Trip to Scotland: the 10 must-see places during your journey

Planning a trip to Scotland and don't want to miss out on the best spots? We totally get it! With mysterious castles, breathtaking landscapes, and legendary movie locations, Scotland has everything to make your road trip amazing. Our team has traveled across the country to find the best recommendations for you. Here are our favorite must-see spots!

You can't miss the legendary Loch Ness! This mysterious lake stretches over 37 km and might just be hiding the famous monster... Even if Nessie is playing shy, the site is simply incredible with its dark waters and lush green hills. The highlight? Urquhart Castle on the shores of the lake – perfect for fairy tale-worthy photos.

Harry Potter fans, hold on tight! This Victorian viaduct is THE spot where the Hogwarts Express shows off in the movies. Our tip? Head to the viewpoint around 10:30 AM or 3:30 PM to see the real steam train "Jacobite" cross the viaduct. A magical atmosphere is guaranteed. The site also hosts the Glenfinnan Monument, which marks the start of the Jacobite rebellion of 1745. Climb to the top of the monument for a panoramic view of Loch Shiel and the surrounding mountains. In summer, don't miss the little local market that sets up near the visitor center.

If you've seen Skyfall, you definitely know this wild valley where James Bond takes a break with his Aston Martin. The place is stunning: majestic mountains, endless moors, and even deer that come to say hello! The winding road to Glen Etive is an adventure in itself – expect about an hour for the round trip from the main road. The best time to visit? Early in the morning or late afternoon, when the golden light bathes the valley and the deer are most active. Don't forget your camera!

Edinburgh feels like a trip back in time! Between the medieval old town and the ultra-classy Georgian neighborhoods, you're in for a visual treat. Don’t miss: the castle perched on its rock, the Royal Mile with its typical pubs, and the underground passages of Mary King's Close.

The Isle of Skye is THE spot that every Instagrammer dreams of. Between the Old Man of Storr reaching for the sky, the Fairy Pools with their crystal-clear waters, and Dunvegan Castle, your photos will make everyone jealous!

Imagine a castle sitting on a small island, surrounded by three lakes that converge... No, you're not dreaming, it's Eilean Donan! Our tip? Arrive around 4 PM in winter or 8 PM in summer for the "golden hour" – the light is magical on the castle's stones. Bonus: the castle's café serves a traditional afternoon tea, with warm scones and homemade jam.

White sandy beaches and turquoise waters in Scotland? Yes, it exists! Head to Sango Bay for landscapes that would make Caribbean beaches jealous. It's a 4-hour drive from Inverness, but totally worth it. The hidden caves in the cliffs are perfect for a picnic out of the wind. For the adventurous, put on your wetsuit and try bodyboarding – the water is cold, but the waves are awesome! Our tip: take the little coastal path north to discover even more secret coves.

Whisky lover? This distillery perched in the Highlands is made for you. Bonus: the tasting is paired with artisan chocolates. Yum! It's the highest distillery in Scotland, located at an altitude of 326 meters. The guided tour (1.5 hours) reveals all the secrets of the production process, and the final tasting is simply exceptional: 6 different whiskies paired with specially selected chocolates.

Perched on its cliff overlooking the North Sea, this ruined castle offers a movie-like backdrop. It's the perfect place to play the heroes of Game of Thrones! Take the path that leads down to the beach to the north – guaranteed views of the castle and cliffs. As a bonus, look for the small World War II bunker hidden among the rocks. And if you're lucky, you might even spot dolphins from the ramparts!

Glen Coe is the valley that will take your breath away: towering mountains, secret waterfalls, epic hiking trails… A true playground for adventurers! The must-do trail? The “Three Sisters” hike, three majestic peaks that overlook the valley. Plan for 4-5 hours to complete the loop. For the more motivated, the Clachaig Inn pub at the end of the valley offers super comfy rooms and a selection of over 400 whiskies! Our secret tip: take the little road that leads to the Lost Valley – this is where the MacDonald clan hid during the clan wars.

What if you treated yourself to a road trip in Scotland this summer? At Scotland Nomads, we've put together a unique semi-autonomous journey for you, combining the comfort of our rooftop tents with the freedom to discover the most beautiful spots in the country. Our team of enthusiasts has selected the best routes to give you an unforgettable experience in the heart of this legendary land.