8 day itinerary for Scotland

Itinerary

Scotland is a stunning destination with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and delicious gluten-free food options. Here’s a delightful 8-day itinerary that includes the Isle of Skye, manageable driving distances, and plenty of opportunities for hiking. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Edinburgh

Morning: Arrive in Edinburgh. Settle into your accommodation and grab a gluten-free breakfast at a local café. Try “Hula Juice Bar & Café” for some delicious options.

Afternoon: Explore the Royal Mile, visiting St. Giles' Cathedral and the Scottish Parliament. Don’t forget to check out the charming shops along the way!

Evening: Enjoy dinner at “The Baked Potato Shop,” which offers a variety of gluten-free toppings. Afterward, take a stroll up Calton Hill for stunning views of the city.

## Day 2: Edinburgh to Fort William (1.5 hours drive)

Morning: After breakfast, head to Fort William. On the way, stop at the picturesque village of Callander for a coffee break.

Afternoon: Arrive in Fort William and have lunch at “The Wildcat” café, which has great gluten-free options. Spend the afternoon hiking in Glen Nevis, where you can enjoy the views of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak.

Evening: Dinner at “The Grog & Gruel,” which offers a gluten-free menu. Relax and enjoy the local atmosphere.

## Day 3: Fort William to Isle of Skye (1.5 hours drive)

Morning: After breakfast, set off for the Isle of Skye. Take the scenic route via the Skye Bridge, stopping at Eilean Donan Castle for some stunning photos.

Afternoon: Arrive on Skye and have lunch at “The Old School Restaurant” in Dunvegan, known for its gluten-free options. Spend the afternoon exploring the Fairy Pools, a beautiful series of crystal-clear pools perfect for a refreshing hike.

Evening: Dinner at “The Three Chimneys,” a renowned restaurant with gluten-free choices. Enjoy the local seafood and stunning views.

## Day 4: Exploring the Isle of Skye

Morning: After breakfast, head to the Quiraing for a fantastic hike. The landscapes here are otherworldly, and you’ll have plenty of photo opportunities.

Afternoon: Enjoy a packed lunch or stop at a local café. Afterward, visit the charming town of Portree, where you can explore shops and grab a coffee at “The Isle of Skye Coffee Company.”

Evening: Dinner at “The Rosedale Hotel,” which offers gluten-free options. Spend the evening relaxing and soaking in the Skye atmosphere.

## Day 5: More of Skye

Morning: After breakfast, hike the Old Man of Storr. This iconic rock formation offers breathtaking views and is a must-see on Skye.

Afternoon: Have lunch at “The Storr” café, which has gluten-free options. Afterward, visit the Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls for more stunning views.

Evening: Dinner at “The Edinbane Inn,” known for its cozy atmosphere and gluten-free dishes. Enjoy some local whisky to cap off the day!

## Day 6: Skye to Inverness (2 hours drive)

Morning: Depart Skye after breakfast and head to Inverness. Stop at the picturesque village of Plockton for a coffee break and some lovely views.

Afternoon: Arrive in Inverness and have lunch at “The Mustard Seed,” which offers a great gluten-free menu. Spend the afternoon exploring the city, including Inverness Castle and the beautiful River Ness.

Evening: Dinner at “The Kitchen,” which has a fantastic selection of gluten-free dishes. Enjoy the riverside views!

## Day 7: Loch Ness and Surroundings

Morning: After breakfast, take a short drive to Loch Ness. Visit the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition to learn about the legend of Nessie.

Afternoon: Enjoy a scenic hike along the shores of Loch Ness. Pack a gluten-free picnic or stop at a local café for lunch.

Evening: Return to Inverness for dinner at “The Black Isle Bar,” which has a great selection of gluten-free options. Enjoy some local craft beers!

## Day 8: Inverness to Edinburgh (3.5 hours drive)

Morning: After breakfast, start your journey back to Edinburgh. You can take a leisurely drive and stop at any interesting spots along the way, like the charming village of Pitlochry.

Afternoon: Arrive in Edinburgh and have lunch at “The Baked Potato Shop” or another favorite spot. Spend your last afternoon exploring any sights you may have missed, like Arthur’s Seat for a final hike with panoramic views of the city.

Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at “The Witchery by the Castle,” which offers a lovely atmosphere and gluten-free options.

Tips:

• Always check with restaurants about gluten-free options, as menus can change.
• Pack snacks for hikes, like gluten-free bars or nuts, to keep your energy up.
• Enjoy the stunning landscapes and take your time exploring!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable adventure in Scotland! If you have any questions or need adjustments, feel free to ask! Safe travels! 🌍✨