Edinburgh 4-Day Family Road Trip Nature Itinerary

Day 1: Scenic Drive to Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pantry

Begin your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast at The Pantry in Edinburgh to fuel up for your scenic drive to Loch Lomond.
Head west on the M8 towards Glasgow, and then take the A82 towards Loch Lomond.
£30, 1 hour

11:00AM

Cruise on Loch Lomond

Embark on a relaxing cruise on the pristine waters of Loch Lomond, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and wildlife.
Head to Tarbet Pier and board one of the cruise boats.
£25 per person, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Village Inn

Enjoy a delicious lunch at The Village Inn, known for its hearty Scottish dishes and cozy atmosphere.
Drive to the nearby village of Luss for a delightful dining experience.
£40, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hiking in The Trossachs

Explore the lush forests and rolling hills of The Trossachs on a family-friendly hike, offering stunning views of the national park.
Head to a nearby trailhead and start your hike.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Clachan Inn

Relax and unwind with a traditional Scottish dinner at The Clachan Inn, known for its warm hospitality and classic dishes.
Drive to the inn and enjoy a cozy dining experience.
£50, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Explore Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park, Scotland

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Mountain Cafe

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Mountain Cafe in Aviemore, a popular spot known for its homemade treats and cozy ambiance.
Drive from Loch Lomond to Aviemore in Cairngorms National Park.
£40, 1 hour

11:00AM

Cairngorm Reindeer Centre

Visit the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre and engage in a guided tour to see and learn about these majestic animals up close.
Follow signs to the reindeer center and join a scheduled tour.
£15 per person, 2 hours

1:00PM

Picnic at Loch Morlich

Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch at the shores of Loch Morlich, surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Cairngorms.
Drive to Loch Morlich and find a peaceful spot for your picnic.
£20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Rothiemurchus Estate Activities

Partake in various outdoor activities at Rothiemurchus Estate, such as archery, wildlife safaris, and pony trekking, offering fun for the whole family.
Head to Rothiemurchus Estate and inquire about the available activities.
Varies, 2-3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Old Bridge Inn

Savor a delicious dinner at The Old Bridge Inn, known for its wide selection of craft beers and hearty dishes, perfect for refueling after a day of adventures.
Drive to the inn in Aviemore and enjoy a cozy dining experience.
£45, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Discover Loch Ness

Loch Ness, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cobbs Cafe

Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Cobbs Cafe, overlooking the iconic Loch Ness, setting the perfect backdrop for your day of exploration.
Drive from Cairngorms National Park to Loch Ness.
£35, 1 hour

10:00AM

Urquhart Castle

Explore the historic ruins of Urquhart Castle, perched on the shores of Loch Ness, and learn about the turbulent past of this fascinating fortress.
Head to the castle entrance and purchase tickets for entry.
£12 per person, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Loch Ness Inn

Enjoy a delightful lunch at The Loch Ness Inn, offering a range of Scottish classics and international dishes amid a cozy setting.
Drive to the inn in Drumnadrochit for a satisfying meal.
£30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Boat Cruise on Loch Ness

Embark on a boat cruise on Loch Ness, searching for the legendary Nessie while taking in the stunning panoramas of the surrounding Highlands.
Head to the designated pier for Loch Ness boat cruises and board the next available tour.
£20 per person, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Fiddlers Highland Restaurant

End your day with a delightful dinner at Fiddlers Highland Restaurant, known for its traditional Scottish cuisine, live music, and warm atmosphere.
Drive to Inverness and enjoy a cozy dinner at the restaurant.
£50, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Return to Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland

9:00AM

Brunch at The Edinburgh Larder

Indulge in a leisurely brunch at The Edinburgh Larder, savoring delicious dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, before starting your journey back to Edinburgh.
Drive back from Loch Ness to Edinburgh.
£20, 1 hour

12:00PM

Exploring Royal Mile

Take a leisurely stroll along Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile, lined with charming shops, cafes, and historic landmarks, offering a glimpse into the city's rich heritage.
Park your car in the city center and start your walk along the Royal Mile.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Edinburgh Castle

Visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle perched atop Castle Rock, offering panoramic views of the city and housing the Crown Jewels of Scotland and historic military displays.
Make your way up Castlehill to the castle entrance and purchase tickets for entry.
£20 per person, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Witchery by the Castle

Conclude your Edinburgh adventure with a memorable dinner at The Witchery by the Castle, known for its luxurious dining experience in a historic setting, perfect for celebrating your family road trip.
Head to the restaurant on the Royal Mile for an unforgettable dining experience.
£70, 1.5 hours
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