Where to go in Scotland in November
Winter Scotland Itinerary: 4 days
Winter Scotland Itinerary: 4 days
If you are planning on visiting Scotland in the Winter, this article will recommend where to go in Scotland in November. We recommend planning this route to coincide with the Oban Winter Festival which runs between 15th to 24th November in 2024.
Visiting Scotland in November offers a unique and rewarding experience for tourists who want to see a less touristy side to Scotland. The natural beauty of Scotland in autumn is striking. There are still vibrant Autumn colours in the forests at the start of the month and snow-capped mountains will start to appear as Autumn turns to Winter. The weather may be cooler, but as long as you are suitably dressed, the crisp air and lack of crowds make hiking in the Highlands or exploring national parks such as Loch Lomond and The Trossachs an invigorating and revitalising experience.
With less people around, wildlife enthusiasts will find November a great time for spotting migrating birds and animals like red squirrels and the rare arctic hare. In particular, the Isle of Mull is known for its sea eagles, which remain active in the colder months. It is also the season of rutting deer and for the seals to come closer to shore to breed.
Scotland’s historic attractions, such as Edinburgh Castle and Stirling Castle, are less crowded in November, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. The quieter tourist season also means better availability in campsites, leaving you freer to travel at your own pace without booking ahead. However, do check that the campsites you are planning to use are open!
Scotland is famous for its festivals and events and you will be able to experience vibrant winter festivals in November. The Christmas markets, lights and special events in Edinburgh and other major cities start in November. So you can enjoy the Christmas atmosphere but accommodation prices will be much cheaper.
In November, visitors to Scotland can expect a mix of crisp autumnal days and cooler, wetter weather than the peak summer months. But the weather in Scotland can be unpredictable at any time of year.
Daytime temperatures generally range between 4°C and 10°C (40°F to 50°F), with occasional frosty mornings, particularly in rural or Highland areas. Rain is frequent but often light, and visitors should come prepared for changeable conditions, as it’s not unusual to experience sunshine, wind, and rain all in one day.
While the daylight hours are shorter, the moody skies and misty landscapes create a truly atmospheric backdrop for exploring Scotland’s castles, lochs, and mountains. The cooler weather also brings the chance of early snowfall on higher ground, adding to the magical winter feel. With the right clothing, tourists can still enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, visiting scenic spots, or exploring Scotland’s history and heritage, all while avoiding the summer crowds.
4 Days in the Highlands, Hebrides, West Coast & Loch Lomond
This 4 day itinerary takes you on a stunning drive through the Trossachs to Oban before getting a taste of authentic coastal and island life. Your return route follows the west coast of Scotland before cutting across country where you will spend your final night right on the waterfront of Loch Lomond. If you have an interest in Scottish heritage there are many spots with historical significance along this journey. Or you can simply enjoy the staggering views and experience the best of Highland scenery and culture.
4 days from Edinburgh/Approx 300 miles/480 km
From Edinburgh to Oban
Leaving either Edinburgh or Big Sky Campers HQ pick up the M9 towards Stirling which gives you a view of the magnificent sculptures, the Kelpies. In Scottish folklore Kelpies were dangerous shape-shifting creatures that inhabited lochs and rivers and would appear on land as a horse or change into human form. They would encourage their victims to get onto their backs before carrying them off into the water.
Then take the A84 towards Callander, known as the gateway to the Highlands, as it lies just south of the Highland Boundary Fault, where historically the Lowlands meets the Highlands. As you head north you will enter a distinctly Highland landscape, the road winding and dipping through the Pass of Leny, with the cascading waterfalls and rapids flowing through the gorge below. If you have time to stop you can take a woodland walk to the Falls of Leny from the village of Kilmahog. Continue on and the road, bordered by dense, ancient woodland, will bring you to the shores of Loch Lubnaig.
If you choose to make a stop here to admire the view – dominated by the towering, rugged slopes of Ben Ledi and Ardnandave Hill then look out for the Sloc-Nan-Sithenach or the Faeire Hollow by the South car park. This is one of the scenic viewpoints within the National Park and the start of the Bliss Trail which connects the four communities of Balquhidder, Lochearnhead, Strathyre and St Fillans and features artworks along its route.
