5 AMAZING WAYS TO SPEND A WEEK IN SCOTLAND

Holy Isle from Lamlash, Isle of Arran. Image © Ayrshire & Arran tourism, all rights reserved.

So, you’re planning to spend a week in Scotland? Now to decide where to go and what to do during your stay, that’s where we can help! Use these seven day itineraries to help guide the route for your trip, and the attractions, activities and places to visit along the way.

1. SCOTTISH FILM & TV LOCATIONS ITINERARY

Buachaille Etive Mor, Glen Coe.

Walkers on the West Highland Way pass the pointed mountain Buachaille Etive Mor.
Buachaille Etive Mor, Glen Coe.

Great for:
famous filming locations and extensively touring Scotland.
Top locations included: Dumfries & Galloway, Glasgow, Edinburgh, St Andrews, Pennan, Loch Ness, Glenfinnan, Glen Coe and Doune.

Themed around Scottish places that have graced both the small and big screen, this seven day itinerary includes filming locations from many major films and TV shows, including Skyfall, Outlander and Braveheart. It’s not just for film fans though, it’s also perfect if you’re looking to cover a lot of ground, see stunning views and visit lots of great attractions during your time in Scotland.

2. ICONIC SIGHTSEEING IN THE WEST OF SCOTLAND ITINERARY

Loch Lomond, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

View across Loch Lomond, with tree-lined shores and hills beyond

Great for: city culture and spectacular islands.
Top locations included: Glasgow, Loch Lomond, Isle of Mull, Oban, Glen Coe, Isle of Skye.

Some say ‘west is best’ – you’ll just have to come and decide for yourself! This week-long itinerary combines city sights in Glasgow with beautiful countryside and striking islands to help you tick off some of Scotland’s most stunning spots. Start with a day of cultural attractions in Glasgow before embarking on a scenic drive up the west coast. Attractions along the way include Eilean Donan Castle, the Cuillin mountains on the Isle of Skye, Talisker Distillery, Glenfinnan Viaduct and so much more.

3. THE HIGHLANDS FOR KIDS ITINERARY


A steam train puffs past woodland.

Great for: fun family activities and exploring the Highlands.
Top locations included: Aviemore, Nairn, CairnGorm Mountain, Loch Ness.

It’s time to really let off steam with the family and, with the Cairngorms National Park as a backdrop, you will have plenty of space to create some smashing memories. Enjoy seven days in Scotland, including outdoor activities, day trips to castles and family-friendly attractions, which can all be easily reached from your base in Aviemore. Highlights include the Highland Wildlife Park, Urquhart Castle and The Strathspey Railway.

4. 7 DAYS IN THE EAST OF SCOTLAND ITINERARY
Castle Fraser, Garden & Estate, near Dunecht, Aberdeenshire


The tower of Castle Fraser

Great for: coastal charm and rich heritage attractions.
Top locations included: Edinburgh, St Andrews, The East Neuk of Fife, Dundee & Angus, Moray Speyside and Perthshire.

Scotland’s east coast cities, towns and villages have been shaped by the sea, so in this itinerary you can expect picturesque fishing villages, maritime history and delicious smoked fish. Aberdeenshire is known as Scotland’s Castle Country, and you’ll see a few spectacular examples of these too on the route, which also includes attractions such as the RSS Discovery, Arbroath Abbey, Strathisla Distillery and The Hermitage.

5. WHISKY AND THE WEST COAST: 7 DAY SAILING ITINERARY

Lagavulin Distillery, Islay

Looking across the water to Lagavulin Distillery.

Great for: sailing and whisky distilleries (it does what is says in the title!).
Top locations included: Loch Fyne, the Crinan Canal, Isle of Jura, Isle of Islay, Mull of Kintyre and Isle of Arran.

Our itineraries aren’t just for those travelling by car – there are also ones for travelling by public transport, on a bike and – you guessed it – by sailboat! Embarking at Largs, this seven day itinerary pairs a boat trip with fine island distilleries, pretty west coast ports and places to pick up tasty local produce. It’s a perfect Scottish sailing break.

Source: VisitScotland.com