2-Week Scotland Travel Itinerary: Your Own 14-Day Breakdown

Two weeks is just about enough time to see Scotland from top to bottom. I’ve done it, so I know it’s true! If you want to plan a two-week trip to Scotland but don’t know how or where to begin, first of all, congratulations on choosing such an amazing vacation destination. Secondly, look no further, because I’ve explored many places in Scotland, and this itinerary puts together all the best things to see and do, succinctly and practically.

This plan is a complete, no-fuss, day-by-day breakdown, and I’ve even thrown in a bunch of bonus links with more information on every stop. Yep, just for you!

The best 2-week Scotland itinerary:

• Day 1: Glasgow
• Day 2: Loch Lomond and the Trossachs
• Day 3: Glencoe (the Hidden Valley and the Pap of Glencoe) 
• Day 4: Glencoe (Lairig Gartain and James Bond road)
• Day 5: Isle of Mull
• Day 6: Drive to Isle of Skye via Glenfinnan and Eilean Donan
• Day 7: Isle of Skye (Old Man of Storr, Quiraing trail and Neist Point Lighthouse)
• Day 8: Isle of Skye (Cuillin mountains)
• Day 9: Drive to Ullapool via Bealach na Bà and Beinn Eighe
• Day 10: The Ullapool area (Stac Pollaidh and the Falls of Measach)
• Day 11: Loch Ness
• Day 12: Stirling Castle via Blair Castle & Gardens
• Day 13: Stirling and Edinburgh (Holyrood Palace)
• Day 14: Edinburgh

Me, my lovely girlfriend and the Cuillin Mountains marvelous view
 

Strap yourself in for a mammoth two-week adventure in one of Europe’s greatest countries!

 

 

Day 1: Glasgow

Glasgow
 

So, you’ve safely landed in Scotland! It’s time to pick up your hire car (I recommend Arnold Clark) and head to the first stop on your 2-week Scotland itinerary. Glasgow is the biggest city in Scotland and because of its size, it can feel impossible to fit all it has to offer into one day. I’ve picked out a few of the very best things to see in the city so that you don’t have to waste any time deciding where to go.

Side note: I hear that Glasgow is a great place for partying, so if you’re into that (I’m not), consider making time at the end of the day for some nightlife.

 

 

Day 1 of Scotland itinerary: map

Map of inner-city Glasgow, pinpointing the best things to do

Morning: Kelvingrove Art Gallery, Glasgow Cathedral

• Scran for breakfast (Google Maps link)
• Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum (for 2 hours)
• Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis (for 1.5 hours)

Glasgow is a bit of a foodie’s paradise, so I couldn’t not mention some of the really good things we ate on day 1. And we certainly started the day right! Scran (rough translation: “meal”) is a local brunch place southeast of the city center, offering proper Scottish breakfasts, as well as some... less traditional items. (Ox cheek for breakfast? You only live once, I guess!)

Be scran-savvy; get to know the good delicacies before you try them by reading my article on Scottish food.

 

 

Then, head over to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum for some culture. Now, I’m not really a museum sort of guy, but the building itself is striking, and there’s so much going on inside that if you don’t find anything to pique your interest, I’m sorry, but you must be the dullest person on the planet.

Next, Glasgow Cathedral is well worth a stop, even if only for the impressive fact that it’s been in use for over 800 years. And because death is equally entertaining, check out the nearby Necropolis, too. It’s huge, beautiful, and said to be one of the most significant cemeteries in Europe.

Afternoon: Riverside Museum, The Lighthouse

Enjoy a quiet day in Glasgow, the next days will be full of hikes
 

• Riverside Museum (for 2 hours)
• The Lighthouse (for 1 hour)
• Fanny Trollope for dinner (Google Maps link)

After that sobering experience, I can recommend the Riverside Museum, housed in an ultra-modern building on the bank of the Clyde. It’s a transport museum that showcases vehicles old and new, with plenty of interactive frills. It’s a bit of a boy’s paradise.

My final Glasgow pick is The Lighthouse, right in the heart of the action. A building for artsy types (there are a lot of these in Glasgow!), it serves primarily as an exhibition space. But climb to the seventh floor and you’ll be rewarded with a stellar view over the city from the observation deck.

And for dinner, we just had to try out a well-reviewed restaurant called Fanny Trollopes. Need I say more? (Yes, I am twelve years old.)

Where to stay in Glasgow: try the Marriott

When I was in Glasgow with my girlfriend, we stayed at the Marriott, and we were happy with our choice. The rooms are spacious and comfortable with great city views, and no complaints about the staff—they were helpful and friendly. Plus, it's in a convenient location—just a short walk from the city center, making it a perfect base for exploring.

 

 

Day 2: Loch Lomond and the Trossachs

Beautiful scenery in Trossachs
 

This next stop is only around one hour’s drive from the center of Glasgow, but be sure to set off early to make the most of day 2 of your Scotland travel itinerary! The Trossachs is 1,900 square km (720 square mi) in area, which would be a lot of national park to cover on foot. Luckily, you can drive around it, treating yourself to views of some superb dramatic landscapes.

Although I’ve included a slightly different plan in this itinerary, the road around the Trossachs is one of my favorite scenic drives in Scotland. And that’s saying something(!)—check out my other top Scottish road trips in another article:

Day 2 of Scotland itinerary: route map

See the route in more detail on Google Maps

Morning: Ben A’an

• Drive to the Trossachs from Glasgow (Google Maps route map)
• Hike up Ben A’an (for 3 hours)

Your day will start with a scenic drive from Glasgow to the Trossachs, a gateway to the western Highlands that feels rugged but not too wild. The winding roads reveal breathtaking views at every turn. It’s tempting to stop constantly for photos, but the real adventure awaits...!

