviemore this morning, take in additional sights of Cairngorms National park. This is an extra beautiful drive, so you’ll want to have your camera ready for any stops you wish to make. You’ll pass Pitlochry and The Blair Atholl Distillery – a place worth the visit. If time permits, discover the craft behind its single malt whisky. Keep heading south and visit Stirling Castle. There’s more than ever to see and do at Stirling Castle. Enter the world of Scotland’s Renaissance kings and queens and discover a world of colour, splendour and glorious craftsmanship. Continue to Edinburgh to check into accommodation for the evening. 

Overnight in Edinburgh

Day 5 : Explore Edinburgh Part 1

Discover Scotland's magical capital today. See the bustling Princes Street and the gracious, wide streets of the 200-year-old Georgian New Town. Walk along part of the Royal Mile where compact medieval houses reach 11 floors tall. Take a tour of the Scotch Whisky Experience to learn all about the whisky making process. Visit Edinburgh Castle, which dominates the city and contains the Crown Jewels of Scotland and the Stone of Scone. Take a Ghost Walking Tour tonight to learn some of the city's darkest secrets. Enjoy an evening meal before settling into your accommodation for the night.

Overnight in Edinburgh

Day 6 : Explore Edinburgh Part 2

Today you can have a leisurely morning to yourself and maybe include some retail therapy. In the afternoon there is plenty of activities to keep you entertained. If the weather allows visit the Royal Botanic Gardens. Take a visit to the old town and the National Museum of Scotland. Edinburgh is dotted with lively pubs and delicious gourmet restaurants so you will not be wandering too far to find somewhere nice to unwind for the evening. Settle into your accommodation later on.

Overnight in Edinburgh

Day 7 : Return home

Make your way to Edinburgh Airport from your hotel. From here, you will board your flight and journey home.