Highlights Of Our 3 Day Itinerary
What’s Included:
Rental car for the entire trip duration
Handpicked accommodations for a comfortable stay
Optional entrance fees to featured attractions
Option to book private guided tours at an extra cost
Expertise of a knowledgeable Scotland-based travel planner
What’s Not Included:
Meals (unless specified in the itinerary)
Fuel and personal expenses
Any extra activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Interactive Map Route For Your Itinerary
Total Driving Distance & Time Over 3 Days
Total Distance: ~384 km / 239 miles
Total Driving Time: ~7 hours
Please note that these distances and times are approximate and can vary based on specific routes taken, traffic conditions, and stops along the way.
Vehicle Hire Options For This Tour
Our flexible vehicle hire options allows you to choose from econmy vehicles to luxury models.
Choose from a range of high-quality vehicles tailored to your journey, from compact cars to spacious SUVs and people carriers.
$ - Compact
$ - Economy
$$ - Standard
$$$ - Luxury
$$$ - SUV
$$$ - People Carrier
Day 1 – Depart Edinburgh
Welcome to your self-driven tour of Scotland!
Start your day with an early departure from Edinburgh after a quick local breakfast. This early start gives you a head start on the road, allowing for a peaceful drive with scenic views as you leave the bustling city behind.
Anstruther (1.5 Hours Driving Time)
First, drive to Anstruther, a charming fishing village about an hour and a half from Edinburgh. Enjoy a scenic coastal drive that offers ever-changing views of the North Sea and rugged cliffs. Then, experience the unique maritime atmosphere of this quaint village where tradition meets modern charm. Stop at the famous Anstruther Fish Bar, renowned for its award-winning fish and chips, where you can savor a delicious meal while admiring the picturesque harbor.
Optional Extra: Enhance your visit with a private culinary tour to learn more about local seafood traditions.
St Andrews (30 minutes Driving Time)
After your meal in Anstruther, drive the short Distance to St Andrews, the historic “Home of Golf.”
Here, join a walking tour of the famed St Andrews Golf Course to immerse yourself in the legacy of the sport and the beautifully maintained fairways. The experience offers insight into the evolution of golf, stunning panoramic views, and an engaging blend of history and sport.
Optional Extra: If you book early enough, then our team can use our contacts to reserve a round on the course for you.
St Andrews Cathedral
Following your golf tour, explore the evocative ruins of St Andrews Cathedral.
Walk amongst the historic ruins to really feel the impressive scale of what was once the largest church in Scotland. Delve into the deep ecclesiastical history reflected in its architecture and carvings.
Overnight in St Andrews
Wind down your day in St Andrews with dinner at one of several excellent local restaurants. Our team will use their extensive local knowledge alongside taking into consideration any dietary requirements you might have to suggest the finest establishments to suit you.
Choose from The Dune for a cozy setting with locally sourced ingredients, Rogue for a modern twist on Scottish cuisine, or Forgans for hearty, traditional fare. Each option provides a warm welcome and a chance to savor the region’s culinary delights.
After dinner, settle into your accommodation in St Andrews, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries before your next adventure.
Day 2 – From Royal Heritage to Highland Charm
Today, you’ll journey from the historic charm of St Andrews to experience royal heritage and quaint townscapes as you head north.
Glamis Castle (50 Minutes Driving Time)
Begin your day with a scenic drive to Glamis Castle, a magnificent monument steeped in history and legend. The drive itself is an adventure, offering views of the rolling countryside and charming rural landscapes.
At the Castle itself, immerse yourself in centuries of Scottish heritage by way of exploring the Castle’s imposing turrets and stately architecture that speak to its royal connections.
Discover its rich historical significance, from Shakespearean legends to its ties with the British royal family.
Optional Extra: Enhance your visit with a private guided tour to uncover secret histories and lesser-known stories of the Castle.
