Travel

Driving Tips For Scottish Roads

We are desperate to have a road trip to Scotland!  There is so much to see.  But we would need to make sure our car was in perfect condition if we decided to book a cottage in the isolated highlands like we hope too!  It might be a beautiful part of the UK but its very remote.  We would want to make sure our tyres were also checked before attempting such a prolonged journey on Scottish roads.  The last thing you want is to be stuck in the middle of nowhere! Even more so if your driving in winter. 

Here are a few tips to navigate Scottish roads more safely. 

Check Your Tyres

Long lasting Tyres can be purchased in Stirling from the garage service centre Fife Autocentre.  Then you can continue your way to the highlands feeling more reassured.  Especially when you consider you have 30,000 km² to explore your tyres need to be ready for the challenges ahead.  You need them to have a good grip on Scottish roads. 

Be Aware of Scottish Road Conditions

Some of the road surfaces in the highlands are in bad condition so you don’t want to drive too fast.  Poor road conditions also lead to more tyre damage so make sure you keep a visual check on how they are doing throughout your journey. 

There are also lots of windy roads that really impact the visibility of oncoming vehicles.  You need to bear that in mind and adjust your speed accordingly.  If your tyres are in poor condition breaking distances will be compromised.   

Some Scottish roads are particularly dangerous such as Bealach na  and Skyfall Road.  You will confront single mountain tracks that curve quite dramatically and steep hills.  They are very picturesque, but you do need to proceed with caution.   

Especially as some are busy with tourists and have sharp bends in the road.  Skyfall Road is famous for appearing in a Bond film so that one is always going to draw the crowds even though its only a single track. 

Watch out for Animals

animals on road

Sheep and highland cows can often cross onto the road so be aware of them.  You might even spot red deer if you are lucky as you navigate the highland roads.  Just be patient if any animals cause a delay to your journey when they block the single track.  You might have to make a sudden stop.  In this case its important to make sure your tyres are at the correct pressure.  If you have low tyre pressure your car reactions won’t be as fast, which could lead to an accident.

Take Your Time

Apparently overtaking cars and constantly changing lanes to try and get in the faster one doesn’t really help them get to their destination any quicker.  So, take your time just appreciate the scenic Scottish roads instead.