The Scottish Highlands offer some of Britain's most spectacular landscapes—rugged mountains, ancient forests, deep lochs, and a coastline of pristine beaches and dramatic cliffs. This 7-day itinerary takes you on a journey through this magnificent region, balancing must-see attractions with hidden treasures, outdoor adventures with cultural experiences. Whether you're drawn by the romantic history, the natural beauty, or the renowned whisky, this guide will help you experience the very best of the Highlands in a single unforgettable week.
Day 1: Edinburgh to Pitlochry – Gateway to the Highlands
Begin your Highland adventure by departing Edinburgh and heading north across the iconic Forth Road Bridge. Your first day eases you into Highland life with a perfect blend of history, nature, and whisky.
Morning: Stirling Castle
Make your first stop at Stirling Castle, perched dramatically on a rocky crag overlooking the surrounding landscape. This royal fortress has played a pivotal role in Scottish history, including the coronation of Mary, Queen of Scots. Explore the meticulously restored Royal Palace, the Great Hall, and the Chapel Royal while enjoying panoramic views of Stirlingshire.
Afternoon: The Hermitage and Dunkeld
Continue north to The Hermitage, a magical stretch of forest along the River Braan near Dunkeld. Take the woodland walk to Ossian's Hall, a mirrored viewing platform overlooking the spectacular Black Linn Falls. Afterwards, explore the charming town of Dunkeld with its partially ruined cathedral dating back to the 13th century and quaint stone cottages.
Evening: Pitlochry
Arrive in Pitlochry, a picturesque Victorian town that serves as an ideal base for your first night. Visit the renowned Edradour Distillery, Scotland's smallest traditional distillery, for a tour and tasting of their handcrafted single malt whisky. Enjoy dinner at one of the town's excellent restaurants featuring locally sourced Scottish produce.
Where to Stay
Pitlochry offers accommodation options ranging from historic hotels like The Atholl Palace to cosy B&Bs and guesthouses in traditional Scottish buildings.
Day 2: Cairngorms National Park
Today's itinerary takes you into the heart of Britain's largest national park, a wilderness of mountains, forests, rivers, and wildlife.
Morning: Highland Wildlife Park
Begin your day with a visit to the Highland Wildlife Park near Kingussie. This conservation-focused park lets you see native Scottish wildlife like red deer, pine martens, and wildcats alongside endangered species from similar mountainous habitats worldwide. The polar bears and Amur tigers are particular highlights.
Afternoon: Rothiemurchus Estate
Head to Rothiemurchus Estate near Aviemore, one of Scotland's most beautiful Highland estates. Choose from a range of outdoor activities including guided walks through ancient Caledonian pine forest, mountain biking, fishing, or wildlife photography tours. The estate provides excellent opportunities to spot red squirrels, osprey, and deer in their natural habitat.
Evening: Aviemore
Spend the evening in Aviemore, the outdoor capital of the Cairngorms. After dinner, visit the Cairngorm Brewery to sample award-winning Scottish ales, or enjoy a relaxing evening at your accommodation, perhaps with a dram of local whisky by a roaring fire.
Day 3: Loch Ness and the Great Glen
No Highland journey would be complete without experiencing Loch Ness, but today's itinerary will show you there's much more to the area than monster-hunting.
Morning: Inverness to Fort Augustus
Depart early from Aviemore and drive to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. Take a brief stroll through this compact city to see its castle and the River Ness before continuing southwest along the shores of Loch Ness. Stop at Urquhart Castle, a magnificent ruin with over 1,000 years of dramatic history and stunning views over the loch's mysterious waters.
Afternoon: Caledonian Canal
Continue to the charming village of Fort Augustus at the southern end of Loch Ness. Watch boats navigate the impressive staircase of locks on the Caledonian Canal, a feat of 19th-century engineering that connects Scotland's east and west coasts. Take a short cruise on Loch Ness for views of the surrounding mountains and the chance (however slim) of spotting the famous Nessie.
Evening: Fort Augustus
Spend the night in Fort Augustus, enjoying dinner at one of the waterside restaurants overlooking the canal. The village offers a peaceful alternative to busier tourist hubs while still providing easy access to the region's attractions.
Photography Tip
Early morning or late afternoon light creates dramatic shadows on the mountains surrounding Loch Ness, perfect for landscape photography. The view from Urquhart Castle is particularly photogenic.
Day 4: Road to the Isles – From Fort William to Mallaig
Today's journey takes you through some of Scotland's most spectacular scenery, immortalised in films and photographs.
Morning: Glenfinnan Viaduct
Start your day by driving to Fort William, nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain. Continue west to Glenfinnan, where the stunning 21-arch viaduct carries the Jacobite Steam Train (May-October). Time your visit to see the train cross the viaduct (check the timetable in advance), creating a scene Harry Potter fans will instantly recognise. Visit the Glenfinnan Monument, which marks the spot where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard to begin the 1745 Jacobite Rising.
Afternoon: Silver Sands of Morar
Follow the "Road to the Isles" to Arisaig and Morar, where you'll find a series of stunning white sand beaches with clear turquoise waters that rival any tropical paradise. Take time to walk along these peaceful shores with views to the Small Isles of Rum, Eigg, and Muck.
