Gairloch
Gairloch
Wick
Wick
Train Driving

Gairloch to Wick

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Gairloch to Wick covers approximately 230 km, taking you from the west coast to the historic town of Wick in Caithness. By car, the route follows the A832, A835, and A9, offering a scenic drive through the heart of the Highlands. Public transport is less direct, requiring a bus to Inverness, a train to Wick, and a local bus to the town center. This route is ideal for those looking to explore the diverse landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and the historic towns of the north.

Total Distance: 230 km driving distance, 150 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is the fastest method, taking approximately 3.75 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most cost-effective option for this route.
Compare Gairloch to Wick Routes
Train
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 5 hours 30 mins 3 hours 45 mins
Avg Price 55-85 GBP 40-55 GBP
Operator ScotRail Personal Vehicle
Route Bus to Inverness, train to Wick. A832 to A835, A9 to Wick.
Tip The train from Inverness to Wick is a scenic route through the Highlands. The A9 can be busy; allow extra time for your journey.
Travel Tips
  • Train Connections
    Check the ScotRail timetable for the Inverness to Wick connection.
  • Fueling
    Fill up in Inverness to avoid higher prices in smaller towns.
  • Traffic
    Check for roadworks on the A9 before you depart.
  • Booking
    Book train tickets in advance to save money on your journey.
  • Weather
    Be prepared for wind and rain, as the north can be quite exposed.
Safety Tips
  • Driving Safety
    Stay alert on the A9, as it is a long and sometimes busy road.
  • Wildlife
    Watch for deer on the roads near Gairloch, especially at night.
  • Emergency Prep
    Keep a spare tire and basic tools in your car.
  • Communication
    Ensure your phone is charged and you have a backup power bank.
People Also Ask
  • Is Wick worth visiting?
    Yes, it is a historic town with a major port and easy access to the coast.
  • How do I get to Wick by train?
    Wick has its own train station on the main line between Inverness and Wick.
  • What is the distance from Gairloch?
    It is approximately 230 km by road.
  • Are there hotels in Wick?
    Yes, there are several hotels and guesthouses in the town center.
  • Can I drive this in one day?
    Yes, it is a manageable drive for a single day with regular breaks.
Quick Info
  • From Gairloch, Scotland, United Kingdom
  • To Wick, Scotland, United Kingdom
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

May to September for the best weather and access to local attractions.

Things to Do in Wick
1
Wick Heritage Museum
Learn about the history of Wick in this local museum.
2
Old Pulteney Distillery
Visit this world-famous distillery and enjoy a tour and tasting.
3
Wick Harbour
Watch the fishing boats and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of this major port.
4
Castle Sinclair Girnigoe
Explore the ruins of this nearby historic castle, which is one of the most beautiful in Scotland.
Tags
Gairloch to Wick travel to Wick Scotland road trip A9 route Wick travel Highlands to Caithness driving Gairloch to Wick ScotRail Scottish travel guide Wick town