Dunkeld (1 Hour Driving Time)
After Glamis, drive to the picturesque town of Dunkeld along the scenic banks of the River Tay.
Here, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, charming streets, and architectural gems. At the same time, you choose from several local dining options for lunch, such as The Taybank for riverside charm, Dunkeld Fish Bar for casual seafood, or The Atholl Arms Hotel for a more historic dining experience.
Post-lunch, stroll through Dunkeld to admire its historic cathedral, cobbled streets, and riverside views. This stop offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and architectural heritage, perfect for a self-guided exploration.
Pitlochry (25 Minutes Driving Time)
Next, continue your drive to the Victorian town of Pitlochry, renowned for its stunning natural surroundings and vibrant local culture.
Wander the town’s charming streets, visit boutique shops, and enjoy a coffee at a local café while absorbing the unique atmosphere of this Highland gem.
Distillery Tour or Falls of Bruar
For your evening activity, choose between two enticing options:
Blair Athol Distillery Tour and Tasting: If you’re a whisky enthusiast, visit Blair Athol Distillery for an engaging tour and tasting session, offering a deep dive into Scotland’s whisky-making traditions.
Falls of Bruar: Alternatively, venture to the Falls of Bruar for a scenic walk along cascading waterfalls steeped in history and natural beauty.
Optional Extra: Private tours are available at either destination for an enriched experience.
Evening Stay in Pitlochry
Check into your hotel in Pitlochry and relax in comfort as you reflect on a day of royal history and charming Highland discoveries.
Day 3 – Depart Pitlochry
Your final day begins with a mix of tranquil natural walks and immersive historical tours as you journey through Perthshire and into the heart of Scotland’s storied past.
Pitlochry to Perthshire Hermitage Walk (15 Minutes Driving Time)
Start your day early with a short drive from Pitlochry to the Perthshire Hermitage.
This peaceful woodland walk along the Braan River offers a refreshing escape into nature, featuring Ossian’s Hall of Mirrors and the enchanting Ossian’s Cave. Enjoy the blend of lush greenery, ancient trees, and well-maintained paths that evoke a sense of timeless beauty.
Drive to Stirling Castle (1 Hour Driving Time)
After exploring the Hermitage, embark on a scenic drive to Stirling Castle. The journey offers sweeping views of the countryside and sets the stage for an encounter with one of Scotland’s most historically significant fortresses.
Step inside the Castle to truly gain a sense of the historic grandeur and the Castle’s role in Scottish history.
Access the awe-inspiring Great Hall and Chapel Royal, where the Castle’s rich history comes alive. Wander through the elegant gardens and interactive exhibits, immersing yourself in the world of the Stewart monarchs.
Finally, experience the lively ambiance as costumed characters bring medieval history to life with captivating storytelling.
Optional Extra: Dress in period costume and join a private tour for an unforgettable, immersive historical experience.
Discover Falkirk (40 Minutes Driving Time)
Drive to Falkirk for lunch, where you can choose from several local spots:
The Kelpies Café: Offering light meals and scenic views.
The Carron: A traditional pub with hearty Scottish dishes.
The Coffee Corner: Ideal for a quick bite paired with excellent coffee.
The Grange Manor: For a refined dining experience with a seasonal menu.
Falkirk Wheel
After lunch, visit the Falkirk Wheel, an engineering marvel that connects two historic canals. Enjoy the unique 50-minute boat tour or explore the visitor center to learn about this modern feat of engineering.
The Kelpies
Conclude your day with a visit to The Kelpies, the iconic 30-meter-high equine sculptures that have become symbols of Scottish ingenuity and myth.
Stroll around the park, capture stunning photos, and admire the artistry and engineering behind these impressive structures.
Optional Extra: A private guided tour is available to offer in-depth commentary on the history and significance of these magnificent sculptures.
Return to Edinburgh (40 Minutes Driving Time)
Enjoy the scenic drive home and reflect on the diverse experiences that have defined your three-day journey before returning your hire car.
