SCOTLAND
Whisky, Castles, and Zero Cell Service
Scotland is one of those places that gets under your skin. The landscape is dramatic in a way that feels almost theatrical — ancient mountains, brooding lochs, ruined castles on every hillside. The people are direct and funny. The whisky is extraordinary. And the North Coast 500 — a 516-mile loop around the northern Highlands — is one of the great road trips of the world. Drive it in a week, or take two and stop at everything.
Best For
- History
- Whisky
- Scenic drives
The Guide
WHAT TO DO &
WHERE TO GO
The North Coast 500
Scotland's answer to Route 66 — a 516-mile loop starting and ending in Inverness, hugging the dramatic northern coastline. Single-track roads, sea stacks, white sand beaches, and almost no traffic. Rent a campervan or book B&Bs along the route. Allow at least 7 days; 10 is better.
The Whisky Trail
Speyside, in the northeast, is the heartland of Scotch whisky — more distilleries per square mile than anywhere on earth. Glenfiddich, Macallan, Glenlivet, Balvenie — most offer excellent tours and tastings. The Malt Whisky Trail links 9 distilleries and a cooperage. Budget a full day or two.
Edinburgh & the Highlands
Start or end in Edinburgh — the Old Town, the castle, the Royal Mile, and Arthur's Seat are all worth your time. Then head north into the Highlands: Glencoe, Loch Ness, the Cairngorms. The drive from Edinburgh to Inverness through the Cairngorms is stunning.
Isle of Skye
Skye is the jewel of the Inner Hebrides — jagged black mountains, fairy pools, dramatic sea cliffs, and a pace of life that feels centuries removed from the mainland. The Quiraing and the Old Man of Storr are iconic hikes. Allow 2–3 days minimum.
"I drove the NC500 in 10 days with my brother. We stopped at every distillery we could find, slept in a different castle B&B every night, and barely looked at our phones. Best trip of my life."
— Gary S., Portland OR
Trip Planning
PRACTICAL
INFO
Best time to visit
May–September (midges are worst July–August)
Currency
British Pound (£)
Language
English — Scottish accents vary wildly
Getting around
Rental car essential; drive on the left
Budget (daily)
$120–$220 USD; B&Bs are excellent value
Visa
No visa required for US citizens (6 months)
Midges
Tiny biting insects — bring repellent for July/August
Flight time from NYC
Approx. 7 hours to Edinburgh or Glasgow
Community