It was a 50:50 decision between Ireland and Scotland after my trip through Wales. In the end, the weather decided for me. Well, the weather and the very expensive ferry ride to Ireland. So, Scotland it was. My plan was to start at Loch Lomond and drive through the Scottish Highlands. From there, I would continue to Stirling and Edinburgh. It sounded like a great introduction to Scotland. But are these really some of the best places to visit? And where should you go in Scotland on a road trip?
Let’s find out.
Read more about my trip to Wales here: Hiking the Gower Coast and driving Snowdonia Mountains
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Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
It was time to put on my hiking gear again. Scotland is famous for its walks and hikes. So, after plenty of research, I started at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. It sits just north of Glasgow.
The park offers everything from short walks to longer hikes. There is something for every fitness level. I chose a shorter walk this time. My plan was to continue into the Highlands, with more walks ahead over the next few days. No need to overdo it too early.
So, I parked my car in the small town of Balmaha. From there, I walked up to Conic Hill.
The day was stunning. The 2 km walk to the top was easy and enjoyable. First, the trail led through the forest. Then it opened up onto a plateau with breathtaking views over Loch Lomond and the surrounding hills. Make sure to stop here and take it all in. If you have more time, it is definitely worth spending a few days exploring this beautiful part of Scotland.
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Stirling
Scotland has plenty of history to discover, and Stirling is a great place to start. A medieval castle sits high above the city on a volcanic hill. Just outside Stirling, you will also find the National Wallace Monument.
The 19th-century tower overlooks the site of the Battle of Stirling Bridge. Here, William Wallace and the Scots defeated the English in 1297. There were certainly plenty of battles back then! The old town of Stirling is also pleasant to explore on foot. However, I found the history to be the most interesting part of my visit. If you are wondering where to go in Scotland for castles and Scottish history, Stirling is certainly worth a stop.
But is it one of Scotland’s best places to visit?
Scotland’s best spots list continues…
Edinburgh
In Edinburgh, I finally felt like I had truly arrived in Scotland. Originally, I planned to stay for a few days. In the end, I was glad I didn’t. I had expected something grand. However, the city didn’t quite live up to everything I had heard about it.
Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town certainly look incredible when you first arrive. They sit high above the city and create an impressive skyline. Yet, for me, Edinburgh felt like one big tourist gathering spot. What could have been an amazing historic city had lost some of its character. At least, that was my impression. How can there be so many identical tourist shops? And who needs all those “I Love Scotland” T-shirts, cashmere products, and endless souvenirs?
That said, I would have liked to walk up Arthur’s Seat in Holyrood Park. Maybe next time. For now, I wanted nature. I wanted the Scottish Highlands and Loch Lomond. So, Edinburgh didn’t make my list of the best places for where to go in Scotland.
Not this time, anyway.
And so…
From Scottish pies to butterscotch biscuits and whisky, I tried a few of Scotland’s famous traditions. And I liked them all. I also noticed how friendly the Scottish people were. Everyone seemed happy to stop for a chat and share a story.
On my way back south, I had to stop at two whisky distilleries. There are certainly plenty to choose from in Scotland. Of course, I also had to stock up on some real Scottish whisky.
Delicious!
So, where to go in Scotland?
After my road trip, I don’t think the cities are Scotland’s best places to visit. For me, the real beauty lies in the nature and wilderness.
So, if you are wondering where to go in Scotland, head outdoors. Pack your hiking gear and explore the Highlands, the mountains, and Loch Lomond. Even better if you catch a sunny day!
As you can see from my photos, the weather can completely change the landscape. One minute the views are clear and colourful. The next, clouds cover the mountains and create a completely different atmosphere. Unfortunately, a road closure left me stuck in traffic for hours. As a result, I missed my planned hikes around Fort William and Glenfinnan.
However, I did get to see the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. You might recognise the railway bridge from the Harry Potter movies. What an amazing unexpected find!
For me, Scotland is all about the outdoors. That’s where I would go in Scotland.
And there was only Loch Ness left to hike. But more about it in my next blog! – Hiking Loch Ness in the Highlands of Scotland
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