3-week road trip in Scotland

Are you planning a 3-week vacation? Do you want to discover Scotland and all its details? You will love this itinerary!

With this road trip, explore Scotland and discover its must-sees as well as its hidden gems. You will never forget this trip!

Here is a glimpse of the beautiful experiences awaiting in this 3-week road trip  in Scotland:

• Discover Glasgow through its Necropolis
• Experience your first Scottish landscapes by exploring the Loch Lomond National Park, near Arrochar
• Meet the wildlife on the Isle of Mull
• See the varied and beautiful landscapes of the Isle of Skye
• Visit the historic Eilean Donan Castle from Plockton
• Canoe from Gairloch Harbour
• Explore the Scottish highlands from Ullapool
• Take a break at a whisky distillery in Grantown-on-Spey
• See the salmon ladder at Pitlochry Dam Power Station and Fish Ladder
• Visit Edinburgh Castle, and experience the magic of the old city

To travel safely and without any worry on your mind, we recommend Chapka Insurance!

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Itinerary of a 3-week road trip in Scotland

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Some practical information before your trip to Scotland

 

For this itinerary, we recommend renting a car from Hertz. It’s possible to rent it in one city and return it in another without exorbitant prices and limiting hidden costs.

You want to buy a paper travel guide? We recommend this one! In our opinion, it is the most complete and the most visual!

Need a road map to prepare your itinerary? We recommend this one, the most detailed and the most pleasant to read!

The best time to travel in Scotland is from May to September. These are the months when the weather and temperatures will be most pleasant. However, rain and clouds are never far away… But after all, that’s the charm of the country! See more details here.

Scotland is also a culinary heritage. Although it may not suit all taste buds, some specialities are worth trying! Starting with the must-try: haggis. This is a mixture of meat, oatmeal and spices, usually served with mashed potatoes. Then there’s porridge, a much-loved local snack that can be found all over the country. For those with a sweet tooth, you’ll have to try the traditional dessert, the Cranachan, made with raspberries, cream, oats and whisky, in short, only good things!

 

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Contents: 3-week road trip in Scotland

1- Glasgow – Stop 1 of the 3-week road trip in Scotland
2- Arrochar – Stop 2 of the 3-week road trip in Scotland
3- Isle of Mull – Stop 3 of the 3-week road trip in Scotland
4- Isle of Skye – Stop 4 of the 3-week road trip in Scotland
5- Plockton – Stop 5 of the 3-week road trip in Scotland
6- Gairloch – Stop 6 of the 3-week road trip in Scotland
7- Ullapool – Stop 7 of the 3-week road trip in Scotland
8- Grantown-on-Spey – Stop 8 of the 3-week road trip in Scotland
9- Pitlochry – Stop 9 of the 3-week road trip in Scotland
10- Edinburgh – Stop 10 of the 3-week road trip in Scotland

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Itinerary of a 3-week road trip in Scotland: step by step

 

What to do in Glasgow?

Glasgow, the most populated city in Scotland is famous for being dynamic and welcoming. A cultural rich city that you will love! This is a great first local immersion in this 3-week road trop in Scotland. 

• Go up to the Necropolis. It can seem creepy but taking a long and calm walk through the graves while enjoying the panoramic view will be an exceptional experience!
• Eat a famous fish and chips in Bath Street.
• Feel like James Bond and go for a « Power Boat » ride on the Clyde river.
• Step in the city’s Cathedral, an impressive and beautiful building!
• Discover a medieval historic house: Provand’s Lordship.
• Architecture lovers, you probably already know about Charles Rennie Mackintosh, a famous Scottish Art Nouveau architect. Explore the Mackintosh House. This house will amaze you!
• Stroll through the Botanic Gardens and Kibble Palace admire different plants and relax in this gorgeous flowery garden.
• In the heart of Glasgow, take a break and have a snack at The Willow Tea Room.

