Scotland is one of the best countries for the greatest adventures, with a lot to offer, like beautiful beaches, rivers, mountains, highlands, castles, lighthouses, and a lot more.
Below are the 12 best places to visit in Scotland by car, considering the idea of a road trip and casual exploration.
Nowadays, couples travel to beaches like Bali, Bangkok, and the Maldives. People love water and the ocean because of their tranquility, but the most attractive thing is all of nature, which can make any vacation more adventurous, wholesome, and magical.
1. Scotland: Best for Road Trips
The Scottish Highlands, having the lighthouses in the middle of the wilderness, have pure romance for a pair and a Gothic vibe for the loner, as one can experience only in movies and books; it would be such a thrill to experience it for real through a road trip.
Here are some places to visit in Scotland by car, which is the perfect destination for lovers of literature, history, and mythology. In general, it also has much to offer an adventure seeker in terms of experience, vibe, and inspiration.
2. 8 Places To Visit In Scotland By Car
2.1. Caledonian Canal
There are so many hotels to stay in Edinburgh, and from their tour, buses can be booked in advance, or rental cars can be taken to begin the road trip to the Caledonian Canal, a very popular scenic spot for visitors.
The place is tranquil, with a low population, still water, the chirping of birds, and fresh air to breathe. On the way, before landing here, you might come across Callander, a small town with a famous stoppage with coffee shops and bakeries, so that traveling won’t drive you to feel hungry.
2.2. Mallaig
This is the beautiful harbor where treats like boat trips can be enjoyed along with the road trip; Mallaig is a fishing spot where much quality time can be spent in peace.
Besides the main spots, the scenic route keeps displaying beautiful views of nature that keep appearing on the way to these places, and making a road trip by car is advantageous because you can step down and enjoy the view.
The scent of the river and the freshness of the air give a great deal of satisfaction and a soulful experience. The coastline of Mallaig consists of mountains that are remains of magma and is called the “necklace of volcanoes.”
2.3. Laggan Dam
Pine forests surround Laggan Dam, and the view of the water on both sides makes it a tranquil site. Such a huge dam existing peacefully in the lap of nature creates such a surreal picture that it can give rise to suppressed emotions to pen it down. The place can inspire artists to create something of extraordinary quality.
2.4. Edinburgh Castle
The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle, is rich in ancient and medieval history, with many structures telling the tales of the past. Edinburgh Castle is one of those historic castles where it is claimed that people settled and lived here from the Iron Age. The structure stands tall on the hill and is said to be the most visited place in Scotland by tourists.
The place is said to be wealthier in terms of history and folktales because of the several roles it has been playing from the time of its existence; it used to be a royal residence, a military base, and then a prison house.
2.5. Golspie Village
Golspie village is situated on the east coast of the highlands where the famous Dunrobin Castle exists, which has undergone several transformations from being a boarding school to a tourist destination.
The castle has a huge, well-designed garden with fountains on all four sides and a museum that contains the remains of animals hunted in ancient times to show off power; the place can be visited between April and October only.
2.6. Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond Lake is named after the area under Trossachs National Park, full of amazing wildlife. Scotland is known as one of the wettest countries in Europe, where any weather can take a U-turn, so while planning a road trip, carry the essentials to protect yourself from the sudden occurrence of rain and clouds.
The area has mountains and hills for hiking, rivers for swimming, and castles to explore. Still, the entry can be made with tickets only.
2.7. Fort William
Fort William has all the essentials to make your road trip smoother; it is a city where cafes and good food can be found easily, it has lodgings for accommodations, and tour buses can be booked.
The place highlighted for you to visit is the Neptune Staircase, which is believed to be the longest in Scotland. Through the route of Glen Etive road, Glencoe village can be visited; the village has breath-taking views to offer!
2.8. Fort George
Fort George is one of the historic sites of Scotland, which was built to strengthen the military power. Fort George is a classic star-shaped fort beside River Ness, which was strategically supportive of the purpose of strengthening the military because of the easier navy approaches.
Audio guides are available for a detailed tour of the huge fort. Another place that can be visited during a road trip is Cawdor Castle, and visitors generally visit to look at the sunset from the lighthouse at Chanonry Point. By now, you must have realized that the beautiful country of Scotland is home to castles, lighthouses, and highlands.
3. Final Note
Scotland is one of those European countries where rain showers are as common as sunrise and sunset. Before beginning the road trip, be prepared with the essentials like a camp tent, sleeping bag, cooking utensils, raincoat, boots, and camera equipment for photography and videography.
If you like writing, you can carry a diary to note down unique events and experiences because once you begin the road trip, you will experience a magical journey.
Last Updated on March 18, 2024 by Parina Parmar