Be aware: You have to get a pay-and-display parking ticket before you begin the hike, but you might not be able to pay for it by card because internet signal is unreliable in the Trossachs.

Ben A’an’s hike looked straightforward to me, but it quickly turns into a proper uphill challenge. The steady climb had me pausing often—let’s just say to enjoy the scenery—but the stunning views over the several lochs totally beat any feelings of fatigue. Reaching the summit is a breathless victory, with a panorama that leaves you speechless.

The Ben A’an hike is a perfect start to your Scotland itinerary
 

The hike down feels like a well-earned reward after conquering one of Scotland’s finest. (You can find out about more of Scotland’s finest trails, as well as the not-so-fine ones, right here.) And speaking of a well-earned reward, it’s lunchtime!

 

 

Afternoon: Loch Lomond

• Puddingstone Place for lunch (Google Maps link)
• Row on Loch Lomond (for 1 hour)
• Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre (for 1.5 hours)

For your post-hike meal, I can certainly recommend Puddingstone Place—a traditional, no-fuss café in the nearby town of Callander. Their meals are hearty and warm, and the prices aren’t half bad, either. Shout out to the “kilted chicken”, which is chicken stuffed with haggis and wrapped in bacon... with fries on the side. Fun fact: Scottish people love cholesterol!

Next, to Loch Lomond—one of the largest freshwater bodies in Britain, and so there’s plenty of room for peddle-boating. If you just want to walk or relax on some of the beaches, that’s possible, too. You can also cycle, jet-ski, swim, or kayak. But after quite an adventurous morning, we opted to take it easy in a rowing boat. It cost GBP 40 (USD 52.47) to rent the boat for one hour from Loch Lomond Shores.

Imagine kayaking on this lake, surrounded by amazing green Scottish nature
 

For more information on all the water activities available, check out this Loch Lomond tourist webpage. And for even more things to do around Loch Lomond, see my other Scotland itinerary!

 

 

The final stop on day 2 of your 2-week Scotland itinerary is the Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre, located near the southern end of the loch. Here, you get to see majestic raptors close-up, from eagles to owls, in a natural setting. It’s educational, giving you the chance to see these incredible birds in action while learning about their conservation. I found the experience pretty cool, overall, and it isn’t just for bearded birdwatcher geeks.

Where to stay near Loch Lomond

The Lodge on Loch Lomond Hotel is a four-star gem right on the loch. Our room was clean and modern, our bed was comfy, and the waterfront view from the dining room was just insane!

 

 

Day 3: Glencoe (the Hidden Valley and the Pap of Glencoe)

Take a road trip and get ready for some Glencoe hiking!
 

It’s day 3, and it’s a hiking day! Today is all about attempting two relatively challenging walks; one in the morning and one in the afternoon, and at the end of the day, you’ll be rewarded with an amazing place to stay in Glencoe village. You can do it—I believe in you!

Day 3 of Scotland itinerary: map

Map of the Glencoe area, pinpointing Glencoe village and the best hikes

Morning: Hidden Valley trail

• Drive to the Hidden Valley trailhead from Loch Lomond (Google Maps route map) 
• Hike the Hidden Valley trail (for 2.5 hours)

Saying goodbye to the lovely Lodge on Loch Lomond, you’ll the day early (at around 7 am, ideally) with the drive the Hidden Valley trailhead. You’ll pass through more dramatic landscapes that maintain the feeling of the journey being a significant part of the adventure.

The Hidden Valley (also known as the Lost Valley or Coire Gabhail) trail is a very pretty hike in the Glencoe Valley, similar to the Alpine valleys in Austria and Germany. Though steep in parts, it takes you through narrow paths, rocky climbs, and views that feel positively cinematic. The whole experience is equal parts challenging and awe-inspiring, a true Highland gem.

Hidden Valley
 

During the Massacre of Clan MacDonald in the late 1700s, the Hidden Valley is where those who escaped the massacre would hide their cattle. If you’re partial to a bit of violence (honestly, who isn’t?), there’s more about this massacre in this article of fun facts about Scotland.

Afternoon: Pap of Glencoe

• Hike the Pap of Glencoe (for 4 hours)

Known alternativly as Sgòrr na Cìche (Gaelic klaxon! There’ll be much more of that to come), the Pap of Glencoe hike is particularly difficult because of the path—it’s either muddy (even in sunny weather!) or super rocky, the whole way. Any Heroes 3 fans out there? You’ll need the pathfinder skill to get to the Pap of Glencoe! But again, I believe in you.

Views from Pap of Glencoe
 

Important notes on the Pap of Glencoe: It took us 2 hours up and about 1.5 hours to get back down. I definitely wouldn’t take kids or dogs on this trail. Do wear proper footwear and prepare for some slipping and sliding. And when all is said and done, the views from the top really are fabulous.

Where to stay in Glencoe

I promised you somewhere lovely, and here it is: The Glencoe Inn. Staying here was an absolute delight, with its cozy, modern rooms offering stunning views of the mountains. The staff go above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect. Plus, the restaurant serves up some truly delectable fish and seafood—I had some of the best mussels I’ve ever had in Scotland.

 

 

Day 4: Glencoe (Lairig Gartain and James Bond road)

The sceneries on the Lairig Gartain hike are going to be the fuel in your veins while hiking
 

Did you sleep well after your day of hiking yesterday? Good, because you’re going to do one more today! Then in the afternoon, to top off your stay in the Glen Coe, you’ll see a road. But not just any old road; James Bond road. Named after that guy, you know, in those British spy movies.

PSA: Can’t get enough Glencoe travel tips? Here are some more Glencoe travel tips, including whale watching and hiking up Great Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis...

