campervan tour highlands

Campervan tour: Skye and Highlands

A road trip by campervan to the most beautiful sites from edinburgh to the isle of skye..

Whether this is your first road trip or you are an adept of "van life", Scotland is the ideal place for this beautiful adventure! Freedom is the key word of this van tour to discover the most beautiful Scottish sites during one week. Set out with your home on wheels to visit the Trossachs and Cairngorms National Parks, the magnificent Isle of Skye, Loch Lomond, the Quiraings, not to mention intriguing Edinburgh! Every evening, you choose where to sleep, classic or wilderness camping, and in the morning, sip your coffee or tea before a magnificent landscape, listening to the birds singing and watching the sun rise...

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A real scottish adventure.

Explore Scotland's most beautiful sites with a fully equipped campervan.

The best hikes

Hiking near Loch Lomond and the most beautiful peaks in Scotland.

Stunning landscapes

Enjoy the stunning view of Glen Etive at sunset and wake up in your van.

Highlights of Scotland

Visit Edinburgh and its famous castle.

Trip Itinerary

Check out or itinerary, don't forget we can customize this trip ! We can’t wait to show you around!

Itinerary Map

Pricing Chart

Our “from” price is based on mid-season prices and for a group of 8 people.

What's included ?

• Trip organisation (customisation and bookings)
• Campervan rental
• Accomodation
• All Breakfasts
• Personalised guidebook
• All ferry crossings
• 24/7 emergency telephone support
• Navigation App with preloaded walking routes and maps

What's not included ?

• Lunches and dinners
• Entry fees to attractions such as distilleries or museums

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Scottish Highlands Tour

The Highlands of Scotland are a beautiful and rugged area that offer a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. One great way to explore the region is by renting a motorhome from Easicampers in Edinburgh. With a motorhome, you have the freedom to travel at your own pace and visit the many different areas of the Highlands without having to worry about finding a place to stay each night.

When planning your trip, there are several key things to keep in mind. The first is that the weather in the Highlands can be unpredictable, so it is important to pack accordingly. Be sure to bring warm clothing, waterproof gear, and sturdy walking shoes.

Another important thing to keep in mind is that the Highlands are a very rural area, and services can be limited. Make sure to plan your route and stops in advance, and be sure to fill up with gas and stock up on supplies whenever you can.

Once you are on the road, there are many different places to visit in the Highlands. Some of the most popular destinations include:

• Loch Ness: This famous loch is home to the legendary Loch Ness Monster and is a popular spot for boat tours and monster-spotting.
• The Isle of Skye: This island is known for its rugged beauty and is home to many different types of wildlife, including eagles and otters.
• The Cairngorms National Park: This park is home to a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and wildlife watching.
• The West Coast: This area is known for its stunning coastal scenery and is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and dolphin watching.
• The Orkney Islands: These islands are located off the northeastern coast of Scotland and are home to a wide range of historical and cultural sites, including ancient stone circles and Viking settlements.

In addition to these destinations, there are many other interesting places to visit throughout the Highlands, including small villages and towns, historic sites, and local distilleries.

When it comes to finding places to stay overnight, there are many different options available, including campsites, RV parks, and even wild camping. Some popular camping spots include:

• Glencoe: This area is known for its stunning mountain scenery and is home to several different campsites.
• The Black Isle: This area is located just north of Inverness and is home to several different campsites and RV parks.
• The Orkney Islands: These islands are home to a wide range of different campsites, including some that are located on the beach.

Overall, the Highlands of Scotland are a beautiful and diverse region that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or outdoor activities, there is something for you to enjoy. Renting a motorhome from Easicampers in Edinburgh is a great way to explore the region, as it allows you to travel at your own pace and see everything the Highlands have to offer.

To book one of our fantastic motorhomes for a tour of the magical Scottish Highlands contact us on 01942 778899 or visit our dedicated website on https://easicampervanhire.com/campervan-hire-edinburgh-airport/

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For Every Booking, We Plant a Tree

7 Day/6 Night Tour of North West Highlands and Skye

From Four Seasons Campers head west towards Balloch and take the A82 north on the West side of Loch Lomond towards Fort William taking in the spectacular scenery of Rannoch Moor and Glencoe on route. Lots of photography opportunities. Camp the first night either at the Campsite at Glencoe   where if you ring and book you can get a discount through our Privilege membership or stay at Invercoe campsite on the Loch.

From here continue along the A82 towards Fort William to The Neptunes Staircase which is a series of canal locks that link the Caledonian Canal to the open sea and is well worth a visit. At this time of year you should spot some beautiful Scandinavian yachts coming through the canal on their way to the beautiful West Coast and Inner Hebrides. Continue past Neptunes Staircase on the A830 towards Arisaig and Mallaig. The road runs parallel to the Jacobite Steam train railway line made famous in Harry Potter as the route the Hogwarts Express took. At Glenfinnan you can visit the Glenfinnan monument which sits at the head of Loch Sheil and was built as a monument to the final uprising by Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobites rising. Turn off the A830 at Arisaig where there are an abundance of campsites and beautiful beaches that look towards the Inner Hebridean Islands of Eigg and Rhum. The Beach past Traigh was made famous in the movie “Local Hero.” If you would like a campsite, Sunnyside Campsite is very nice but small, so I would recommend booking .

From Arisaig continue onto the fishing port of Mallaig where you can get the ferry to Skye . The campervan is charged as a car so it is not expensive. Book in advance or be prepared to wait a few hours at this time of year (there are restaurants in Mallaig where you can wait and wander around the harbour area). Another option is to take a day trip to Britain’s most remote mainland pub at Inverie on the Knoydart peninsular from Mallaig. The Old Forge can only be accessed by boat and does excellent seafood and often has impromptu music playing. Wild camping is an option but if you are looking for a campsite then there is one located at Glenbrittle which is close to some great scenery and the Talisker Whisky Distillery which does fantastic tours. A walk to the Fairy Pools which are located along the road from Merkadale to Glenbrittle is recommended.  I would also recommend staying up the north of the island and visiting Dunvegan Castle and stay at the Caravan and Camping site at Loch Greshornish which is ¼ mile walk from a wonderful place to eat called Edinbane Inn  

From Skye drive back to the mainland over the Skye bridge through Kyle of Lochalsh. You can either take the A890 towards Wester Ross or take a slight detour north after the bridge round to Plockton which is a really pretty seaside village with palm trees and some great pubs. Once on the A890 continue onto the Achnasheen and then head west along the A832 towards Loch Maree and onto Gairloch where there are some great beaches and ample opportunity for wild camping or camp at Sands Campsite on the beach.

Head north towards the northern ferry port of Ullapool for some lively music, great pubs and fantastic fish and chips! The campsite at Ullapool is located on the stony beach and there are amazing views along Loch Broom towards the Outer Hebrides or alternatively you may wish to head an hour further north to either Achiltibuie where there is a new campsite called Port a bhaigh and lovely pub or to Achmelvic where there is a wonderful beach and campsite. There are plenty of walks around Ullapool either along near the lighthouse at Rhue or in the surrounding area of Assynt . Stac Pollaidh at 613 metres offers a great small hill with incredible views over the lochans of Inverpolly for some amazing photos and out towards the Summer Isles. 

From here head south and head through Inverness and then stop at the Culloden Battle Field which is a National trust attraction and offers a great interactive and atmospheric experience. It is located 20 minutes east of Inverness. Drive down the A9 and head back to the east side of Loch Lomond to either Cashel Campsite or Milarrochy Bay   which are less than 30 min drive to Four Seasons Campers in the morning and you can use your Privilege Membership at both.

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The Perfect 7 Day Motorhome Itinerary For Scotland

Last Updated on 7 November 2022

*This post may contain affiliate links , which means that if you decide to make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a commission at no extra cost to you! This allows me to continue bringing you valuable content for free and any purchases you make via these links are gratefully appreciated. Please refer to my Disclosures for more information.*

Fancy a road trip through scotland.

An enchanting place bound to capture your imagination the Scottish Highlands are one of the most unique places to visit in Europe ! Full of mighty mountains and winding roads that snake across the moors and pass by roaring rivers and remote crofters cottages, Scotland is the perfect destination for a 7 day motorhome itinerary! It’s a land full of lochs, myths, distilleries, tweed, forests, wildlife, whiskey, waterfalls and castles, and boasts some of the most beautiful mountain scenery and natural wonders in Europe ! So if your soul is yearning for wilderness, adventure and freedom, then a Scottish road trip is for you!

Tip: This one week road trip itinerary for Scotland includes both on and off site options for overnight parking. On site means on a campsite where there are facilities. Always phone ahead to check availability or pre-book these to avoid disappointment, and check which months they are open as some campsites close off peak. Off site means not on a campsite, so there may be no facilities, and availability cannot be guaranteed.

Scotland itinerary overview

If you don’t want to spend all of your time driving but want to see some highlights of Scotland and experience a snippet of the NC500 (but don’t want to do the whole route), then this one week road trip itinerary is for you. Spanning ~690km (~430 miles) and on a mostly circular route (apart from a minimal detour off of the circular trail to/from Fort William, and to/from Drumnadrochit from Invermoriston for a campsite), this itinerary will allow you to see the best of Scotland in just 7 days with very little backtracking!

For ease, this 7 day motorhome itinerary for Scotland begins and ends in Inverness. Inverness is a good starting point for exploring the Scottish Highlands given its location and that it has a major airport. But you could arrive in Glasgow and begin this itinerary in Fort William (Day 4/5), or Edinburgh and begin in the Cairngorms (Day 5/6). If you are driving from other parts of the United Kingdom, then start at the point nearest to you!

Note: At the time of writing, the off site overnight spots noted on this itinerary for Scotland allowed overnight parking for motorhomes. But things can change quickly and no overnight parking signs may emerge in places which one allowed it. So do your own research and park at your own risk. The places with petrol stations and grocery shops may also change, as can campsites.

