It’s that time to put on your favourite playlist, put the destination into your phone and just set off on a picturesque adventure. Thankfully, we have plenty of those available here in Scotland, as wonderful views can be seen almost wherever you go. However, we do have some favourite spots, so we’ve gathered the very best scenic drives near Glasgow all in one place.
1. The Devil’s Pulpit
Finnech Glen, also known as Devil’s Pulpit, is around 30-minute drive away from Glasgow, offering not only a nice wee road trip, but also a nice day out for those looking for a beautiful walk in addition to all the scenic drives. Once there, be careful when going down the stairs, named Jacob’s Ladder or the Devil’s Steps, as they can be quite slippery. Within the Devil’s Pulpit, visitors can walk through a stream with an extraordinary ruby red base: the unusual colour comes from the red sandstone that has been worn away by the water over time.
How to get there: 30 minutes via the A879 and then the A81 North.
2. Oban
While most of us have heard of the name Oban, it actually means “little bay” in Gaelic. This wonderful drive by the West coast takes around two hours and ten minutes, boasting scenic vistas of the Scottish countryside, followed by stunning sea views. Once there, you can explore the lively town or take a boat trip to the Isle of Iona for some more adventures.
How to get there: two hours and ten minutes via the A82 and the A85.
3. Glencoe
If you want to live dangerously like James Bond in Skyfall, set off on one of the most scenic drives in Scotland to Glencoe. While not that dangerous, the famous narrow road towards the Three Sisters was used in the Skyfall movie, so it’s the perfect backdrop to play the theme song when driving up the road. Not to mention there are plenty of gorgeous spots to stop at and marvel at the views: our favourite is hands down near the Kingshouse Hotel, where you can stop in the car park to witness beautiful views of the mountains and maybe even spot some wild deer. Now that’s a road trip to remember!
How to get there: two hours via the A82 North.
4. Loch Tay
Loch Tay is the largest loch in Perthshire and is around 154 meters (508ft) deep. As one of the shorter scenic drives on the list taking only 40 minutes from Glasgow, there are plenty of things to do once there. During the drive, the Ben Lawers mountain range will supply road trippers with all the views on the A827, and Loch Tay provides all the activities. On top of the various watersports available, the loch has a total of 18 crannogs for visitors to explore. For those who haven’t heard of crannogs, it is an artificial island structure.
How to get there: 40 minutes on the M80 and the A84 North.
5. Milarochy Bay
We all love a wee bit of Loch Lomond views, so Milarochy Bay is an obvious choice for the list. Located near the village of Balamaha, the bay is also known as Bakey Bay because of its rounded mounds. Drivers will be able to witness distant views of Ben Lomond and several picturesque-looking stepping stones positioned within the water. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous that day, pack your camping gear and head to Milarochy Bay Campsite to camp overnight.
How to get there: one hour via the A81 North.
6. Galloway Tourist Route
The Galloway Tourist Route starts at Gretna Green, which also has a huge outlet village worthy of checking out. When you do leave, head onto the B721 to Annan, then onto the B724 to Dumfries. From Dumfries, take the A711 to Dalbeattie and Castle Douglas, and later the A713 towards Loch Kay and New Galloway. Drivers can end their journey in Ayr to enjoy a stunning sunset (if it’s clear) after passing Culzean Castle and gardens.
How to get there: 2 hours and 10 minutes from Gretna Green, and an hour and a half from Glasgow.