Scotland’s lesser-known road trip crowned one of world’s best for 2025 – and it’s not the NC500

A SCOTS road trip has been crowned one of the world’s best – and it’s not the famous NC500.

While the North Coast 500, dubbed Scotland’s Route 66, draws thousands of tourists every year, a lesser-known road trip has made it into the world’s top ten.

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The Highland Tourist Route is a dream for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

And experts at InsureandGo have listed it as one of the best road trips for 2025.

This scenic drive takes you past four stunning castles, the Culloden Battlefield, Fort George, and through the breathtaking Cairngorms National Park.

Spanning just 116 miles, the route starts in Aberdeen and finishes in Inverness, taking around three hours to complete by car.

It’s the perfect way to soak up some of Scotland’s most iconic sights.

Named alongside legendary routes like the Amalfi Coast Road in Italy and the Florida Keys in the US, the Highland Tourist Route is a must-do for travellers looking to explore as much as they can.

On average, the route has more than nine attractions for every 10 miles.

It takes in the rugged Scots coastline and the stunning scenery of the Highlands.

While the Highland Tourist Route ranks seventh on the list, several other UK routes are named on the list.

The Peak District in England tops the list, while the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland places fifth, and the Coastal Way in Wales is ranked ninth.

CEO at InsureandGo Chris Rolland said: “Road trips are a fantastic way to explore a country, whether you’re joining an organised bus tour, or renting a car to explore on your own terms.

“While many routes worldwide are already celebrated for being some of the world’s most picturesque, we were curious to discover which ones are jam-packed with exciting landmarks and attractions, and which offer more remote experiences where it’s the scenery and nature that really shines.

“It’s interesting to see UK road trips ranking so highly, standing shoulder to shoulder with some of the world’s most iconic routes.

“Whether you’re planning a staycation or venturing further afield to some of the globe’s most thrilling drives, travel insurance is your roadside companion for those moments that aren’t in the travel brochure, like an unexpected illness in a remote location, or a minor accident on an unfamiliar road.

“At the end of the day, road trips are about more than the destination, it’s the freedom to explore and the peace of mind to embrace spontaneity along the way.

“Comprehensive travel insurance is there to give you the confidence to chase your adventure without worry, making the difference between a tiny hiccup and a major travel disruption.”