After leaving Loch Lubnaig continue north along the A84. If you have the time for a detour and the weather is fine take the turn off at Mhor 84 towards Balquhidder. This single track road twists and turns through woods and clearings with views down to Loch Voil below. The autumn leaves will probably be gone by November but the gold of the bracken remains. Visit the village of Balquhidder and where you will find the grave of Scots hero Rob Roy MacGregor in the village churchyard. If driving conditions allow, and to experience the feeling of remote Scotland, continue on from here and the road eventually meets the shores of Loch Voil. Turn off where Loch Voil meets Loch Doine to take in the stunning views of the lochs and visit another artwork on the Bliss Trail – the Look Out. This is a mirrored pavilion that blends with and reflects views of the landscape.
Don’t be tempted to continue along the single track road – it doesn’t connect with other routes, you will need to retrace your steps to the A84 and continue north from there.
Join the A85 and follow the narrow road towards Tyndrum and then past Ben Lui to Loch Awe, Scotland’s largest freshwater loch. You will find Kilchurn Castle here, once the Seat of the Campbells of Glenorchy and a garrison castle during the Jacobite Rebellion. There are walks around the Loch and absolutely stunning views.
From Loch Awe it is a short drive to reach your destination for the night – Oban, Gateway to the Isles.
Oban is a bustling coastal town which can get very busy in the summer due its status as the main ferry port to the Hebridean islands and base for whale and dolphin watching safaris. You won’t see whales during November but the waters around Oban are home to common and grey seals who come inland to breed. You can also spot otters off the coast of Oban – the best time to see them is at dawn or dusk when they are more active.
In the winter you will see a less touristy side to the seafood capital of Scotland and will enjoy magical views of the coast, islands and mountains. But the best reason to visit Oban in November is its award winning Winter Festival which takes place between 15th-24th November in 2024.
Camping in Oban is at Oban Caravan Park which commands spectacular views across to the Island of Kerrera.
Last year the Festival was listed in the top 10 UK for best markets and also the most Christmassy place to visit. This year there will again be markets both weekends in the Oban Distillery, Corran Halls, Perle Hotel and The Rockfield Centre.
Glencruitten Woods are transformed into a magical winter destination with beautiful light installations produced by community groups from upcycled materials in keeping with the theme of Oceans & Seas. Local groups, schools, charities, historic buildings, and the local Leisure centre all host events in the Festival programme which offers a huge choice with something for everyone.
The last Sunday of the Festival hosts the Haggis and Whisky festival. Butchers from across Scotland and beyond travel to Oban Distillery to enter their haggis in the hope of winning the coveted Golden Haggis award. Running alongside the Golden Haggis Award is the People’s Choice award. Here the public can taste all the haggis and vote for their favourite!
The Hebrides
Visiting the Isle of Mull in November offers a unique and tranquil experience, far removed from the busier summer months. Despite the cooler weather, there’s still plenty to see and do for those who appreciate Scotland’s natural beauty and wildlife. Mull has been dubbed “Eagle Island” and is one of the best places in the UK to see white tailed sea eagles and golden eagles.
Ferry to Mull: The ferry takes you to Craignure and takes around 40 mins. There are six ferries a day during November.
Scotland 4 Day Itinerary
The island’s varied landscapes are perfect for outdoor activities, with fewer crowds making it a peaceful time for hiking and exploring. One of the most popular walks is to Ben More, Mull’s only Munro, where climbers are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Coastal walks along the shores of Loch na Keal or Calgary Bay are equally stunning, with dramatic seascapes and the chance to spot seals and other marine life.
Calgary Beach is a must-visit for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters, surrounded by dramatic hills and coastal scenery. The beach is a favourite spot for photographers and nature lovers. Nearby, you can explore the Calgary Art in Nature woodland walk, featuring sculptures and art installations.
Visit Duart Castle, the ancestral home of Clan Maclean. Though November is outside the main tourist season and the castle itself will be closed, the grounds are still accessible, and the impressive silhouette of the castle against the sea is a dramatic sight.