Know before you go

Always  check the entry requirements  for the country you are visiting to see if you will need a Visa to enter, and that you have enough validity left on your passport.

Always have a  good level of travel insurance  for every international trip. This is a non-negotiable part of any trip abroad, as the unexpected can happen.

When is the best time to visit Scotland?

Scotland is a year-round destination, but depending on your personal preference there are some months you may find better for travelling Scotland than others. Don’t expect tropical temperatures here (head to Balinese town of Ubud for those)!

Winter : From mid-November to early-March the temperatures can plummet, snow may fall (especially in the northern parts of Scotland) and the roads can be icy. Some campsites may be shut during this season.

Spring: Mid-March to early-June is a beautiful time to visit Scotland (and my personal favourite). The days are still crisp but the temperatures begin to climb (although it’s still a chilly time of the year). In early Spring, the foliage changes colour to pinks, oranges and yellows, which makes Scotland particularly picturesque!

Summer: From mid-June to mid-September you can expect temperatures to reach around 17°C (63°F). Prices in the Summer can rise as this is peak season. The Summer season in Scotland also coincides with Midge season (seriously), so if you don’t like getting chewed on by bugs, increased prices and general busyness, avoid the Summer!

Autumn (or Fall): Late-September to early-November sees the Autumn season. The colours of the landscape change and the Summer crowds fade away. Temperatures do begin to drop as Winter approaches, but like Spring, Autumn is an equally good time to visit Scotland!

What is the currency in Scotland?

The currency in Scotland is the Great British Pound (£) .

In Scotland, the notes are printed by the Bank of Scotland so look a little different to those found in other parts of the United Kingdom. However they are still legal tender in the United Kingdom and should be accepted (it’s only in rare cases that they aren’t).

Day 1 of Scotland motorhome itinerary

Inverness to ullapool via lairg and knockan crag national nature reserve, useful information for day 1.

Total distance : 149km (~93 miles) Places with petrol stations: Inverness, Skiach Services, Lairg and Ullapool Grocery shops: Supermarkets in Inverness and Ullapool, and convenience stores in Lairg Overnight stop : Broomfield Holiday Park in Ullapool

Morning itinerary for Day 1

Get yourself to Inverness where you will begin your itinerary. Depart Inverness towards Lairg (79km/~49 miles). On your way, you will pass over Kessock Bridge which goes above the Beauly Firth and Moray Firth. Keep your eyes open for dolphins and seals, as they are residents here.

Tip : Fuel stations around the Scottish Highlands can be scarce, especially around the northwest coast. Top up your fuel tank before or in Lairg, as the next petrol station on this route after Lairg is in Ullapool (to my knowledge). You could also consider carrying some spare fuel with you just in case you run low.

Your first pit stop on this 7 day motorhome itinerary for Scotland is Lairg, where you can pause for lunch. There is a patch of hard ground on the A836 along the waterfront where you can park up just below Lairg Church of Scotland (GPS coordinates: 58° 1′ 28″ N, 4° 24′ 6″ W). Refuel with some lunch and take a wander to see The Wee Hoose.

Afternoon itinerary for Day 1

Continue on your road trip from Lairg to Ullapool where you will experience some dramatic Scottish scenery. This part of the itinerary will give you your first taste of driving the beautiful west coast of Scotland by motorhome, and offers a snippet of the famous NC500 (the Route 66 of Scotland) from Knockan to Ullapool! Be sure to make time for a stop at Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve for a cuppa and mountainside walk. Here you can learn more about the geology and early exploration of the area, and enjoy stunning views across mountains and lochs!

Tip: There is a parking area with toilets on the A835 for Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve. Just look out for the signs!

From Knockan Crag, hit the road again and take the short drive to Ullapool, which will be your first overnight stop on this one week road trip in Scotland. Stay at Broomfield Holiday Park for the night, and take the opportunity to wander down the picturesque Ullapool esplanade. Look out for resident seals in the harbour, enjoy the sunset over Loch Broom, grab some fudge or whiskey in one of the quaint seaside shops and perhaps indulge in some Fish and Chips before retiring to your motorhome bed!

Tip: There is an alternative campsite just before Ullapool on the A835 at Ardmair called Ardmair Point Caravan and Camping Park . Both have stunning coastal views, but Ardmair is out of Ullapool town. Both are popular touring sites on the NC500 route so be sure to phone ahead to check availability or book in advance.

Tip: There is a large supermarket in Ullapool so if you need to replenish your food, beer or other sweet treats now is the time to do so. Shops are few and far between on the next part of the route and are likely to be pricier convenience stores.

Day 2 of Scotland motorhome itinerary

Ullapool to kinlochewe via gairloch and beinn eighe national nature reserve, useful information for day 2.

Total distance : 122km (~76 miles) Places with petrol stations : Ullapool, Gairloch and Kinlochewe Grocery shops: Supermarket in Ullapool, and convenience stores in Gairloch and Kinlochewe Overnight stop: Kinlochewe Club Site (non-member fee applies) or off site at Slioch Terrace Carpark in Kinlochewe (GPS coordinates: 57° 36′ 15″ N, 5° 18′ 0″ W)

Morning itinerary for Day 2

Welcome to Day 2 of this 7 day motorhome itinerary for Scotland! Rise and shine early and wander down to Ullapool quay to enjoy the sunrise over Loch Broom. After breakfast, it’s time to get back on the road and enjoy some more of the northwest coast of Scotland. Head along the winding coastal roads to Gairloch, which will be todays lunch stop. Follow the parking signs when you arrive in Gairloch to find a parking spot. After lunch, enjoy a walk along the sandy beach before getting back on the road!

Tip: If you’d prefer to stay in Gairloch because of its sheer coastal beauty, Gairloch Holiday Park is a wonderful place to spend the night and has stunning views across the beach.

Afternoon itinerary for Day 2

Seatbelts firmly on, proceed further down the northwest coast and back inland to Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve. Park in the layby on the A832 for Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve on Loch Maree (a sign denotes where this is) and hike the mountainside (warning: this mountain walk is steep and hard work but you will be rewarded with spectacular views).

Head back down the mountainside and after a cuppa and some Scottish tablet to replenish your energy levels, jump back in your campervan and head down the road to the small mountain village of Kinlochewe where you will stay overnight. In Kinlochewe you have an option of on and off site parking. You can stay on site at Kinlochewe Club Site (non-member fee applies) or off site at Slioch Terrace Carpark in Kinlochewe (do your own research to check overnight parking is still permitted as things can change).

Day 3 of Scotland motorhome itinerary

Kinlochewe to drumnadrochit via eilean donan castle and invermoriston, useful information for day 3.

Total distance : 161km (~100 miles) Places with petrol stations : Kinlochewe, Inverinate, Shiel Bridge and Drumnadrochit Grocery shops : Convenience stores in Kinlochewe, Dornie and Drumnadrochit Overnight stop : Loch Ness Bay Camping in Drumnadrochit

Morning itinerary for Day 3

On day 3 of this 7 day motorhome itinerary for Scotland you will come away from the small section of the NC500 route that you have completed (Knockan to Kinlochewe via Ullapool and Gairloch) and see some famous Scottish sights! This morning, drive from Kinlochewe to Eilean Donan Castle where there is parking on site (note: driving via Achnasheen and along the A890 is a quicker route). Spend some time at Eilean Donan Castle, enjoying the magical surroundings and enchanting architecture!

Afternoon itinerary for Day 3

After lunch, continue your journey towards Drumnadrochit via Invermoriston where you can stop for a short time. Park at Invermoriston Falls Carpark (there are toilets here) and visit Invermoriston Falls and the Clog and Craft Shop for unique artisan items. You might even be lucky enough to see some Highland Cattle in Invermoriston, as they are sometimes in the field adjacent to the car park.

Jump back in your motorhome and continue your Scottish Highlands route towards Drumnadrochit for your first sight of the mighty Loch Ness. Spend the night in Drumnadrochit at Loch Ness Bay Camping on Borlum Farm. Before it gets dark, perhaps wander up to the Loch Ness Centre or walk to Urquhart Castle (both ~30 minute walk from Loch Ness Bay Camping). There are convenience stores in Drumnadrochit where you can replenish your stocks before heading back to your campsite for dinner.

Day 4 of Scotland motorhome itinerary

Drumnadrochit to fort william via fort augustus, loch lochy and the commando memorial, useful information for day 4.

Total distance : 84km (~52 miles) Places with petrol stations : Drumnadrochit, Fort Augustus and Fort William Grocery shops : Convenience stores in Fort Augustus and supermarkets in Fort William Overnight stop : Ben Nevis Holiday Park or Glen Nevis Caravan and Camping Park in Fort William

On this part of the journey, you will take a very short detour away from your pretty circular route across to Fort William (just 15km/~9 miles off of the circular route from Spean Bridge where you will continue the circular route tomorrow). But the few extra miles are worth it to visit Ben Nevis and you are in for more stunning mountain scenery along the way!

Morning itinerary for Day 4

Set off early for a leisurely drive towards Fort William from Drumnadrochit. Stop at Fort Augustus to take a wander along the Caledonian Canal and visit the shores of Loch Ness. Then, continue along the route past Loch Oich, and perhaps stop for a cuppa further on at one of the laybys along Loch Lochy. Pull in to the Commando Memorial (parking available) just before Spean Bridge which commemorates World War 2 commandos and offers stunning mountain scenery of Ben Nevis and adjoining peaks.

Afternoon itinerary for Day 4

Continue on to Fort William aiming to arrive around lunchtime at the Nevis Range Scenic Mountain Gondola . Spend the afternoon taking a ride up the Aonach Mor mountainside to enjoy panoramic views over the mountains, glens and lochs that surround! Once you return to ground level, head across to your chosen campsite for the evening!

