A Week in the Scottish Highlands: The Ultimate Itinerary

The Scottish Highlands offer some of the most spectacular landscapes in Great Britain – a wild, majestic region of towering mountains, deep mysterious lochs, ancient castles, and rich folklore. With its rugged coastlines, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, the Highlands represent Scotland at its most dramatic and authentic.

At Decusstori Travel Agency, we've been guiding visitors through the Highlands for over a decade. Based on our extensive experience, we've created this comprehensive 7-day itinerary that showcases the best the region has to offer, balancing iconic highlights with hidden gems that only locals know about.

Day 1: Edinburgh to Inverness – Gateway to the Highlands

Begin your Highland adventure by traveling from Edinburgh to Inverness, often called the "Capital of the Highlands." The journey itself is part of the experience.

Morning: The Journey North

Depart Edinburgh and head north across the magnificent Forth Bridge. As you travel through Perthshire, stop at Dunkeld with its beautiful cathedral perched on the banks of the River Tay. Take time to explore the charming village and perhaps enjoy a short walk in the nearby Hermitage woodland, where you'll find the spectacular Black Linn waterfall.

Afternoon: Blair Castle and the Pass of Killiecrankie

Continue north to visit Blair Castle, the ancestral home of the Dukes of Atholl. With its pristine white façade and 700-year history, it's one of Scotland's most impressive castles. Afterward, stretch your legs at the Pass of Killiecrankie, a dramatic wooded gorge where one of the most important battles in Scottish history took place in 1689.

Evening: Arrival in Inverness

Arrive in Inverness in time for dinner at one of the city's excellent restaurants. We recommend Rocpool for contemporary Scottish cuisine using locally sourced ingredients, or for something more traditional, the Kitchen Brasserie offers classic Highland dishes with modern flair.

Where to Stay: Rocpool Reserve Hotel offers luxury accommodation in a converted Georgian mansion, while Glenmoriston Town House provides elegant rooms overlooking the River Ness.

Day 2: Loch Ness and the Great Glen

Morning: Exploring Inverness

Start with a leisurely morning exploring Inverness. Visit Inverness Castle for panoramic views over the city, then stroll along the banks of the River Ness and through the Victorian Market. Don't miss Leakey's Bookshop, Scotland's largest second-hand bookstore housed in an old Gaelic church.

Afternoon: Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle

Head south along the shores of the mysterious Loch Ness. While monster spotting, visit the atmospheric ruins of Urquhart Castle, which offers spectacular views over the loch. The castle has a fascinating history spanning 500 years, and the modern visitor center provides excellent context through artifacts and exhibitions.

Evening: Fort Augustus

Continue to the charming village of Fort Augustus at the southern end of Loch Ness. Watch boats navigate the impressive staircase of locks on the Caledonian Canal, then enjoy dinner at The Lovat, known for its seasonal menu showcasing Highland produce.

Where to Stay: Remain in Inverness or stay overnight at The Lovat in Fort Augustus for a change of scenery.

Day 3: The Isle of Skye – The Misty Isle

Morning: Journey to Skye

Depart early for the Isle of Skye, taking the scenic route through Glen Shiel with its impressive mountains known as the Five Sisters. Cross the Skye Bridge at Kyle of Lochalsh, stopping first at the iconic Eilean Donan Castle – perhaps Scotland's most photographed castle, sitting on its own little island where three sea lochs meet.

Afternoon: The Trotternish Peninsula

Explore Skye's dramatic Trotternish Peninsula, home to some of the island's most spectacular landscapes. Visit the Old Man of Storr, a distinctive rock pinnacle created by an ancient landslide. Continue to the Quiraing, where otherworldly rock formations create one of Britain's most unusual landscapes.

Evening: Portree

Arrive in Portree, Skye's largest town, known for its picture-postcard harbor lined with colorful houses. Enjoy fresh seafood at Sea Breezes or The Granary, both local favorites.

Where to Stay: For luxury, Kinloch Lodge offers exceptional accommodation and dining. For something more affordable, try the Cuillin Hills Hotel with its spectacular views across the bay to the Cuillin mountains.

Day 4: Exploring Skye

Morning: Fairy Pools and Glen Brittle

Head to the magical Fairy Pools in Glen Brittle, a series of crystal-clear blue pools and waterfalls that look like something from a fantasy novel. The brave can even take a refreshing wild swim! The walking route is relatively easy and rewards you with increasingly beautiful views.

Afternoon: Talisker Distillery and Neist Point

Visit Talisker Distillery, Skye's oldest working distillery, to sample their distinctive peaty single malt whisky. Afterward, drive to Neist Point Lighthouse on Skye's most westerly tip. The dramatic cliff scenery here is breathtaking, and it's one of the best places in Scotland to spot whales, dolphins, and basking sharks.

Evening: Traditional Music

Return to Portree for dinner, then experience traditional Scottish music at a local pub. The Isles Inn often hosts live sessions where you can enjoy the authentic sounds of fiddles, accordions, and Gaelic singing.

Where to Stay: Continue your stay in Portree.