A visit to Ardalanish Isle of Mull Weavers offers a unique insight into Scotland’s rich textile heritage. Set on a working farm, Ardalanish produces beautifully crafted, organic tweed and wool products using traditional looms. Tourists can explore the weaving process, learn about sustainable farming, and enjoy the stunning coastal landscapes of the Isle of Mull. The farm shop features locally made items, making it an ideal destination for those seeking authentic Scottish craftsmanship and natural beauty.
For a taste of local culture, you can visit the island’s small villages, such as Tobermory, known for its colourful waterfront. Cafés and shops may be quieter, but you’ll find cosy spots to warm up with a hot drink or sample local seafood, including freshly caught fish or scallops. Pop into Tackle and Books for a browse or stop by Isle of Mull Silver to pick up a traditional Scottish Quaich or kilt pin.
Crannich Holiday Caravans and Campsite has hardstanding pitches with electric hook-ups and is open until December 31st, 2024. The site has been designed with privacy between pitches in mind and provides a peaceful base for your exploration of Mull. Everyy pitch has panoramic views of the stunning landscapes that surround the site.
The tiny Isle of Coll (just 13 miles long by 3 miles wide) offers a peaceful and off-the-beaten-path experience for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty in Scotland in November.
The island has breathtaking beaches, diverse wildlife and even its own mascot in the shape of the Highland Cow with a twisted horn, Twisty. The island is rich in history and you can see ancient castles like Breachacha or visit the mysterious standing stones at Totronald.
Scotland 4 Day Itinerary
Coll is a designated Dark Sky Community, making it is one of the best places in the UK for stargazing. In November, the long nights and minimal light pollution make it an ideal time to witness stunning constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way on clear nights. It’s also a good time to catch the Northern Lights if you’re lucky, as the aurora borealis can sometimes be seen from the island.
This year there is a special stargazing weekend on Coll on 2nd & 3rd November in conjunction with Cosmos Planetarium – Coll and the Cosmos. No prior knowledge is required for the weekend of stargazing activities guided by experts with top notch equipment to try out. In case of poor weather, the fully digital, immersive indoor Planetarium will ensure that there is plenty of stargazing on offer even if it clouds over.
During the day, you can try solar observing with Hydrogen Alpha and white light solar telescopes that let you get close-up views of the sun and its flares, filaments and sun-spots,
The island’s rugged charm and unspoiled landscapes provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration and wildlife watching. Nature lovers will enjoy the island’s rich wildlife, which is still active in November. Coll’s coastlines and wetlands are home to a variety of birds, including migrating species and local favourites like barnacle geese and curlews. Seals can often be spotted along the shore, and the island’s natural beauty, with its wild beaches, dunes, and machair, is perfect for quiet walks.
Explore the village of Arinagour, the island’s main settlement, with its whitewashed cottages and scenic harbour. The island’s award winning Coll Hotel is open all year as a pub, hotel and highly recommended restaurant which serves fresh, local produce much of which is from the Hebrides. The Island Cafe, again serving local produce, is also open all year round.
There is a campervan site at An Cridhe in Arinagour on Coll open all year round which is bookable on the website An Cridhe, translating as “the heart”, is the island’s excellent community centre and serves as a hub for the 200 strong island community and visitors alike.
Six ferries a day link Mull with Oban, giving you plenty of flexibility around departure times. So, if you don’t want to stay another night in Oban, you can take an early ferry and press on with the next stage of your road trip.
There is less choice from Coll with four ferries a week that depart Coll at 1245 and arrive in Oban at 1525. During the Winter when the light fades early we’d recommend staying an extra night in Oban and setting off on the final leg of your journey in the morning.
The West Coast & Loch Lomond
From Oban take the A816 south towards Kilmelford. If you want to stretch your legs and try to spot some seals or otters take a little detour down the B8002 to Ardfern, a pretty Argyll village. You can walk to the end of the peninsula and watch the water for seals, otters and maybe even a dolphin.
Otherwise continue south on the A816 and stop off at the Nether Largie Standing Stones and the Dunadd Iron Age Fort.
Surrounded by the scenery of Kilmartin Glen, these stones, dating back over 5,000 years, form part of a larger complex of cairns and monuments. Visitors can explore the site to experience the mysterious atmosphere and marvel at the alignment of the stones, which are thought to have been used for rituals or astronomical purposes.
