Scotland's top 10 road trips named as 'breathtaking' coastal drive places first
The best scenic routes in the country have been crowned.
Scotland's 10 best road trips have been revealed, with a "breathtaking" northern coastal drive placing first on the list. Camping and Caravanning Club have shared a roundup of 'Top 10 Scotland Touring Routes'.
The experts included drives across the country, from the Scottish Borders to the top of the mainland. The best road trip in the country according to Camping and Caravanning Club is the North Coast 500, which earned praise for its unique beauty spots.
The North Coast 500 is a 516-mile route in the Scottish Highlands that starts and ends in Inverness. Popular amongst road trippers across Scotland and beyond, it was described by the experts as "arguably the most famous Scotland road trip".
The route is renowned for its magnificent coastal scenery, including various white sandy beaches. It also features dramatic mountains, charming fishing villages, and many hidden gems.
Among the destinations along the North Coast 500 that were singled out by Camping and Caravanning Club are the historic Dunrobin Castle and the Smoo Cave sea cave.
Elsewhere, the experts highlighted the Glen Ord whisky distillery and Duncansby Head—the northernmost point of the mainland.
Camping and Caravanning Club wrote: "Arguably the most famous Scotland road trip and labelled as 'Scotland’s answer to Route 66', the North Coast 500 traces the main roads along the coastal edges of the North Highlands. Passing through over 500 miles of breathtaking coastal scenery, the North Coast 500 has been praised by visitors from around the world."
The experts added: "Taking in everything the Highlands has to offer, this route is perfect for lovers of food and drink—passing breweries, distilleries and some of Scotland’s most revered restaurants. Starting and ending at Inverness, the route also passes historic castles, sandy beaches and diverse wildlife.
"For active campers, there’s a diverse selection of outdoor experiences to try, including surfing, kayaking, snorkelling, water rafting, mountain biking and hiking."
Scottish road trips
Following behind in second place on Camping and Caravanning Club's list is the Argyll Coastal Route. The drive is 129 miles long, beginning at Loch Lomond and ending in the town of Fort William.
The experts praised attractions on the Argyll Coastal Route such as Inveraray Jail and McCaig’s Tower. Inveraray Jail is a former prison and courthouse dating back to 1820, while McCaig’s Folly is a picturesque tower overlooking the town of Oban.
Camping and Caravanning Club stated: "Setting off from the banks of Loch Lomond and finishing in the loch-side town of Fort William, the Argyll Coastal Route is perfect for fans of expansive coastline, delicious seafood and breathtaking views."
The third best touring route in Scotland according to the experts is the Borders Historic Route. As the name suggests, the scenic drive is known for its various historical sites in the Scottish Borders.
Among the destinations along the route that were singled out by Camping and Caravanning Club is Abbotsford House. Dating back to the early 19th century, the historic country house was once the home of novelist and poet Sir Walter Scott but is now open to the public.
Rounding out the top five road trips in Scotland according to the experts are the Deeside Tourist Route and the Highland Tourist Route. The Deeside Tourist Route is a 108-mile drive between Perth and Aberdeen, while the Highland Tourist Route is around 116 miles in length and connects Aberdeen and Inverness.
Following behind in sixth, seventh, and eighth place respectively are the North East 250, the Moray Firth Route, and the South West Coastal 300, respectively. Completing the top 10 are the Forth Valley Tourist Route and the Angus Coastal Route.
More information can be found on the Camping and Caravanning Club.
Top 10 Scotland touring routes
- North Coast 500
- Argyll Coastal Route
- Borders Historic Route
- Deeside Tourist Route
- Highland Tourist Route
- Moray Firth Route
- North East 250
- South West Coastal 300
- Forth Valley Tourist Route
- Angus Coastal Route