 

 

Day 4 of Scotland itinerary: route map

See the route in more detail on Google Maps

Morning: Lairig Gartain

• Hike Lairig Gartain (for 3 hours)

The trailhead of this wonderful hike, the Glencoe Viewpoint, is just 20 minutes down the road from The Glencoe Inn. This is a beautiful valley walk, so not a whole lot of climbing is involved (you can breathe a sigh of relief). Theoretically, you can walk for ages, but since it is an out-and-back trail, you can stop and turn around whenever you choose.

The minimum you’ll want to go totals a 5.3-km (3-mi) round trip, which will take around two hours to complete. If you can, go all the way to the spot with the view toward Loch Etive, though this almost doubles the hike to a 9-km (5.5-mi) round trip.

Fun fact: Glen Etive and Loch Etive were both used as filming locations for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Parts 1 & 2. And you’re in for even more movie-based Glencoe trivia in the afternoon...

Afternoon: James Bond road

The famous James Bond road
 

• Go for a drive along James Bond road (for 1.5 hours)
• Drive to Oban (Google Maps route map)

James Bond road, named as such for being featured in the 2012 movie, Skyfall, is a scenic road of 20.1 km (12.5 mi) between the A82 main road and Loch Etive. If you’re a James Bond fan, this drive is a must. If you’re not a James Bond fan (weird, but okay), go for the stunning scenery.

It’s easy to navigate, but it’s a single lane, so be prepared for it to take time to drive through while letting others pass or stop to take photos. You then need to drive the same way back again, so don’t hurry and just take in the magnificent views of Glen Etive.

There are moments along the way when people stop and take photos of the most beautiful and most famous parts. If you do this (you will want to), just keep traffic moving and don’t linger for too long. Sometimes there’s only room for one car, so snap your photo and get out of there.

The James Bond road drive
 

The last thing you’ll need to do on day 4 of your 2-week Scotland itinerary is drive to Oban, where you’ll stay the night before your day on the Isle of Mull tomorrow. It’s not so far—around 90 km (56.3 mi), and as ever, the views make the ride much more pleasant.

Where to stay in Oban

I can definitely recommend the Oban Bay Hotel for its spacious, homely rooms, plus, the bed was super comfortable and the breakfast was great.

 

 

Day 5: Isle of Mull

Isle of Mull
 

Providing you get up early in Oban, you can definitely have a day trip to the Isle of Mull. I’m going to let you in on my some of my favorite places to go and things to do on this fantastic island. From hunting a waterfall to strolling through a town that has major Gay Pride overtones to hiking up to a long-abandoned castle, you can be sure that there’ll be something for you here!

Day 5 of Scotland itinerary: map

Map of the Isle of Mull, pinpointing the best places of interest

Morning: Duart Castle, Eas Fors Waterfall

• Travel to Mull on the ferry (for 50 mins)
• Duart Castle (for 1 hour)
• Go on a drive to Salen via Eas Fors Waterfall (for 2 hours)
• HOOK’D in Tobermory for lunch (Google Maps link)

First off, the Isle of Mull is accessible from mainland Scotland only by ferry. The one from Oban will take you to Craignure, it takes about an hour, and do be sure to get your tickets well in advance. It never hurts to be prepared—just channel your inner Boy Scout.

Duart Castle. Sadly, we chose the wrong day and couldn’t get inside :(
 

Now you’re here, no trip to the Isle of Mull would be complete without a visit to Duart Castle… except when it’s closed. (Tip: Don’t go on a Thursday in April or October.) But from where I was standing, the backdrop was still photogenic: legendary rocky coastlines and plenty of sheep.

As for the castle itself? I obviously can’t say much about the interior, but Duart does have the charm of a classic medieval fortress. Thick stone walls, a moody setting, and the fact that it’s the seat of Clan Maclean all make it historically significant.

Next, drive to the Three Lochs Viewpoint, stop for a little while to take in where you are, and continue on a longer drive to Eas Fors Waterfall via the seaside village of Salen. Don’t be too alarmed by the changes in the landscape—you haven’t accidentally teleported to California. And check out the modest but still very pretty waterfall, where the water practically tumbles straight into the sea.

See the route from the Three Lochs Viewpoint to Salen via Eas Fors Waterfall in more detail on Google Maps
 

For your final pit stop of the morning, are you in the mood for fish and chips? (There’s only one right answer!) HOOK’D in Mull’s colorful capital, Tobermory has perfected this seaside staple. Tobermory is only a 20-minute drive from Salen, so your mouth won’t stay watering for much longer.

Afternoon: Tobermory, Dùn Ara

• Tobermory (for 2 hours)
• Hike from Glengorm Castle to Dùn Ara (for 1 hour)
• Travel to Oban on the ferry (for 50 mins)

Now you’ve gained some sustenance, it’s time to look around Tobermory to get more of an idea of Mull’s island life. Here’s a quick overview of things to do here:

• See the colorful waterfront houses (I mean, it’d be a miracle if you missed them)
• Go on a gin distillery tour (but maybe don’t try too much of it given that you’re driving)
• Buy some award-winning cheeses at Isle of Mull Cheese shop (just outside of town)
• Visit the Mull Museum
• Walk up to Tobermory Lighthouse

Tobermory
 

And lastly, there’s time for just a short hike before you drive back to Craignure to get the ferry back to Oban, and that’s the hike from Glengorm Castle to Dùn Ara. This one’s a short adventure consisting of ancient ruins, sea views, and a whole lot of Hebredian charm. It’s a relaxed walk, no sweat—only 3.7 km (2.3 mi) out-and-back, which you could easily do in less than an hour.

