A 10-day road trip in Scotland

A journey to the land of lochs and castles

From the Scottish capital to the spectacular landscapes of the Highlands

From Edinburgh’s medieval alleyways to the spectacular cliffs of the Isle of Skye, Scotland is the perfect destination for a road trip. Easily accessible from Lyon Airport, it appeals equally to lovers of the great outdoors and to those with a passion for history and legends. Here, the journey itself is an integral part of the adventure. Every bend in the road reveals a new scene: a castle overlooking a loch, a deep, mist-shrouded valley, or a small, windswept fishing village.

This ten-day road trip allows you to discover Scotland’s finest treasures at a leisurely pace. From the vibrant capital to the mountains of the Highlands, the shores of the famous Loch Ness and the otherworldly landscapes of the Isle of Skye, the journey offers a taste of everything the country is famous for. The distances are manageable, leaving plenty of time to stop off, explore a few footpaths and fully savour the unique atmosphere that characterises Scotland. Get ready to travel through wild landscapes, discover charming villages and drive along some of Europe’s most beautiful roads.

Edinburgh: an unforgettable introduction – 2 days

Before setting off, spend two days exploring Edinburgh. As Scotland’s cultural and historical capital, the city immediately impresses with its architecture and character. Dominated by its castle perched on a rocky outcrop, it offers a fascinating blend of medieval heritage and Georgian elegance.

The Royal Mile, the Old Town’s iconic thoroughfare, links the castle to Holyrood Palace and is home to numerous monuments, traditional pubs and characteristic shops. For a bird’s-eye view, a climb up Arthur’s Seat offers exceptional panoramic views of the city and the coastline. With its gardens, narrow streets steeped in history and warm, welcoming atmosphere, Edinburgh is the perfect introduction before venturing out into the Scottish countryside.

From the Trossachs to Glencoe: the gateway to the Highlands – 2 days

As you leave the capital, the landscape gradually changes, becoming wilder and more mountainous. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park marks the entrance to the Highlands, a legendary region that epitomises the picture-postcard image of Scotland. The forests, lakes and mountain peaks create a particularly peaceful setting, ideal for walks and your first photo stops.

Continuing northwards, the road leads to Glencoe, one of the country’s most spectacular valleys. Surrounded by imposing mountains and steeped in a history as fascinating as it is tragic, this region offers some of Scotland’s most breathtaking views. The light is constantly changing here, adding to the mysterious atmosphere for which the Highlands are renowned. It is a place where one is happy to take the time to slow down and admire the scenery.

The Isle of Skye, the jewel in the crown of any road trip – 2 days

Connected to the mainland by a bridge, the Isle of Skye is often the highlight of a trip to Scotland. Spend two days marvelling at its wild landscapes and unique atmosphere. Steep cliffs, jagged mountains, lush green valleys and rugged coastlines unfold in a setting that seems almost unreal.

Among the must-see attractions are the famous Old Man of Storr, the Fairy Pools and the Trotternish Peninsula, where each viewpoint seems more spectacular than the last. The winding roads, free-roaming sheep and colourful little harbours further enhance the island’s charm. Skye offers that rare feeling of being at the end of the world whilst remaining easily accessible.

From Loch Ness to the wide open spaces of the Scottish north – 2 days

After leaving Skye, the road leads to the shores of the legendary Loch Ness. Well known for its legend, this vast loch is particularly impressive for its size and the beauty of its surroundings. The ruins of Urquhart Castle, which overlook the loch’s dark waters, offer one of the most beautiful views of the journey.

The next stage takes you along part of the North Coast 500, a famous driving route that follows some of the UK’s wildest coastlines. With its white sandy beaches, windswept cliffs and remote villages, this region reveals a more hidden side of Scotland. Photography enthusiasts will find an endless array of landscapes to capture.

The Cairngorms and the return journey to Edinburgh – 2 days

To round off this road trip in style, head for the Cairngorms National Park, the UK’s largest protected area. This unspoilt landscape is home to vast pine forests, wide valleys and remarkable wildlife. Depending on the season, you may spot deer, golden eagles or even the famous Scottish red squirrels.

The drive through the park is the perfect way to round off the trip before heading back to Edinburgh. The scenery gradually becomes more gentle, offering one last chance to soak up the charm of Scotland before heading to the airport and catching your flight back to Lyon.

To conclude...

Thanks to easyJet’s direct flights between Lyon and Edinburgh, this road trip is one of the best ways to explore Scotland at your own pace, taking in historic towns, legendary lochs and some of Europe’s most spectacular landscapes.

PS: Don’t forget that, as everywhere else in the UK, people drive on the left, but Scottish roads are generally easy to navigate for drivers used to European roads.