 

Continue your visit of Glasgow:

 

• Visit Glasgow University, on top of a hill. Be quiet, people are studying!
• Walk in the city streets and take pictures of the typically Scottish facades decorated with street art.
• If you like vintage and old objects, go to Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel where many vintage vehicles are displayed.
• History lovers, get to know more about Glasgow at the People’s Palace and Winter Gardens.
• Roam around George Square where many famous Scottish celebrity’s statues are displayed.
• Go find unique souvenirs at the Barras Market.
• Visit the Gallery of Modern Art where you will get to see many different (living!) artists’ artworks.
• Science nerds, explore the Glasgow Science Centre.
• Drink a beer (or two) on a night out in West End.
• Eat the local speciality, the haggis, at Stravaigin, in Hillhead.

 

Where to sleep in Glasgow?

 

• Mid-range: Located in Glasgow city centre, close to George Square, Chic Living in the Heart of the City has a terrace and all the necessary facilities. Offering views of the city, enjoy Natalya’s hospitality and the large rooms she will provide.
• High-end: The Kimpton – Blythswood Square Hotel is located in the city centre. The hotel is housed in a renovated building and offers luxury rooms designed in a period architectural style. The former ballroom has been converted into a restaurant for your enjoyment and pleasure.

 

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What to do in Arrochar?

Arrochar is well-known by mountaineers because it gives you access to the Arrochar Alps. For us, it will just be a stopover town for you on this 3-week road trip in Scotland.

• Explore Argyll Forest Park don’t forget to check out one of its most beautiful waterfall: Ben Ime. The park has different trails for you to hike on.
• Discover the city’s church, the ruins of the former church and the historic cemetery. All these monuments are in the same place, so easy to explore.
• Stop by Loch Lomond National Park just a few km/miles away and enjoy a picnic by the lake or just go for a walk.

 

Where to sleep in Arrochar?

 

• High-end: Rated 10/10 on Booking, the Amazing Alps and Loch view has a terrace and offers stunning views of the lake. In a clean and tidy environment, recharge your batteries in the spacious rooms and enjoy the barbecue to liven up your evenings.

 

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What to do on the Isle of Mull?

The Isle of Mull is part of the Inner Hebrides. You will get to see stunning landscapes.

• Go for a long walk on the white sand beaches.
• Gor for a hike up Ben More, on the Isle of Ulva or Aros Park.
• You dream of seeing dolphins and eagles? Go for a day trip and make your dream come true! It will be a magical experience on your 3-week road trip in Scotland.
• The Isle of Mull also has many smaller isles to discover on a boat trip.
• Taste local specialities: whisky (but not too much!), beef and seafood.
• Explore the craftsmen markets of the Isle and get handmade souvenirs. Soap, cookies, a nice sweater…
• Visit the 6 castles of the Isle and get to know about its history.
• Want to go on an unusual adventure? Go for a unique horse ride on the beach or in the mountains.
• Take pictures of blackhead sheeps and Highland Cattle. What is this? They are cute little cows with amazing fur!

 

Where to sleep on the Isle of Mull?

 

• High-end: Treat yourself to a night of authenticity and comfort by staying at Pennygate Lodge. This B&B is set on a beautiful estate, with welcoming hosts and a delicious breakfast.
• Castle: Live the ultimate overnight experience in a Scottish castle at Glengorm Castle. Ideally located, with stunning views, tastefully decorated rooms, an excellent breakfast and the perfect starting point for hikes.

 

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What to do in Skye?

Skye or rather the Isle of Skye is a stunning stop of this 3-week road trip in Scotland, made of mysteries and unusual discoveries. 

• Walk around the village of Portree, the biggest one on the Isle. You will be amazed the colorful houses.
• Go for the Old Man of Storr hike, it’s a 30min hike during which you will get to see beautiful landscapes and view over different lakes.
• Go see the Kilt Rock Cliff and Mealt Falls.
• If you haven’t had enough of hiking, go do the Quiraing hike. A 1-hour round trip with beautiful panoramas and calm.
• Admire the sunset from Neist Point. Beware of the wind if it’s blowing hard, it could be dangerous!
• Visit the only castle of the Isle: Dunvegan Castle. You will get to explore the inside, observe seals and relax in the gardens.
• On a boat, discover Loch Coruisk  in the middle of Black Cuillin, in the village of Elgol.
• Whisky lovers, go see the Talisker distillery and learn about how whisky is stored.
• Eat delicious pies from Skye Pie Café after your Old Man of Storr hike.
• Enter a magical dimension when visiting Fairy Glen.