 

Day 6: Drive to Isle of Skye via Glenfinnan and Eilean Donan

A train heading to Hogwarts on Glenfinnan Viaduct!
 

Day 6 of your Scotland travel itinerary is less about walking and hiking; it’s time for an epic road trip! You’ll drive for nearly five hours in total today, venturing back into the glorious Highlands. Expect a castle, monuments and other grand structures, all against that cinematic mountainous backdrop that’s become your own familiar little world.

Oban to the Isle of Skye: bring it on!

Day 6 of Scotland itinerary: route map

See the route in more detail on Google Maps

Morning: Glenfinnan, Commando Memorial

• Drive from Oban to Glenfinnan (Google Maps route map)
• Drive from Glenfinnan to Commando Memorial (for 30 minutes)
• Spean Bridge Mill Restaurant for lunch (Google Maps link)

 

 

It takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach your first stop of the day: Glenfinnan. Visiting Glenfinnan feels particularly surreal, with its stunning views over Loch Shiel and its iconic viaduct (another one for your Harry Potter in Scotland bingo card).

The Glenfinnan Monument stands tall, commemorating the Jacobite rising. I was glad to get my fix of history early on in the day, and there was still more to come...!

Time for a bit of Scottish history—Commando Memorial
 

Then, go back on yourself and bypass Fort William toward the Commando Memorial. This towering monument is dedicated to the men of the British Commandos who trained in this very spot during World War II. The atmosphere here is solemn yet peaceful—it’s a monument that commands quiet respect. I found it both awe-inspiring and deeply moving. Bonus: From here, you get a brilliant view of Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the UK.

The Spean Bridge Mill Restaurant is just down the road from the Commando Memorial, in the village of Spean Bridge, and so this was our prime opportunity to stop for lunch. (Note: There aren’t a whole lot of restaurants around here. Most of them are part of a hotel, and so they probably won’t be open in the middle of the day.)

Afternoon: Five Sisters of Kintail, Eilean Donan Castle

• Drive to Ratagan Pass viewpoint (Google Maps route map)
• Drive from Ratagan Pass viewpoint to Eilean Donan Castle (Google Maps route map)
• Drive from Eilean Donan Castle to the Isle of Skye (Google Maps route map)

 

 

Your next stop on your day 6 road trip is the Ratagan Pass viewpoint. “Viewpoint of what?” I hear you ask. Why, of none other than the Five Sisters of Kintail, some of the most incredible, dramatic peaks in the Highlands! They loom dramatically over Loch Duich, with jagged ridges that seem to touch the sky. You don’t have to stick around for long—just until you begin to appreciate their colossal scope and might.

One of the ancient castles of Scotland—Eilean Donan
 

Next, it’s the castle I promised: the one at Eilean Donan. This is your last stop before you reach Skye, and I found it to be nothing short of an absolute treat. Eilean Donan Castle is perched on a tiny island where three lochs meet, with mist swirling around it for maximum drama. Walking across the stone bridge, I genuinely felt like I was stepping back in time, even if I was also dodging a lot of other tourists. And inside, it’s the perfect mix of history and Highland charm.

Now, it’s only another hour or so before you reach your bed for the night on the Isle of Skye. Make yourself at home—you’ll spend the next two days here!

Where to stay in Portree, Isle of Skye

We stayed at Cuillin Hills Hotel and found it clean, modern, even quite luxurious. Oh, and I definitely rate their breakfast!

 

 

Day 7: Isle of Skye (Old Man of Storr, Quiraing trail and Neist Point Lighthouse)

Old Man of Storr is my favorite hike, and Scotland has dozens more amazing ones!
 

In my opinion, Skye truly is one of Scotland’s most picturesque islands. It’s not only worth visiting; it should be an essential stop on any Scotland travel itinerary, and you should dedicate at least two days to it! Here’s the first—awesome hiking trails, pretty gardens, and even prettier beaches.

Day 7 of Scotland itinerary: map

Map of the north of the Isle of Skye, pinpointing the best places of interest

Morning: Old Man of Storr, Quiraing

• Hike the Old Man of Storr trail (for 2 hours)
• An Corran Beach (for 30 minutes)
• Hike the Quiraing trail (for 2 hours)

 

 

Starting off strong, the Old Man of Storr hike is one of my personal Isle of Skye and probably the most popular walk here among tourists in general. The trail consists of of green hills, lochs and rugged rocks. Oh, and a giant’s thumb protruding from the ground. Find more details about the route in my article about the best hikes on the Isle of Skye.

Fun fact: The 2012 movie “Prometheus” was partly shot at the Old Man of Storr!

Then, head down to An Corran Beach. The main claim to fame of this place is the dinosaur footprints in the rocks. There are supposed to be 19 of them in total, but they aren’t easy to spot and if you’re there at high tide, you might not see any at all.

Depending on how much perseverance you have and how many footprints you set out to find, you could spend 15 minutes to infinity here. Good luck on your Jurassic hunt!

Quiraing trail
 

To top off your morning, one more walk, and in my opinion, the best thing to do on the Isle of Skye: the Quiraing trail. What you get to see on this hike is epic, grassy cliffs that dramatically tower up over the sea, getting lost in the clouds. There’s no landscape more Scottish—not even the endearing sight of rowdy, drunk people eating deep-fried pizza on a Friday night in Glasgow beats it.

Tip: Make sure you dress for bad weather even if it looks nice out, and don’t go on the hike if it’s raining. That could be dangerous.

