The sprawling metropolis that is Glasgow is the perfect place to begin your West Scotland road trip, as it's bursting with trendy craft beer bars (that’s right, it’s not all whisky) and some of the most visited museums in the country.
However, your time in the city will soon be swapped for the mountains and villages of the northern countryside, so make sure you soak in as much culture, gastronomy 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 home to the longest bar in Europe.
For something a little different, hop aboard a riverboat and enjoy alternative views of the city.
Your West Scotland road trip continues north to the tiny village of Glencoe, a small area that serves as a gateway to the mighty Glencoe mountain and the Pap of Glen Coe, one of Scotland’s best-known valleys.
Get ready to soak up awe-inspiring views, climb mountains until your legs ache, and explore National Trust–protected forest until your feet beg to be taken back 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 area of land that’s ideal for a hiking adventure.
From Glencoe village, there are a number of trails ranging in distance from 2 km (~1.2 miles) right up to 20 km (~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. Its name comes from the Old Norse word 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 hiking the island’s famous coastline or sipping beer in Portree, you’ll likely be eagle-spotting or cruising out to a local loch.
Driving around the Isle of Skye is a joyful activity in itself — whichever direction you set off in, 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, hike the loop trail around the Quiraing rock formation, and sample whisky at the waterfront Talisker Whisky 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 as you go.
This little town is a mecca for outdoor activities thanks to its handy location amidst mountains, lochs, rivers and valleys. Whether you fancy exploring the National Park on horseback or would rather enjoy snow sports on Cairngorm Mountain, there’s a little something to do 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, river tubing and swimming in 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 your Edinburgh itinerary by winding your way south through the National Park and onwards to Glasgow.