Day 5 of Scotland motorhome itinerary

Fort william to the cairngorms national park via spean bridge, useful information for day 5.

Total distance : 111km (~69 miles) Places with petrol stations: Fort William, Newtonmore and Aviemore Grocery shops : Supermarkets in Fort William and Aviemore, and convenience stores in Newtonmore and Kingussie Overnight stop: Off site at the Cairngorm Mountain Lower Carpark (donations required and no facilities)

Morning itinerary for Day 5

Set off from Fort William towards the Cairngorms National Park which is one of the prettiest places in Scotland ! Stop in Spean Bridge Woollen Mill on the way, where they stock woollen items, gifts, artisan food and of course whiskey!

Afternoon itinerary for Day 5

Continue on towards the breathtaking Cairngorms National Park and head towards Glenmore Forest Park. There are various Forestry Commission parking areas around Glenmore which are very cheap but overnight parking is prohibited (hence you will park overnight at the Cairngorm Mountain Lower Carpark).

Stop in one of the parking areas along Loch Morlich to enjoy loch-side and forest walks, and a spot of lunch. Then, proceed just up the road to Allt Mor Carpark which is in amongst the ancient trees. From here, you can enjoy an abundance of forest and riverside walks and beautiful mountain scenery (just don’t get stung by a swarm of wasps like I did). After you are all walked out, retire up the road to the Cairngorm Mountain Lower Carpark where you will stay overnight.

Day 6 of Scotland motorhome itinerary

The cairngorms national park, useful information for day 6.

Total distance : N/A – dependent on how you chose to spend your day in the Cairngorms Places with petrol stations : Newtonmore and Aviemore Grocery shops: Supermarkets in Aviemore, and convenience stores in Newtonmore and Kingussie Overnight stop: Off site at the Cairngorm Mountain Lower Carpark (donations required and no facilities) or on site at Rothiemurchus Camp and Caravan Park (if you want some facilities tonight)

Itinerary for Day 6

Day 6 of this 7 day motorhome itinerary for Scotland is a day with minimal driving, as you will spend the day around the Cairngorms National Park as you wish. If you need to shorten this itinerary to a 6 day road trip through Scotland, then skip Day 6 and head straight to Day 7. However, if you do want to allocate a whole day to the Cairngorms then I doubt you’ll be disappointed! You can stay again tonight at the Cairngorm Mountain Lower Carpark or can proceed to a campsite with amenities if you wish, such as Rothiemurchus Camp and Caravan Park near Aviemore!

Things to do in the Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms National Park is an expansive and beautiful area of Scotland, full of mountains, lochs and wildlife. A place for adventure and wilderness seekers, there are an abundance of things to see and do here, so spend your day doing whatever brings you joy! Here are some suggestions for t hings to do in the Cairngorms on Day 6:

• Visit Loch Garten Osprey Centre to go bird watching, or enjoy forest and loch-side walks
• Spend some time in the mountain town of Aviemore
• Further explore the forest walks around Glenmore Forest Park
• Visit the Reindeer Centre in the Cairngorms and do a hill trip to find the freely roaming Reindeer
• Do an adrenaline fueled activity such as a watersport or mountain biking
• Visit a local brewery or castle

Day 7 of Scotland motorhome itinerary

The cairngorms national park to inverness, useful information for day 7.

Total distance : 66km (~41 miles) Places with petrol stations: Aviemore and Inverness Grocery shops : Supermarkets in Aviemore and Inverness Overnight stop : N/A – you have reached the end of your 7 day road trip through Scotland

Itinerary for Day 7

You have reached Day 7 of your 7 day motorhome itinerary for Scotland and it is time to return back to Inverness from the Cairngorms National Park. If you want to extend your trip to a 10 day itinerary, you could spend a few days in Inverness sightseeing and taking day trips from the city. If you are driving from other southerly parts of the United Kingdom you do not need to continue on to Inverness, but can begin your journey home from the Cairngorms.

Scotland itinerary summary

If you want to see some highlights of Scotland but don’t want to spend all of your time driving, then this 7 day motorhome road trip itinerary is for you! Although this is a motorhome itinerary, you could adapt this if you are touring Scotland by car for one week, just by booking hotels in the overnight stops. If you have less than 7 days in Scotland, this route could be shortened to a 5 day motorhome itinerary by cutting out Fort William and the full day spent in the Cairngorms. Ultimately, this is only a guide and is here to inspire your trip to Scotland, so pick the bits you like and roll with it!

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A scotland adventure - 3 spectacular routes to try.

Our campervan hire customers love Scotland. We do too. What's not to love about remote roads, wild wildernesses, misty lochs, dramatic coastlines, and crumbling castles? Not to mention the option of wild camping. Here are 3 of the most spectacular road trips in Scotland.

Scotland by campervan - route 1 - North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 is the grand tour of Scottish road trips. This jaw-droppingly beautiful 516 mile loop takes in some of Scotland's finest coastal scenery.

Allow 5 days for this road trip

We recommend at least 5 days to drive this route and to take in its full beauty. Many of the roads are single track so you'll be taking it slow anyway.

First stop from Inverness is the Black Isle peninsula. Not an island in itself, more a peninsula (bordered by two firths) that was originally covered by dark 'black' forests.

You could make a whole week of it here, but two definite must-dos are (1) a visit to the Black Isle Brewery to stock up the campervan fridge with delicious local beer, and (2) a magical walk along a wooded glen to see the twin Fairy Glen waterfalls.

Stay at the Fortrose Bay Campsite with spectacular views of the Moray Firth, it's one of the best places to view dolphins in their natural habitat.

Then it's time to head off along the only Alpine pass in Britain, the Bealach na Ba. This is Scotland by campervan at its very best. A hair-raising mountain road full of blind bends, steep slow inclines, and single-track lanes.

Stop a while at Applecross with its coral beaches and sandy bays, and dig in to delicious local shellfish at The Applecross Inn. From Applecross Campsite you can see of the Isle of Skye.

Next, narrow single-track country roads and exhilarating views are all that you'll encounter for the next 100 miles or so. Apart, of course, from sheep, lambs, and herds of Highland cattle, and the odd deer or two.

As you travel along the north eastern part of the North Coast 500 past Thurso and John O'Groats, this vast open landscape bombards you with incredible scenery and 'off the beaten track' opportunities.

Go off track for some wild camping

Be brave and go off-route in one of our adventure seeker campervans. They're equipped with everything you'll need for a wonderful wild camping experience. It's the best way to discover remote parts of the stunning Scottish landscape and to get close to nature.

We recommend that you read the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and their 'leave-no-trace' policy.

And check-out our campervan specifications. Our campers are well-equipped for a long-haul road trip, with good storage for those wild-camping extras, an on-board leisure battery, and hot air-blown heating for chillier nights.

Back to Inverness

Drive back down to Inverness along the spectacular eastern coast of the route, find time to see the 5000 year old burial tombs of Camster, and drop in to the Glenmorangie House distillery on the Ross-shire peninsula.

This is a just a snippet of this incredible road-trip campervan adventure. Find out more on The North Coast 500 website.

Scotland by campervan - route 2 - Stirling to Skye

Take the A85 from Edinburgh and stop off at Stirling. A visit to the castle is a must, it sits high up on a volcanic outcrop above the river Forth.

Then up into the Highlands, through The Trossachs National Park and past vast expanses of heather-clad Rannoch Moor,

Stop at the towering mountains of Glencoe at the top of a deep valley, and take a walk up to the 'Lost Valley'. Seen James Bond's Skyfall? This is where much of the filming was done.

More wild camping in the campervan?

Stay overnight for some wild camping at the hanging valley at Coire Gabhail (corrie of the booty). It's a beautiful valley created by a glacier, guarded on all sides by mountains, with a high flat meadow.

Ballachulish Bridge takes you over Loch Leven as you drive towards Fort William. Up over Spean Bridge, left at Invergarry on to the A87, and on through a beautiful wild mountain landscape over the steep Ratagan Pass.

If you only get to see one Scottish castle, it has to be Eilean Donan

Drive on past Loch Duich and stop a while at Eilean Donan Castle. A picturesque 13th century castle that's situated on an island at the point where three great sea lochs meet. It's surrounded by majestic scenery. Check out the Ardelve campsite, just across the bay from the castle.

On to Kyle of Lochalsh, home to the salmon and the stag. And then to Skye via the 1.5 mile long curved Skye Bridge, or by ferry from Gleneig to Kylerhea.

The Isle of Skye deserves an article of its own, we'll save this for another day.

Scotland by campervan - route 3 - Loch Lomond to Lochgilphead

A road trip of 220 miles past mountains and lochs and through glens and woodlands. This Scotland by campervan road trip is brimming with wildlife.

Travel north from Glasgow on the A82 and enter Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, a vast expanse of mountains, water and countryside. Pitch up for a few days at an idyllic loch-shore campsite and explore the richness of the landscape.

Loch Lomond is the largest loch in the UK (by surface area)

It's definitely worth taking a few days to explore around Loch Lomond and the Great Trossachs Forest. The Loch has more than 30 islands, including Inchmurrin, the largest fresh-water island in the British Isles. Catch the ferry or a waterbus to the island, and camp overnight.

There's so much to do here, including kayaking, canoeing, water-boarding and wake surfing. And the forests and woodlands along the loch shores are full of wildlife. See if you can spot red deer, otters, grouse, eagles, red squirrels, and many bird species.

This route is full of scenic beauty - simply 'Rest and Be Thankful'

Turn off onto the A83 at Tarbet, and you'll soon reach the village of Arrochar at the head of Loch Long, a sea loch. This village is set amongst some of the most beautiful scenery on the Cowal Peninsula.

On up to the highest point of the A83 to the 'Rest and Be Thankful' beauty spot. It'll be tough tearing yourselves away from such spectacular views looking down towards the old valley road in Glen Croe.

