Standing in the Scottish highlands, with the whole of earth and sky before me, I could see clearly that the great Diana Gabaldon had indeed said it best: “There’s no place on earth with more of the old superstitions and magic mixed into its daily life than the Scottish Highlands” (Outlander, 1991).
In mid-August, the valley Glencoe (located in western Scotland) is a swath of rolling green. Majestic and unadulterated—though not without a harrowing past—it’s easy to see why this region is one of the country’s most popular sights.
Can You Take a Day Trip to the Scottish Highlands?
Yes—with a slight caveat! If you’re a traveler with limited time or desperate for a small taste of the highlands, you’ll need to shift your focus to exploring the western and southern parts of the Scottish highlands. This includes sights like Glencoe, the picturesque backdrop to Braveheart and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Loch Lomond, and the seafaring town of Oban!
Unlike the Isle of Skye (which generally requires several days for exploration using Inverness as a base), Glencoe is conveniently within driving distance of both Edinburgh and Glasgow. Here’s how to explore it—along with other nearby gems.
How Can You Explore the Scottish Highlands in a Day?
Choose Your Base Wisely
Scotland is larger than you may think. From Edinburgh to Glencoe alone is 6 hours roundtrip; not ideal for exploring the (not-so) hidden spots southwest of the valley! Consider starting your journey in Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city and situated in the western lowlands. This cuts the drive time by about a third should you decide to sightsee on your own. You’ll also find more variety in shorter highland tours leaving from Glasgow than Edinburgh.
Consider This: To Drive or Not to Drive?
Plenty of visitors who have ample time and feel comfortable driving simply rent a car to get around. I get the appeal here—it’s an option that gives you the opportunity to explore the sites at your own pace. But if you’re interested in the historical significance of Glencoe and its surrounding sites like myself, traveling solo, or a bit squeamish of driving on the opposite side of the road, I recommend joining a small-group tour. After researching for hours, I decided to go with this one-day tour by Rabbie’s Small Group Tours and I’m so glad I did! They cap each tour at 16 people, and use clean, comfortable vans to get around. My guide was very knowledgeable as well! (Other top-rated tours are facilitated by The Hairy Coo, Timberbush, and Discover Scotland Tours.)
Top Scottish Highlands Attractions You Don't Want to Miss
Glencoe
This sweeping landscape is home to world-class hiking you can take in The Three Sisters
Oban
Known as the “Gateway to the Isles,” Oban is a seafaring town on Scotland’s western coast. They have some of the BEST and FRESHEST seafood in the country! I mean, it’s seriously good—as to be expected for a town nicknamed the “Seafood Capital of Scotland.” If you’re a foodie like me, head straight for the port-side green shack, a cash-only establishment. Afterwards, take a short walk up to McCaig’s Tower, a monument to the McCaig family constructed during an economic downturn in the late 19th-century.
Glen Etvie
If you’ve ever seen James Bond’s Skyfall (2012), you’ve seen this exact spot; it is the dramatic backdrop to the single-track road on which Bond parks his Aston Martin DB5 while en route to to his family home. See it for yourself and recreate the scene!
Loch Lomond
This stunning lake, which is also the largest inland body of water in Great Britain and the oldest national park in Scotland, is well worth a visit! Whether kayaking or picnicking along its banks, Loch Lomond’s beauty and serenity are unmatched.
Rest & Be Thankful Viewpoint
Once a military road used to govern highlanders following the Jacobite uprisings, this spot is now a western passthrough connecting Glasgow to the country’s coastal towns. Pause on your way to Inveraray and take in this peaceful place.
Inveraray Castle
The quaint town of Inveraray on Loch Fyne sports an architecture marvel—the ancestral home of Clan Campbell, one of Scotland’s most influential families. After touring the castle grounds, meander through the city or snap pictures along the loch to safely explore Death Valley and enjoy it to its fullest.
Scottish Highlands Day Trip Driving Itinerary
Here is a do-it-yourself route if you plan on driving to these sites.
