From Edinburgh to Inverness, from the Isle of Skye to Oban
The perfect 7-day road trip through the Highlands of Scotland
Edinburgh
Start and end your trip in Edinburgh, the pulse of Scotland. The contrast between vibrant, creative and flavorful Edinburgh and the endless green, serene and wild landscapes of the Highlands. Roam the streets of the city, visiting the castle (make sure to book well in advance) and get your first dose of street fish and chips from Fish and Fritters food truck, the lemony homemade tartar sauce is just what you need to ‘arrive’ in Scotland. Digest whilst getting lost in the old town, shopping at Oliver Bonas and having coffee and cake at Cairngorm or The Milk Man. For a rainy evening, The Palmerston is just what the doctor ordered, gorgeous high ceilings and comfort seasonal dishes in an everchanging menu this gem also serves as a bakery for breakfast croissants the next morning. Sleep cosy in No32 hotel, cheap and cheerful BnB, walking distance to Dean Village for the next morning’s adventures.
If you’re looking for a Scottish breakfast head to The Pantry, along the stunning Dean Village walkway, a brisk river walk to enjoy the traditional with a twist breakfast at this lovely location. If you’re looking for breakfast in the old town The Edinburgh Larder may be just the spot for you.
St Andrews & Dunnottar Castle
If you haven’t already rented your car, now is the time as we head up along the coast to Seaside town of golf and university of St Andrews. Walk around the student town and have a quick lunch at The cheesy toast shack or The Cottage kitchen.
Make it to Dunnottar castle before closing at 17:00pm to take in the castle views and walk along the coast. A short drive up the East of Scotland and you arrive at Thainstone House for a drink in the courtyard to enjoy the pink sunset if you’re lucky on a dry day.
The next morning after a delicious traditional breakfast, kipper with poached eggs or a classic Scottish fry up with black pudding of course, we head towards Inverness.
On the way to Inverness
Along the drive, stretch your legs on a seaside walk along the sand dunes and a Mr. Whippy in the seaside town of Nairn. Further along the drive you will fall upon the iconic Boath House Hotel & Restaurant, if you are lucky enough to have booked a room or a table, please do enjoy. If not, not to worry because, tucked away behind a wooden door and a fruitful apple tree garden you will encounter Boath house café.
Enjoy seasonal, fresh sourdough pizzas and handmade tarts in this small Eden.
Inverness
Our next stop is Inverness, a bustling town along the River, enjoy a lunch at the Mustard seed.
Before the sun goes down, arrive at White Rose Tower, a family-owned Bed and Breakfast with beautifully decorated cosy bedrooms, home for the next two nights. Smoked salmon and scrambled eggs made by Lisa will fuel you for the days activities. Head to romantic Dunrobin castle, two hours north, make sure to catch the bird show in the courtyard and a walk through the lustrous gardens.
A short drive back down the coast at Dornoch Village, stop at the Beach and pick up a fresh lobster role from the Highland Larder and enjoy on a seaside walk. If you want to explore a local whiskey distillery Glenmorangie is just along the coast. If coffee and cake is your thing or if your children want to play with farm animals, skip the distillery and make a stop at Dalmore farm.
Dinnertime in a small town called in Tain for some pub grub in an old train station at Platform 1864.
Isle of Skye
Drive to the Isle of sky with Portree as your destination. Stop along your route at Plockton town for a coffee or a lunch at the Plockton Hotel, look out for the seals!
Stop at Eileen Donan castle for some history en route.
Arrive in Portree and spoil yourself at Dulse and Browse, overlooking the colourful portree houses. If you’re lucky (and a little and organised) you may have secured yourself a table at Michelin star Scorrybreac right next door, defifnitely worth it.
For a unique stay, rest up at the Juniper cabins and enjoy a fresh scone breakfast around the corner at Deli Gasta.
Oban
The next morning, make your way through the scenic routes of Glencoe, stopping along the way to take in the breathtaking views of Bluebells and never ending freshwater streams. A small detour will take you to renowned Loch Fyne Restaurant for fresh lobster and salmon overlooking the loch. Alternatively, book in advance and stay at the unique Inver hotel and restaurant, you won’t want to leave.
Arriving in Oban don’t miss a tour at one of Scotland’s quaintest distilleries for a tasting. Stay at the duke of Argylls old summerhouse, the dramatic Dungallan Bnb, overlooking the bay. Andy will pour you a whiskey and you can put your feet up in the library and watch the sunset. For dinner chose Cuan Mor for an upscale pub grub or if youre feeling casual, there are plenty of fish and chip options around town.
With a heavy heart but a gleaming smile and inner warmth of gratitude, head back through to Glasgow or Edinburgh to make your way home. I promise you’ll be planning your next Scotland trip sooner than you think.
Slainte’