Stop off at Inveraray on Loch Fyne, visit the 15th century castle, and the Inveraray Jail - it's one of the finest and best preserved jails and courtrooms in the world.

Drive along the peaceful waters of Loch Fyne past wonderful pine forests to your final stop at Lochgilphead, at the head of Loch Gilp. Again, another wonderful destination to spend a few days exploring the beautiful coastline that's dotted with small hamlets and a series of small lochs.

Scotland by campervan - there's so much more!

We could have gone on forever, Scotland deserves so many more articles

So, get behind the wheel of one of our luxury campervans and experience the freedom of discovering remote Scotland and setting up camp where and when you choose.

We hope these 3 road-trips have whetted your appetite. Please do get in touch to chat about any aspect of our campervan hire, and your dream adventure road-trip to Scotland.

Laura and Dan

Dan & Laura

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10 Incredible Campervan Holidays in Scotland

Get behind the wheel of a caravan or campervan and experience the freedom that comes with being able to pull over and set up camp where and when you choose. There are a variety of caravan sites and holiday parks, many of which are surrounded by magnificent Scottish scenery. Here are just some of the destinations and routes that are worth the road trip. 

Jedburgh and Lauder Scottish Borders

Pettico Wick Bay

Whether you are passing through the Scottish Borders on your way to your final destination or are curious about this lovely region, you can pitch up at sites in Jedburgh and Lauder. You can explore the region’s wide open spaces at your leisure, with walking trails including the Southern Upland Way, the Borders Abbey Way, and St Cuthbert’s Way all easily accessible.

Isle of Skye Inner Hebrides

The Quiraing, Isle of Skye

When it comes to exploring Skye by car the possibilities are endless. The whole of Skye is spectacular to drive around no matter which direction you set off in. Pitch up on the shores of Loch Greshornish and soak up the views across the gleaming water to the hills beyond while Highland cattle and sheep graze nearby.

Glencoe to Fort William The Highlands

Buachaille Etive Mor and Buachaille Etive Beag seen from Glen Etive, Glencoe

The route from Glencoe to Fort William is one of Scotland’s essential road trips and a great places to go when you are touring Scotland in a motorhome. Before you embark on this unforgettable drive, why not spend a day or two parked at the foot of Glencoe’s awe-inspiring mountains, surrounded by lush woodlands managed by the National Trust for Scotland? Positively ripe for on-foot explorations, the West Highland Way and many other low and high-level walks pass through the vicinity. You can even bag a couple of Munros whilst you're here.

Blair Atholl The Highlands

Blair Castle, Blair Atholl, Perthshire

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Experience the epitome of relaxed camping against the magnificent backdrop of Blair Castle. Just a stone’s throw away from the popular holiday-maker destinations of Pitlochry, Aberfeldy and Dunkeld, this picturesque spot in the Cairngorms National Park allows you to get away from it all while still offering plenty to see and do. Pitch up at Blair Castle Caravan Park and enjoy a range of outdoor pursuits with Atholl Estates and take your pick from all kinds of adventure sports.

• On Public Transport Route
• Pets Welcome
• Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
• Level Access
• Wet room or level entry shower

Assynt to Sutherland The Highlands

The landscape of Assynt looking towards the peak of Stac Pollaidh

© Unsplash

"Dramatic" doesn’t even begin to cover the natural beauty of the journey from Assynt and into the heart of Sutherland country. Set off on the road to Inchnadamph and as you make your way north, pause at one of a seemingly endless number of trout-teeming lochs to cast your line in the company of golden eagles and great northern divers.

Continuing northwards, take in the dramatic peaks of Quinag before pushing on to the delightful crofting village of Scourie. Here you can park in the village's caravan and camping park overlooking the bay and experience some unforgettable sunrises and sunsets. Turn east at Laxford Bridge and follow the River Laxford on up to Loch Stack where you can spend the days climbing rugged mountains, following old stalkers' paths to secluded lochs, or simply sit back, relax and soak up the tranquility.

Loch Ness The Highlands

A view of Loch Ness, looking south

© VisitScotland/Stuart Brunton

Campervan sites in and around Loch Ness are ideal bases for exploring this famous area. There is the eco-friendly Loch Ness Shores site located on the sedate south shore, Loch Ness Bay Camping at Borlum Farm, Drumnadrochit, which sits directly opposite the Great Glen Way, and Loch Ness Highland Resort in scenic Fort Augustus. Surrounded by pine trees and with umpteen Munros and superlative cycling and kayaking right on your doorstep, it is hard to think of a more ideal place in which to experience Scotland’s great outdoors.

Glasgow to Machrihanish West Coast

The Machrihanish Dunes Golf Club, Machrihanish, Kintyre, Argyll

The Kintyre peninsula is one of Scotland’s most secluded destinations and the route leading to it is positively spellbinding. From central Glasgow, follow the A82 as it winds past Loch Lomond before embarking upon a breathtaking three-hour journey down the A83, sometimes referred to as “the long and winding road,” one of the UK’s most scenic car journeys.

Along the way, take in the Rest and Be Thankful Pass, skim the shores of the picturesque Loch Fyne, and pass the stately Inveraray Castle. Continue along the beautiful Kintyre coast to Campbeltown before making the short cross-country drive to Machrihanish. Here you can pitch up at the marvellously well-equipped Machrihanish Holiday Park which offers a complete range of home comforts including free WiFi and a view overlooking the acclaimed Machrihanish Dunes golf course. Don't forget to bring your clubs!

Scone Palace Perthshire

Scone Palace

Pull in to the estate of Scone Palace, the home of the legendary Stone of Destiny, and get back to nature at Scone Camping & Caravanning Club Site. Deer, buzzards, owls and ospreys have all been spotted here. You might even find yourself sharing your pitch with one of the site’s resident black rabbits. In addition to the palace, take the time to explore the grounds, including its beautifully manicured lawns and pinetum, and enjoy tranquil walks along the River Tay.

Edinburgh to St Andrews East Coast

The Royal Mile during the Edinburgh Fringe festival, Edinburgh

Drive across the Queensferry Crossing to Fife. Opened in 2017, it's neighboured by the Forth Road Bridge and the world-famous Forth Bridge - these three engineering wonders span three centuries. Continue along the scenic coastal route around the East Neuk, stopping to call in at pretty fishing villages like Anstruther, Elie and Pittenweem before you reach St Andrews, The Home of Golf. Stretch out the journey and spend a day or two in the East Neuk at Elie Holiday Park at Shell Bay, Woodland Gardens Caravan & Camping in Leven or St Monans Holiday Park.

Rest and Be Thankful Pass Arrochar, The Highlands

The Three Sisters, Glencoe

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Drive across the Arrochar Alps in Glen Croe to the Rest and Be Thankful pass where you can pull in to the roadside bay viewpoint and picnic area to stretch your legs and soak up the dramatic natural splendour before you. If you want to stay over for a night in the area, the Forestry Commission’s Honeymooner’s Bridge Car Park is nearby and has limited spaces for campervans and larger vehicles.

A campervan really does offer the perfect getaway for anyone who relishes the prospect of exploring the rural locales and remote corners of Scotland on the open road.

If you don't have your own campervan or motorhome, not to worry. There are plenty of places across Scotland where you can hire or rent - just make sure you plan and book in advance. 

Read our guide to motorhoming to find out more

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Campervan tour of Scottish Highlands creates precious memories for travel editor and family

• June 6, 2022

Mum and dad, two kids and a daft Labrador puppy for four nights in a Volkswagen campervan. What could possibly go wrong?

I’ll admit to a bit of apprehension as we embarked on our first campervan trip. Anyone who knows me knows I prefer a hotel to any type of camping.

But our van “Carrie” came with all mod cons including wi-fi and plug points so I took the plunge.

Purists would argue that it’s not camping if you can use your hairdryer, but with two girls of nine and seven who have a healthy YouTube addiction, the onboard wi-fi was arguably a must.

We collected Carrie from Staycation Scotland which is conveniently situated in Dalmuir, north Glasgow. It’s a short hop from there to Loch Lomond and onwards to the Highlands.

Owner Jules gave us a demonstration of how everything worked. From simple electric hook-up to how to pop the roof up and turn the seats into a comfortable bed in seconds. The whole run-through took about 30 minutes and we felt more confident we could handle this trip.

I’m sure the lovely Jules chuckled inwardly at the amount I had packed as we transferred it from our car to the van but it’s surprising what you can fit in a campervan. In no time we were on the open road heading towards Fort William and our first pre-booked campsite.

Carrie is a joy to drive. It’s no more difficult than driving a car, with excellent power steering and a nice high-up position. The kids were strapped in the back with the daft dog and actually put their tablets down to enjoy the breathtaking views as we wound our way up the A82 towards Ben Nevis.

With the music on the sound system, which hooks to your phone, and the sun shining I could feel any worries disappear.

We arrived at the award-winning Glen Nevis campsite around late afternoon and found our electric hook-up pitch. Carrie and all of Staycation Scotland’s vans are equipped for wild camping with electric even when not hooked up. But I am a fan of a shower and a toilet so we opted for the easier option.

Once hooked up, basically plugging in to the site’s power supply, we could fully enjoy the van. The front seats swivel around to face the back ones and there’s a table you can put up inside too. With a deceptively large fridge our wine was chilled and ready to pour.

Carrie has a two-ring gas stove and is stocked with all the crockery, pans and utensils you’ll need to whip up a meal. Once the roof is up, there’s plenty of room to stand as you cook.There’s a sink for washing up and water on board too. And the van heater is mighty and much needed to camp in Scotland in March. The heater runs off the diesel but the amount it uses is minimal so you can stay toasty without worrying about draining your tank.

It was simple to set Carrie up for the night. In the roof is a double bed with a mattress and the kids slept there and loved the neon lights. We pulled our bed out by flattening the back seats and it was super-comfy. Scout the Labrador thought so too.

