A weekend road trip around the Highlands

Published on August 20, 2024 at 2:46 pm

“Wherever I wander, wherever I rove. The hills of the Highlands forever I love.” Is how Robert Burns, famed Scottish poet, chose to express his love for the Highlands. With an almost magnetic quality to them, a trip through the Highlands brings out some of the most intense emotions out of people. The sheer beauty and scope of the landscape can feel entirely overwhelming. The drama of the scenery is endlessly inspiring and the remoteness of the location makes one feel almost transported back to a history that may feel familiar, but that you can’t quite seem to place.

It’s an ideal weekend away from the city, be that Edinburgh, Manchester or even London. Almost completely cut from any sort of hustle and bustle, the Highlands are not far, but what’s important is that they feel far.

Getting to Inverness is very easy, whether you want to hop on a plane, take the train or drive, it is a relatively straightforward location to get to. Once on sight, it’s easy to hire a car, if you’re not bringing your own, and get ready to set off on a magical and mystical road trip through some of Scotland’s most awe-inspiring and iconic landscapes.

Sunset at Quiraig, Scotland.

Summary

Day 1 (Friday evening) : Arrive in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands
Day 2 : Head up north to Dornoch
Day 3 : Snowroads Scenic Route and the Cairngorms

Day 1 (Friday evening) : Arrive in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands

Inverness at sunset.

Once you’ve made it to Inverness, it’ll be time to check into your hotel. Once you’ve settled in a little, head out and explore the town in the evening. Take a stroll through the town centre and then along the River Ness before heading towards your chosen dinner spot for the evening.

We recommend either River House for some excellent and fresh local seafood and riverside views or Rocpool ****for a colourful and creative meal and a well-deserved glass of wine.

Where are you checking into?

For this weekend getaway, we thought it would be perfect to base yourself in Inverness and then drive from there to your next locations. That means you’ll be staying 2 or 3 nights, depending on what sort of schedule works best for you, at the same hotel. We really love the Wee Ness Lodge for that cozy and atmospheric feel. This adorable lodge provides every comfort visitors will be looking for on top of incredible views, free private parking and a warm welcome.

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Wee Ness Lodge

A lovely Lodge Hotel in Inverness, Scotland.

From

£256 /night

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Day 2 : Head up north to Dornoch

Dunrobin Castle and Gardens

A one hour drive up north from Inverness lies the historic coastal town of Dornoch. With its sweeping white sandy beaches, dainty town centre and charming old buildings, it serves as a nice change from your typical more woodlandsy Highland adventure.

Be sure to make your way to the stunning Dunrobin Castle, a veritable gem of an ancestral estate. The northernmost of Scotland’s Great Houses, Dunrobin stands majestic, overlooking the Highlands from atop a hill. Made up of nearly 200 rooms, the historic home of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland has weathered wars, revolts and religious uprisings throughout the centuries. It would be a crime to skip this incredible piece of the Highland’s history and while you’re at it, you won’t want to miss out on the property’s amazing gardens which were said to have inspired those at the Palace of Versailles. Click here to read more about opening times and ticket prices at the castle.

In the afternoon, why not try your hand out at golf at the Dornoch Championship Course. This iconic golf course feels simultaneously out of time and out of this world. Situated all along the stunning Scottish coastline, it’s a peaceful and historic course that is perfect for any quick trip to the Highlands. Be sure to book your tee time in advance, as it can get crowded during the height of the season.

Make your way back to Inverness later in the afternoon and head to Culloden House for an exceptional dining experience. The food is fresh and exquisitely prepared by Chef Scott O’Keefe and includes many vegetarian-friendly options. Be sure to keep in mind that it is encouraged that guests dress for dinner.

Day 3 : Snowroads Scenic Route and the Cairngorms

The Cairngorms

There’s nothing more magical than driving through the UK’s largest national park, the Cairngorms National Park. Get up early Sunday morning and embark on the grandiose 90-mile journey that is the Snowroads Scenic Route which takes you from Blairgowrie to Grantown-on-Spey.

The slow drive is one of the best ways to see the full beauty of the Scottish Highlands and to appreciate the landscape, from the stunning flora and fauna to the incredible local wildlife. So get your road trip playlist ready and prepare to enjoy the slow scenic drive through one of Mother Nature’s greatest gifts. Make sure to stop every now and then, have a little wander around and appreciate all this incredible scenery.

Make sure you remember to drive safely and check the weather conditions ahead of your trip.

Pro tip: Just in case you don’t come across any restaurants or food stops through the massive national park so make sure you pick up some snacks and lunch in Inverness ahead of time. Find out more about food stops along the way here.

by Val HANCOCK

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