Scottish Highlands & Isle of Skye - Winter

This 8-day winter self-drive tour is an excellent way to discover the Scottish Highlands at your own pace, allowing you to stop when and where you want.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN EDINBURGH

Upon your arrival in Edinburgh, make your way to your hotel in the city centre. For those arriving early in the day, we recommend spending the afternoon walking through the city, strolling along the Royal Mile and exploring the Old Town and New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also plenty of museums and landmarks to visit within the city centre, including the majestic Edinburgh Castle.

Spend the night in Edinburgh.

DAY 2: INTO THE HIGHLANDS

Your road trip starts today! Pick up your rental car and head into the famous Scottish Highlands. On the way you'll have many possible stops including Dunkeld, Blair Castle and attractions in the scenic Cairngorms National Park. Arriving near Inverness, make sure not to miss Culloden and Clava Cairns.

Spend the night in the Inverness area.

Driving distance: 251 km / 156 miles

DAY 3: LOCH NESS & CASTLES

Today's journey will take you from Inverness to the iconic Isle of Skye. Drive south to Loch Ness. Here you could hop on a boat tour or visit the ruins of the eerie Urquhart Castle. Further along, make sure to make a photo stop at Eilean Donan Castle.

Spend the night on the Isle of Skye or nearby.

Driving distance: 185 km / 115 miles

DAY 4: WINTER TRANQUILLITY ON SKYE

Today you have a full day to immerse yourself in the magic of Skye. Wander around the main village of Portree, full of colourful homes and boutiques. Then head north to the breathtaking Trotternish Peninsula, where some of Skye's most impressive natural wonders are located. That includes the “The Old Man of Storr” rock pinnacle, the beautiful Kilt Rock waterfall, and the Quiraing landslip.

Spend another night on the Isle of Skye or nearby.

Driving distance: 70 km / 45 miles

DAY 5: MORE OF SKYE AND LOCHABER

This morning, drive to spots on Skye that you don't want to miss. You could head to Talisker Distillery or take a walk at the famous Fairy Pools. In the afternoon, drive back over to the mainland via the Skye Bridge. Then you'll make your way south to Fort William, enjoying stops at attractions on your journey.

Spend the night in the Fort William area.

Driving distance: 212 km / 132 miles

DAY 6: JOURNEY THROUGH DRAMATIC GLENS

Travel south, first passing by the magnificent Glen Coe. This is Scotland's most iconic valley and full of incredible views. Then you could decide to take the scenic route through Oban and Kilmartin Glen to reach the Trossachs.

Spend the night in the Trossachs area.

Driving distance: 285 km / 180 miles

DAY 7: BACK TO EDINBURGH

Today’s drive will take you back to Edinburgh. You can also choose to end your trip in Glasgow if you want.

Enjoy the highlights of the Trossachs National Park and Loch Lomond area. Doune Castle and Deanston Distillery make for an excellent stop on this route. You could also spend some time in Stirling, to visit Stirling Castle and the William Wallace Monument.

Spend the night in Edinburgh.

Driving distance: 130 km / 80 miles

DAY 8: DEPARTURE FROM SCOTLAND

Today you say goodbye to Scotland. If your flight is in the afternoon, you may take your last few hours to do some last-minute shopping, visit one of Edinburgh’s many museums, or take one last stroll through the charming city centre.