The Great Green Drive- North Coast of Scotland

Visiting Scotland can be a treat to your eyes as you would be amazed to see how little the humans have impacted on their natural wildlife and greenery. It is a peaceful country where people are enthusiastic about protecting their environment by reducing waste and conserving natural resources. You can find a good number of indigenous species there and beautifully secluded lochs that are perfect for you to spend time with your loved ones. Your car rental in Scotland is sorted with Avis- just pack your essentials and drive on.

source for title image: tempsdoci

Overview

Iverness-Applecross-Torridon-Ullapool-Caithness-John o’ Groats-Dingwall

Distance: 435 miles

Drive Time: 12 hours 40 mins

Best time to travel

Months of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best to go for this drive. The weather is warm but still, you can see snow on the highland mountains. Taking your self-drive Avis would be a pure bliss in such a setup. The best way to explore this beautiful country is by hiring a car rental in Scotland. 

Local Language: English

Driving Rules.

-Left-hand side driving rule is followed.

-The speed limit is 70 mph in motorways and 30 mph in built-up areas.

-You can drive using or European Union country license or can use your other license and drive up to 12 months.

-Use of cell phones is not permitted.

-Seatbelts are compulsory for driver and passengers.

Inverness

Source: spottinghistory

A city of lakes, kick-start your journey with visiting Loch Ness, the largest freshwater body in Britain and one of the best places to visit in Scotland. Take a Loch cruise or explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle situated on the banks of Loch. Try to meet the dolphins in Moray Firth at Chanonry Point or Fort George. This place is also renowned for its culinary scenes, discover the Victorian Market and Eastgate Shopping Centre among others or visit the Eden Court to view one of the cultural events.

Other tourist attractions:

-Inverness Castle

-St. Andrew’s Cathedral

-Nairn

-The site of Jacobite Risings

Applecross

Source: tiso

A sparsely populated town, it is situated between mainland mountain masses and the Skye Island. It has only two roads and is free from noises and interference from the outer world. It houses a good number of beautiful beaches and historical sites. There is a famous rock shelter which age backs to Mesolithic period. The Applecross Historical Society also runs a Heritage Centre which is open from Easter to October end. If you get tired of sightseeing, then you can go for watersport activities like Kayaking or drive your Avis for weaving workshops organized by localities. Hire a car rental in Scotland to best enjoy the beauties of this place and be at ease.

Torridon and Ullapool

Source: blogspot

These two countryside towns have nothing much to offer except for their scenic beauty and a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Visit Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve, Ardmair Beach, Lochbroom Leisure Centre among other attractions. The Torridon Hills are also one of the best places to visit and give you an expansive and mesmerizing view of the entire countryside.

Caithness

Source: castleofmey

Visit Wick Heritage Centre which showcases the rise and fall of the herring industry. It has also got various fishing equipment on display and herring boats. After the museum drive towards Grey Cairns of Camster which an archaeological site from 4000 BC to 2500 BC. If you are left with time, then do drive around the beautiful cliffs of Dunnet Head.

Other Tourist Attractions:

• Captain’s Galley
• Castle of Mey
• Caithness Horizons
• Whaligoe Steps

John o’ Groats and Dingwall

Source: nordicvisitor

Dingwall castle is one of the main tourist attractions of this route. It is one of the best places in Scotland to visit if you want to get back in time and enjoy some medieval treasures.  Along with this there are many other places of historical importance like Orkney, Kilcoy Castle, Monjack Castle, etc. If you want a change you can go ferrying or go on Jacobite Cruise.

Other Tourist Attractions:

• Fort George
• Bogbain Adventure and Heritage Farm
• Culloden Battlefield
• The Castle and Gardens of Mey

OUR RECOMMENDATIONS

STAYS

The Torridon

Source: olivemagazine

This versatile stay is located in one of the prime locations of your drive and is one of the best hotels in Iverness has got a lot to offer. You can pick your stay according to your preference and choose from a standard deluxe room, an inn or a private cottage. They serve all the lip-smacking meals along with afternoon’s high tea.

Where:  Annat, By Achnasheen, Wester Ross IV22 2EY, United Kingdom

+44 1445 791242

The Birches

Source: bstatic

This place is famous for its barbecue facilities and authentic Scottish breakfast that is complimentary with every booking. You can also relax in their private garden. All the food that is served is mostly cooked using local produces which adds on to the taste of the meal. The location is not very far from the airport as you can book yourself a car rental in Scotland. It is surrounded by beautiful sceneries.

Where: Craig Rd, Ross Shire, Dingwall IV15 9LF, UK

 +44 7951 099198

Ackergill Tower

Source: youtube

This should be your definite stay in the list if you are travelling with your sweetheart. It is one of the most romantic places to be in the entire British lands. It is around 600 years old and has Europe’s largest treehouse with a bedroom built in. The hotel offers normal rooms to extravagant suites and all of them guarantee a comfortable stay with a beautiful view.

Where: Ackergill Tower, Ackergill, Wick KW1 4RG, UK

+44 1955 603556

Hamnavoe B&B

Source: bstatic

One of the budgets stays, they provide rooms with all the basic amenities with a low charge. It again is a sea view stay with a little walking distance from nearby beaches. The complimentary breakfast consists of continental cuisine with a variety of dishes.

Where: Roadside, John O’Groats KW1 4YR, Scotland

 +44 1955 611776

EATERIES

Lettuce Eat

Source: kingsmillshotel

Nobody can overlook the hunger pangs one gets in the middle of a drive and times you just need something in your hand to gorge on while driving. This is a pocket-friendly sandwich shop to cater to your such hunger fits. They use freshly baked bread and local ingredients in all their sandwiches and are vegetarian-friendly. You can also ask for vegan options.

Where: 5- Inverness, 7 Lombard St, Inverness IV1 1QQ, United Kingdom

 +44 1463 715064

Applecross Inn

Source: Taste-of-Scotland

The pub opens to a lovely view of isles of Rassay and Skye. It is situated on a seafront and offers a variety of seafood from local and bay suppliers. Apart from seafood, you can order other snacks as well. Their Applecross Venison Burger tops the list of their specials. Sip in your favourite beverage as you enjoy the beautiful view while dining in.

Where:  Shore St, Applecross, Strathcarron IV54 8LR, UK

+44 1520 744262

Stacks Coffee House and Bistro

Source: thestackrestaurant

A small cafeteria which serves freshly brewed coffee and other beverages along with quick bites, halt your self-drive car here to get that energy boost which you deserve to keep going behind the wheels.

Where: 3, Craft Centre, John o’ Groats, Wick KW1 4YR, UK

+44 1955 611582

The Mallard

Source: Ipernity

This is one of the budget pubs in Dingwall which experiences a lot of footfall during importance sports matches. This place is popular for its courteous staff and affordable drinks and snacks.

Where: Station Square, Dingwall IV15 9JD, UK

 +44 1349 866286

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