Inveraray to Fort William, Scotland: Britain’s most scenic drive?

19th Nov 2024

If you are looking for a picturesque road trip with centuries of history along the way, then it is time to get behind the wheel and head from Inverary to Fort William.

With so many UK road trips to choose from, it can be difficult to choose the best one for you and your family.

Here, we look at the two tourist destinations, how to get there, and what you can expect to see along the way.

Where is Inveraray?

Inveraray is a small town located on the west coast of Scotland, in the Argyll and Bute council area.

It lies on the shore of Loch Fyne, one of the longest sea lochs in Scotland.

The town is known for its stunning scenery and historic significance, especially Inveraray Castle, which serves as the seat of the Duke of Argyll, the chief of Clan Campbell.

The town is also a popular tourist destination, offering picturesque views, outdoor activities, and historical landmarks.

It is about 60 miles (100 km) west of Glasgow, making it accessible for visitors traveling from the city.

Where is Fort William?

Fort William is a town located in the Scottish Highlands, on the western coast of Scotland.

It lies at the southern end of Loch Linnhe, a sea loch, and is situated near the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain.

Fort William is also known for its wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountaineering, and water sports.

The town is located about 65 miles north of Glasgow, making it easily accessible by road.

It's also a popular starting point for tourists exploring the surrounding natural beauty, such as the Glen Nevis valley and the West Highland Way – a famous long-distance walking trail.

Why is this Britain’s most scenic drive?

This could well be Britain’s most scenic drive. The lochs, islands and mountains are so distracting that drivers need to keep their wandering eyes on the road – so make regular stops along the way to allow yourself to enjoy the breathtaking landscape safely; there’s everything from stone circles to exquisite coastal gardens.

Driving from Inverary to Fort William

From Inveraray’s waterfront castle to the slopes of the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, this drive demonstrates the best of Scotland’s west coast.

Pass the fascinating Scottish Sea Life Sanctuary, dramatic Castle Stalker on a tiny Loch Linnhe Island and historic Glencoe before arriving at the mouth of the magnificent Great Glen.

As you can see, there are two suggested routes – both passing through some of the best landscapes that Scotland can offer.

They take between 1h45 to two hours – and there are many amazing places to stop along the way.

Alternatively, use RAC Route Planner.

What should you see on your road trip?

Here, we highlight just some of the tourist attractions, local towns, and key sites for you to stop and see along your journey from Inveraray to Fort William: