6-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Inverness to Elgin and surrounding area
Description
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Description
Explore the best of Scotland on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Inverness, Glenfinnan, Banavie, Spean Bridge, Lewiston, Fortrose, Elgin, Portknockie, Dufftown, Craigellachie, Ballindalloch, Glenlivet, Forres, and Dyke. This road trip itinerary in Scotland seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Scotland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Inverness and 2 nights in Elgin. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Scotland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Inverness, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Scotland on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Scotland. Urquhart Castle and Glenfinnan Viaduct are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Commando Memorial, learn more about the unique Loch Ness, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Chanonry Point.
As you hit the open road and drive through Inverness, Glenfinnan, Banavie, Spean Bridge, Lewiston, Fortrose, Elgin, Portknockie, Dufftown, Craigellachie, Ballindalloch, Glenlivet, Forres, and Dyke, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Scotland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Scotland.
Throughout your road trip in Scotland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Scotland.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Scotland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Scotland today!
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Day 1
- Inverness - Arrival day
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- Eden Court Inverness
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Your road trip adventure in Scotland begins as soon as you reach Inverness and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Inverness for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Inverness is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Eden Court Inverness, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Inverness. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Inverness, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at Simpsons, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kingsmills Hotel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Inverness tonight.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Gunsmiths Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Malt Room is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Maccallums Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Inverness
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Drive 255 km, 4 hours 16 min
- Glenfinnan Viaduct
- Glenfinnan Viewpoint
- Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust for Scotland
- Neptune's Staircase
- Commando Memorial
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Greet day 2 of your road trip in Scotland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Inverness for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Glenfinnan, Banavie, and Spean Bridge.
Get ready for an exciting day in Inverness. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a heritage railway, an observation deck, a monument, a historical landmark, a war memorial and much more! Begin your adventure at Glenfinnan Viaduct. This is an intriguing heritage railway you should not miss. Another must-see is Glenfinnan Viewpoint, an intriguing observation deck in Inverness.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust For Scotland. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Neptune's Staircase, another of the village’s frequently visited attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Commando Memorial, a breathtaking place of interest in the village.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Inverness and your accommodation.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Inverness. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at MacGregor's, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The White House offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Kitchen Brasserie. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Inverness.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Hootananny is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Gellions Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Innes Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Scotland.
Day 3
- Inverness
- Moray
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Drive 232 km, 4 hours 6 min
- Loch Ness
- Urquhart Castle
- Chanonry Point
- Fort George
- Clava cairns
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Inverness, Lewiston, and Fortrose. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Elgin, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Inverness, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Loch Ness, an often recommended lake in the region. Then, head to Urquhart Castle and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking castle.
There are many interesting places to see in Inverness, and when you are ready for more, go to Chanonry Point. This is one of the region’s most locally appreciated romantic spots of interest. After exploring the whale watching spot, visit the curiosity-inducing Fort George. Not far away, you'll also find Clava Cairns. This archeological site is a picture-perfect highlight in Inverness.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Elgin. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As you explore more of Elgin, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Scotland!
Day 4
- Moray
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Drive 150 km, 2 hours 32 min
- Bow Fiddle Rock
- Glenfiddich Distillery
- Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre
- Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens
- The Glenlivet Distillery
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Elgin, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming village of Elgin. Your adventure starts at Bow Fiddle Rock, an increasingly popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Glenfiddich Distillery. This locally appreciated distillery is known for its eye-catching appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Elgin's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre. This visually striking visitor center offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Ballindalloch Castle And Gardens is also worth visiting, along with The Glenlivet. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Elgin.
As you explore more of Elgin, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Scotland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Moray
- Inverness
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Drive 74 km, 1 hour 34 min
- Elgin Cathedral
- Cooper Park
- Duffus Castle
- Grant Park
- Brodie Castle
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Elgin, Forres, and Dyke. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Inverness. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for an exciting day in Elgin. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a park, and a castle. Begin your adventure at Elgin Cathedral. This is an up-and-coming church you should not miss. Another must-see is Cooper Park, an often recommended park in Elgin.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Duffus Castle. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Grant Park, another of the town’s intriguing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Brodie Castle, a romantic place of interest in the town.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Inverness. Inverness offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Inverness. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Cafe V8, an iconic dining spot in Inverness. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Scotch & Rye, a popular restaurant in Inverness. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Johnny Foxes, a hidden gem nestled in Inverness. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Keep the evening going at Market Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Scotland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Inverness - Departure day
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- Whin Park
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Day 6 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Inverness before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Whin Park, an enchanting park before you head out.
As your final day in Scotland unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Inverness's best shopping area, Eastgate Shopping Centre. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Scotland.
Before you conclude your road trip in Scotland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Inverness.
Enjoy a lovely meal at River House, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bar One Inverness is another top choice with a popular menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Inverness. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Scotland!
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