Because of the time of year, we left the heater on timed for a couple of hours as we drifted off and woke the next day after a great sleep. We made breakfast, showered and were off bright and early to get the miles in. We even remembered to bring the roof down before setting off. We were winning at this campervanning lark.

It was a glorious spring day so we headed to see the beaches of Arisaig where we spent an idyllic few hours and Scout had the best day of his eight-month life.

We parked the van at Camusdarach beach for lunch before heading towards Skye.

The beauty of the campervan is the freedom. Stop and make a cuppa whenever you like, pull out the camping chairs, which are supplied, and soak up the view.

After a night on Skye at a site near Portree and a tour round this majestic island, we were back to the mainland to drive the Bealach na Bà, aka the Applecross Pass.

I was nervous about doing it in a brand new, pricey campervan but a text to Jules and she reassured us we definitely should. We saw four seasons navigating the single-track road but the scenery was no less stunning for it.

We didn’t have a site booked so after leaving beautiful Applecross we opted to take the coastal road and keep an eye out for somewhere to stop for the night. As luck would have it, we happened upon Shieldaig Camping and Cabins, Strathcarron.

This amazing spot, with views overlooking Shieldaig island, is picture perfect.

We pulled up and on a noticeboard there was a list of the free pitches where you’re welcome to just drive in and to hook up.

The toilet and shower block is newly renovated and spotless and it’s a short walk to the Shieldaig Bar & Coastal Kitchen where the langoustines are a real treat.

While we longed to stay, it was time to head back south. Carrie was to be enjoyed by other holidaymakers and we were sad to say goodbye.

An overnight stay in Newtonmore to break the journey back to Glasgow and our van adventures were over.

We had clocked 700 miles and made precious memories.

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Albom Adventures

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5 Tips for the Ultimate Campervan Road Trip in Scotland

You’ve made an excellent choice in picking Scotland for your next campervan road trip.

This country has unbeatable scenery, with dramatic coastlines, soaring mountains, an abundance of wildlife, and more. There are so many incredible destinations in Scotland to choose from, and staying in a campervan will allow you to see as many as possible and camp in the heart of nature.

Campervan Road Trip Tips for Scotland

We’ve rounded up the five most important tips for a campervan trip in Scotland so that you’re ready to get behind the wheel.

1. Choosing the right campervan

Finding the right campervan for your trip is a subjective choice, as there are many things to consider.

Firstly, how many sleeping places do you need? If you’re travelling with one other person, we recommend going for a two-berth or even a four-berth, as the size doesn’t differ too much.

Also, consider how much time you’ll actually spend in the van. If you plan to be out and about every day, then you can go for something smaller. But if you see rainy and cold days as a likely possibility, which it certainly could be in Scotland, then you might want to ensure you have the room to stretch around and rest inside. 

Many assume they need a campervan with a toilet and shower, but if you plan to predominately pitch at campsites, then it may be more trouble than it is worth. Don’t underestimate the effort required to clean out a toilet tank. 

Also, when choosing the right campervan for a road trip in Scotland, it’s worth going for something a bit smaller. A large Swift motorhome will struggle along the narrower roads of the Highlands and could get you stuck more than once.

If you intend to dive into the wild heart of Scotland, go for a smaller campervan like a Volkswagen or Mazda Bongo. You’ll have the most campervan options in larger cities, so you might wish to arrange your campervan hire in Edinburgh or Inverness.

2. Planning your campervan road trip route

Now, this raises another important question: will you plan ahead or take a laissez-faire approach? There are benefits to both. Some feel uncomfortable having nothing in place, whilst others quickly feel restricted by a day-to-day plan.

The perfect campervan trip has a bit of both. Perhaps a rough idea of where you’ll sleep each night, but enough space to let you dictate your plans for the day over your morning cup of coffee. This allows you to adapt to weather conditions. Also, to how you’re feeling, but also ensure you cover all of your intended destinations.

We often recommend that you and your travelling companions make a ‘bucket list’ for the trip, This includes the things you really want to do or places you simply must visit. You can plan these in to ensure everyone is content, but leave the rest up for grabs.

3. The best campervan road trip road trips

That being said, we’ve got a few places in Scotland in mind for your bucket list! Nothing beats a road trip in Scotland, as this allows you to take in as much of this glorious country as possible. To help, we’ve comprised a list of the best road trips in Scotland:

• North Coast 500 – It starts and ends in Inverness, takes you along the coast and includes highlights like John O’Groats and Applecross!
• South West Coastal 300 – Explore the gorgeous region of Dumfries and Galloway, easily done within a week.
• Fife Coastal – Through ancient forests, seal colonies, fantastical castles and more, this is a great road trip to take from Edinburgh to explore Fife.

4. Where to pitch

If you’re travelling in peak season, we recommend booking your campsites ahead of time to avoid disappointment. Scotland is an extremely popular destination, so better safe than sorry! Wild camping isn’t legal in Scotland, but it can be tolerated in certain areas. If in doubt, ask the local landowner!

On apps like Park4night , you’ll find places that allow you to free camp, such as parking lots and fields. Make sure to leave the place as you found it and remember this isn’t a place for proper camping behaviour, in that case, you’ll need to pitch at a campsite.

And where can you find campsites to pitch at?

There are plenty of options. We recommend checking out PitchUp to look through the campsites nearby. You can filter based on location, pitch type, amenities, and more!

5. Packing list for a campervan road trip

One of the perks of campervans is the extensive storage space available. Unlike other accommodation options, you don’t have to repack your bag each time you move, so you can really settle into your little home on wheels. So bring whatever you think you might need – when in doubt, pack it! 

For a campervan holiday in Scotland, it’s all about layers! It can be gloriously sunny in summer when the campervan might even get a bit warm.

But autumn, winter and spring can be harsh, so make sure you’ve got extra sweaters, a scarf and a waterproof jacket. This might also mean you’ll have a few rainy days in your campervan, so pack some board games or other things to keep you busy.

You are ready for your Scotland campervan road trip

Now that you’ve completed these five steps, you’re ready for the perfect campervan trip in Scotland. It’s time to book your campervan, arrange your campsites and hit the road. But be warned, this country is so beautiful that you’ll definitely feel the urge to return many times after!

Save on your trip with these resources

These are our go-to companies when we travel. We believe this list to be the best in each category. You can’t go wrong using them on your trip too.

• Flights: we use Expedia for the best and cheapest flight options.
• Accommodations: we use Booking.com (hotels), VRBO (self-contained), or Hostelworld (budget).
• Cars (gas or electric): we use RentalCars to search for deals and dealer ratings.
• Motorcycles : we have heard good things about BikesBooking .
• Campervans or Motorhomes : we use Campstar where Albom Adventures readers get a 3% discount.
• Private guides : we love the private guides at Tours by Locals .
• Travel Insurance: while not required, we always opt for travel insurance and start at InsureMyTrip to compare coverage plans.

Check out our travel resources page for more companies that we use when you travel.

Save for later

If you enjoyed this article, please share it on social media and save it for later on Pinterest.

Are you ready to plan for a campervan road trip in Scotland?

You might also enjoy

• Scotland Road Trip: Edinburgh to Scottish Highlands
• The Picturesque Ruins of Rievaulx Abbey in England’s Countryside
• Travel Tips for the UK and Ireland Visitors
• Searching For Harry Potter Attractions In England
• Oxford in a Day – A Classic British City with Impressive Architecture

About the author

Fleurine has grown up in numerous countries, leaving her with a deep love for travelling. Combining that love for travelling with writing for Goboony is a dream come true, and she can most commonly be found behind the wheel of her VW campervan!

About Albom Adventures Editorial Team

Albom Adventures’ editorial team consists of travel bloggers and other travel writers who periodically provide content to this blog. If would like to join our editorial team, please send us an email via the information on our contact page .

Reader Interactions

November 2, 2021 at 11:32 am

So would love to see Scotland and all the gorgeous destinations in your photos! Can’t wait to be able to go to Europe once again. Thank you for the incredible pics!

October 14, 2021 at 8:31 pm

I’m dreaming of trip to Scotland for a long time, I was planning to go last summer but covid said no. 🙂 Still can’t wait, it looks unreal.

October 13, 2021 at 6:15 am

Saving this for our next Scotland adventure!!

Krysten Quiles

October 12, 2021 at 11:06 pm

This looks like it would be so much fun!

October 12, 2021 at 12:03 pm

It looks like a lovely way to travel.

October 12, 2021 at 10:33 am

I’d love to go to Scotland and take a road trip. You described a dream trip.

Ashlee Fechino

October 12, 2021 at 9:46 am

This is our kind of trip! We would love to experience Scotland road tripping with a campervan. Thanks for sharing the tips!

October 12, 2021 at 3:45 am

This is amazing!!!! I’ve never been to Scotland and would love to spend a couple of months there…Can’t wait!

October 11, 2021 at 4:38 pm

The Fife Coastal sounds like a lovely route to take. Scotland is on my list of places to go to once the pandemic is over. 🙂 Breaking down road trip preparations into five doable (and not overwhelming) steps is really helpful not just for a Scotland road trip but for any road trip, really. Thanks!

Kathy Kenny Ngo

October 11, 2021 at 12:26 pm

I would love to try this out. I can’t imagine going in a campervan but with this article, I think I can give this a try.

October 11, 2021 at 11:28 am

I would have never thought of a campervan as the way to see the country, but it sounds like such a great idea! I’d love to visit Scotland one day and see all the sights, especially the old castles.

Renata Feyen

October 11, 2021 at 10:32 am

I have never been to Schotland, but I bet it’s the perfect place for hiking and walks

October 11, 2021 at 10:11 am

I’ve driven around Scotland many times but never in a campervan! It looks like an amazing experience and something I’d love to do in the autumn time.