 

Where to sleep on the Isle of Skye?

 

• Mid-range: Located just outside Skye in the Highlands, Bothan Beag is well worth a visit if you want to explore the area! With hosts who will give you all the advice you need, take the opportunity to switch off and explore the area.
• High-end: Looking to disconnect on your holiday? Then Mount Barker is the place for you! This establishment is a large, detached Victorian house set in 4,000 square metres of grounds. Enjoy the large rooms and friendly hosts as you recharge your batteries.

 

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What to do in Plockton?

Plockton is a lovely little village for a charming and green stopover on this 3-week road trip in Scotland.

• By foot, during low tide, go to of on the two island in the bay.
• Stroll through the village and admire the small houses and the unusual settin.
• Taste Haddock soup in Plockton Shores Restaurant.
• 20 min away, discover the Eilean Donan Castle and enjoy a moment out of time!

 

Where to sleep in Plockton?

 

• High-end: Right in the centre of the beautiful village of Plockton, The Holt offers you a combination of comfort, warmth and a warm welcome! It’s a perfect place where everything you need is at your disposal.

 

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What to do in Gairloch?

Typical Scottish village, Gairloch is a must-see on this 3-week road trip in Scotland: flowers, beaches and bucolic forest. 

• Take a walk on Gairloch Beach and Pier: from Gaineamh Mhr beach to Charlestown’s pier and come back through the Flowerdale Arboretum. An hour-long walk to discover the area.
• Visit the Marine Life Center and observe the wild life around the nearby loch.
• Get on a boat and discover rare marine animals.
• Observe the Gavia Arctica, also called « black-throated diver », a rare bird that only lives in the North-West of Scotland and in Nordic countries.
• Hop on a kayak or canoe and cruise around the port of Gairloch.
• Discover Gairloch Heritage Museum and learn about the village’s history.

 

Where to sleep in Gairloch?

 

• High-end: With a warm welcome from Emma, The Old School House has everything you need to relax! Whether it’s the sea view or the hearty breakfast, this B&B is sure to please.

 

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What to do in Ullapool?

Before getting to Ullapool, stop at the pink sand beach of Gruinard Bay.

You will inevitably fall for the lovely Ullapool, seventh stop of your 3-week road trip in Scotland! A small but busy fishing port on Loch Broom.

• Taste haggis neeps and tatties, THE Scottish dish at Seaforth. If you are curious, it’s just a fancy name for turnip and potatoes.
• Go fishing for herrings with le locals in the clear lake.
• Stroll through the village and appreciate the gorgeous white houses.
• Go discover Lewis Island from the port of Ullapool.
• 20 min away from Ullapool, head to Corrieshalloch Gorge and admire this nature reserve’s waterfalls.

 

Where to sleep in Ullapool?

 

• Mid-range: 5 minutes from the town centre, Harbour House has a garden, pebble beach and stunning sea views. The hosts will give you a warm welcome in their spacious and clean establishment, so don’t hesitate!
• High-end: In a paradisiacal setting by the sea and within walking distance of many hikes, Tigh na Mara offers quiet, clean and comfortable accommodation where you can go canoeing and fishing.

 

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What to do in Grantown-on-Spey?

Before getting to Grantown-on-Spey, stop at the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve in Inverness. You can also make a stop along the mystical Loch Ness.

Largest whisky producing city, Grantown-on-Spey is ideal to get to know the region deeply. 

• Take a walk on a trail in the Anagach Woods up to the Spey River. You will get meet birds and other wld animals!
• Big reader? Head to  The Bookmark Bookshop.
• Athletes, discover the many activities you can do here: canoeing, golfing, hiking , arrow shooting …
• Discover the city’s history at Grantown Museum.
• Visit Balmenach Distillery, a lovely whisky distillery. It’s the perfect time for a little whisky tasting on this 3-week road trip in Scotland. Don’t forget, Excessive drinking is dangerous for the health!
• Get a breath of fresh air in Cairngorms National Park a few km/miles away from the city.

 

Where to sleep Grantown-on-Spey?

