3-Day Itinerary: Perthshire & Highlands

For this 3-day itinerary, we’ve suggested a hotel for each night if you are on our 4×4 vehicle hire only package, and a registered campsite if you’ve added the camping package. If you would prefer a more remote or wild experience, we’ve also included links to apps and what3word accounts to help you with this. We always aim to support local businesses and many of these campsites have a rugged feel, while still providing amenities like showers or at least a proper loo.

Itinerary Overview

DAY 1 – DUNKELD, ABERFELDY, KILLIN, GLENCOE (DRIVE TIME 2H 30)
DAY 2 – FORT WILLIAM, NEWTONMORE. AVIEMORE (DRIVE TIME 2H 30)
DAY 3 – FALLS OF BRUAR, PERTH (DRIVE TIME 1H 45)

Suggested apps

park4night | Android | iPhone
iOverlander | Android | iPhone
what3words | Android | iPhone

 

A scenic view of the Falls of Dochart in Killin

Day 1 - Into the Highlands

From Perth take the A9 north to Dunkeld, where you can visit the cathedral. Just a wee drive further north, you can enjoy a walk at the Hermitage, known for its stunning waterfall. Continue on to Aberfeldy, stopping by the award-winning Highland Chocolatier in Grandtully along the way. In Aberfeldy there is the potential for a distillery tour at Dewar’s World of Whisky or a tasting in the bar.

From Aberfeldy head to Killin, a great stop to visit the Falls of Dochart and potentially grab lunch at the pub. From here, make your way towards Glencoe, with a detour to Glen Etive, famously known as the ‘Skyfall Glen’. Once in Glencoe there’s a nice 2-3 hour walk into the Lost Valley. Just be mindful of daylight hours, proper footwear etc. For your first night, we recommend a great pub called the Clachaig Inn for dinner.

CAMPSITE: Red Squirrel Campsite, Glencoe
HOTEL: Ballachuilish Hotel

Day 2 - Highland Adventures

Begin your day in Fort William, where you’ll find plenty of breakfast options if you haven’t eaten yet. Kick things off with a scenic walk to Steall Falls through the stunning Nevis Gorge—a shorter but equally rewarding alternative to the more famous Lost Valley hike.

From Fort William, travel deeper into the Highlands, heading towards Newtonmore. Along the way, you can pause to explore the Creag Meagaidh National Nature Reserve, or stop for coffee and a snack at the charming Laggan Coffee Bothy and Gallery.

Near Newtonmore, visit the fascinating Highland Folk Museum, a history museum that offers a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s past. Alternatively, head to the RZSS Highland Wildlife Park to see polar bears and other unique wildlife, or let the kids burn off energy at Landmark Adventure Park just north of Aviemore.

In the afternoon, drive to Aviemore. For a peaceful walk, head to the enchanting Green Loch, though swimming is not advised here. If you’re up for a dip, Loch Morlich is perfect for a refreshing cold water swim. End your day with a hearty meal at the Pine Marten Bar.

CAMPSITE: Glenmore Campsite
HOTEL: The Boat Country Inn Hotel, Aviemore

Day 3 - Back to Us

It’s a straightforward drive back down the A9 to Nomadic’s base in Perth and takes about 1.5 hours. Along the way you can stop at “The Harrods of the North” aka House of Bruar, for a unique shopping experience and any last-minute gifts. Alternatively, take a final walk to the Falls of Bruar (The Falls of Bruar, near Blair Atholl (Walkhighlands)) the namesake of the house. Just before you reach back to us there’s a chance to see some Highland cows at The Taste of Perthshire. They reside in the field around the back of the restaurant. Once you’re done, rejoin the A9 for the final stretch to Perth, where you’ll return the car and wrap up your Highland adventure.

 

Route Map

Bespoke itinerary service

We hope you enjoyed this example 3-day itinerary! At Nomadic, we can tailor any trip to ensure you have the best experience and leave with lasting memories of Scotland’s beauty and charm. Let us create a journey that’s perfectly suited to your interests.

Itinerary Service

4x4 vehicle and camping hire Scotland

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Testimonials

Really great adventure, Scotland is a really beautiful place and visiting the highlands with Nomadic Scotland was amazing. Really nice team and really helpful (pick up and drop off, nice advices for the itinerary and fast answer if you need while you are travelling with the car)
The defender is a wonderful car, really well equipped and really easy to install the tent.
We highly recommend this adventure.
Thank you

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