Hanna Thomas

October 10, 2021 at 9:12 pm

We travelled around Scotland with our tent, but it was just too cold to stand outside and cook, so I think next time we definitely need to take a camper! So many more places I’m adding the the itinerary after this post too!

Travelling Tam

October 10, 2021 at 2:49 pm

Driving a van around Scotland is absolutely one of my dream road trips! One day I will do this! There are some great tips here, especially resources where you can find places to camp, both free and paid. Nothing like worrying where you will park up for the night legally, so that is really useful for planning before you go.

October 10, 2021 at 9:24 am

Great Post Rhonda!

I love the idea of hiring a camper to travel around Scotland. I have a feeling we’d go with the book everything at the last moment approach so we could make the most of the weather and hike as much as possible!

L. Diane Wolfe

October 9, 2021 at 12:57 am

That would be a fun way to travel. I grew up in Oregon, so heck with the rain – go out anyway.

Alex J. Cavanaugh

October 8, 2021 at 2:09 pm

We traveled by train to most destinations -and then walked after that. A campervan would be fun, although driving on the other side of the road would take a lot of adjustment. Probably be a great way to see the Isle of Skye.

September 2, 2023 at 11:56 am

it was awsome i loved scotland and going back next aug to rent a rv lol

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Campervan Capers with a Photographer

Camperceilidh Campers was delighted to welcome Cathy & Darren from Derbyshire to Aberdeen, to start their tour of the Highlands, Scotland, in their rental Campervan, including the NC500 and Skye. Darren’s hobby is photography, and he has shared some of his amazing pictures with us. Their trip however was not just about photography, but to explore the great outdoors in Scotland – and they were not disappointed. From Historical Castles and Stately Homes, to Beautiful Beaches, Lighthouses and spectacular scenery around every bend in the road.

Like many, they would normally have taken off on a foreign trip, but with the Covid-19 restrictions, they took the opportunity to do a deep dive into the North of Scotland.

Here are a few tasters of Darren’s photographs – Hopefully these will inspire others to Visit Scotland and experience our landscape, meet our friendly people and capture our beautiful country in photographs.

Taking off from Aberdeen they headed to Dornoch to follow the NC500 Route form East to West, with a wee detour around Skye, and stopping off at the Magnificent Eileen Donnan Castle and Loch Ness on their return route.

They also encountered a few wee beasties along the way:

You can follow Darren’s photography at the_dep_collection in Instagram.

Thank you Darren for sharing the beauties. :).

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Free self drive history tours from our professional guides, discover the finest landscapes and colourful history of the british isles and beyond with our free self-drive touring routes.  each tour has been authentically composed by a professional tour guide and provides an in depth and unique way of touring by campervan..

We have literally mapped out the very best routes so that you can quickly discover the unique places that make our landscape, history and culture so special. Discover the hidden gems, the villages where time stands still or the castles and stately homes that are steeped in history and often brought back in to the limelight in the form of international television and movie productions.  Use our self drive tours as general guide and travel at your own speed, as when you are in a campervan or motorhome the pace is entirely yours. 

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Wales, an ancient land of magic, mystery and myths. Stunning mountain scenery, waterfalls, castles and dramatic coasts.

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Wild windswept moorland, historic towns, ruined abbeys, seaside resorts and sensational coastlines

Experience a landscape of caves, waterfalls, rock formations, travel across the enthralling absorbing White Peak plateau

Combine the charming home town of Shakespeare with a scenic drive around the very best of England's beautiful villages.

An ancient land of myth and mystery, stone circles, sites of ancient worship, majestic medieval cathedrals.

Combine the elegant city of Bath with a tour of the delightful landscapes and villages of the Mendip Hills.

Journey into the historic New Forest with ancient beautiful woodland, view the dramatic coastlines of the Isle of Wight.

Journey around a peninsula of enchanting fishing villages and dramatic rocky coastlines, a land of legends and magic.

Breathtaking scenery fills every corner of this stunning county with two dramatic coasts

Delve into the prehistoric, immerse yourself in the beauty and explore the amazing landscapes and rich history of Dorset

Verdant and bucolic countryside, leafy lanes, orchards and vineyards, enjoy a tour of the beautiful Garden of England.

Travel on beautiful country roads to the film sites of Downton Abbey. Visit the village, farm and Downton Abbey itself.

Visit the genuine filming locations of the hugely popular TV series 'Bridgerton', see stately homes, gardens, ballrooms

Discover a land reborn and reclaimed from the sea, home of ancient academia, historic seaports and timeless landscapes.

Travel through lush green landscapes, over meandering waterways, to bygone seaports and timber-framed towns.

Visit lush green emerald landscapes, vibrant towns, natural wonders, historic castles wrapped in famous Irish charm

Combine the splendour of England's oldest University with the charming, delightful Cotswold hills and villages

Dramatic and brooding, tour the breathtaking scenery of the northern part of the Peak District

The old-world charm of bygone England, quintessential villages, historic houses, cradle of the Industrial Revolution

Medieval towns, serene canals, duty free shopping, the very best chocolate, battlefields of the Great War.

Scottish Motorhomers and Caravanners

Highland Campervans

Highland Campers Ltd t/a Highland Campervans, Kerrowaird Farm House, Dalcross, Inverness, IV2 7JQ.   

Tel: 01667 493976  Mob: 07740 627869  

Email:  [email protected]      

Web:  www.highlandcampervans.com

Make the most of your visit to Scotland in a Highland Campervan.  We are the motorhome and camper van specialists in the Highlands, and a holiday in our award-winning hire fleet is an ideal way to explore the area with flexibility and comfort.

Highland Campervans are the motorhome and campervan specialists in the Scottish Highlands.  Sales of new and used motorhomes and campervans compliment an award-winning hire fleet and the NCC Approved Workshop with well-stocked accessories shop, makes a journey to Highland Campervans worth the visit.

Our hire fleet campervans and motorhomes are the ideal base for touring holidays and outdoor adventures. Our hire prices include unlimited UK mileage and comprehensive insurance. We are just 10 minutes from Inverness airport or 15 minutes from the rail/coach station. We offer a transfer service if required. Highland Campervans has a variety of campervans and motorhomes available for hire and as a small family run company, we offer a personal service, helping customers plan routes or advising highlights depending on personal interests. Our vehicles can be tailored with a variety of optional extras such as bike racks or awnings, and we also accept deliveries from a local supermarket, so the campervan can be pre-loaded with food. Scotland is beautiful throughout the year, so with midge netting to keep insects at bay in the summer and heated vehicles all year round, a Highland Campervan allows Scotland to be explored in comfort whatever the weather.  All vehicles have modern conversions with cooking facilities, fridges, plenty of storage and are fully equipped with kitchen utensils. More information on hire rates and further details on our campervans and motorhomes can be found on our website  www.HighlandCampervans.com  From the heart of the Scottish Highlands idyllic secluded beaches, remote mountain ranges and shimmering lochs are all only a short drive away.

Outer Hebrides Motorhome Route

The perfect 10 - 14 day motorhome guide to the outer hebrides.

Western Isles Motorhome Holiday Route Plan 10 – 14 Day Motorhome Route

A motorhome holiday allows you the freedom to travel and move around without being timetabled to be in a certain location at a certain time.  The Scottish west coast is one of the most beautiful places to explore on your motorhome holiday and when you combine a tour of the Western Isles you are without a doubt in for a truly wonderful holiday.  Picture a paradise of powder-white beaches and the clear blue water of the Atlantic waves, dark moorland and rugged mountains, amazing wildlife and rich and vibrant culture.   Just 30 miles off the north-west coast of Scotland lies the Outer Hebrides or the Western Isles, this is an idyllic chain of Islands.  There are at least 70 named islands in the group, of which 15 are permanently populated - total population around 26,500. The Outer Hebrides consist of the Isles of Lewis, Harris, Scalpay, Beneray, North Uist, Benbecula, South Uist, Eriskay, Barra and Vatersay.   This route combines some of our Scottish west coast route with the Outer Hebrides route and will give you some suggestions of where you can park on the Outer Hebrides as well as places that you can visit.  We enjoy the freedom of wild camping but have suggested some campsites to stay at along the way.

Day 1 - Of Motorhome Holiday 

Starting in Perth at Scottish Tourers base, take the A9 North towards Inverness, depending on how long you want to drive about 45 minutes from Perth is the Blair Atholl Campsite which is great for an overnight stop if you don’t want to go far and you could visit  Blair Atholl Castle or if you are happy to continue north then head for Aviemore which is 2.5 hour’s drive from Perth.  

House of Bruar

On the way to Aviemore, we would recommend stopping at the House of Bruar, the house of Bruar has a fantastic food hall, selling some of the finest meats at the butcher counter and cheeses in with the delicatessen, we think it’s a must-stop to pick up a few treats for your holiday.  There is also the opportunity to browse in the clothing and homeware stores and have a huge range of branded clothing for any gifts or something special for yourself.

The Highland Folk Museum (Turn off at Kingussie)

This is a fantastic stop and gives visitors a flavour of how Highland people lived and worked from the 1700s up until the 1950s, this is done by displaying over 30 historical buildings and furnishing them appropriate to their time period.  Some have been built from scratch on-site and some have been moved here from other locations.

The site is a mile long with 1700s Township (featuring 6 houses) at one end through to our 1930s working croft at the other, located at Newtonmore in the Scottish Highlands amidst some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.

       Highland Folk Museum at Kingussie   Campsite

Glenmore campsite is only a short walk from Loch Morlich beach but the campsite itself is with the Glenmore forest park and has all the facilities you will – a campsite can be a good base for your first night and allow you to get to know the motorhome.

Wildcamping is available up at the Ski centre - dont forget to put ypour £5 in honesty box, in the morning you could enjoy a trip on the funicular railway, the 2 km journey up the hill is the highest railway in the Uk.      

