SCOTLAND'S LESSER-KNOWN ROAD TRIP ROUTES

With some of us unable to head abroad for our fix of blue skies and sunshine, it's worth looking closer to home - Scotland's rugged beauty can rival even the most striking landscapes of Italy, Spain, and Greece.

Its most famous route is undoubtedly the North Coast 500, but its popularity also means it is one of the busiest routes in the UK. So, with more of us than ever planning to enjoy a staycation, here we've rounded up their top 5 lesser-known Scottish road trips to try.

Perthshire Tourist Route (43 miles)



Short but spectacular, the Perthshire Tourist Route starts just north of Dunblane and offers non-stop scenery on an epic scale. Winding its way through the heart of Scotland, visitors can drink in the ever-changing landscapes. Highlights include the covered slopes of the rugged Sma' Glen and Crieff Hydro, a Victorian spa. There are also several distilleries enroute where you can sample local whisky, but please remember never to drink and drive.



Moray Firth Route (80 miles)



Ideal for those looking to travel at a slow and steady pace, the Moray Firth Route is a meandering journey from Inverness to Loch Fleet, via the glittering waters of the Beauly Firth, Cromarty Firth and Dornoch Firth. Along the drive, pass through rugged landscapes of Easter Ross and Sutherland, two of the most breath-taking and untouched parts of Scotland.



Stretch your legs with a stroll to Rogie Falls and cross the impressive suspension bridge over the Black Water river. If travelling in August or September, you may be lucky enough to spot wild salmon leaping upstream. Topped by a mast, ...