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Arrive in Edinburgh where your accommodation awaits. Your self-drive or chauffeured car will be waiting for you at the airport. Spend the afternoon leisurely exploring the city. Walk along the historic Royal Mile, delve into the UNESCO-listed Old and New Towns, and discover Edinburgh Castle’s grandeur. With numerous museums and landmarks nearby, your evening promises a delightful introduction to Edinburgh’s charm.
Rest for the night in Edinburgh.
Begin your road trip adventure by heading north to Fife. Your initial destination is the charming village of Falkland, renowned for its Renaissance palace. After immersing yourself in its historical allure, proceed eastward to St Andrews, famed as the birthplace of golf and home to Scotland’s oldest university. Continuing your journey northward, you’ll traverse Dundee, recognized as a UNESCO City of Design. From there, you have the option to opt for the direct route to Aberdeen or embark on the scenic coastal route. The coastal path offers stunning vistas, passing through the St. Cyrus National Nature Reserve and offering glimpses of the awe-inspiring Dunnottar Castle near Stonehaven.
Rest for the night in Aberdeen.
Today’s journey leads you into the majestic Scottish Highlands. Begin your adventure by driving along the captivating “Deeside Tourist Route,” winding through the scenic landscapes of the Cairngorms National Park. Along the way, you’ll encounter a plethora of historic castles to explore, including the 16th-century Crathes Castle and the esteemed Balmoral Castle, the Scottish residence of the Royal Family, open to visitors from April to July. Continuing your drive, you’ll venture into Speyside, renowned for its world-class whiskies. Consider visiting one of the many renowned distilleries in the area, such as Glenfiddich or Aberlour, to delve into the art of whisky-making and savor the distinct flavors.
Rest for the night in Inverness area.
Today’s journey will take you north across the Black Isle Peninsula to the coastal village of Scrabster. Along the way, consider a stop at the enchanting Dunrobin Castle. Later in the day, embark on a scenic ferry ride to Stromness on Orkney, a picturesque journey offering stunning views of the Old Man of Hoy. Upon reaching the mainland, drive to Kirkwall, the capital, and explore its historic city center, including the magnificent 12th-century St Magnus Cathedral, a testament to the island’s Viking heritage.
Ferry from Scrabster to Orkney: 1.5 hours
Rest for the night in Kirkwall area.
Take the opportunity to explore the treasures of Orkney at your leisure today, immersing yourself in its breathtaking landscapes and ancient ruins that date back thousands of years to the Stone Age. One of the highlights is the “Heart of Neolithic Orkney,” a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a cluster of Neolithic monuments. These include the remarkable prehistoric village of Skara Brae, the enigmatic stone circle known as the Ring of Brodgar, the imposing megaliths at the Standing Stones of Stenness, and the fascinating chambered cairn of Maeshowe, adorned with one of the largest collections of Norse runic inscriptions left by 12th-century Vikings.
Rest for the night in Kirkwall area
Today, embark on your return journey to the mainland via ferry before embarking on a portion of the renowned North Coast 500 route. Often dubbed Scotland’s answer to Route 66, this scenic drive traces the northern coastline, boasting breathtaking vistas of rugged cliffs, golden sand beaches, and majestic mountains. Along the route, make sure to pause and explore notable attractions such as the awe-inspiring Smoo Cave, renowned as Britain’s largest and most dramatic sea cave. Continue your journey to discover the pristine beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters of Durness, as well as the evocative ruins of Ardvreck Castle, which dates back to the 15th century. Finally, conclude your day in the picturesque and quaint village of Ullapool.
Rest for the night in Ullapool area.
Ferry from Orkney to Scrabster: 1.5 hours
Begin your day by immersing yourself in the awe-inspiring Corrieshalloch Gorge, home to the impressive mile-long chasm and the captivating Falls of Measach. As you continue your journey along the picturesque west coast, make a point to pause at Inverewe Garden, where you can marvel at a diverse array of some 2500 exotic plants and flowers, thriving in the unexpected warmth of Northern Scotland courtesy of the Gulf Stream. Traverse through the rugged and dramatic terrain of the Torridon Hills before making your way towards Skye. En route, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the charming village of Plockton, nestled along the scenic shores of Loch Carron.
Rest for the night in Isle of Skye or nearby.
Make the most of your day on Skye, a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Start by exploring the charming village of Portree, characterized by its vibrant buildings and quaint local shops. Then, embark on a scenic drive around the northern part of the island, traversing the awe-inspiring Trotternish Peninsula. Along the way, be sure to hike up to “The Old Man of Storr” rock pinnacle and admire the majestic Kilt Rock Waterfall. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the mystical Quiraing, revel in the ancient dinosaur footprints at An Corran Beach in Staffin, and experience the enchanting Fairy Glen.
Rest for the night on the Isle of Skye or nearby.
As you journey back to Edinburgh, savor the scenic beauty of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Consider pausing for a nature walk, indulging in an optional steamship tour on Loch Katrine, or exploring a local whisky distillery along the way. For a memorable photo opportunity, make sure to visit Doune Castle, famously featured in Monty Python & the Holy Grail and Outlander.
If time permits, you might also choose to stop by Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s premier attractions, or marvel at the impressive horse-head sculptures known as the Kelpies.
Rest for the night in Fort William.
Make the most of your day on Skye, a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Start by exploring the charming village of Portree, characterized by its vibrant buildings and quaint local shops. Then, embark on a scenic drive around the northern part of the island, traversing the awe-inspiring Trotternish Peninsula. Along the way, be sure to hike up to “The Old Man of Storr” rock pinnacle and admire the majestic Kilt Rock Waterfall. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the mystical Quiraing, revel in the ancient dinosaur footprints at An Corran Beach in Staffin, and experience the enchanting Fairy Glen.
Rest for the night in Trossachs National Park area.
Today’s journey concludes your trip back to Edinburgh, offering optional activities along the way. Drive through the picturesque Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature with a leisurely walk or opt for a scenic steamship tour on Loch Katrine. Whisky enthusiasts can explore a local distillery for a tasting experience. Don’t miss the chance to visit Doune Castle, famous for its appearances in Monty Python & the Holy Grail and Outlander, for a memorable photo opportunity. If time permits, consider stopping by Stirling Castle, a renowned historical landmark, or admire the impressive Kelpies sculptures depicting horse heads.
Rest for the night in Edinburgh.
On your departure day, consider indulging in some last-minute shopping, exploring one of Edinburgh’s renowned museums, or taking a leisurely stroll through the charming city center, soaking in the atmosphere before bidding farewell to this captivating destination. Your self-drive or chauffeured car will be returned at the airport.
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