The Scottish Highlands offer some of the most dramatic and beautiful landscapes in the United Kingdom. From misty mountains and deep lochs to ancient castles and welcoming villages, this region captivates visitors with its raw natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This 7-day itinerary will guide you through the highlights of the Highlands, allowing you to experience its diverse attractions while maintaining a comfortable pace.
Day 1: Edinburgh to Glencoe
Begin your Highland adventure by departing from Edinburgh and heading north towards the gateway to the Highlands.
Morning: Leave Edinburgh early and drive north across the Forth Road Bridge. Make your first stop at the charming town of Pitlochry, known for its Victorian architecture and scenic location. Visit the Pitlochry Dam and Fish Ladder, where you can sometimes see salmon swimming upstream.
Afternoon: Continue north through the Cairngorms National Park, stopping at the Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore to get insights into traditional Highland life through the centuries. This open-air museum features reconstructed buildings from different time periods.
Evening: Arrive in Glencoe, one of Scotland's most spectacular valleys. Check into your accommodation and, if time permits, take a short walk to appreciate the dramatic landscape. The Three Sisters mountain range offers a stunning backdrop as the evening light changes.
Where to stay: Glencoe offers a range of accommodations from the historic Clachaig Inn to modern hotels and B&Bs in or near the village.
Day 2: Glencoe and Fort William
Spend today exploring the magnificent Glencoe area and nearby Fort William.
Morning: Visit the Glencoe Visitor Centre to learn about the area's natural history and the infamous Glencoe Massacre of 1692. Then take one of the walking trails through the glen - the Lochan Trail is relatively easy and offers spectacular views without requiring advanced hiking skills.
Afternoon: Drive to nearby Fort William, the largest town in the Highlands and nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain. Explore the town center and have lunch at one of the local restaurants.
Evening: For those interested in whisky, visit Ben Nevis Distillery for a tour and tasting. Alternatively, take the gondola at Nevis Range for sunset views over the Highlands (weather permitting).
Day 3: Road to the Isles - Fort William to Skye
Today's journey takes you along one of Scotland's most scenic routes to the Isle of Skye.
Morning: Depart Fort William and follow the Road to the Isles (A830) westward. Stop at the Glenfinnan Monument and Viaduct, famous for its appearance in the Harry Potter films. If you time it right, you might see the Jacobite Steam Train (the real-life Hogwarts Express) crossing the viaduct.
Afternoon: Continue to the fishing port of Mallaig, where you can take the ferry to Armadale on the Isle of Skye. Alternatively, drive further north and cross to Skye via the bridge at Kyle of Lochalsh.
Evening: Arrive in Portree, the main town on Skye, known for its picturesque harbor lined with colorful houses. Enjoy dinner at one of the town's restaurants, many of which serve excellent fresh seafood.
Where to stay: Portree has a good selection of accommodations, or you might prefer one of the more rural B&Bs dotted around the island.
Day 4: Isle of Skye
Dedicate a full day to exploring the magical Isle of Skye.
Morning: Head north from Portree to the Trotternish Peninsula. Visit the Old Man of Storr, a distinctive rock formation that dominates the landscape. A hike to its base takes about 1.5 hours round trip and offers spectacular views.
Afternoon: Continue to the Quiraing, another dramatic landslip that provides some of Skye's most iconic scenery. Afterward, visit Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls viewpoint to see the sea cliff that resembles a pleated kilt with the waterfall plunging directly into the sea.
Evening: Return to Portree for dinner, or if you're staying elsewhere on the island, explore local dining options. The Three Chimneys in Colbost is renowned for its fine dining using local ingredients, though you'll need to book well in advance.
Day 5: Skye to Loch Ness
Bid farewell to Skye and journey east toward the famous Loch Ness.
Morning: Before leaving Skye, visit the Fairy Pools near Glenbrittle if you haven't already—these crystal-clear blue pools on the River Brittle are surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
Afternoon: Cross back to the mainland and drive through Glen Shiel, stopping to admire Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland's most photographed castles situated on a small island where three lochs meet. Take a tour of the restored castle interior.
Evening: Continue to Loch Ness and check into your accommodation in Fort Augustus at the southern end of the loch or Drumnadrochit midway along its western shore.
Where to stay: Both Fort Augustus and Drumnadrochit offer various accommodation options, from hotels to guest houses and B&Bs.
Day 6: Loch Ness and Inverness
Explore Loch Ness and Scotland's Highland capital, Inverness.
Morning: Visit Urquhart Castle, a ruined fortress on the shores of Loch Ness that offers magnificent views over the loch. Take a boat cruise on Loch Ness from either the castle or from Fort Augustus—keep your camera ready for a potential Nessie sighting!
Afternoon: Drive to Inverness and explore the city center. Visit Inverness Castle (currently used as a courthouse, though viewable from outside), Inverness Cathedral, and stroll along the River Ness.
Evening: Enjoy dinner in one of Inverness's restaurants, perhaps trying traditional Scottish dishes like haggis, neeps, and tatties. The city has a lively atmosphere with several venues offering live traditional music in the evenings.
Where to stay: Spend the night in Inverness, which offers accommodation options for all budgets.
Day 7: Cairngorms and Return to Edinburgh
Complete your Highland adventure with a journey through the Cairngorms National Park back to Edinburgh.
Morning: Depart Inverness and head south, stopping at Culloden Battlefield, site of the last pitched battle on British soil where the 1746 conflict effectively ended the Jacobite uprising.
Afternoon: Continue through the Cairngorms National Park, perhaps stopping at Aviemore for lunch. If time permits, visit the Highland Wildlife Park near Kingussie to see native Scottish wildlife including the Highland cattle and reintroduced species like wolves and polar bears.
Evening: Return to Edinburgh, reflecting on a week of Highland adventures. For those not ready to end their trip, consider extending your stay in Edinburgh to explore Scotland's historic capital.
Practical Tips for Your Highland Adventure
- Weather Preparedness: Highland weather can be notoriously changeable. Pack layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy footwear regardless of the season.
- Driving: Many Highland roads are single-track with passing places. Familiarize yourself with the etiquette: pull over to let faster vehicles pass and use passing places to allow oncoming vehicles through.
- Midges: If visiting between late May and September, be prepared for midges (tiny biting insects) in certain areas. Bring insect repellent specifically designed for midges.
- Advance Bookings: During peak season (June-August), book accommodation and popular restaurants well in advance.
- Responsible Tourism: Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, respect the environment, and leave no trace of your visit.
The Scottish Highlands offer an unforgettable journey through some of Britain's most spectacular landscapes. This 7-day itinerary provides a balanced introduction to the region's highlights, but you could easily spend weeks exploring its hidden corners. Whether you're drawn by the natural beauty, rich history, or cultural heritage, the Highlands will leave you with memories to last a lifetime—and likely a desire to return.