 

• Mid-range: Stay at Ardenbeg, a charming little guesthouse close to the town centre. As well as lovely, comfortable rooms, you’ll enjoy a garden and very helpful hosts.
• High-end: treat yourself to a night at Ravenscourt House, an Edwardian guest house that has it all! Well located, historically decorated, hosts ready to share with you all their good tips for visiting the area, a delicious breakfast… what more could you want!

 

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What to do in Pitlochry?

Pitlochry is the ideal small city to get back to the hustle and bustle of larger Scottish cities, as your 3-week road trip in Scotland is slowly coming to an end. 

• Walk around the city and get gifts for your friends and family.
• A 10-min drive away, go to the Whisky Edradour distillery. You can also get to the distillery by foot, it’s a 1-hour hike through the Black Spout Forest.
• Stroll around the exotic plant garden: Explorers Garden.
• Eat some fish and chips at Strathgarry Restaurant.
• Go see the main attraction of the village : Pitlochry Dam Power Station and Fish Ladder. A nice walk to a dam with a fish ladder. Have you ever been that close to salmons?
• Admire the panoramic view over the valley and Loch from Queen’s View.
• Early in the morning, go for a hike on Ben Vrackie. You can even have a picnic at the top of the mountain and enjoy a 360 view.

 

Where to sleep in Pitlochry?

 

• Mid-range: Located just 10 minutes’ drive from the Cairngorms National Park, the charming detached cottage The Old Coach House offers a huge fully enclosed garden and free parking. Enjoy all the modern comforts of home in a peaceful haven.
• High-end: Sleep in a real castle! With Scottish-style luxury and stunning views of the Loch, Fonab Castle Hotel is a dream come true. With tastefully decorated rooms, 2 restaurants and a cellar stocked with a wide selection of wines, whiskies and gins, this is the place to be.

 

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What to do in Edinburgh?

Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh is a must-see when coming to Scotland. A mysterious city, famous for Harry Potter fans, you will fall for this city and its rich heritage. 

• Fell like Harry Potter when walk through the narrow streets of Edinburgh.
• Stroll around the old city center and its colorful steets until you get to the Edinburgh Castle. We recommend taking part in a guided tour to discover all there is to know about the history of the place.
• Visit Calton Hill and appreciate the gorgeous view over the city ! You will immediately get why it is UNESCO-listed !
• Discover the Royal Mile Market which used to be a church.
• If ghosts don’t scare you, head to Greyfriars Kirkyard. Maybe you will get to meet the ghost of Georges MacKenzie ?
• Follow Queen Elisabeth‘s steps at the Holyrood Palace where she stays when she comes to Scotland.

 

Continue your visit of Edinburgh:

 

• History lovers, be sure to go to the National Museum of Scotland, learn about the country’s long history and culture.
• Explore the Royal Botanical Garden aiming to preserve the local wildlife and flora.
• Never been to Paris? Circus Lane will make you feel like you actually are in (a Scottish) Paris!
• Stroll around Dean Village along the river.
• Walk up Arthur’s seat and appreciate the gorgeous view over the city.
• You read the Da Vinci Code ? Then you will love to go to the South Leith Parish.
• Potterhead ? Stop by The Elephant House where J.K Rolling spent hours writing her world-famous books.
• If you need a breath of fresh a air, go to Portobello Beach and unwind.
• End your day by having diner at the Grassmarket and get to taste the local cuisine.

 

Where to sleep in Edinburgh?

 

• Mid-range: The Rose Apartment is a fully-equipped self-catering apartment located 600 metres from the centre. Bright and beautifully decorated, this flat is sure to meet your expectations.
• High-end: Stay at the Rutland Hotel & Apartments to start your Scottish journey in comfort. Modern decor, spacious rooms, charming staff and a great location are to be expected.

 

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Learn more about your road trip in Scotland…

 

• You want to know all the information about the country ? It’s here.
• Then, to rent a car at the best price, we recommend this website.
• Finally, to book a flight at the best price, we recommend this website.
• You are looking for a great travel insurance for your 3-week road trip in Scotland? We recommend this one!

 

Do not hesitate to share your trip with us, we can’t wait to hear all about your adventures!

 

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If you have any information, good tips, or simply a comment about this itinerary, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below! The whole team will be happy to hear from you!