SCOTLAND is regularly voted one of the most stunning countries on the planet.
There are plenty of glorious sights to see, from the coasts to mountains, lochs to castles and everything in between.
Culzean Castle in Ayrshire is grand cliffside fortress with beautiful gardens[/caption]
Travellers can stop by the charming town of Oban[/caption]
The Isle of Skye has become a popular tourist spot in recent years[/caption]
The upcoming Easter holidays provide the perfect opportunity to hit the road and make the most of what the country has to offer.
Experts at Compass Campers have compiled a guide to some of Scotland’s best routes, each showcasing its breathtaking diversity.
North Coast 500
Every year scores of visitors embark on the NC500 – often dubbed Scotland’s Route 66.
Starting from Inverness Castle, the 516-mile route winds past white sandy beaches, rugged mountains and remote fishing villages.
The route heads north past Loch Luichart, then through the Black Isle, home to Chanonry Point, a prime dolphin-watching spot.
Further north, Dornoch boasts a beautiful beach and a historic cathedral. The road continues through the rugged landscapes of Caithness and Sutherland, where you’ll find John O’Groats, Duncansby Stacks, and Smoo Cave.
The west coast is wilder, with towering peaks like Stac Pollaidh and dramatic lochs. The highlight is Bealach na Bà, a hair-raising mountain pass near Applecross.
The Argyll Coastal Route
According to researchers, this 129-mile route offers a “stunning blend of sea lochs, mountains, and historic landmarks”.
Starting in Tarbet, you’ll follow the shore of Loch Lomond, the largest loch in Scotland. Heading west, visit Inveraray, home to the Duke of Argyll’s castle and a fascinating jail museum.
Further along, the road leads to Loch Fyne, famous for its fresh seafood. The charming town of Oban, known as the Gateway to the Isles, is a must-visit, offering ferry connections to the Inner Hebrides. Stop at Dunstaffnage Castle, a fortress steeped in history.
Continuing north, you’ll reach the dramatic landscapes of Glencoe, known for its rugged peaks and dark past. The route ends in Fort William, at the foot of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain.
The Isle of Skye Scenic Route
The Isle of Skye has become a popular tourist spot in recent years with visitors flocking to see top attractions like the Fairy Pools.
This 80-mile route encompasses rugged landscapes, mystical rock formations, and dramatic coastlines.
Starting at the Skye Bridge, drive north to Portree, the island’s colourful capital. From here, explore the Trotternish Peninsula, home to The Old Man of Storr, a towering rock formation, and the Quiraing, a surreal landslip with panoramic views.
Continue west to Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, before heading to Neist Point, a dramatic cliff-top lighthouse. Skye’s Fairy Pools offer crystal-clear waterfalls, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Further south, discover the Cuillin Mountains, a paradise for hikers. Visit Talisker Distillery for a taste of Skye’s famous whisky.
The Borders Historic Route
The Borders Historic Route is a journey through Scotland’s rich history and picturesque countryside. Starting in Carlisle, you’ll cross into Scotland and pass through Gretna Green, famous for runaway weddings.
Stop at Lockerbie, a town with historical significance, before continuing to Moffat, known for its woollen mills and charming Victorian architecture.
Further along, visit Traquair House, Scotland’s oldest inhabited house, dating back over 900 years. The town of Peebles offers scenic riverside walks and boutique shops. Stop at Scott’s View, a favourite viewpoint of Sir Walter Scott, overlooking the rolling hills of the Borders.
Finally, the route leads to Edinburgh, Scotland’s stunning capital, where you can explore the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and Arthur’s Seat.
The Snow Roads Scenic Route
Compass Campers wrote: “The Snow Roads Scenic Route winds through the Cairngorms National Park, showcasing some of Scotland’s most spectacular highland landscapes.
“Starting in Blairgowrie, the route passes through Glenshee, home to Scotland’s largest ski resort. Continue to Braemar, a village famous for the Royal Highland Games, attended by the Royal Family.
“Drive through Corgarff, where you’ll find Corgarff Castle, known for its distinctive star-shaped fortifications. The road climbs into the Lecht, a high-altitude region offering stunning mountain views. Stop at Tomintoul, the highest village in the Highlands, known for its whisky distilleries.
“The route ends in Grantown-on-Spey, a gateway to Speyside’s whisky country. Along the way, you’ll pass art installations, scenic lookouts, and wildlife hotspots, making it perfect for photographers and nature lovers.
The South West Coastal 300
The South West Coastal 300 (SWC300) is a stunning circular route around Scotland’s southwestern coast. Beginning in Dumfries, the road leads through rolling countryside before reaching the coastline near Southerness Lighthouse, one of Scotland’s oldest lighthouses. Head west to Kirkcudbright, an artists’ town known for its vibrant culture and harbour.
Continue along the coast to Portpatrick, a picturesque seaside village with stunning views across to Northern Ireland. The route winds past Stranraer and along the Ayrshire coast, home to Culzean Castle, a grand cliffside fortress with beautiful gardens.
The journey loops back inland, passing through Galloway Forest Park, where you can experience some of the darkest skies in Europe. With secluded beaches, castle ruins, and scenic coastal roads, the SWC300 is a hidden gem among Scotland’s driving routes.
The Fife Coastal Route
This 77-mile route from Kincardine to Newport-on-Tay offers a mix of historic towns, fishing villages, and breathtaking sea views.
Compass Campers say: “Starting in Kincardine, the route follows the Firth of Forth, passing Dunfermline, once the capital of Scotland.
“Visit Aberdour Castle, one of Scotland’s oldest standing castles, before heading to Burntisland Beach, a scenic spot with golden sands.
“Continue to Kirkcaldy, known for its long esplanade, and stop in Dysart, a charming harbour town featured in Outlander.
“Further along, explore the East Neuk of Fife, home to Anstruther, Pittenweem, and Crail, where colourful fishing cottages line the shore. St Andrews, famous for its university and the Old Course, is a must-see.”
The Galloway Tourist Route
Starting from Gretna Green and ending in Ayr, this route heads north to Dumfries, where you can visit the Robert Burns Centre.
You then continue to Caerlaverock Castle, a stunning medieval stronghold with a unique triangular design. Further west, pass through Dalbeattie and Castle Douglas, known for its local food scene. Stop at Threave Castle, accessible only by boat, before reaching Newton Stewart, the gateway to Galloway Forest Park, a Dark Sky Park perfect for stargazing.
The road then heads north to Ayr, the birthplace of Robert Burns and home to the stunning Culzean Castle. This route is ideal for those who love history, nature, and peaceful countryside, offering a mix of coastal views, ancient ruins, and dark sky experiences.
