Scotland is a dream for landscape lovers, with dramatic scenery unfolding at every turn. A journey from Edinburgh to Oban offers a perfect mix of historic landmarks, rugged hills, and shimmering lochs—ideal for anyone keen to capture the beauty of the Scottish countryside with a camera in hand.
Edinburgh and Holyrood Park
Our trip began with three days in Edinburgh, a city full of charm and history. While the cobbled streets and lively pubs are worth exploring, the highlight for me was the climb up Arthur’s Seat. This extinct volcano rises above the city and rewards hikers with sweeping views over Edinburgh and the surrounding hills. The climb is a little steep in parts, but reaching the top is worth every step. We spent several hours wandering the trails of Holyrood Park, soaking in the views and enjoying a welcome escape from the bustle of the city.
At the foot of the hill lies St. Margaret’s Loch, a small lake where water birds gather and the slopes are reflected on calm days. It’s a peaceful spot that feels worlds away from the city streets just a short walk away.
The Drive West
After exploring Edinburgh, we picked up a rental car and set out toward Oban. The journey itself was an adventure, with countless stops along the way to photograph castles, lochs, and rolling hills.
One of the first major landmarks is Stirling Castle, perched dramatically above the town. It’s one of Scotland’s most famous fortresses, and even from a distance, its silhouette is striking.
A little further along, we visited Doune Castle, a smaller but equally atmospheric site. With its riverside setting and golden hills as a backdrop, it felt almost untouched by time.
Continuing along the route, we came across Loch Lubnaig, a long, narrow lake nestled between forested hills. Even under heavy clouds, the water reflected the muted colors beautifully, creating a scene that demanded a pause.
Castles and Lochs
Perhaps the most spectacular stop was Kilchurn Castle, which sits on the banks of Loch Awe. The ruined fortress against the backdrop of misty mountains and calm waters is a classic Scottish image. From the right angle, the view looks like something lifted from a postcard, and it’s one of those places that photographers could spend hours capturing from different perspectives.
The Road to Oban
Driving through the Highlands, it feels like every bend reveals a new landscape worth photographing. Rolling fields, distant peaks, and quiet lochs make it nearly impossible not to stop frequently. Even the local residents—Scotland’s famously photogenic Highland cows—sometimes wander close to the roadside, providing the perfect bonus subject for your camera.
Final Thoughts
Though our week in Scotland felt far too short, the drive from Edinburgh to Oban was one of the most memorable parts of the trip. The mix of history, wild scenery, and unexpected encounters along the way makes this route a must for travelers who want to capture the essence of Scotland in a single journey.