Afternoon Dunvegan Castle Gardens, Neist Point Lighthouse

• Dunvegan Castle Gardens (for 1 hour)
• Coral Beach (for 1 hour)
• Neist Point Lighthouse (for 2 hours)

 

 

After your morning hikes, ease into a leisurely stroll through Dunvegan Castle Gardens. (I intentionally call this stop Dunvegan Castle Gardens, because I recommend skipping the interior of the castle. It’s just nothing special, really, and the gardens are much more worth your time.) These well-kept gardens are a peaceful retreat, offering formal landscapes, woodland walks, and the occasional seal sighting by the shore.

Next, head to Coral Beach, a tropical-looking spot (tropical for Scotland, anyway). The white sand— which is actually tiny bits of coral—and clear waters make this one of Skye’s most unique beaches. It’s a quick, pleasant walk to the shore, perfect for another quiet hour after the gardens, or even a chilly dip if you're brave enough. (I wasn’t.)

Dunvegan Castle and its gardens
 

End your first day on the Isle of Skye with a hike to Neist Point Lighthouse, perched on the end of the cliffs. Just to be clear, it’s not the lighthouse that you come here for, it’s the scenery. For me, the panoramic views make the effort worth it, and if you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins or whales.

Pro tip: Stick around for the sunset—it’s one of the best places on the entire island to see it!

 

 

Day 8: Isle of Skye (Cuillin mountains)

This hike is really tough but sooo worth it!
 

Are you ready to tackle some of the roughest, gruffest peaks on this itinerary? Welcome to the Cuillin mountains! Take it from me: hope for dry weather, hike carefully, and you’ll have a great experience.

Day 8 of Scotland itinerary: map

Map of the south of the Isle of Skye, pinpointing the best places of interest

Morning: Cuillin mountains

• Hike in the Cuillin mountains (for 6–8 hours)

The Cuillin is the mountain range in the south-central part of the Isle of Skye. It’s also the most challenging mountain range in the UK, so they say, although there are some easier walks that you can take if you're less confident and/or less fit.

Important tip: Don’t go if the weather is bad or you risk falling and being seriously injured, or worse. Bassalt is one of the rock types that form the Cuillin and it gets particularly slippery in the rain.

There are many Cuillin hikes of varying difficulty and length to choose from. I find alltrails.com really useful for looking up hiking routes (not sponsored or affiliated). You can also read my best hikes on Skye article, which I mentioned earlier.

In good weather this walking route is an excellent experience!
 

Most hiking options start in one of two spots: the majority at the Sligachan Hotel in Sligachan, like the route to Bruach na Frìthe or the flat walk to Sgùrr na Stri, both doable in 6–8 hours. We chose to do Sgùrr na Stri and while it was tough in places, we didn’t regret it. Our reward was unbeatable views of the Cuillins, pretty much in their entirety, as well as of Loch Coruisk and even some of the surrounding islands.

Meanwhile, some hikes start at the Glenbrittle campsite, like to Cuillin’s highest peak, Sgùrr Alasdair (6 hours), or to Coire Lagan (a mountain lake), a short hike that you can do in 2 hours.

One of the top hikes on the Isle of Skye is to Blà Bheinn. You’d actually be driving from Broadford to get to the trailhead, where there’s another hotel that I recommend. (I’ll get to that in a moment.)

Afternoon: Fairy Pools

• Fairy Pools (for 1 hour)

Depending on how long your Cuillin hike took you, you might have time for one more stop to round off your stay on the Isle of Skye. And if you only see one more thing, let it be this one: the enchanting Fairy Pools.

The Fairy Pools are an area of little streams, pools, and falls that together, can look magical in photos against the moody rocks (just Google it). It’s exactly what you might imagine a place inhabited by fairies to look like. If you have good weather, that is, and not everything’s shrouded in cloud like it was when we went. Hence, my own photos don’t do the place justice.

Fairy Pools
 

With the Cuillin peaks looming in the background, this is a great place to unwind and give yourself a thorough pat on the back for having climbed up there. But depending on the time of day, you might also have some tourist crowds to contend with.

Have I managed to tempt you to take a trip to the Isle of Skye? Read more about my experiences on this stunning island right here:

 

 

Where to stay on the south side of the Isle of Skye

As promised, my other Isle of Skye hotel recommendation is the Broadford Hotel. Super clean, super cozy, in a super quiet location: a tiny, charming village called Corry, yet it’s still not completely out in the sticks.

 

Day 9: Drive to Ullapool via Bealach na Bà and Beinn Eighe

This day is going to be full of road trips
 

Day 9 is another driving day, only broken up by another one of Scotland’s most epic hikes and one of my personal Scottish Highlands highlights. Make sure you dress accordingly in waterproof gear, because it will rain. But although it might get muddy on the mountain, its path is so well-constructed and well-maintained that you needn’t worry about slipping, even if you’re a beginner.

Day 9 of Scotland itinerary: route map

See the route in more detail on Google Maps

Morning: Bealach na Bà

• Drive from the Isle of Skye to Bealach na Bà (Google Maps route map)
• Shieldaig Bar & Coastal Kitchen for lunch (Google Maps link)

Bealach na Bà is a scenic road between Tornapress (basically just a T-junction) and Applecross, a small coastal town. It’s one of the best drives in Scotland, I absolutely loved it. It’ll take you around an hour initially to reach Tornapress from the Isle of Skye, and then the fun really begins!

Realistically, one way takes about 30 minutes, but I bet you’ll take at least an hour to get there just because of all the stops you’ll be making to take in the views. You’ll be faster on the way back. 

It’s a single-lane road, so take your time. There are a lot of winding parts, especially in the beginning, but I always felt safe. 

The Bealach na Bà drive
 

Tip: Make sure to take photos in the first third of Bealach na Bà, because this is where you’ll get the best views down to Loch Kishorn.  

