7-Day Scotland Road Trip: Exploring the Highlands and Magical Isle of Skye

Written By Keri Leigh

Overview of entire road trip on Google Maps

Are you ready to explore one of the most unreal landscapes on Earth!? (I might be a little biased—but it’s my blog, so that’s allowed. 😇 But I also truly don’t think Scotland could disappoint.)

We’re diving into the breathtaking Scottish Highlands and the magical Isle of Skye—hands down one of my favorite places on the planet. With misty lochs, castle ruins, dramatic coastlines, and cozy pubs, this region is a dream for nature lovers, history buffs, and wanderers alike.

Whether you’re here for epic hikes, folklore-filled stops, or scenic drives, this five-day road trip from Glasgow to Edinburgh hits all the highlights (and some hidden gems).

✨ Before You Go: What to Know About This Itinerary

  • Snacky Snacks: Road tripping = hunger strikes at random times. Don’t get hangry—pack the snacks! 🍿

  • Start and End Points: This itinerary begins in Glasgow and wraps up in Edinburgh. You can easily reverse it or loop back to either city depending on your flights!

  • Isle of Skye Road Tips: The A87 is the main artery connecting Skye’s peninsulas—but road closures do happen, so stay flexible.

  • Optional Hikes: Some stops include short to moderate hikes. Not required, but 100% worth it!

  • Vegan Finds: I’ve included vegan-friendly food stops throughout this itinerary, but do a quick check before heading out

✍ Quick Scotland Tips:

  • Pack for Every Season: We had beautiful weather in May with a few quick showers. Waterproof gear is key.

  • Parking: Typically have to pay for parking in most places, which are usually card-friendly, but keep coins on hand just in case.

  • Driving: Left side of the road + lots of roundabouts. Get an automatic over than a manual if you're not used to driving on the left side. Remember that on one-lane roads, yield if the pull-off is on your side.

  • Vegan Friendly: Vegan options are widely available and clearly labeled—especially at grocery stops, which makes things so easy.

  • Locals Are Lovely: Truly some of the friendliest people I have ever met. They will make you feel right at home!

  • When to Go: May is my favorite! Fewer crowds than June/July, and better weather. Winter is not ideal for the highlands as most things are closed. August is festival season (great if that’s your thing, but expect lots of crowds and increase in prices).

I have been to Scotland three times… and I can promise you that it won’t be my last.

So buckle up because this Scottish Highlands and Isle of Skye itinerary is packed with epic stops, travel tips, and personal notes to help you plan the adventure of a lifetime.

Let’s get into it! 👇

Overview of Itinerary:

DAY ONE: Glasgow ➡ Fort William 

Overview of trip from Glasgow to Fort William on Google Maps

Kick off your road trip bright and early with a hearty breakfast in Glasgow—you’ve got a day full of scenic stops ahead as you make your way to Fort William!

Luss Village

🕐 Estimated Time: 2 - 2.5 hours (for all activities below)

Luss is a charming little village tucked along the shores of Loch Lomond, with quaint stone cottages, peaceful gardens, and postcard-worthy views. It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs and get your first taste of the Highlands.

Loch Lomond Faerie Trail

This whimsical woodland walk might be designed for kids, but let’s be real—it’s magical for grown-ups too! You’ll start at the Luss South car park, where you can grab a map and clue booklet from the little trailer. The trail winds through an enchanted forest filled with fairy houses, painted mushrooms, and hidden surprises. 🧚

📝Personal Note: I only planned to wander the village, but we stumbled on the Faerie Trail and couldn’t resist. We may have totally forgotten to finish the clue book (oops), but it was such a fun and unexpected little detour.

Luss Parish Church & Village Stroll

After finishing the trail, take a peek inside the historic Luss Parish Church, then explore the nearby pier and soak in the loch views. Grab a bite to eat at one of the cafés or pubs before hopping back in the car for the next leg of your Highland adventure.

🌱 Vegan Options in Luss: 

  • Coach House Coffee Shop and Store

  • Loch Lomond Arms

  • The Village Rest

  • Village Shop

Kilchurn Castle Viewpoint

🕐 Estimated Time: 30 minutes at this stop

One of the most photogenic castles in Scotland, Kilchurn Castle sits dramatically on the edge of Loch Awe, backed by rolling hills and rugged peaks. You can’t go inside, but the viewpoint offers postcard-perfect scenery that's absolutely worth a quick stop.

✍Helpful Tip: The path to the viewpoint can be muddy, so wear sturdy shoes you don’t mind getting a little messy.