Day 5: Skye to Glencoe – Highland History

Morning: Departing Skye

Leave Skye via the ferry from Armadale to Mallaig (booking in advance is recommended), which offers beautiful views of the Small Isles and the Knoydart Peninsula, one of Britain's last true wilderness areas.

Afternoon: The Road to the Isles

From Mallaig, travel along the "Road to the Isles," one of Scotland's most scenic routes. Stop at the Glenfinnan Monument, which marks the spot where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard at the beginning of the Jacobite Rising in 1745. Nearby is the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films – if you time it right, you can see the Jacobite steam train (the real-life Hogwarts Express) crossing the viaduct.

Evening: Arrival in Glencoe

Continue to Glencoe, one of Scotland's most haunting and beautiful glens, infamous for the 1692 massacre of the MacDonald clan. The dramatic mountains on either side create an unforgettable landscape that has featured in numerous films including Skyfall and Braveheart.

Where to Stay: The historic Clachaig Inn offers comfortable rooms and an exceptional pub with over 300 whiskeys and regular live music. For more luxury, try the Kingshouse Hotel, which offers modern comfort amidst stunning wilderness views.

Day 6: Glencoe and the West Highland Way

Morning: Glencoe Exploration

Spend the morning exploring Glencoe. Visit the excellent Glencoe Visitor Centre to learn about the area's turbulent history and remarkable geology. Then take one of the many walking trails – the short but rewarding Signal Rock walk leads to the site where the signal was allegedly given to begin the Glencoe Massacre.

Afternoon: Fort William and Ben Nevis

Drive to nearby Fort William, a bustling town in the shadow of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain. If you're feeling energetic, take the mountain gondola at Nevis Range for spectacular views without the climb. Alternatively, visit the West Highland Museum to delve deeper into Highland history and culture.

Evening: Scottish Feast

Return to Glencoe for a special dinner celebrating Scottish cuisine. At the Loch Leven Hotel, enjoy specialties like Cullen Skink (smoked haddock soup), venison from the local estates, or fresh seafood from the nearby coast.

Where to Stay: Continue your stay in Glencoe.

Day 7: Return to Edinburgh via Loch Lomond

Morning: Journey South

Begin your return journey to Edinburgh, traveling south across Rannoch Moor, a vast stretch of boggy moorland that's one of Europe's last great wildernesses. Continue through the village of Tyndrum, where you can stop at the Green Welly Stop, a Highland institution, for coffee and perhaps some last-minute souvenirs.

Afternoon: Loch Lomond and The Trossachs

Enter The Trossachs National Park and reach the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, Britain's largest inland body of water. Stop at the conservation village of Luss to stroll along the lakeshore and explore the picturesque stone cottages. For a final Highland experience, take a short cruise on the loch or enjoy one of the many walking trails in the area.

Evening: Return to Edinburgh

Complete your journey back to Edinburgh, arriving in time for dinner in Scotland's historic capital. Reflect on your Highland adventure over a final Scottish meal at one of the city's excellent restaurants.

Seasonal Considerations

The Scottish Highlands can be visited year-round, but each season offers a different experience:

• Spring (April-May): Fewer tourists, blooming wildflowers, and longer daylight hours make this an excellent time to visit. Weather can be changeable but often surprisingly good.
• Summer (June-August): The most popular time to visit with the longest daylight (up to 18 hours in midsummer). Attractions are open longer hours, but expect more crowds and higher prices.
• Autumn (September-October): Perhaps the most beautiful season as the landscape turns golden and crimson. Wildlife is abundant, and the summer crowds have dispersed.
• Winter (November-March): For the adventurous traveler, winter offers a magical experience with snow-capped mountains and roaring fires in cozy pubs. Some attractions have limited opening hours, and mountain roads may close, but the dramatic scenery and sense of solitude are unmatched.

Highland Travel Tips

• Driving: The most flexible way to explore the Highlands is by car. Roads can be narrow and winding – take your time and enjoy the journey.
• Weather: Be prepared for all conditions, even in summer. The Scottish saying "four seasons in one day" is no exaggeration!
• Midges: These tiny biting insects can be a nuisance in summer, particularly in damp, still conditions. Bring repellent if traveling between May and September.
• Connectivity: Mobile phone coverage can be patchy in remote areas. Download maps for offline use before setting out.
• Accommodation: Book well in advance, especially in summer and for the Isle of Skye, where accommodation is limited.
• Respect the countryside: Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code – leave no trace, close gates, and respect the natural environment.

"The Highlands of Scotland are a place of profound beauty and ancient heritage, where every glen has a story and every stone a song. They don't just capture your imagination – they claim a piece of your heart."

This 7-day itinerary offers a comprehensive introduction to the Scottish Highlands, blending iconic sights with authentic local experiences. Of course, with more time, you could explore even further – the remote North Coast 500 route, the Outer Hebrides, or the whisky distilleries of Speyside all merit their own trips.

At Decusstori Travel Agency, we specialize in creating customized Highland journeys tailored to your interests, whether you're passionate about history, wildlife, photography, food and drink, or simply soaking in the magnificent landscapes. Contact our Scottish specialists to start planning your own unforgettable Highland adventure.