Once you get back to the T-junction at Tornapress, turn left back onto the A896 and make your way toward Shieldaig, where you’ll be able to get some exquisite fish-based lunch at Shieldaig Bar & Coastal Kitchen.

Afternoon: Beinn Eighe

• Hike up Beinn Eighe (for 4 hours)
• Drive from Beinn Eighe trailhead to Ullapool (Google Maps route map)

Shieldaig is a good place to stop in the middle of the day, not just for the tip-top seafood, but also because you then don’t have far to get to the Beinn Eighe trailhead—just 31.1 km (19.4 mi) away.

This was actually the rainiest day I had during my entire trip—boy, was I lucky it fell on this particular hike! The Beinn Eighe circular hike has the best signposting on any hike I ever did in the whole country. There’s a proper hiking path (that starts right by the parking lot) with good signs and directions. And it’s rock solid, meaning it doesn’t slide or disappear into the mud.

Beinn Eighe circular trail is absolutely breathtaking even when it’s a little foggy
 

The views on the Beinn Eighe circular trail are breathtaking, all lochs, lush vegetation, and long, long ways away. Now, this is hiking in Scotland! Hands down, one of my favorite places in the Highlands.

 

 

Once you’ve made it back to your car, congratulate yourself on yet another mountain conquered, and complete the drive to Ullapool, where you’ll be based for the next two nights.

Where to stay in Ullapool

Harbour House is right on the waterfront on the south side of Ullapool. The complex is cute, modern, and easy to find, which you’ll be glad for given that you’re going to arrive in the evening.

 

 

Day 10: The Ullapool area (Stac Pollaidh and the Falls of Measach)

You won’t be able to get over these beautiful sceneries of Stac Pollaidh
 

There’ll be a fair amount of driving back and forth from Ullapool on day 10 of your 2-week Scotland itinerary. You shouldn’t have to rush, but don’t dawdle too much, either. You have some fantastic geological gems to see today...

Day 10 of Scotland itinerary: map

Map of the Ullapool area, pinpointing the best places of interest

Morning: Stac Pollaidh

• Hike up Stac Pollaidh (for 2.5 hours)
• Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve (for 2 hours)

Beginning just 20 minutes north of Ullapool, the Stac Pollaidh hike is my number one hike in Scotland. It’s just THE BEST. A must-do. You get the idea.

What I love about hikes like this one is that you can see such incredible scenery in such a short period of time. If you do the circuit, you’ll be back in 2.5 hours, but you’ve still just been on the best day hike in the country.

Tip: The standard direction to hike the circular trail is counterclockwise, but I’d definitely go clockwise. That way, you get the best views. Another tip: Walk about three quarters of the way and then turn back, so you avoid the muddiest part of the trail (the western side).

Knockan Crag Nature Reserve
 

Next on the agenda is Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve. Knockan Crag is the place where it was discovered that Scotland was originally not anywhere close to being a part of England, only floating together a relatively short time ago (in Earth years). Due to the unique geology, you can actually see the crag where two tectonic plates met.

It’s also where you can see the oldest rocks on Earth—4 billion years old. Or, if you think God created the Earth, then a whopping 6,000 years! 

Afternoon: Falls of Measach

• Falls of Measach (for 1 hour)

The Falls of Measach are located in the Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve, a 20-minute drive from Ullapool (in the opposite direction from where you were in the morning). They’re very easy to find and very easy to fall in love with.

The trail to the waterfall from the parking area is a good path that should be easy enough for just about anyone. However, it’s worth mentioning that there’s a very slight incline.

Me and the Falls of Measach
 

When you do get to the bridge… Eeshk, just be prepared to see a drop of about 70 m (230 ft), with a limited number of people being permitted on it at any given time. And there, in the middle of the gorge, is the spectacular waterfall! 

After the bridge, you can (and should) keep going to another viewing platform, which sort of hangs in the middle of the gorge. It’s awesome, if a little scary if you don’t like heights, but overall, I certainly recommend it. 

Tip: The view of the falls is quite romantic, so consider it for some well-deserved time out with your significant other.

 

Day 11: Loch Ness

The stunning scenery of Loch Affric is postcard-worthy
 

It’s day 11, and it’s finally time to move back down the country and make a gradual exit from the Highlands (aww). But don’t despair—your 2-week Scotland itinerary isn’t over just yet! And today, you’ll be visiting the famous Loch Ness. Spoiler: the monster doesn’t exist.

 

 

Day 11 of Scotland itinerary: map

Map of Loch Ness, pinpointing the best places of interest

Morning: Urquhart Castle

• Drive from Ullapool to Loch Ness (Google Maps route map)
• Urquhart Castle (for 2 hours)

The drive down from Ullapool shouldn’t take you longer than two hours. Your first stop at the other end is one of the most striking things to see around Loch Ness.

Right on the shore and not far from the Loch Ness Centre, you’ll find Urquhart (“ark-hut”) Castle, one of the most iconic ruins around Loch Ness. Looking at it from the south, it’s a ruin you might recognize if you’ve spent any amount of time Googling “castle at Loch Ness” (I was never going to remember how to spell “Urquhart”, let’s be real).

Urqua...something Castle
 

At its peak, this castle was huge, and even now, it’s surprisingly extensive—we were wandering around for around two hours. A significant part of Scottish history, the castle stood strong through the centuries, weathering political struggles—including those for Scottish independence—and even being blown up by its own defenders during the Jacobite rising.

Urquhart really is one of the best historic castles I’ve seen. And believe me, I’ve seen a lot!

 

 

Afternoon: The Loch Ness Centre, Loch Ness boat tour

• The Loch Ness Centre (for 1.5 hours)
• Take a Loch Ness boat tour (for 1 hour)
• Falls of Foyers (for 1 hour)

Next, head to The Loch Ness Centre to learn all about the loch itself, from its geology to the legends and mysteries surrounding it. You can’t miss it on the way to Urquhart Castle; just go back on yourself for around a kilometer and you’ll spot it on the A82/A831 T-junction.

Fun fact: The original legend dates back to the 6th century, but it was from this very building that the rumor of a sighting spread rapidly to the general public in 1933. And a bonus tip: If you want to have a serious conversation about the possibility of the elusive monster being real, you can even book in for a chat with a self-proclaimed “Nessie Hunter”. He’s been on the constant lookout for the Loch Ness Monster for over 30 years!

Try the Cruise Loch Ness or Loch Ness Centre (or both)
 

And of course, no trip to Loch Ness would be complete without a boat tour. I recommend a company called Cruise Loch Ness (I wonder how long it took them to come up with that name), which is based at the southern end of the loch. Tip: Park on the opposite side of the Caledonian Canal—it’s convenient and not too crowded. And if you’re visiting in high season, be sure to book your boat trip ahead of time.

Finally, if you still have some daylight left, The Falls of Foyers is a place of interest combines Highland nature, a bit of walking, and a dash of Loch Ness mystery. It's only 25 minutes’ drive from Fort Augustus (where you will have just come off the boat).

The trail to the waterfalls splits into two routes: one to the upper falls, just a short walk at 300 m (0.2 mi) away; and one to the lower falls, 500 m (0.31 mi) further. And if you’re in the mood for yet more walking, there are a few kilometers of trails around the falls with some decent uphill sections.

Where to stay near Loch Ness

We stayed at the Craigdarroch Hotel in Foyers, incidentally, near the waterfalls. It’s a four-star hotel, and yet it has all the homely appeal of a traditional countryside inn.

 

Day 12: Stirling Castle via Blair Castle & Gardens

Stirling Castle
 

After ten wonderful days of lochs, mountains, and ocean views, it’s time to start heading back into the real world—you know, where people actually live. Sad though it may seem, you’re still going to get to see two more of Scotland’s best historic cities to round off the trip.

First up, it’s Stirling, known as the “Gateway to the Highlands” (or “from”, in this case). But not before you’ve broken up the long drive from Loch Ness with a stop at Blair Castle & Gardens, the ancestral home of Clan Murray, and a very handsome one at that!

 

 

Day 12 of Scotland itinerary: route map

See the route in more detail on Google Maps

Morning: Blair Castle & Gardens

• Drive from Loch Ness to Blair Castle & Gardens (Google Maps route map)
• Blair Castle & Gardens (for 2–3 hours)

Make sure you get a good night’s rest because it takes around 2 hours to drive from Loch Ness to Blair Castle (and then another 1.5 hours to drive to Stirling). The good news is that altogether, this is the last long car journey you’ll make on this itinerary.

Blair Castle, home of the Atholl family since the 16th century, offers a delightful mix of history, pomp, and stunning nature. You can take a self-guided tour through 30 beautifully-decorated rooms. Expect to spend a couple of hours soaking up its rich history; it’s like walking through a time capsule and you can very easily get lost in it all. And make sure not to skip the amazing gardens!

After that intense dose of heritage and grandeur, you’ll be hungry. Luckily, the castle’s own eatery, the “Tullibardine Restaurant”, has some tasty dishes on offer.

Blair Castle

Afternoon: Stirling Castle

• Drive from Blair Castle & Gardens to Stirling (Google Maps route map)
• Stirling Castle (for 2 hours)

Now you’re refreshed and raring to go, it’s time to get back on the road and head to another absolute mother of a castle. Stirling Castle is beautiful from the outside and interesting to explore on the inside. It sits on top of a volcano and looks very dramatic, and incidentally, it topped my list of the best day trips from Edinburgh. 

This place is big enough to take up the better part of your day. You could easily spend five hours here, but understandably, you might not have that kind of stamina after your long drive in the morning.

Fun fact: It’s the most important castle in Scotland’s history as it’s the most strategically located and for a long time it was the seat of Scotland’s kings. The place was so important that during the 1300s, it changed hands 8 times! Everyone and their cousin wanted to call Stirling their home.

Where to stay in Stirling

I can vouch for Hotel Colessio in the city center. This is a pretty cool hotel because it’s a grand, restored Victorian building. It almost feels like you’re staying at a small royal palace.

 

Day 13: Stirling and Edinburgh (Holyrood Palace)

William Wallace Monument is an important part of the Scottish history
 

If you haven’t got the gist yet, Stirling is kind of like the city version of Scotland’s greatest hits album. I can’t get enough history, and because it’s got everything from medieval castles to epic battlefields, Stirling was always going to be an obligatory stop on my 2-week Scotland itinerary. Here is where William Wallace and Robert the Bruce made their stand for Scottish independence, and I’m not going to lie, this is a large focus the plan today...

 

 

Day 13 of Scotland itinerary: route map

See the route in more detail on Google Maps

Morning: National Wallace Monument

• National Wallace Monument (for 2 hours)
• Bannockburn War Memorial (for 30 minutes)

First up on the penultimate day of this Scotland travel itinerary, the National Wallace Monument is an amazing spot that I urge you not to miss. Granted, I’m a Braveheart fan, (I know, what gave it away, right?) but I think you’ll enjoy the exhibit and the views even if you aren’t. The monument is based on historical reality. As such, it focuses not only on William Wallace, but also on Robert Bruce.

The tower is divided into floors and each floor is dedicated to a different topic. The tower is 60 m (almost 200 ft) tall and there are 3 floors. Expect a steep and narrow staircase, and great views from the top!

