Cairngorms & West Highlands
- 251 Miles
- 4 Days
- 6-7hrs Driving Time
- Start Point: Perth
- End Point: Perth
This road trip through the heart of the highlands takes you on a scenic loop through central and western Scotland, exploring the beauty of the Cairngorms and West Highlands. Starting in Perth, you'll journey to the charming town of Pitlochry, known for its Victorian architecture and nearby distilleries. From there, head north to Newtonmore, nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, before continuing west towards Fort Willliam and then southwards before arriving at the coastal town of Oban, famous for its whisky and as the gateway to the Isles. The route then leads you to Crianlarich, surrounded by stunning mountains and lochs, before returning to Perth via the picturesque Trossachs. Along the way, you'll experience a blend of outdoor adventures, historical sites, and Scotland's rich heritage, making for a truly unforgettable journey.
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Visit The Highland Folk Museum
The Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore offers a fascinating insight into traditional Scottish life, showcasing the history and culture of the Highlands. Set in a beautiful outdoor location, the museum features a collection of historic buildings, including thatched cottages, a croft house, and a blacksmith’s forge, each telling the story of rural life through the centuries.
Visitors can experience how people lived, worked, and thrived in the Highlands, with interactive exhibits and costumed guides bringing history to life. A visit to the Highland Folk Museum is a unique way to explore Scotland’s rich heritage in a picturesque setting.
Visit the museumBen Cruachan Munro & Power Station
Climbing Ben Cruachan, often called the "Ben Nevis of the West," offers a thrilling outdoor adventure with spectacular views across the Scottish Highlands. The mountain stands at 3,766 feet and provides a challenging yet rewarding hike, with varied terrain that leads to breathtaking panoramas of Loch Awe and the surrounding landscapes. At the summit, you'll be treated to incredible vistas, including the nearby Loch Etive and the rugged peaks of the Trossachs National Park.
After descending, visitors can also take a fascinating tour of the Cruachan Power Station, a hydroelectric station built inside the mountain itself. The station is accessed by a funicular railway, and the tour offers a unique glimpse into how the facility harnesses the power of water from the surrounding area to generate electricity. Combining a challenging climb with a remarkable engineering experience, a visit to Ben Cruachan is a must for nature lovers and those interested in Scotland's industrial heritage.
Visit the power station