Scotland from the Roadside

Popular Road Trips in Scotland

With its scenic mountains, crystal clear lakes (called lochs), dramatic coast and extensive castles, it is no wonder that Scotland is host to some of Britain's most stunning landscapes. Whether that means lying on Princess Street Gardens one summer evening watching the sunset on Edinburgh castle, taking a romantic boat cruise across Loch Fyne on a misty spring morning, gazing at the marvellous autumn colours of Loch Ness from a hotel window or staring at the snow capped peaks of Glen Coe on Christmas morning, Scotland is the place for charmers and romanticists alike.

Driving in Edinburgh is similar to many large cities in that it is often difficult to find parking spaces even at the best of times - but most especially during the famous festival in August. This is partly due to Edinburgh's large volume of tourists and also because of heavy parking restrictions throughout that operate through the city. However, if you are considering driving in the city then some good parking areas include Jameson Place, Fettes Avenue and Stair Park.

As for driving across Scotland, this is in many ways an enjoyable experience for most motorists. Open countryside, quiet roads mean driving across the country is a breeze - unless of course you are unlucky enough to find yourself up in the highlands during a winter snowstorm or during autumn gales! However, this would only be if the local councils did not close such routes beforehand - and they are usually very quick to do so under any severe weather for the safety of the general public. It is always advisable to keep up-to- date with the local weather forecasts before embarking on a trip where you will be going up on to the higher routes - although the vast majority of the main roads run through lower lying river valleys and lochs.

A popular driving route in the country starts at Edinburgh and finishes in Inverness. Taking the M8/A8 towards Glasgow, before crossing on to the A82 takes you through the beautiful lochs of Lomond and Tulla before reaching the famous Loch Nah-Achlaise and Rannoch Moor - here you can enjoy some of the most impressive landscapes and panoramic views to be found anywhere in Britain. From here you will also be able to see a superb view of the mountain of Buachaille Etive Mor and Glen Coe, before crossing the Ballachulish Bridge with the beautiful Loch Linnhe to the left and Loch Leven to the right. Continuing on the A82 you will be accompanied by the famous Loch Ness for 65 miles, driving through Fort William (where you will see Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain, to the right) and then crossing the bridge at Fort Augustus before arriving at Inverness - your final destination.

Through this truly mesmerising journey there are plenty of scenic pubs, cosy restaurants and beautiful hotels to choose from, which you can book in advance. It is perfect for singles dating in Edinburgh looking for a quiet romantic getaway in outstanding natural scenery.