Evening: Mallaig
Reach Mallaig, a working fishing port and gateway to the Isle of Skye. Enjoy some of Scotland's freshest seafood at one of the harbour restaurants, watching fishing boats return with their day's catch. Spend the night in Mallaig or return to Fort William, depending on your accommodation arrangements.
Day 5: Isle of Skye
No Highland itinerary would be complete without experiencing Skye, an island of extraordinary beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Morning: Ferry to Skye and the Sleat Peninsula
Take the morning ferry from Mallaig to Armadale on Skye's Sleat Peninsula (alternatively, you can drive to Skye via the bridge at Kyle of Lochalsh). Visit Armadale Castle Gardens and the Museum of the Isles to learn about the history of Clan Donald and life in the Highlands and Islands.
Afternoon: Trotternish Peninsula
Drive north to the Trotternish Peninsula, home to some of Skye's most iconic landscapes. Marvel at the bizarre rock formations of the Quiraing and the Old Man of Storr, created by ancient landslips. These otherworldly scenes have featured in numerous films and inspire photographers from around the world.
Evening: Portree
Arrive in Portree, Skye's charming capital, characterised by its colourful harbour buildings. Enjoy dinner featuring local specialties like Isle of Skye langoustines or venison before settling into your accommodation for the night.
Whisky Experience
If time permits, visit Talisker Distillery on the shores of Loch Harport, Skye's oldest working distillery producing a distinctive peaty single malt with notes of sea salt and pepper.
Day 6: Applecross Peninsula and Torridon
Today's journey takes you through some of the most remote and spectacular landscapes in the British Isles.
Morning: Bealach na Bà
Return to the mainland and head for the Applecross Peninsula. Drive the famous Bealach na Bà (Pass of the Cattle), one of Britain's most challenging roads with hairpin bends climbing to 626 metres. Your efforts are rewarded with breathtaking views across to Skye and the Outer Hebrides. Note: This road isn't suitable for motorhomes, caravans, or nervous drivers - an alternative coastal route is available.
Afternoon: Torridon
Continue along the scenic coastal road to the village of Shieldaig and into Torridon, where ancient sandstone mountains rise dramatically from the sea loch. This remote wilderness area offers superb walking opportunities for all abilities. Visit the Torridon Countryside Centre to learn about the area's geology, wildlife, and history.
Evening: Kinlochewe or Gairloch
Spend the night in Kinlochewe or continue to the coastal town of Gairloch. These small communities offer comfortable accommodation and excellent opportunities to sample local cuisine, particularly fresh seafood. Keep an eye out for the Northern Lights if visiting between autumn and spring—this area's minimal light pollution makes it ideal for stargazing.
Day 7: Inverewe Garden and Return Journey
Your final day offers a surprising botanical treat before you begin your journey south.
Morning: Inverewe Garden
Visit Inverewe Garden, an unexpected oasis of exotic plants created by Osgood Mackenzie in the 19th century. Thanks to the warming influence of the Gulf Stream, this northerly garden boasts species from around the world, including Himalayan rhododendrons, Tasmanian eucalyptus, and Chilean fire bushes. Take time to wander the paths and enjoy the combination of designed landscapes and natural woodland with views over Loch Ewe.
Afternoon: Return Journey
Begin your return journey south. Depending on your final destination, you might drive through the central Highlands via Inverness or take the more westerly route through Glencoe. Both options offer spectacular scenery and potential stops at historic sites, viewpoints, and coffee shops.
Evening: Arrival
Return to Edinburgh, Glasgow, or your chosen destination, bringing with you unforgettable memories of your Highland adventure.
Driving in the Highlands
Many Highland roads are single-track with passing places. Always pull in to let faster vehicles pass, wave a thank you to drivers who pull in for you, and never park in passing places. Take your time and be prepared for occasional delays due to sheep or cattle on the road.
Practical Tips for Your Highland Adventure
When to Visit
The Scottish Highlands are beautiful year-round, but each season offers a different experience:
- Spring (April-May): Fewer tourists, blooming wildflowers, and longer daylight hours
- Summer (June-August): Warmest weather (though still changeable), longest days, and most facilities open
- Autumn (September-October): Spectacular foliage colours and rutting deer
- Winter (November-March): Snow-capped mountains, potential Northern Lights, and cosy pubs with roaring fires, but shorter days and some seasonal closures
What to Pack
The Highlands are known for changeable weather, so be prepared:
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Layers for warmth (even in summer)
- Good walking shoes or boots
- Midge repellent (May-September)
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (the Scottish sun can be deceptively strong)
- Camera with extra batteries
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting
Getting Around
While public transport does serve the Highlands, a car offers the most flexibility for this itinerary. Major car rental companies operate from Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness. If you prefer not to drive, consider joining an organised tour that covers the major highlights.
Accommodation
Book accommodation well in advance, especially if travelling in summer or during festivals. Options range from historic hotels and country house B&Bs to self-catering cottages and bunkhouses. In remote areas, accommodation can be limited, so planning ahead is essential.
The Scottish Highlands offer a unique combination of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality. This seven-day itinerary provides a comprehensive introduction to the region's diverse attractions, but there's always more to discover. Many visitors find themselves returning again and again, drawn back by the special magic of this extraordinary corner of Britain.
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