The Scottish Highlands capture the imagination with their rugged mountains, misty lochs, and dramatic coastlines. This vast wilderness area in northern Scotland offers some of the UK's most spectacular scenery, fascinating history, and authentic cultural experiences. Whether you're drawn by the legends of Loch Ness, the majesty of Ben Nevis, or the ethereal beauty of the Isle of Skye, a journey through the Highlands promises unforgettable adventures.
This seven-day itinerary will guide you through the highlights of the region, with recommendations for accommodation, dining, and activities that go beyond the usual tourist experience. While it's designed as a road trip (the best way to explore the Highlands at your own pace), we've included notes for those relying on public transport.
Day 1: Edinburgh to Pitlochry - Gateway to the Highlands
Morning: Begin Your Highland Journey
Start your adventure in Edinburgh, picking up a rental car before heading north. Cross the magnificent Forth Road Bridge for stunning views of the Firth of Forth and the iconic Forth Rail Bridge (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Your first stop should be the charming village of South Queensferry, where you can enjoy coffee at the Orocco Pier with views of all three Forth bridges.
Afternoon: Historic Stirling
Continue to Stirling, dominated by its impressive castle perched atop Castle Hill. Spend a couple of hours exploring Stirling Castle, one of Scotland's most historically significant fortresses and former residence of Scottish royalty including Mary, Queen of Scots. The castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Wallace Monument in the distance.
Evening: Arrive in Pitlochry
Drive through the increasingly dramatic scenery of Perthshire to reach Pitlochry, a Victorian spa town that serves as an ideal introduction to Highland life. Check into one of the town's charming B&Bs or the historic Atholl Palace Hotel. For dinner, try the locally-sourced Scottish fare at Port Na Craig Inn, overlooking the River Tummel.
Accommodation Recommendation:
Fonab Castle Hotel offers luxurious rooms in a baronial castle with spectacular views over Loch Faskally, or try the more affordable but equally charming Pine Trees Hotel.
Day 2: Pitlochry to Inverness - Following the Whisky Trail
Morning: Pitlochry Exploration
Begin with a visit to the Pitlochry Dam Visitor Centre to learn about hydroelectric power and see the impressive salmon ladder. Then take a morning tour of Blair Athol Distillery, one of Scotland's oldest working distilleries, where you can learn about whisky production and enjoy a tasting.
Afternoon: The Cairngorms
Drive north into the Cairngorms National Park, the UK's largest national park and home to five of Scotland's six highest mountains. Stop at the Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore for an immersive experience of Highland history and culture across 30 historical buildings. Continue to Aviemore for a late lunch at The Old Bridge Inn.
Evening: Arrival in Inverness
Complete your journey to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. After checking into your accommodation, take an evening stroll along the River Ness to Inverness Castle, followed by dinner at Rocpool Restaurant, known for its contemporary Scottish cuisine featuring local ingredients.
Accommodation Recommendation:
Rocpool Reserve Hotel offers boutique luxury in the heart of the city, while Bunchrew House Hotel provides a country house experience just outside town.
Day 3: Inverness and Loch Ness - Legends and Landscapes
Morning: Inverness Exploration
Spend your morning exploring Inverness, starting with the Victorian Market for some shopping, followed by a visit to the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to deepen your understanding of Highland history and culture. Don't miss Leakey's Bookshop, Scotland's largest secondhand bookstore housed in an old Gaelic church.
Afternoon: Loch Ness Adventure
Drive south along the shores of the legendary Loch Ness. While monster spotting might be optimistic, the loch itself is impressive—24 miles long and over 750 feet deep in places. Visit the ruins of Urquhart Castle, which offers spectacular views over the loch and has witnessed significant moments in Scottish history. Consider taking a boat trip on the loch with Jacobite Cruises for a different perspective.
Evening: Highland Hospitality
Return to Inverness for dinner at The Kitchen, where you can try traditional dishes like Cullen Skink (a hearty soup) or haggis with neeps and tatties. If you're visiting between April and October, consider attending a traditional Scottish ceilidh at Hootananny, where you can learn Scottish dancing accompanied by live folk music.
Day 4: Inverness to Skye - The Road to the Isles
Morning: Westward Bound
Leave Inverness early, heading west through increasingly dramatic Highland scenery. Your first stop should be Rogie Falls, a beautiful series of waterfalls best viewed from the suspension bridge. Continue to the picturesque village of Lochcarron for coffee and views across the sea loch.
Afternoon: Eilean Donan Castle
No Highland journey would be complete without visiting Eilean Donan Castle, possibly Scotland's most photographed castle. Situated on a small tidal island where three sea lochs meet, the castle has featured in numerous films and TV shows. Take a guided tour to learn about its destruction in the 18th century and meticulous reconstruction in the early 20th century.
Evening: Arrival on Skye
Cross the Skye Bridge to reach the Isle of Skye, the largest of the Inner Hebrides and home to some of Scotland's most iconic landscapes. Head to Portree, Skye's largest town, characterized by its colorful harbor buildings. Check into your accommodation before enjoying dinner at Sea Breezes, known for its fresh local seafood.