Dunadd Fort was once the royal stronghold of the early kingdom of Dalriada. Visitors can explore the ancient fort, famous for its carved footprint used in royal coronations, and enjoy breathtaking views from the summit over Kilmartin Glen. The fort offers a unique glimpse into Scotland’s early history, with ancient carvings and artefacts connecting visitors to its royal past.
By prior arrangement it is possible to visit Duntrune Castle, on the shores of Loch Crinan, for a short tour. The Castle, built in the 12th Century is one of the oldest occupied castles in Scotland and still home to the Malcolm family. It has a long history, particularly associated with the Clan Campbell. The castle famously survived a siege by the rival Clan MacDonald during the 17th century, and a tale of the ghostly piper of Duntrune adds to its intrigue. As this is not generally open to the public it is a wonderful way to get a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past and clan heritage.
At Lochgilphead join the A83 which sweeps around the shore of Loch Fyne (sea loch famous for its oysters) passing Inveraray Castle, a magnificent 18th-century castle and the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll, chief of Clan Campbell on your way to Loch Lomond. The Castle is not open during the Winter, however, so if you want to make a stop choose Inveraray. Inveraray is a picturesque town on the banks of Loch Fyne.
Continuing on to Loch Lomond, you will encounter the Rest and Be Thankful Pass, a scenic mountain pass in the Arrochar Alps offering breathtaking views. Named by weary soldiers who built the military road in the 18th century, the pass provides a dramatic vantage point over rugged Highland landscapes. Continue on the A83 until you reach Loch Lomond.
Even in November, Loch Lomond’s beauty is striking. You can take a number of peaceful walks around Loch Lomond, enjoying panoramic views of the water and surrounding hills without the usual tourist crush.
The nearby area offers great walking trails. You can take the Luss Heritage Trail, which offers gentle paths through the village and surrounding countryside.
Some local boat trips operators such as Sweeney’s still run trips in November, offering the chance to see the loch from the water without the crowds.
The Loch Lomond Visitor Centre at Balmaha features exhibitions and interactive displays on the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, including its geology and the Highland Boundary Fault. In November, the centre is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Luss is known for its picturesque stone cottages and charming streets. A stroll through the village, with the backdrop of Loch Lomond and autumnal scenery, is perfect for those who enjoy a quiet, scenic atmosphere. The quaint village church, Luss Parish Church, with its beautiful stained glass and historic graveyard, is a must-visit. You may encounter the village’s resident Highland Coos – Harris and Skye.
After exploring, warm up in one of Luss’s restaurants or pubs. The Village Rest is a popular choice, known for its cosy atmosphere and locally sourced Scottish dishes. The Loch Lomond Arms Hotel provides a more upscale experience, offering traditional Scottish meals with a modern twist.
In November you can ark p on the Shores of Loch Lomond. You don’t need a permit to park and camp in the National Park during the off-season but you must use a spot designated for campervans or keep to laybys in the road network. These are designed for short overnight stops, not extended stays. Please camp responsibly, leaving the site as you found it. You must follow the official advice on campervanning in the Loch Lomond National Park. During this time of year, park rangers oversee the area, and while camping is allowed, they may check in to ensure everything is in order.
Stay at Luss Campsite with shore side motorhome pitches which is open throughout November.
From Luss it is just under a 2 hour drive back to Edinburgh or Big Sky Campers HQ in the morning.
Scotland
Big Sky Campers is based in Rosyth, just outside Edinburgh. We offer our customers free, secure parking for the duration of their hire. We also will pick customers up from nearby transport links from Edinburgh. There is a regular train service from Edinburgh to Inverkeithing. We are also served by the airport bus.
All our campervans for hire come fully equipped with everything you will need for a road trip through the Scottish Highlands in November. They are fully insulated and heated. During the off peak season (November to February) when the days are shorter and we are less busy we offer morning pick ups and later return times.
There are no hidden extras – everything is included in the price, including unlimited mileage, insurance for one driver, gas bottle, camping accessories, bedding, towels and extra sets of bedding and blankets if requested.
+44 (0)7768 973804