Discover Scotland: Self-Drive & Hike
-
Explore the Best of Scotland on a Self-Guided Drive & Hike Tour
There’s nothing like jumping in the car and hitting the road on your holiday. With Macs Adventure, you can relax knowing your route is tried and tested and includes some of the best walks for stretching your legs and enjoying the magnificent scenery. Check out:Â
North Coast 500: Scotland's legendary road trip, spanning over 500 miles of breathtaking scenery and showcasing some of the country's finest walking trails.
North Coast 500 & Isle of Skye Drive & Hike The UK's premier road trip with extra time in key locations and two nights on the magical Isle of Skye
Outer Hebrides Island Hopscotch Drive & Hike: A 130-mile adventure from Barra to Lewis, combining scenic drives with coastal walks.
Grand Tour of Scotland Drive & Hike: An epic journey through Scotland, exploring everything from majestic castles and fine whisky to stunning lochs and scenic glens.
Highlands, Isle of Skye & Edinburgh Drive & Hike: A comprehensive tour that encapsulates the essence of Scotland's landscapes and cities.Â
-
Why Choose Macs Adventure?
- Expertly Designed Itineraries: Benefit from our local knowledge to experience Scotland like a native.
- Comprehensive Support: Enjoy 24/7 assistance and detailed travel documents for a hassle-free journey.
- Handpicked Accommodations: Stay in comfortable B&B's and guesthouses that reflect Scottish hospitality.
- Flexible Travel:Â Tailor your trip with optional walks and activities to suit your interests.
-
Our Top Self-Drive & Hike Walks
The Butt of Lewis, Lewis: A cliff-top walk to the northernmost point of the Outer Hebrides, featuring a prominent lighthouse.
Luskentyre Beach, Harris: Stroll along one of Scotland's most photographed beaches, renowned for its turquoise waters and white sands.
Falls of Glomach: Hike through remote highland glens to the Falls of Glomach that dramatically plunges 371ft.
The Old Man of Storr, Skye: A short, but rewarding hike featuring an array of interesting rock features including the famous needle of rock known locally as The Old Man of Storr.Â
-
Scotland Self-Drive & Hike FAQs
What is a self-drive tour?
A self-drive tour provides you with an expertly planned itinerary including recommended walks along the way, allowing you to explore destinations at your leisure.What is included in a drive and hike tour?
Our tours include accommodation, suggested walking routes, comprehensive 24hr support and optional assistance in booking a car rental.What are the best self-drive tours of the British Isles?
Our Scotland-focused tours are among the top-rated, offering a blend of driving and hiking experiences.When is the best time to tour Scotland?
Late spring to early autumn (May to September) offers favourable weather and longer daylight hours for outdoor activities.
-
Why Drive The North Coast 500 with Macs Adventure?
Our North Coast 500 trip follows the classic, well-known route, but with a few thoughtful twists. Rather than simply driving from one stop to the next and only stepping out for the occasional photo, our itinerary includes plenty of optional walks so you can truly immerse yourself in the landscapes of Scotland’s far north-west.
Our Classic NC500 adventure is a 6-night journey that stops at many of the best locations along the route. If you have a little more time, we always recommend slowing the pace by adding an extra night or two. Alternatively, you could choose our slightly longer and even more enthralling NC500 and Isle of Skye Drive & Hike itinerary, which includes additional nights in key locations along the NC500, plus the added bonus of two nights on the magical Isle of Skye.
Here are some of our favourite things to do on the NC500 ...
1) Beinn Eighe Nature Reserve
Complete the Triple Buttress hike to the mountain's loch, surrounded by towering 650 ft cliffs. On a clear, sunny day you'll have spectacular views over the wild expanse of Shieldaig and across the sea to the Western Isles. Â
2) Combine a hill summit with a beach stroll
Hike Torridon's iconic little 612 m hill Stac Pollidadh (pronounced "Stac Polly"), after reaching the craggy summit and lingering to soak up the views make your way back down to the car park. From there it's less than an hour's drive to the white sands and turquoise waters of Achmelvich beach.Â
3) Visit Lochinver's pie shop
This pie shop has gained almost legendary status among locals and visitors. If you're feeling indulgent why not follow a delicious savory pie with one of their sweet dessert pies?
4) Hike the Trotternish Peninsula
Located in the north of Isle of Skye, the Trotternish Peninsula is home to the world-famous Old Man of Storr and the slightly less well-known, but arguably even more dramatic, Quiraing walk. With its towering cliffs, sweeping views, and otherworldly rock formations, this landscape feels unlike anywhere else.
5) Discover Cape Wrath
A ferry ride and day's hike away from Durness, Cape Wrath lighthouse on Scotland's most north westerly point is well worth a visit on a calm day. Although not as far north as the more famous town of John O' Groats on the mainland's east coast, Cape Wrath is wilder and more scenic by far.Â