Road trip in the Highlands: must-see destinations
Located in the northwest of Écosse, the mountainous region of the "Highlands" is renowned for its wild beauty.
Located in the northwest of Écosse, the mountainous region of the "Highlands" is renowned for its wild beauty. But taking a road trip in the Highlands also means visiting stunning castles along your route, discovering lochs and legends… Let's hit the road for an unforgettable journey!
Essential towns and spots for a Highlands road trip
Sandwood Bay beach
At the far northwest of the Highlands, set out to discover Sandwood Bay. This isolated beach (considered one of the best-preserved on mainland Great Britain) will enchant you with its wild beauty. But it comes with a price! Indeed, the beach is only accessible after roughly two hours of walking…
Glencoe Valley
Glencoe Valley is one of Écosse's wildest zones. Renowned for its landscapes and panoramic views, it can be traversed via the A82. The presence of numerous car parks makes it easy to stop and explore the trails spontaneously!
The city of Inverness
Inverness is the capital of the Highlands. This city, destroyed many times throughout history, nonetheless preserves a rich heritage, such as Fort George and St Andrews Cathedral. It is also appreciated for its Victorian Market—a lively shopping gallery from the 19th century.
Fort William and the Ben Nevis summit
Situated on the shores of Loch Linnhe, Fort William is the second most populated city in the Highlands. Very popular in summer, it is also sought after for its fort. A tip? Don't miss the Steall Waterfall (located 20 minutes from the city) or the Ben Nevis mountain range (essential for skiers and hikers)!
Castles of the Highlands
Dunrobin Castle
Comprising 189 rooms, Dunrobin Castle ranks among the largest Scottish residences. During World War I, this castle served as a hospital before being converted into a boarding school for boys from 1965 to 1972. During your visit, you'll be enchanted by the property's architecture and gardens!
Urquhart Castle
Built between the 13th and 16th centuries, this medieval castle is one of Écosse's most prized. Why? Situated on the shores of Loch Ness, it offers a privileged vantage point over the famous legendary lake, from its Grant Tower…
Cawdor Castle
Constructed in the late 14th century, Cawdor Castle is renowned for its architecture featuring turrets, staircases, vaults, and more. During your visit, you can admire artwork dating back several millennia. Outside, you can explore the property's splendid gardens.
Iconic lochs of the Scottish "Highlands"
Loch Ness
Known worldwide thanks to the Loch Ness Monster, this lake is also an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. You can take a boat cruise or go paddling. Nestled in lush surroundings, Loch Ness is also perfect for hiking and lakeside walks…
Loch Shiel
Loch Shiel is equally legendary… thanks to Harry Potter and its "Hogwarts" lake! Equipped with a small beach, it's a lovely spot for picnicking. It is moreover located right beside the splendid Glenfinnan Viaduct, built between 1897 and 1901.
Note The Highlands region has numerous lochs and castles. Those presented here are part of extremely rich heritage... For a successful Highlands road trip, take time to carefully plan your itinerary in advance. Also consider visiting a Whisky distillery or attending a festival, such as the Highland Games, to discover local culture and traditions!
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Highlands Islands
Handa Island
Passing through the town of Tarbet, take the ferry and set sail for Handa Island! Spanning 3 km², this natural island is a magical place to observe birds, seals, dolphins… and whales!
Isle of Skye
Accessible from the fishing village of Mallaig, the Isle of Skye delights hikers, thanks to its famous Cuillins mountain range. The island also boasts magnificent castles…
5 practical tips for preparing your visit
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Frequently asked questions
The best time to visit the Highlands is April to September, when temperatures are mildest and days are longest. Watch out for midges (small insects) very present in July-August. May and September often offer a good compromise: fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Budget a minimum of ten days to enjoy the Highlands at your own pace, especially if you wish to include islands like Skye or Handa. A week is possible for a more condensed itinerary, focusing on must-sees like Glencoe, Inverness and Loch Ness.
Budget between €600 and €700 per person for a week in the Highlands, excluding international transport. This budget covers car rental, accommodation and meals. Castle entries and outdoor activities should be budgeted separately.
A standard vehicle is sufficient for most Highlands roads. However, some secondary roads are single track with passing areas. If you plan to venture onto more isolated tracks or visit mountainous areas, an SUV or high-clearance vehicle may be useful.
Absolutely! Loch Ness is far more than the legend of its famous monster. This 37 km-long lake offers magnificent landscapes, hikes along its shores, cruises and a visit to Urquhart Castle, one of Écosse's most beautiful medieval castles. An essential stop on your road trip.
