Begin your adventure in Inverness by exploring the famous Inverness Castle, which dominates the skyline in the city centre. Take in the scenic views of the River Ness, and explore the castle's history in the exhibition area. Next, visit the Old High St Stephen's Church just a few minutes' walk away. This ancient church dates back to the 18th century and boasts a unique architecture, which is a blend of Gothic and Romanesque styles.
No trip to Inverness is complete without a visit to the iconic Loch Ness. After a scenic drive, you can take a guided boat tour to explore the legendary loch and search for the famous Nessie. Then, head to the well-preserved ruins of Urquhart Castle situated next to the Loch. The castle is steeped with a rich history, which dates back to the medieval era.
Experience the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands by visiting the Cairngorm National Park. Participate in a wide range of outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, or snowboarding. Next, indulge in the unique flavours of Scotland by taking the famous Speyside Distillery Trail, featuring some of the world's most famous whiskey distilleries, including Macallan and Glenfiddich.
Travel to the stunning Isle of Skye, home to some of the world's most stunning landscapes. Wander through the ancient rock formations of the "Old Man of Storr" and traverse the breathtaking Cuillin Mountains. On your way, don't miss the chance to visit the Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most visited castles in Scotland, which has stood in its current location since the 13th century.
End your adventure with an unforgettable road trip along the scenic North Coast 500 as you make your way to the charming village of John O'Groats, which is popularly known as the northernmost point of mainland Britain. Finally, visit the historic Dunrobin Castle, a French chateau-style castle, which has been the seat of the Dukes and Earls of Sutherland since the 13th century
While the distances between each location can sometimes be significant, renting a car is an easy and economical way to get around Scotland. With a rental car, you can explore the highlands at your own pace, and the scenery along the way makes for some unforgettable road trips. Estimated car rental costs: £50 per day. Estimated total travel time: 26 hours over five days
If you want to add more adventure, consider hiking in the Cairngorms National Park or visiting Glen Coe in the Scottish Highlands. For those with more time, add an extra day to explore the historic streets of Edinburgh or to take a scenic train ride through the West Highland Line.
Inverness Airport (INV) is the closest airport to Inverness and situated approximately 9 miles east of the city centre. There are regular flights from other major UK airports such as London Heathrow, Manchester, and Birmingham.