9-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Inverness to Fort Augustus, Portree, and Fort William
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Scotland as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Inverness, Lewiston, Fort Augustus, Portree, Carbost, Dunvegan, Glenfinnan, Fort William, Banavie, Glencoe, Pitlochry, Port na Craig, Blair Atholl, and North Kessock.
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, 1 night in Fort Augustus, 2 nights in Portree, and 2 nights in Fort William. 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 Dunvegan Castle, learn more about the unique Fairy Pools, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Loch Ness.
As you hit the open road and drive through Inverness, Lewiston, Fort Augustus, Portree, Carbost, Dunvegan, Glenfinnan, Fort William, Banavie, Glencoe, Pitlochry, Port na Craig, Blair Atholl, and North Kessock, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Inverness - Arrival day
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- Bellfield Park
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Say hello to Inverness! Your exciting road trip through Scotland is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Inverness for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
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 Bellfield Park, 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Simpsons, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Kingsmills Hotel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Inverness.
Keep the evening going at The Gunsmiths Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Malt Room, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Maccallums Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Inverness
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Drive 25 km, 1 hour 1 min
- Eden Court Inverness
- Inverness Cathedral, dedicated to St Andrew
- Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
- Clava cairns
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Inverness for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Inverness, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Eden Court Inverness, an intriguing performing arts theater in the city. Then, head to Inverness Cathedral, Dedicated To St Andrew and soak in the ambiance of this monumental church.
There are many interesting places to see in Inverness and when you are ready for more, go to Inverness Museum And Art Gallery. This is one of the city’s most intriguing spots. After exploring the museum, visit the frequently visited Clava Cairns.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Scotland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
Visit Eastgate Shopping Centre in Inverness for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Eastgate Shopping Centre has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Inverness. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
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.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Hootananny, known for its inviting atmosphere. Gellions Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Innes Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Scotland.
Day 3
- Inverness
- Fort Augustus
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Drive 103 km, 1 hour 56 min
- Urquhart Castle
- Loch Ness
- The Clansman Centre
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Lewiston, Inverness, and Fort Augustus. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Fort Augustus, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Inverness. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await. Urquhart Castle is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most locally renowned places to visit in Inverness. Next, head to Loch Ness, a curiosity-inducing lake, known for its eye-catching features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to The Clansman Centre. This photogenic museum offers a unique experience that is highly recommended.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Fort Augustus, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Fort Augustus's best restaurants.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Scotland!
Day 4
- Fort Augustus
- Portree
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Drive 235 km, 3 hours 53 min
- Fairy Pools
- Isle of Skye Candle Co. Visitor Centre
- Talisker Distillery
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On day 4 of your road trip in Scotland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Inverness, Portree, and Carbost. In the evening, you’ll end up in Portree, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming region of Fort Augustus. Your adventure starts at Fairy Pools, a curiosity-inducing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Isle Of Skye Candle Co. Visitor Centre. This intriguing visitor center is known for its romantic appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Fort Augustus's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Talisker Distillery. This instagrammable distillery offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Portree. Portree offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Portree. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Scotland.
Day 5
- Portree
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Drive 181 km, 3 hours 57 min
- Neist Point Lighthouse
- Dunvegan Castle
- The Quiraing
- Skye Museum of Island Life
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Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Scotland. With 1 night left in Portree, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!
Start by visiting Neist Point Lighthouse, a prime spot to begin your journey. This history-steeped lighthouse is sure to impress. Next on your list is Dunvegan Castle, another must-visit landmark and locally appreciated castle renowned for its romantic features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Portree by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to The Quiraing. This idyllic rock formation is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Skye Museum Of Island Life also adds charm to your journey.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Portree.
As you explore more of Portree, 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.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Scotland!
Day 6
- Portree
- Fort William
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Drive 234 km, 3 hours 47 min
- Glenfinnan Viewpoint
- Glenfinnan Viaduct
- West Highland Museum
- Neptune's Staircase
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Glenfinnan, Fort William, and Banavie. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Fort William. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Portree is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Glenfinnan Viewpoint, a worthwhile observation deck that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Glenfinnan Viaduct, enchanting visitors with its breathtaking appeal. Continue your exploration at West Highland Museum. This museum is one of the village’s most frequently visited spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Portree at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Neptune's Staircase.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Fort William. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Fort William. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Scotland!
Day 7
- Fort William
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Drive 52 km, 1 hour 12 min
- Glencoe Lochan Trail
- Glencoe War Memorial
- Glencoe Folk Museum
- Crafts & Things
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On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Fort William, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the often recommended Glencoe Lochan Trail, a mesmerizing hiking area in Fort William. Next, go to Glencoe War Memorial.
After visiting Glencoe Lochan Trail and Glencoe War Memorial, take time to explore Fort William's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Glencoe Folk Museum. This photogenic museum offers a unique experience. Crafts & Things is another noteworthy stop.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Fort William and your accommodation.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Fort William. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Scotland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 8
- Fort William
- Inverness
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Drive 265 km, 3 hours 55 min
- Blair Athol Distillery
- Pitlochry Fish Ladder
- Blair Castle
- Falls of Bruar
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Pitlochry, Port na Craig, Blair Atholl, and Pitagowan. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Inverness, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Fort William today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Blair Athol Distillery. This photogenic distillery will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Pitlochry Fish Ladder and learn what makes this history-steeped historical landmark unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the underrated Blair Castle, Hercules Garden, Statue Of Hercules. After exploring the castle, head to Falls Of Bruar. This locally appreciated waterfall is a highlight in Fort William.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Inverness, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Inverness, 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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Cafe V8, a popular restaurant in Inverness. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Inverness at Scotch & Rye, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Johnny Foxes. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Inverness tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Market Bar, known for its lively atmosphere.
Say good night to Inverness and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Scotland!
Day 9
- Inverness - Departure day
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- Dolphin Spirit Inverness
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Day 9 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.
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.
Dine in style at River House, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bar One Inverness boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
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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