Accommodation Recommendation:
The Cuillin Hills Hotel offers luxury with panoramic views of Portree Bay, while the Rosedale Hotel provides comfortable rooms in a central location.
Day 5: Isle of Skye - Fairy Pools and Magical Landscapes
Morning: The Fairy Pools
Begin with an early visit to the Fairy Pools, a series of crystal-clear blue pools and waterfalls at the foot of the Black Cuillin mountains. The walk takes about 2-3 hours round trip and offers spectacular views. Arrive early to avoid crowds and capture the magical atmosphere when the morning light hits the pools.
Afternoon: The Trotternish Peninsula
Drive north to explore the otherworldly landscapes of the Trotternish Peninsula. Visit the Old Man of Storr, a distinctive rock pinnacle created by an ancient landslide. The hike to its base takes about 1.5 hours round trip and rewards you with breathtaking views across to the mainland. Continue to Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls viewpoint, where a waterfall plunges 60 meters into the sea against a backdrop of columnar basalt cliffs resembling a pleated kilt.
Evening: Skye Cuisine
Return to Portree for dinner at Scorrybreac, where chef Calum Munro creates innovative dishes using the finest local ingredients. If you're interested in Skye's growing craft spirits scene, visit the tasting room at Talisker Distillery (Scotland's oldest island distillery) or try Isle of Skye Brewing Co. beers at a local pub.
Day 6: Skye to Fort William - Mountains and Glens
Morning: Farewell to Skye
Before leaving Skye, visit Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, the ancestral home of the Clan MacLeod for more than 800 years and the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland. Explore the castle's rich collection of clan treasures and enjoy the extensive gardens, including the Water Garden with its ornate bridges and islands.
Afternoon: Journey through Glencoe
Cross back to the mainland and drive south, entering the hauntingly beautiful Glencoe. This dramatic glen is not only one of Scotland's most scenic areas but also the site of the infamous Glencoe Massacre of 1692. Stop at the Glencoe Visitor Centre to learn about the area's natural and cultural history, then take one of the short walking trails to experience the majesty of the glen up close.
Evening: Arrival in Fort William
Reach Fort William, situated at the foot of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain. After checking in to your accommodation, enjoy dinner at Crannog Seafood Restaurant on the town's pier, offering fresh seafood with views over Loch Linnhe.
Accommodation Recommendation:
Inverlochy Castle Hotel offers luxury in a 19th-century baronial castle, while The Lime Tree is a more affordable boutique hotel with an art gallery and excellent restaurant.
Day 7: Fort William to Edinburgh - Highland Farewell
Morning: Glenfinnan Viaduct
Begin your final day with a visit to the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films as part of the route of the Hogwarts Express. The visitor center provides information about the viaduct's construction and the 1745 Jacobite uprising, which began at Glenfinnan. For the best view of the viaduct (especially if the Jacobite steam train is crossing), take the short uphill path to the viewpoint.
Afternoon: Return Journey
Start your return journey to Edinburgh, traveling through the dramatic scenery of Rannoch Moor and then south along Loch Lomond, Britain's largest inland body of water. Stop at the conservation village of Luss for lunch at the Village Rest and a stroll along the loch shore.
Evening: Edinburgh Return
Return to Edinburgh by early evening, reflecting on your Highland adventure. For a final Scottish meal, book a table at The Witchery by the Castle, offering atmospheric dining in a 16th-century building near Edinburgh Castle.
Practical Tips for Highlands Travel
- Weather Preparedness: Highland weather is notoriously changeable. Pack layers, waterproof clothing, and good walking shoes regardless of the season.
- Driving Advice: Many Highland roads are single-track with passing places. Always keep left, pull into passing places on your left to let approaching vehicles pass, or use them on your right to allow faster vehicles behind you to overtake.
- Midges: These tiny biting insects can be a nuisance between May and September. Pack insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin, and consider a midge head net for extensive outdoor activities.
- Public Transport: While a car offers the most flexibility, it is possible to experience the Highlands using trains and buses. The West Highland Line (connecting Glasgow to Mallaig) is considered one of the world's most scenic rail journeys.
- Booking Ahead: Accommodation in popular areas like Skye and Inverness books up quickly, especially during summer months. Reserve rooms at least 3-6 months in advance.
Conclusion
A week may only scratch the surface of what the Scottish Highlands have to offer, but this itinerary provides a balanced introduction to the region's diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From misty lochs to craggy mountains, ancient castles to cozy pubs, the Highlands offer a tangible connection to Scotland's past while showcasing its dynamic present.
The memories you create here—whether watching the sun set behind the Cuillin mountains, experiencing the warm welcome of Highland hospitality, or simply standing in awe before the vastness of Glencoe—will remain with you long after you've returned home. This ancient land of legends has a way of capturing not just your imagination but your heart as well.
