A staycation in the UK can be a lot of fun for the whole family. Fresh air, the open road and wonderful places to stay.

In fact, some of the coolest staycation spots are in Scotland. And the great news is the drive is pretty epic too.

From long winding roads and breath-taking backdrops to country lanes and tranquil lakes, you’ll find some of the best driving roads in the UK.

Here’s the Halfords guide to the best roads in Scotland.

Carter Bar to Edinburgh

One of the best driving roads in Scotland is the A68 taking you north from Tyne Valley. With blind summits, the Northumberland National Park and a bagpiper usually waiting at the Carter Bar to welcome you over the border, you’ll start your staycation or road trip in true style.

Further up, you’ll witness the hills of Eildons and climb Soutra Hills – where you’ll get a clear view overlooking Edinburgh.

If you have a few minutes to waste, stop off at the Common Ridings in Hawick, where locals will often re-enact the old traditions of riding on horseback to the boundaries to protect their land from the English. (Freedom!)

Ardnamurchan Loop

If you have a strong urge for more driving adventure, the Ardnamurchan Loop takes you off the main roads and into unspoiled territories.

Take the A861 past Strontian, along the shores of Loch Sunart and turn off on the B8807 to the point of Ardnamurchan. A fun fact, this is actually the most westerly point in the UK!

Once you’ve wound down your windows and breathed in some of the Sanna Beach sea air, loop back to Fort William via the A861, north to Moidart. Along the way, you’ll be treated to unimaginable mountains and coastal views.

Ullapool to Durness

If you want to avoid summer traffic, the journey from Ullapool to Durness in the north of Scotland has some of the best driving roads in the UK.

Wild, rugged and filled with ‘no filter’ Instagram worthy snap opportunities. There’s a beautiful beach at Ceannabeinne, local communities to mingle with, idyllic mountain backdrops and secret lochs.

Glasgow or Edinburgh to Glencoe

This is one of the most famous roads in Scotland and a journey worth taking on the way to your staycation.

You’ll be faced with picturesque mountains either side of the road and lush green moors. If you’re coming from Glasgow, you’ll drive along the banks of Loch Lomond, whereas if you’re coming from Edinburgh, you’ll see the famous horse sculptures and Stirling Castle.

This is probably one of the best driving roads in the UK for the whole family, as there are plenty of things to do and see along the way.

Lochcarron to Applecross

If you’re a seasoned driver with a lust for adventure, the Road to Applecross will be right up your street! The route reaches 625 metres and gives you astonishing views of the whole of Wester Ross, the Isle of Skye and the Outer Hebrides.

With tight bends, single track roads, you’ll need to concentrate every inch of the way.

If you fancy adding another dimension to the road trip or your staycation, follow the road via the famous Bealach Na Ba, where you’ll experience the lovely Scottish countryside.

Enjoyed reading this? Then you might find this post useful: ‘World’s best driving routes’.