Loch Tulla Viewpoint

🕐 Estimated Time: 10 minutes

Take a brief pause at Loch Tulla Viewpoint to admire the tranquil beauty of Loch Tulla and the majestic Highland mountains.

Picture of Loch Tulla viewpoint

Three Sisters of Glencoe

🕐 Estimated Time: 10 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your exploration and hiking plans.

Get ready to be wowed by the Three Sisters of Glencoe — Aonach Dubh, Beinn Fhada, and Gearr Aonach — three dramatic ridges that tower over the glen and create one of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes. It’s the perfect stop for jaw-dropping photos and, if you have time, a bit of hiking.

If you're lucky, you might even catch a bagpiper playing in the background — adding the perfect soundtrack to this magical Highland moment. 🎶

After a day packed with jaw-dropping views and unforgettable stops, roll into Fort William for a well-earned evening of rest and relaxation. Whether you're digging into a cozy pub dinner, strolling along the loch, or just kicking back at your accommodation, Fort William is the perfect place to recharge before another big day of exploring the Highlands.

📝Personal Note: We loved winding down here — the town has such a laid-back vibe, and it felt like a true Highlands hub.

🌱 Vegan Options in Fort William:  

  • Black Isle Bar

    • If you eat here, I am begging you… please, please, PLEASE grab some Booja-Booja chocolates. They're all vegan and honestly life-changing. You will not regret it. (I may have considered packing a suitcase full.)

  • The Wildcat (Fully Vegan)

  • Aroma Cafe

  • Larder Café

  • Ben Nevis Inn

  • Cafe 115

  • Garrison West

  • Glen Nevis Restaurant

  • Spice Tandoori

  • The Geographer

DAY TWO: Fort William ➡ Portree 

Overview of Fort William to Portree on Google Maps

After a cozy breakfast in Fort William, it's time to chase a little magic! 🪄

Glenfinnan Viaduct/Jacobite Steam Train

🕐 Estimated Time: 30 minutes - 1.5 hours (depending on how early you get to the viewpoint)

Famously featured in the Harry Potter films as the route of the Hogwarts Express. This iconic railway bridge curves through the stunning Scottish Highlands and is crossed by the Jacobite Steam Train — a real-life vintage train that brings out the inner wizard in all of us


🚨Very Important Note: If you want to see the train crossing the viaduct, check the Jacobite Steam Train timetable on their official website. It departs from Fort William and takes about 35 minutes to reach Glenfinnan, so time your arrival accordingly! The area gets very crowded (even in the rain), so aim to show up at least 30–45 minutes early for a good spot.

Getting There: The walk from the car park to the popular viewing point takes about 15 minutes and is pretty easy, but the path is rocky and often muddy — especially in typical Highland weather! I’ve done it twice in the rain, and while my socks were soaked, it was so worth it for the view and experience.

✍Helpful Tip: Wear durable, waterproof shoes. Thank me later.

Glenfinnan Monument and Loch Shiel

🕐 Estimated Time: 5 - 10 minutes

Once you've waved goodbye to the Hogwarts Express (or the Jacobite Steam Train, if we’re being muggle-accurate), take a quick stroll across the street to visit the Glenfinnan Monument. This historic tribute honors the Jacobite clansmen who fought for Bonnie Prince Charlie and offers a peaceful moment steeped in history.

From here, you’ll also get a stunning view of Loch Shiel, another filming location featured in the Harry Potter films (yep, it’s the lake seen near Hogwarts 👀). The dramatic landscape here is pure Scottish magic.

📸 Bonus Viewpoint: There’s a second viewpoint just up the path near the visitor center/gift shop — and it's worth the short climb! It’s usually less crowded than the Viaduct view and gives you a picture-perfect panorama of the loch, the monument, and the surrounding mountains.

Viewpoint for Loch Shiel

Saint Mary & Saint Finnan Church

🕐 Estimated Time: 10 - 15 minutes

Just a short drive down the road from the Glenfinnan Monument, St. Mary & St. Finnan Church is a quiet hidden gem worth a quick stop. This charming church showcases beautiful examples of traditional Scottish craftsmanship and offers a peaceful break from the busier viewpoints.

Set against the backdrop of Loch Shiel, it’s the perfect place to slow down, take in the scenery, and enjoy a moment of stillness amidst your Highland adventure.

Dumbledore’s Grave

🕐 Estimated Time: 30 minutes – 1 hour (depending on conditions and how much you want to explore).

Calling all Harry Potter fans! The hauntingly beautiful spot known as Dumbledore’s Grave is tucked away just a little farther down from here and is a must-see for those who want to walk in the footsteps of the wizarding world.

🚨Important heads-up: If it’s been raining, the path can turn into a soggy bog. Unless you’ve got heavy-duty rain boots, it might not be worth the trek.

📝Personal Note: I haven’t made it there yet myself — both times I visited it was rainy, and I wasn’t quite prepared to slog through the bog. But it’s definitely on my list for next time when the weather’s better!

Head back to Fort William for a quick lunch, refuel your vehicle, and grab any snacks for the road ahead!

📝Personal Note: I highly recommend stopping at Aldi in Fort William to pick up breakfast items for your day on the Isle of Skye. If you’re starting early or not staying near Portree, breakfast spots might not be open yet. Plus, having snacks handy for driving around Skye is a total lifesaver—no one likes getting hangry on those winding roads!

Loch Lochy

🕐 Estimated Time: 15 - 30 minutes

Make a quick stop at Loch Lochy to soak in the peaceful Highland vibes and snap some photos of this stunning loch.

Picture of Loch Lochy

Clachan Duich Burial Ground

🕐 Estimated Time: 15 - 30 minutes (or longer if you want to take more time looking at the tombstones)

Explore the hauntingly beautiful Clachan Duich Burial Ground surrounded by the Highland mountains.

Eilean Donan Castle

🕐 Estimated Time: 1 - 1.5 hours

Perched on a small island where three lochs meet, this Scottish icon is straight out of a fairy tale—steeped in history and jaw-dropping beauty. You can explore the fully restored interior, wander through rooms with panoramic views of the surrounding lochs, and marvel at architecture that’s stood the test of time.

🎟️ Tickets can be purchased on arrival for either just the exterior grounds or the full interior tour. If you’re already buying a ticket, I’d recommend going inside—it’s totally worth it! Also, parking here isn’t free but they do accept card payments, so no need to stress about cash.

Now onto the Isle of Skye!

As you roll onto Skye, your first magical pit stop is the Old Sligachan Bridge. This quaint footbridge is dripping with folklore and perfectly captures the island’s mystical charm.

Old Sligachan Bridge

🕐 Estimated Time: 10-20 minutes

Stretching over a gentle river and framed by the epic Skye mountains, this little bridge feels like something out of a fairy tale. Local legend says the river is a gateway to the faerie realm — and if you dunk your face in its waters for 7 seconds without wiping off afterward, the faeries will bless you with eternal beauty. (Hey, can’t hurt to try, right?)

After soaking up the magic at Old Sligachan Bridge, head to Portree—your home base for exploring both sides of Skye. Grab a tasty dinner, kick back, and get a good night’s sleep. You’ll want to be fully charged for all the epic adventures waiting just around the corner!

🌱Vegan Options in/out of Skye: 

  • The Coffee Bothy

  • Deli Gasta

  • Cafe Sia

  • Siaway Fish & Chips

🌱Vegan Options in Portree: 

  • The Isles Inn 

  • Tongadale Hotel

  • Caberfeidh Bar and Restaurant

  • The Caledonian Cafe

  • Cafe Arriba

  • Edinbane Inn

  • Pizzaway

  • Dulse and Brose

  • The View Restaurant (reservations required)

DAY THREE: Full day in Isle of Skye

Overview of Isle of Skye route on Google Maps

Rise and shine, my little adventurers! 😍

Today we’re diving into the left side of the Isle of Skye for a day full of magic and epic views… although, full disclosure, this day was kind of a bust for us due to the weather. But hey, even the best adventures have their off days, right?

Fairy Pools

🕐 Estimated Time: 1 - 1.5 hours

Trek to these crystal-clear pools cascading through natural rock basins with the rugged Cuillin Mountains as your backdrop. Weather can be tricky here—when it’s good, it’s pure magic.


📝Personal Note: When we visited, recent rains made hiking unsafe, so we missed out. I’ve heard it’s an easy walk and, while maybe not as jaw-dropping as some hype, it’s still got that Scottish charm!

Talisker Bay Beach

🕐 Estimated Time: 30 minutes - 1 hour

Feel the wild Atlantic breeze as you stroll Talisker Bay, where cliffs crash into sandy shores. Perfect spot to recharge with stunning views.

📝Personal Note: Heads up—the maps might lead you astray on access! Check Isle of Skye’s site for parking and beach entry before you go. We learned the hard way and didn’t make it to this beach.

Dunvegan Castle & Gardens

🕐 Estimated Time: 1.5 - 2 hours

Step into history at the MacLeod Clan’s ancestral home. Wander through lush gardens, explore ancient artifacts, and soak up the stories inside the castle walls. A total must-see for history buffs and garden lovers alike!

