First, we are going to Ireland then Scotland in the first couple of weeks in May 2025. I heard that I (US citizen) will now need ETIAS paperwork for my visit to Scotland. I went to the website to fill out the form and it does not offer the UK as an option. When will it be added to the list and will I get it in time before my trip?
Secondly, I have virtually 7 days in Scotland (arrive the 16th early am and fly out on the 23rd) and i would really love to drive the nc500, but not sure i can get in a visit to Skye, Jacobite train, glencoe etc.. My question is, should I do the nc 500 or concentrate more the southwestern side. Just a FYI, I love nature (hikes might take too much time but love the views), castles, waterfalls and I plan on finishing up my last day and half in Edinburgh. I keep telling myself I can do it all, but know deep down I'm going to have to make concessions. Also, I'm driving and really want to do the
Bealach na Bà :)
Appreciate any and all comments.
Tony
The ETIAS is not yet in effect but that's for the EU. The UK (where you are going) is now using the ETA process, which is easy and costs £10. You and every member of your party will need to fill it out and pay the fee. It's easiest to do it on the app (I just did it a week or so ago, and it took hardly any time). The link below will show you how to get the app.
For more details, visit this link: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/using-the-uk-eta-app
Nice trip Tony, sounds amazing! Right you are about the ETIAS, the UK is not part of the system yet, so just watch updates as your trip gets closer. The only ones that didn't announce when it’d be added is them. So just keep an eye on it.
The NC500 is epic but takes time as is Scotland. I’d do Bealach na Bà, if you really want to, and soak in those views, but go for it instead of Skye or Glencoe so you’re not running. If you want to get your feet wet (figuratively, of course), spend more time in the southwest where the castles and waterfalls won’t feel so much like a blur as it will be more time to soak them in without the crazy lengthy drives to get there. Either way you’ll have a great time!
With all due respect, Madmax is ong. The UK will never be part of ETIAS as it is for EU countries. The UK is no longer in the EU.
The ETA mentioned by Mardee with the correct link is what you need for the UK.
Edit-
I deleted my post as I had an incorrect link Thanks friends for letting me know.
Just to underline that Mardee and Frank are correct here.
To revert to your itinerary question, trying to do the South West (Dumfries and Galloway) and the NC500 is just pushing it too far. The two regions are over 300 miles apart, a pretty full day of driving
In the South West it would be the SWC 300 you were doing.
You essentially have 5 days. The NC500 is usually seen as a one week itinerary, although making compromises and long days you could do it in 3.
I suspect that is hard going especially if you are adding in an extra like the Bealach.
Skye you need two or three days.
The steam train is a full day in an already packed itinerary. I think for that you need to content yourself with driving the parallel road and doing the "obligatory" photo stop at Glenfinnan.
In short the maths do not add up. This is getting very close to impossible IMO in the time available. If not impossible it is not enjoyable.
I would suggest you research the SWC300 (there are threads on this forum on it to help)
That far more fits your time frame and is itself a great road journey, especially if you return to Edinburgh via the Scottish Borders
Dumfries and Galloway are the much under rated part of Scotland and don't figure on the tourist radar. This is a shame as they have a lot to offer to the tourist. There are lochs and serious mountains. Glen Trool is the equal of any in the highlands. It also has the coast with some suoper beaches. There are ruined castles and abbeys along with sub tropical gardens and stately homes. There is also some superb walking too - check out the Walk Highlands website
Come back another time and spend the full two weeks exploring what the North has to offer!