The sprawling metropolis of Glasgow is the perfect place to start your West Scotland road trip — it's bursting with trendy craft beer bars (that's right, it's not all whisky) and some of the country's most visited museums.
But your time in the city will soon be swapped for the mountains and villages of the northern countryside, so make sure you soak up as much culture, food and history as you can while you're here.
For a taste of Glasgow’s culture, head to the GoMA or Kelvingrove Art Gallery. For food, join a bespoke foodie tour around the city (get ready to sample some funky homemade haggis). And for history, check out the Riverside Museum and the Horseshoe Bar, a Victorian pub that's home to the longest bar in Europe.
For something a little different, hop on a riverboat and enjoy different views of the city.
Your West Scotland road trip continues north to the tiny village of Glencoe, a small area used as a gateway to the mighty Glencoe mountain and the Pap of Glen Coe, one of Scotland’s most famous valleys.
Get ready to soak up awe-inspiring views, climb mountains until your legs ache, and explore National Trust-protected woodland until your feet beg to be returned to your campervan.
The valley of Glen Coe was carved out centuries ago by volcanic explosions and shifting glaciers. These natural geological events have left behind an incredible stretch of land that’s perfect for a hiking adventure.
From Glencoe village, there are a number of trails ranging in distance from 2 km (approx. 1.2 miles) right up to 20 km (approx. 13 miles) eight-hour treks. Glen Etive, Loch Leven and Lairig Gartain should all be on your ‘to see’ list.
Onwards and upwards now as your Glasgow road trip heads further north to the fabled Isle of Skye. Scotland’s largest peninsula gets its name from the Old Norse ský, which means 'cloud island'.
This rugged island is known the world over for its picturesque fishing villages, medieval castles and incredible rolling scenery. When you’re not walking the island's famous coastline or sipping beer in Portree you’ll likely be eagle-spotting or cruising to a local loch.
Driving around the Isle of Skye is a joy in itself, whichever way you head you’ll be met with delightful vistas as far as the eye can see (imagine a New Zealand mountain range, but in Scotland).
When you’ve finished drooling out of the campervan window, it’s time to go searching for waterfalls at the Fairy Pools, walk the loop trail around the Quiraing rock formation, and sample whisky at the waterfront Talisker Distillery.
On the next part of this West Scotland road trip itinerary, head back south towards Edinburgh, passing through the majestic Cairngorms National Park and stopping at Aviemore along the way.
This little town is a haven for outdoor activities thanks to its handy location amid mountains, lochs, rivers and glens. Whether you fancy exploring the National Park on horseback, or you'd rather enjoy snowsports on Cairngorm Mountain, there's something nearby for everyone.
Popular activities in Aviemore include renting a bike from one of the town's two cycle shops and heading off on a forest trail, canoeing and river tubing on the River Spey, and quad biking over the nearby moors.
If you’re just after a bit of peace and quiet, set off on a circular mountain walk and enjoy spectacular scenery, keeping your eyes peeled for golden eagles as you go. Finish the Edinburgh part of your trip by winding your way south through the national park and on to Glasgow.