🎟 You can buy tickets once you get here!

After your castle adventure, treat yourself to a delicious lunch in Dunvegan village, where you can recharge before continuing your journey.

🌱 Vegan Options in Dunvegan: 

  • The Dunvegan

  • Old School

  • The Misty

  • MacLeod Tables Cafe (At Dunvegan Castle)

  • The Bistro at Atholl House Skye

Neist Point Lighthouse

🕐 Estimated Time: 30 minutes - 1.5 hours

Perched dramatically on Skye’s rugged cliffs, this iconic lighthouse serves up jaw-dropping panoramic views of the wild Atlantic and the stunning coastline. Whether you’re chasing epic sunsets or watching waves crash with full force, Neist Point is a photographer’s dream and pure proof of Skye’s untamed beauty.

📝Personal Note: Full transparency here—the first time we visited, it was so foggy we couldn’t see 20 feet ahead. No luck! But we came back the next day and—boom!—better views and a great photo op with my husband (see below). Persistence pays off!

Wrap up your day of exploration by heading back to Portree for a relaxing evening, preparing another exciting adventure tomorrow!

DAY FOUR: Full day in Isle of Skye 

Overview of Isle of Skye route on Google Maps

Get ready for another early day, adventurers! Fuel up with a big breakfast because your first stop is a thrilling hike!

Old Man of Storr

🕐 Estimated Time: 1.5 - 3 hours

Brace yourself for an unforgettable trek to the iconic Old Man of Storr, famous for its mystical rock formations and jaw-dropping views. There are several trails to explore, so you can spend hours soaking in this awe-inspiring landscape. Heads up — the hike gets a bit steep near the top with some stairs, but the views totally make it worth it!

📝Personal Note:: It was pretty foggy when we hiked, but the mist rolled in and out, so we still got plenty of magical glimpses of the Old Man.

Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls Viewpoints

🕐 Estimated Time: 15 - 30 minutes of scenic beauty.

Take a short detour to admire the stunning Kilt Rock cliffs and the cascading Mealt Falls—a quick yet mesmerizing stop to appreciate Skye's natural wonders.

Brothers Point

Ready for round two? Brothers Point offers scenic trails that are perfect for another hike. Just a heads-up — if it’s been raining, the paths can get pretty muddy, so plan your footwear accordingly for this roughly two-hour adventure!

📝Personal Note: We actually skipped this one since it had been pretty rainy during our trip. Better safe than slipping on a muddy trail!

🌱 Vegan Options Along the Way: 

  • The Black Sheep (A food truck right next to Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls)

  • Columba 1400

  • The Hungry Gull

Quiraing

🕐 Estimated Time: 15 - 30 minutes for a quick stop or more for a hiking adventure.

Whether you’re up for a hike or just want to snap pics from the viewpoint, Quiraing delivers jaw-dropping views and a wild ride along winding roads that’ll make your heart race. Seriously, this place looks like it belongs in a fantasy novel. ✨

🌱 Vegan Options in Uig: 

  • The Galley Cafe & Takeaway

Castle Ewen & Fairy Glen

🕐 Estimated Time: 1 hour

End your day with a peaceful stroll through the enchanting Fairy Glen—a serene and easy walk through a magical landscape. As you wander through this whimsical terrain, keep an eye out for Castle Ewen, a natural rock formation resembling a castle.

Legend has it that fairies dwell within these mystical surroundings, adding an extra touch of enchantment to your visit. Take your time to soak in the ethereal beauty and let your imagination wander in this fairy-tale setting. 🧚

After a day packed with adventures, return to Portree for a well-deserved dinner and night's rest!

DAY FIVE: Portree ➡ Inverness 

Overview of Portree to Inverness on Google Maps

Saying goodbye to the Isle of Skye is definitely bittersweet — it’s hard to leave a place this magical. But take comfort knowing you soaked up its stunning beauty and unforgettable vibes. And hey, this is just the start of your Scottish adventure!

I recommend an early start today since the drive from Portree to your first stop takes about 2 hours. You’ll want plenty of time to enjoy everything without rushing.

Urquhart Castle

🕐 Estimated Time: 1 hour

Sitting right on the edge of legendary Loch Ness, this castle ruin is packed with history and mystery. Before you dive into exploring, catch the short film in the gift shop—it’s a cool intro to the castle’s story and why it’s in ruins today. Once the film ends, bam—you get that epic view of the castle framed by Loch Ness. The castle grounds have plenty of signage with fascinating tidbits, plus tons of chances to scan the water for Nessie! 👀🐉

🌱 Vegan Options near Urquhart Castle: 

  • Cafe Eighty2

    • They even have vegan desserts! 🧁

  • The Lewiston

Heads up—next up is Dunrobin Castle, a bit past Inverness.

