4-Day Scenic and Culinary Road Trip from Edinburgh to the Scottish Highlands

Day 1: Edinburgh Exploration

Edinburgh, Scotland on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Blue Bear Cafe

Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast at this cosy café, known for its fresh ingredients and friendly atmosphere.
GBP12, 1h

9:30am

Edinburgh Castle Visit

Explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched on Castle Rock offering panoramic views of the city and rich history dating back to the 12th century. The castle opens at 9:30am.
GBP19.50, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Oink

Enjoy a casual yet delicious meal at Oink, famous for their roast pork sandwiches made with locally sourced meat.
GBP8, 1h

1:30pm

Royal Mile Walk

Take a leisurely stroll along the historic Royal Mile, soaking in the atmosphere and visiting quirky shops, museums and street performances.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Visit the National Museum of Scotland

Discover Scotland’s history, culture, and natural world with free entry. The museum opens till 5pm on Saturdays.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Witchery by the Castle

Dine in a sumptuous historic setting offering Scottish fine dining with a focus on seasonal and local produce.
GBP50, 2h
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Day 2: Highlands Journey

Pitlochry & Cairngorms, Scotland on May 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at No. 5 Café

Grab a nourishing breakfast in Pitlochry before heading into the Highlands, with options from traditional porridge to fresh pastries.
GBP10, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Cairngorms National Park

Begin the scenic drive through one of the largest national parks in the UK, famed for its mountains, wildlife, and forest walks.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Hiking in Cairngorms National Park

Enjoy a moderate hike around Ryvoan Pass or Loch Morlich, taking in stunning views of mountains and lochs. Pack water and sun protection.
Free, 3h

2:30pm

Lunch at The Old Bridge Inn

This charming inn offers a great selection of Scottish dishes and local ales, perfect after a morning of hiking.
GBP15, 1h

4:00pm

Visit Highland Folk Museum

Explore this award-winning open-air museum showcasing Highland life across three centuries. Open until 5pm.
GBP10, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Fonab Castle Hotel

Treat yourself to fine dining with views over Loch Faskally in Pitlochry. Reservation recommended.
GBP60, 2h
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Day 3: Inverness & Loch Ness

Inverness, Scotland on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Castle Café

Enjoy a local favourite café serving homemade breakfast dishes in Inverness town centre.
GBP10, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle

Travel to Loch Ness, explore the scenic loch and the ruins of Urquhart Castle by the shore. The castle is open from 9:30am to 6pm.
GBP12, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Dores Inn

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at this traditional pub overlooking Loch Ness, offering classic Scottish fare.
GBP15, 1h

2:30pm

Loch Ness boat tour

Join a boat tour to experience the loch and listen to tales of the legendary Nessie monster. Tours run until 7pm.
GBP20, 1h

4:00pm

Stroll Inverness City Centre

Discover charming shops, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, and riverside walks.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Rocpool Restaurant

End your day with modern Scottish cuisine focusing on fresh, local ingredients at this contemporary Inverness restaurant.
GBP45, 2h
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Day 4: Return via Stirling

Stirling to Edinburgh, Scotland on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Kilted Kangaroo

Start with a hearty breakfast in Inverness, known for generous portions of traditional Scottish dishes.
GBP12, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Stirling

Travel south towards Stirling, stopping to explore Stirling Castle, a key site in Scottish history between 10am and 5pm.
GBP17.50, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Birds and Bees

Have lunch in Stirling at this popular local pub with a cosy atmosphere and fresh Scottish menu items.
GBP14, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Bannockburn Heritage Centre

Learn about the famous Battle of Bannockburn at the interactive heritage centre, open till 5pm.
GBP8, 1h

3:00pm

Return drive to Edinburgh

Complete your journey back to Edinburgh, arriving by late afternoon.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Angels with Bagpipes

Celebrate the end of the trip with top-notch Scottish cuisine and a fantastic whisky selection near the Royal Mile.
GBP40, 2h
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