This scenic road trip crosses Scotland from west to east, passing through some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes.
One incredible Scottish road trip showcases just how diverse and dramatic the country’s scenery can be.(Image: Getty Images)
Scotland’s landscapes can change dramatically within the space of a few miles, from rugged mountains and remote coastlines to rolling farmland, forests and busy towns. That contrast is perhaps best experienced on one remarkable road trip stretching from the country’s wild Atlantic edge all the way to the North Sea.
The journey links mainland Scotland’s most westerly and most easterly points, taking drivers through some of the country’s most famous scenery along the way.
At one end lies Corrachadh Mòr on the remote Ardnamurchan Peninsula in Lochaber. Located less than a mile from the famous Ardnamurchan Lighthouse, it is also the most westerly point on mainland Britain at roughly 06°13′41″W, Scottish Daily Express reports.
At the opposite side of the country sits Keith Inch in Peterhead, the easternmost point on mainland Scotland at 01°45′51″W. According to Google Maps, the quickest route between the two stretches around 237 miles and would take roughly six hours without stops, although much of the appeal lies in slowing down to take in the scenery.
Corrachadh Mòr itself cannot be reached directly by car, but roads from the lighthouse eventually connect with the B8007 through one of Scotland’s most isolated landscapes. Fewer than 2,000 people live across the peninsula, which has no towns and only a scattering of villages and hamlets. Among its residents is Hamza Yassin, winner of Strictly Come Dancing.
The route follows the northern shore of Loch Sunart past secluded beaches and rugged coastline before reaching the small settlement of Salen. From there, drivers head north on the A861 towards Moidart and Glenuig, passing the shores of Loch Shiel.
The journey then joins the A830 near the iconic Glenfinnan Monument, built to commemorate the arrival of Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1745.
Nearby sits the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, recognised around the world from the Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets films.
Further east, the route reaches Fort William beneath Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain, before joining part of the famous A82 towards Spean Bridge at the edge of the Great Glen.
Drivers then continue along the A86 beside Loch Laggan, home to Britain’s largest freshwater beach, before following the route of the River Spey through Highland glens. Near Newtonmore sits the controversial Centre of Scotland Stone, said by some to mark Scotland’s geographical centre.
Joining the A9, travellers continue through the edge of Cairngorms National Park towards Aviemore before turning onto the A95 near Boat of Garten, an area known for its osprey population.
The route then enters Speyside, Scotland’s famous whisky region.
Dufftown sits at the heart of the area and is often referred to locally as the “Whisky Capital of the World”, with more than 60 distilleries spread across the surrounding countryside.
Passing through Huntly, Oldmeldrum and Ellon, the road eventually reaches the North Sea coast near Sandfordhill before ending at Keith Inch in Peterhead.
Beyond the coastline lies Norway, with Stavanger the next major stop across the sea.