But if you’d rather skip Dunrobin and head straight to Inverness, no worries! There’s plenty to do in the city itself, and I’ve got some great suggestions for you below in Inverness:

🏰 Inverness Castle

Perched on a hill overlooking the River Ness, Inverness Castle offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas. While the castle itself is not open to the public, the grounds provide a great spot for photos and taking in the scenery. However, it will be opening to the public in 2025!

🖼 Inverness Museum & Art Gallery

Explore the rich history and culture of the Highlands at the Inverness Museum & Art Gallery. Discover artifacts, artworks, and exhibitions that showcase the area's heritage and artistic endeavors.

🌷 Inverness Botanic Gardens

Escape to the tranquility of the Inverness Botanic Gardens, featuring a variety of plants, themed gardens, and peaceful pathways perfect for a relaxing stroll.

⛪ Inverness Cathedral (St. Andrew's Cathedral)

Visit the stunning Inverness Cathedral, a beautiful Gothic-style church located near the River Ness. Admire its impressive architecture, serene interior, and enjoy a moment of quiet reflection.

These attractions offer a mix of history, nature, and cultural experiences, making Inverness a wonderful destination to explore during your Highland adventure.

If you plan to venture to Dunrobin Castle: 

Dunrobin Castle & Gardens

🕐 Estimated Time: 2 - 2.5 hours

Dunrobin Castle and its enchanting gardens give you a peek into Scotland’s aristocratic past. With fairytale turrets and sprawling grounds overlooking the North Sea, it’s a seriously magical sight you won’t want to miss.

After your adventures, head to Inverness for the evening (or if you’re already there, even better!).

Take some time to explore the city, grab a tasty dinner at one of the local spots, and soak up the charming, lively vibe. Then kick back and recharge for the next day’s adventures.

🌱 Vegan Options in Inverness: 

  • Alley Cat (Fully Vegan)

  • Culture - Cafe & Deli (Fully Vegan)

  • Salt N Fire (Fully Vegan)

  • Velocity Cafe (Vegetarian)

  • Anchor Cafe

  • Black Isle Bar and Rooms

  • Blend Tea and Coffee Merchants

  • Hidden Gem Cafe

DAY SIX: Inverness ➡ Perth

Overview of route from Inverness to Perth on Google Maps

Culloden Battlefield

🕐 Estimated Time: 1 hour

Step back in time at Culloden Battlefield, a must-see for Outlander fans and anyone fascinated by Scottish history. Walk the grounds where the Jacobite uprising came to a dramatic end and soak in the stories that shaped the nation. Keep your eyes peeled for the iconic Highland Coos grazing nearby—though no guarantees you’ll spot one!

📝Personal Note: We didn’t see any Highland Coos while we were there, but the battlefield’s history alone makes it totally worth the visit. (Bonus: We did spot a coo randomly on the drive to our next stop!)

Blair Castle & Gardens

🕐 Estimated Time: 2 hours

Step into history at Blair Castle, a majestic Scottish landmark packed with centuries of stories. Wander through its grand halls and beautiful gardens, then stick around for an afternoon bagpipe performance that’ll give you all the Highland vibes. Trust me, it’s a feast for the eyes and ears!

After your adventures, make your way to Perth for the night. Take a leisurely stroll through this charming town, soak up its relaxed vibes, and hunt down some tasty local eats to wrap up your day perfectly.

🌱 Vegan Options in Perth: 

  • Koku Shi 

  • Rascals Cafe (Fully Vegan)

  • Blend Coffee Lounge

  • BrewDog

  • Gringo's

  • Dr Noodles

  • Hinterland

DAY SEVEN: Perth ➡ Edinburgh 

Overview of route from Perth to Edinburgh on Google Maps

From Perth, you can either head straight to the airport to catch your flight home or continue your adventure with a few days in Edinburgh!

I highly recommend soaking up Edinburgh’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, there’s always something new to discover—from the iconic Edinburgh Castle and lively Royal Mile to world-class museums, tasty eats, and buzzing arts scenes. (Psst… I’ve got a detailed 5-day Edinburgh itinerary you might want to check out!😉)

If you’re heading home, I hope the Highlands stole your heart like they did mine and that this itinerary gave you all the unforgettable moments you were hoping for—and then some! 🫶

Keri Leigh
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