Driving in the Highlands is one of the great pleasures of visiting Scotland. Quiet glens, coastal roads, mountain passes and views that stop you in your tracks.
But Highland roads are very different from city driving. If it is your first time here, especially in a hire car in the Highlands or around Inverness, knowing how things work will make your journey safer and far more enjoyable.
This is not about rushing from place to place. It is about awareness, patience and respect for other road users.
Single Track Roads and Passing Places
Much of the Highlands uses single track roads. These are one lane roads carrying traffic in both directions, with regular passing places.
Passing places are not parking bays.
They are not viewpoints.
They are not picnic stops.
They exist so vehicles can pass safely.
How to use passing places properly
- Always drive on the LEFT
- Passing places appear on both sides of the road
- If the passing place is on your side, pull into it
- If the passing place is on the opposite side, stop opposite it so the oncoming vehicle can pull in
- Look well ahead and anticipate other vehicles early
- If you are holding traffic up, pull in and let people pass
And when someone pulls over for you?
Give them a wave. It is simple Highland etiquette and it matters.
Slow Down and Take Your Time
These roads are not designed for speed.
Expect:
- Blind bends and summits
- Narrow bridges
- Sudden dips and rises
- Livestock on the road
- Walkers and cyclists
- Wildlife, especially deer at dawn and dusk
Rushing causes problems. Locals know this and drive accordingly.
If someone is faster than you, pull into the next passing place and let them go.
Watch for Potholes and Soft Verges
This catches out more visitors than almost anything else.
Highland roads take a lot of punishment from weather, frost and heavy vehicles. Potholes are common, especially on quieter routes and single track roads.
Just as important, the verges are often soft.
If you drift too far left trying to make room, your wheel can drop off the tarmac edge. Once that happens, many drivers instinctively steer sharply back onto the road, which is how tyres get damaged and blowouts occur.
Every year we see tourists stranded with shredded tyres for exactly this reason.
Take your space.
Slow down.
Use passing places properly rather than hugging the verge.
Things to Watch Out For
Wildlife
Red deer, sheep and cattle regularly wander onto the road. They do not move quickly and often travel in groups.
Large vehicles
Farms and estates rely on these roads. Tractors, vans and lorries need space. Give it to them.
Cyclists and walkers
Many Highland routes are popular touring roads. Expect slower traffic and give plenty of room.
Weather
Conditions can change rapidly. Clear sunshine can turn into mist or heavy rain within minutes, particularly in glens and higher ground.
Parking and Stopping at Beauty Spots
Everyone wants photos. We understand that.
Please do not:
- Stop in passing places
- Block the road
- Park on blind bends or hill crests
- Stop on narrow bridges or clearways
Instead:
- Use proper lay-bys
- Use car parks
- Pull fully off the road
Emergency vehicles and working traffic need access at all times.
Roundabouts and Junctions
If you are unfamiliar with UK road rules, take a moment to review the Highway Code before driving.
Key points:
- Traffic already on the roundabout has priority
- Approach slowly
- Signal clearly
- Stay left unless road markings say otherwise
- Do not change lanes unexpectedly
Many visitor accidents happen at junctions simply through uncertainty.
Always Keep Left
Scotland drives on the left.
Fatigue, distraction and unfamiliar roads can cause people to drift. Be especially mindful after stopping at viewpoints or pulling out from quiet roads.
If in doubt, remind yourself before moving off.
Left.
If You Are Not Confident, Be Honest
Highland driving requires:
- Good awareness
- Comfort with narrow roads
- Confidence reversing when needed
- Calm decision making
If you feel stressed or unsure, it is sometimes better not to drive yourself.
There is no shame in choosing a private tour or chauffeur service instead. You will relax more, see more, and avoid becoming another roadside incident.
Courtesy Goes a Long Way
Wave when someone lets you pass.
Pull in when you can.
Do not tailgate.
Give cyclists space.
Let faster traffic by.
The Highlands run on mutual respect.
Drive like a guest, because you are.
Related reading
Driving in the Highlands: tips; Driving single track roads in Scotland; Chauffeur vs self-drive in the Highlands.