View from the Wallace Monument
 

Lastly, the Bannockburn War Memorial, just outside Stirling to the south, marks Scotland’s 1314 victory against the English. The site features an iconic statue of Robert the Bruce on horseback, overlooking the historic battlefield. For a deeper dive, the visitor center offers interactive exhibits that bring the battle to life. Pro tip: On the summer solstice, reenactors commemorate this key moment in Scottish independence.

Even if history isn’t your thing (and if not, sorry about day 12 and day 13 entirely, but you can’t please everyone!), the peaceful setting and sweeping countryside views make the memorial worth a stop. And it’s from here that you can continue your journey to Edinburgh.

Afternoon: Holyrood Palace

• Drive from Stirling to Edinburgh (Google Maps route map)
• Holyrood Palace (for 2 hours)

The journey from Stirling to Edinburgh only takes around an hour, so you should have time to see at least one Edinburgh sight thoroughly before your busy final day tomorrow. Consider Holyrood Palace, the offical British royal residence in Scotland.

The King’s Gallery is astounding with so many paintings, furniture, and decorative items. Mary, Queen of Scots also makes a lot of appearances. And there’s a “throne room”. I thought this must refer to His Majesty’s private bathroom, but no—it’s just a bunch of chairs. Nice chairs, though.

Holyrood Palace
 

Out back, there’s Holyrood Abbey, or the ruins of, seeing as it doesn’t function anymore. I found it impressively well-preserved, imposing, even haunting. I bet it’d be a great place to go ghost-hunting late at night. (Though make no mistake, I’m not actually suggesting you waste any precious itinerary time doing this.)

Considering staying for longer in the capital after your 2-week Scotland trip? Check out my three-day Edinburgh itinerary...

 

 

Where to stay in Edinburgh

We stayed at Tynecastle Park Hotel in the Gorgie area on the west side of the city. What’s cool about this hotel is that it’s actually part of the Heart of Midlothian soccer ground. This was a gimmick I couldn’t resist!

 

Day 14: Edinburgh

Oh, hello, Edinburgh!
 

You’ll finish this epic 2-week Scotland itinerary the way you started it: by city sightseeing! One day is enough time to spend in Edinburgh (and not just to see the castle, the Royal Mile, and the rest of the Old Town), but you have to be mindful of your time and quick on your feet to get around all the best things to do.

Although some people either can’t bear the weather in Edinburgh or just think it’s a boring place (or both), I find it gets more charming every time I visit. This is how I topped off my 2-week Scotland trip with an awesome day, and you will too!

 

 

Day 14 of Scotland itinerary: map

Map of Edinburgh, pinpointing the best places of interest

Morning: Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh Castle

• Royal Yacht Britannia (for 3 hours)
• Edinburgh Castle (for 2 hours)

You’re up bright and early, and not in vain; you’re in for a real treat at this first stop. Britannia was the yacht that served the British royal family between 1954 and 1997, traveling a whopping half a million miles during that time. It’s now permanently on show to the public just north of Edinburgh in Leith.

One of the Royal rooms on the Yacht Britannia
 

Really, “yacht” doesn’t cut it; when you think of a yacht, you surely don’t think of a boat as massive as this one. We walked around it for at least 2 hours and covered 3 kilometers (nearly 2 miles)! And I’ll be honest: the tour was amazing—for me, the best thing to do in Edinburgh. Even just with one day in the city, anyone should make the effort to come here.

Next, at one end of the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle is sort of the pièce de résistance of the city, so it kind of has to feature on this itinerary. The complex is very large—it’s basically a collection of smaller museums. Most of what’s showcased is dedicated to Scotland’s military history and comes with gripping, complex stories: tales from the Battle of Waterloo, the Crimean War and both World Wars, to name a few. Understandably, I was very happy to have visited.

Afternoon: St. Giles’ Cathedral, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

• Adam Smith statue and St. Giles’ Cathedral (for 1 hour)
• The Vennel Viewpoint and Greyfriars Bobby Statue (for 30 minutes)
• Camera Obscura and World of Illusions (for 3 hours)

In the afternoon, it’s back into the Old Town in the city center. You’ll find the statue of Adam Smith on the Royal Mile. He was 18th-century figure who wrote the book on capitalism (literally: The Wealth of Nations). Now, here he stands, overseeing the hustle and bustle of the street, covered in bird poop like the world’s most unfortunate economic adviser.

Right behind him is St. Giles’ Cathedral, an absolute beauty of a building that’s been around since the 12th century. It’s hard to believe that something this grand has stood here through wars, reformations, and probably more than a few royal blow-ups. When I walked inside, I was immediately struck by how bright and colorful it is—none of that gloomy, Gothic darkness you see from the outside.

Then, head to The Vennel Viewpoint—a spot that’s more a local treasure than one of the "top 10 must-see attractions." It's an alleyway tucked away near the Grassmarket, offering one of the best, yet most underrated views of Edinburgh Castle.

The 360-degree rooftop views of Camera Obscura
 

Just around the corner, you’ll come across one of Edinburgh’s quirkiest and most beloved landmarks—the Greyfriars Bobby Statue. This tiny bronze dog has been melting hearts since the 19th century. Legend has it that after his owner passed away, Bobby the Skye Terrier spent 14 years faithfully guarding his grave, rain or shine, in Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetry.

Note: Many tourists rub the statue’s nose for "good luck," but it’s not really a thing. Honestly, you’d just be polishing poor Bobby’s snout to a tacky gold.

And to round off the day (and your trip), take a look inside Camera Obscura and World of Illusions—the oldest tourist attraction in Edinburgh. It’s like many other museums of illusions, though it’s likely this one is the first as it houses the original camera obscura. The 360-degree sunset view on the rooftop is a major plus, making up for the entry fee!

 

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