Day 2 of Motorhome Holiday Route 

If you have children with you, we highly recommend visiting Landmark before you make the journey to Ullapool – the children will love exploring the nature reserve and playpark.   Landmark Forest Park

Landmark Forest adventure park is just outside of Aviemore at Carrbridge, you can easily spend the whole day here exploring they have just recently opened Dinosaur land, there is the opportunity to explore between the ancient pine trees hunting for red squirrels to the more adrenaline-filled water slides.  This is a great day out and there will be something for everyone.

  Strathspey Steam Railway

In Aviemore itself, the Strathspey steam railway has been running for 42 years now the steam train and the line was reinstated by a team of volunteers who have worked to keep the train in a fantastic condition.  This nostalgic train is a must to enjoy the beauty of the Scottish highland while you sit back relax and enjoy a cream tea.

When you have finished exploring Aviemore continue to head north towards Inverness and take the A835 towards Ullapool.

Broomfield Campsite is near the ferry port, and in a fantastic location to watch the ferries and fishing boats come and go, within walking distance of the town, so you can enjoy a meal out in one of the many restaurants – the seafood shack is highly recommended.

Broomfield campsite

Day 3 of Motorhome Hire 

Today we will be leaving the west coast of Scotland, and catching the ferry at Ullapool to take go to Stornoway. The ferry to Stornoway (Isle of Lewis) takes just over 2 and a half hours, while onboard you can enjoy a cup of tea in the restaurant and enjoy the crossing.

On arrival to the Isle of Lewis, take the A857 East then turn right onto the A858 and turn right after a few miles to visit the Blackhouse Museum.

1.      The Blackhouse Museum

This museum is run by Historic Scotland - you can walk around the blackhouse to see how Islanders lived in the houses where they lived alongside their animals and without chimneys.  The Blackhouse here at Arnol was probably built as recently as 1875 it’s fully furnished as it would have when it was inhabited but the design of black houses dates back hundreds of years.

2.      The Whalebone Arch

The Whalebone Arch, in Bragar, is one of the landmarks you will see as you travel around the northern tip of Lewis, The Whalebone Arch, erected by the former village postmaster Murdo Morrison, was formed from the jawbones of a giant whale which beached itself and died in Bragar Bay after been harpooned by hunters. The whalebone arch has become a bit tourist attraction standing at 25 feet and weighing 4 ton it has been coated in fibreglass to preserve and protect, the Harpoon hangs in the centre of the arch.

Head South on the A857 to the Village of Callanish here is the Callanish Stones.

3.      Callanish Stones

Construction is thought to have taken place between 2900 and 2600 BC, it is possible though that some buildings were here before 3000 BC, there was a tomb built into the site at a later date, investigating some of the debris from the destruction of the tomb would suggest that this site was not used between 200 BC and 1700 BC, there are 13 primary stones which form a circle 13 metres in diameter there is an avenue of stones on the north approach and shorter stone rows to the south, east and west approaches, the layout resembles a Celtic cross, and the stones vary from one metre to five metres in height, The Visitor centre gives a fascinating insight to the area.

https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/calanais-standing-stones/

Our last recommended visit for the Isle of Lewis today is the iron age village then there is a fabulous overnight spot at Uig.

4.      The Iron Age Village

The iron age of Great Bernera was first discovered at Bosta in 1993 after a huge storm and gales revealed the remains, long excavations followed which revealed some very important and interesting finds, using the new information archaeologists built a reconstruction of an entire iron age house of the time, which is part of the exhibition and is open to visitors.

https://www.visitouterhebrides.co.uk/see-and-do/bosta-bostadh-iron-age-house-p523981

Ardoil Campsite Isle of Lewis located just outside of Uig you will find a basic but fantastic community-run site which relies on donations from their customers – there’s is a tap to top up the fresh water, chemical waste point, toilet/shower block and you can park on the edge of the beach in this stunning location.

Traigh na Beirigh at Kneep is a lovely campsite ideal for motorhomes parking on the Isle of Lewis, nestled in the sand dunes whit white sandy beaches making this an ideal base for overnight.

Wildcamping on the Isle of Lewis is also an option and The outer Hebrides welcome responsible motor homers, see below the photo of us parked up on the white sandy beach by Uig – we have many places where wild camping is available and this can be found in the pre-programmed sat nav which comes with your motorhome.

Day 4 of motorhome hire 

Today we continue our outer Hebrides adventure round the west coast of the Isle of Lewis by heading south towards the Isle of Harris but before we leave the Isle of Lewis we recommend another few stops.

5.      Seatrek

Seatrek is based in Uig which we think is one of the most beautiful places in the Uk, they offer boat trips around the Hebrides and land on uninhabited Islands with the opportunity to see whales, Dolphins, Basking Sharks, Sea Eagles, Puffins.

6.      Abhainn Dearg Distillery

Abhainn Dearg Distillery (pronounced Aveen Jarræk), located in Uig on The Isle of Lewis.  The distillery was founded by Mark Tayburn (Marko) and is the first legal whisky distillery in the Outer Hebrides in almost two hundred years. The distillery was established in 2008, and the first spirit to leave the island was in 2010 when two small casks of new spirit were sold.  The distillery offers its guests a guided tour around the distillery and the opportunity to have a wee dram at the of the tour or why not treat yourself to something from the distillery shop.

7.      Lewis Chessmen

The Lewis chessmen They were found in the vicinity of Uig on the Isle of Lewis in mysterious circumstances. Various stories have evolved to explain why they were concealed there, and how they were discovered. All that is certain is that they were found sometime before 11 April 1831, when they were exhibited in Edinburgh at the Society of Antiquaries for Scotland. The precise findspot seems to have been a sand dune where they may have been placed in a small, drystone chamber.

The chessmen were probably made in Norway, in the 12th century, during that period, the Outer Hebrides, along with other major groups of Scottish Island, were ruled by Norway. The chessmen were discovered in early 1831 in a sandbank at the head of Camas sandbank on the west coast.

Leaving the Isle of Lewis, we head South on the A859 to Harris, following the coast road. On arrival to the Harris, you will probably be ready to look for somewhere to stay overnight, motorhome parking is available in campsites or wild camp spots.

Campsites Isle Of Harris

Tallanmara Campsite this is a more conventional campsite, with available electric hook up, shower facilities, chemical toilet disposal, water and recycling centre.

Seilebost School There is only a few pitches available within what was the old primary school ground but it has access to a toilet block and electric hook up and only a short walk to the beach.

Community Spot There is also the opportunity to stay overnight in designated spots where a fee of £5 is asked as a donation, the money raised is used to maintain the camp spots but also help with community projects, these spots are marked with a small sign to identify the area and offer fantastic views and located in Luskentyre and Seilebost.

Wildcamping parking on the Isle of Harris in our opinion is stunning and have discovered many wonderful parking spots on the Isle of Harris.  We consider Harris to have some of the best beaches in the world, you can even drive the motorhome right down to some of the beaches and stay overnight.  Get the Barbeque out table & Chairs out of the garage, sit down relax and enjoy a glass of your favourite tipple in a remote area in peace & quiet which is what a motorhome holiday is all about.

Day 5 of Motorhome Hire Holiday 

Before leaving Harris to head for ferry to North Uist there is a few things we think may be of interest to you.

8.      Harris Tweed

Harris is famous for its weavers who make the Harris tweed. As you travel Look out for the independent small shops and workshops where you can buy direct from the weaver.  All the weavers are self-employed and can work for any of the three Island mills or make and sell their own cloth independently to order. These independent weavers use yarn dyed and spun by the mills but may warp it themselves before returning the cloth to the mill for finishing and stamping by the HTA.

9.      Harris Gin

The Harris Gin distillery located in Tarbert, there is a gift shop and team room and they also have distillery tours and tastings allowing you to discover more about how they use a special blend of 9 botanicals and sugar kelp seaweed which is hand collected from the local area this gives the Gin its own distinctive flavour.

To get over to the Isle of Uist, at Leverburgh which is in the very south of the island board the Ferry to Isle of Berneray and then on to North Uist which takes around 2.5 hours sailing time.

North Uist is a landscape of fresh and saltwater lochs bordered on its western side by miles of sandy beaches, and cultivated crofts. North Uist is very popular with walkers, bird watchers, motor homers and cyclists alike.

On the west side of the island the road follows the machair, (the fertile coastal grassland bordering the sand dunes), whilst the eastern side is mainly water. This area is a fisherman’s and bird watchers paradise.

The exception is the south-east of the island, which is very flat and covered with a patchwork of peat bogs, low hills and lochs, with more than half the land being covered by water. Some of the lochs contain a mixture of fresh and tidal salt water, giving rise to some complex and unusual habitats.

10.  Otter Spotting

Otter spotting is a popular island attraction as the east side of the island is a landscape of inland and sea lochs, inlets bays and channels. Study the tide timetable as an otter is much more likely to be seen on an incoming tide, roughly 2 – 4 hours before high tide. As it comes towards high tide, the Otter usually heads for its holt, which is its home and rest area. It is also where they rear their young.

11.  Barpa Langass

Barpa Langass to the south of the Island is a 5,000-year-old burial chamber thought to be the burial place of a Neolithic chieftain. Trinity Temple is a historic ruin, listed as of European significance and possibly Scotland’s oldest University. The building is the remains of a medieval monastery and college, the building has been extended up to the 16th Century but destroyed after the reformation. Again, restored in the 19th Century. You can park just off the main A865 road, near Temple View Guest House, Access is through the gate and about 200 metres walk from the car park.

North Uist Campsites

Balranald Hebridean Holidays located by the beach and within the RSPB nature reserve there is the opportunity to observe birds that have made a home in amongst the machair.  The campsite itself caters well for motorhome’s and offers laundry facilities, as well as toilet and shower blocks, chemical waste point and electric hook up you, will find yourself once again only a few meters from the beach.

Moorcroft Campsite on the outskirts of Cairinish is situated on a working croft and is a family run site with all the facilities you need for refreshing and emptying your tanks.

