Somewhere on… The West Coast
West Coast Scotland Travel Guide
One of my personal favourite areas in Scotland, I return to the West Coast and Western Highlands time and time again.
This is an area of dramatic and unforgettable scenery: wild beaches, mountainscapes, breathtaking sunsets, and of course, iconic islands like the Isle of Skye.
There’s history too: Eilean Donan Castle is a must-visit on your route west.
It’s a place to savour a slower pace of life amongst quaint villages like Plockton, Glenelg, and Arisaig. To enjoy boutique hotels, devour exceptional seafood, and soak in gorgeous sunsets.
The best way to see the West Coast? On this stunning coastal road trip.
Where To Stay | Our Top Picks
-
![]()
The Bosville Hotel
Portree, Isle of Skye
-
![]()
Plockton Inn
Plockton
-
![]()
Elmbank Cottage
Lochcarron
-
![]()
Skeabost House Hotel
Skeabost, Isle of Skye
-
![]()
Duirinish Pods
Duirinish, near Plockton
-
![]()
Marmalade Hotel
Portree, Isle of Skye
Planning your West Coast Scotland Trip
The best way to experience West Coast Scotland is undoubtedly on a road trip. Having a car will give the the most freedom to explore the charming coastal villages, ancient castles, wild beaches, and all the dramatic scenery this region has to offer. Or choose from our list of highly rated tours.
Car rental
Collect your car in Edinburgh or Glasgow, either at the airport or city centre. We recommend both Rentalcars.com and Discover Cars for car rental.
Road trip itinerary
This best of West Coast Scotland road trip itinerary.
Popular tours
Each of these tours are highly rated and include accommodation plus a knowledgeable guide.
Skye from Edinburgh | 3 Day Tour (highly rated tour from Edinburgh)
Skye & Highlands from Edinburgh | 3 Day Tour (top selling tour tour includes Scottish Highlands)
Skye from Glasgow | 3 Day Tour (highly rated tour from Glasgow)
Where to visit On the West Coast
The West Coast and Western Highlands are a place of wild landscapes and breathtaking coastal vistas. But scattered across this breathtaking region are picture perfect Scottish villages. Each hiding boutique stays, exceptional cafes and restaurants, and warm hospitality.
How to road trip the West Coast of Scotland
In our opinion, this is Scotland’s most beautiful road trip. Start in Edinburgh or Glasgow, and drive northwest towards the coast, visit the Isle of Skye, and visit the most iconic sights along the way.
Road Trip
Destination Guides: West Coast
Destination Guides: Isle of Skye
Ready to book the perfect trip?
Scotland Travel Planning
How to plan your trip to Scotland
Follow our helpful guides below on how to plan your perfect Scotland trip, packed with practical tips such as the best season to visit, getting around & transport, and travel resources. Looking for a beautiful road trip itinerary? Follow this West Coast Road Trip and experience the best of the highlands, cities, and coast.
A guide to Portree, Scotland - the best things to do, see, and where to stay in the Isle of Skye’s pretty harbour town.