Exploring the Scottish Highlands: Best driving routes and tours

My partner and I are planning a 7-day road trip through the Scottish Highlands next month and want to make sure we hit the most scenic spots. We are thinking about starting in Inverness and tackling the North Coast 500, but we've also heard great things about the Isle of Skye and Glencoe. What are your absolute favorite driving routes, and do you recommend self-driving or booking a guided tour for the trickier single-track roads?

Definitely self-drive! Having your own car gives you the freedom to pull over whenever you see a stunning view, which happens every five minutes in the Highlands.

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The North Coast 500 is incredible, but honestly, trying to do the full NC500 in just 7 days while also adding Skye and Glencoe might be a bit too rushed.

Single-track roads can be intimidating at first, but just use the passing places correctly and let locals pass you. You'll get the hang of it by day two!

Glencoe is breathtaking. Driving through the valley feels like stepping into a fantasy movie, especially with the mist on the mountains.

If you only have a week, I'd recommend starting in Inverness, heading west to Skye, driving down through Glencoe, and skipping the very top of the NC500 to save your sanity.

Make sure you book your accommodations well in advance. Places on the Isle of Skye fill up months ahead during peak season.

Solo travelers often worry about driving these routes alone, but if you are ever looking for advice on meeting people while traveling, hostel common rooms in Inverness are great for that.

Don't skip the Applecross pass (Bealach na Bà) if you are confident driving steep hairpin turns with single-track sections. The view from the top is unmatched.

For quick weekend trips in the future, you can also look at quick city escapes across Europe, but the Scottish road trip will always hold a special place in my heart.

I strongly recommend self-driving rather than a guided tour. Half the fun is stopping at random roadside spots and local bakeries whenever you feel like it!