Wildcamping   The map below give an example of potential wild camp spots within North Uist.

Day 6 of Motorhome Hire Holiday 

Our Outer Hebrides route will continue to take us South to south Uist.  South Uist is a stunningly beautiful island of crystal-clear waters and white powder beaches to the west and heather uplands dominated by Beinn Mhor to the east.

12.  The Kildonan Centre

The Kildonan Centre is a heritage and cultural centre which includes a museum and a craft shop. The museum itself is owned by the South Uist Historical Trust. Originally a school it has been extended and developed into a multipurpose centre which is a Registered Museum.

13.  The Cladh Hallan Roundhouses

The Cladh Hallan Roundhouses are an archaeological site on the island, noted as the only place in Great Britain where prehistoric mummies have been found. In 2001 a team of archaeologists found the remains of what are believed to be two mummified Bronze Age bodies, buried under the floor of a Roundhouse at Cladh Hallan.

One of them was a male who had died around 1600 BC and another a female who had died around 1300 BC. At first, the researchers did not realize they were dealing with mummies as the soft tissue had decomposed and the skeletons had been buried.

Tests showed that both bodies had not been buried until about 1120 BC and that the bodies had been preserved shortly after the death in a peat bog for 6 to 18 months. The preserved bodies were then apparently retrieved from the bog and set up inside a dwelling but the reason why the bodies were mummified is a complete mystery.

14.  Askernish Golf Club

Askernish Golf Club is home to “the most natural golf course in the world” and is a favourite stop of ours on the Outer Hebrides route.  Old Tom Morris came to South Uist in 1891 to create a course at the request of the wealthy landowner - Lady Cathcart, so that she could impress her high society guests. Old Tom created an 18-hole course that was maintained by the local crofters until the early 1920s when the demand for golf declined and meant that maintaining the course was not viable.

Over the next 80 years, the course was not maintained, and it went back to being wild. In 2005 a group of locals decided that they wanted to reinstate the golf course, and with the help of some of golf industry’s biggest and best names, they set to work restoring this lost course. In 2008 the course was reopened as an 18-hole facility that has received the highest acclaim from golfing media and beyond.

15.  Flora MacDonald Monument South Uist

After the Jacobite’s lost the battle of Culloden, Bonnie Prince Charlie fled to the Island to evade capture from the British troops, with the idea of fleeing to France, his supporters intended to smuggle him from Uist to the Isle of Skye, and then onto France by boat.

Flora MacDonald agreed to help them and on 28 June 1746 Flora with her Irish maid Bett Burke they sailed from Benbecula over to Skye, however, the maid was actually a disguised Bonnie Prince Charlie, however, Flora was captured by the government troops and imprisoned at Edinburgh, after her release in 1747 she returned to the Island, and the plan on the map is believed to be Flora, s house.

There are not many campsites available on the south of Uist, but remember your sat nav is pre-programmed with places to wild camp, empty the chemical toilet and fill up with fresh water.

Kilbride Campsite is ideal for those looking for a bit of peace and quiet, the beach is just across the road and a café on-site plus all the amenities you need to stock up and refill.

Gleanndal Campsite this campsite has a view across the loch and has some pitches with electric hook up, toilet/shower facilities and chemical waste empty point.

Wildcamping.

The map below gives you an idea of wild campsites available.

Day 7 of Motorhome Hire Holiday 

On the Outer Hebrides holiday tour, we suggest visiting the Isle of Eriskay which lies to the South of South Uist and is connected to the isles to the north by a causeway constructed in 2001.  The name comes from the Norwegian name Èirisgeigh meaning Eric’s Isle.  The ferry to Barra sails from the southern end of Eriskay.

Whiskey Galore

The SS Politician was an 8000-tonne cargo ship which left Liverpool on the 3rd February 1941 laden with amongst other things 260,000 bottles of whisky, bound for Kingston in Jamaica and New Orleans. The whisky was for the American market and therefore no duty had been paid.

On the morning of 5th February, a young man was combing a beach in South Uist when he saw the ship in trouble. After a valiant struggle by the Captain, Beaconsfield Worthington, to keep his ship on course, the SS Politician eventually ran aground in the storm onto sandbanks off the Isle of Eriskay where she began to flood.

When the locals learned from the crew exactly what the ship was carrying, a series of illegal salvage operations took place at night, before the customs and excise officials arrived. The islands supplies of whisky had dried up due to war-time rationing, so the islanders helped themselves to some of the 260,000 bottles of whisky before winter weather broke up the ship. Boats came from as far and wide as news of the whisky travelled across the Whole Outer Hebrides.

The official salvage attempts were not going too well, and it was eventually decided to let the Politician remain where she was. Mr McColl (the customs officer), who had already estimated that the islanders had stolen 240,000 bottles of whisky, ensured that there would be no more temptation. Mr McColl applied for and was granted permission to explore the SS Politician hull.

  Islander Angus John Campbell, commented, “Dynamiting whisky. You wouldn’t think there’d be men in the world so crazy as that!” In 1987 Donald MacPhee, a local South Uist man, found eight bottles of whisky in the wreck. He sold them at auction for £4,000.

The wreck of the SS Politician still lies off the coast of Eriskay.    

Isle of Barra

Isle of Barra is the most southerly of the inhabited islands in the Outer Hebrides . If you are travelling to Isle of Barra from Uist take the small car ferry (Ok for Motorhomes) from Eriskay which will bring you to Ardmhor jetty, visit Calmac Ferries website for ferry times.

Long famed for its beauty, boasting beaches, hills, machair and moor all in a small island - Barra is a special place to visit, the airport is one of the most unusual in the world, with flights landing on the beach at Cockle Strand in between tides. At high tide, the runway disappears beneath the waves.

16.  Allasdale Bronze Age Burials

In May 2007 Televisions Time Team came to the hamlet of Allasdale to investigate the exposed remains of Bronze Age burials and Iron Age roundhouses in sand dunes that had been previously uncovered by storms. The programme was broadcast on 20 January 2008.

17.  Sea Kayaking

For an amazing sea kayaking experience, take to the water on a guided tour with Clearwater Paddling from Castlebay and explore a world of beautiful islands and sheltered bays whilst keeping your eyes peeled for the wildlife.

18.  The Deserted Village

Balnabodach is a small township on the east side of Barra, down by the shore of the loch are the remains of two earlier settlements, and it is here that the present archaeological studies are focused,  The loch-side must have been a favoured spot for settlers for many centuries. The earliest artefact yet recovered is a barbed arrowhead of flint, dating around 2000 BC.

Excavations in 1996 found the remains left by 'Iron Age' people who lived here in the period around 200BC - AD200, the rubbish left behind by these early settlers betrayed their presence. Nearly 250 pieces of their handmade pottery were found including pieces of bowls decorated with incised patterns.  There were also some flint tools including a small cutting blade and scrapers for cleaning skins.

19.  Kisimul Castle (Seat of the clan MacNeil of Barra)

The most visible of all Barra's heritage is this restored medieval tower house castle with a curtain wall. Dictated by the shape of the low rock island on which it sits, the pentagonal castle is the first thing holidaymakers see when they come to Barra by ferry from Oban.

The castle would have been difficult to capture being surrounded by the sea yet having a freshwater spring. You come to the castle by boat in a journey of 200 yards from Castlebay main street.  As you approach the castle, look for a large ring of rocks to the east of the landing place: this was a catchment basin to trap fish when the tide whet out, again vital if the castle was besieged.

Like most castles, Kisimul is cold and draughty but you will enjoy clambering about. Not to be missed, in the Great Hall, is the collection of English bayonetted muskets and pikes used at the Battle of Culloden. Look out for the spartan toilets, flushed twice daily by the tide! Much of what you see is the restoration work carried out by the clan chief Robert Lister MacNeil between 1956 and 1970.

20.  Annie Jane Ship Disaster

One of the saddest events to befall the island happened when the Annie Jane, a three-masted immigrant ship out of Liverpool bound for Canada, struck rocks off West Beach during a storm in September 1853. Within ten minutes the ship began to founder and break up casting 450 people into the raging sea. Despite the conditions, islanders tried to rescue the passengers and crew.

There were only a few survivors rescued. A small cairn and monument mark’s the site where the bodies recovered from the sea were buried. The inscription reads: "On 28th September 1853 the ship Annie Jane with emigrants from Liverpool to Quebec was totally wrecked in this bay and three-fourths of the crew and passengers numbering about 350 men women and children were drowned and their bodies interred here."

After a busy day travelling, we recommend staying parking for one last night here in Barra on The Outer Hebrides before taking the ferry back to the mainland.

Borve Camping and caravan site only a few miles away from the ferry port at Castle by, this is a great overnight stop with electric hook up, laundry facilities.  Why not stop relax and enjoy your favourite tipple as you enjoy a sunset.

This is the end of our Outer Hebrides motorhome tour, from here take the ferry back to the mainland from Castle by to Uig on the Isle of Skye (if your 14 nights) or if you are short for time take and only had 10 nights we recommend taking the ferry back to Oban.

From here we will pick up our Scottish west coast route again,

Isle of Skye

When you arrive in Uig you need to take the A87 heading south, then turn off on the A850 at Borve and we recommend you visit Dunvegan Castle. If you are using a campsite tonight, we have been to and are happy to recommend the Kinloch campsite at Dunvegan which is right by the sea. Only a short walk from the campsite is the Old Schoolhouse restaurant, here you can enjoy a huge plate of langoustines and a very nice cooked steak if seafood is not for you.

21.  Dunvegan Castle

A must visit when in the Isle Of Skye is Dunvegan Castle and Gardens with a wealth of history and has been the ancestral home of clan MacLeod for over 800 years, Dunvegan is the oldest continually unhabituated castle in Scotland, which has been built the most stunning Lochside setting, the Castle has recently become a popular venue for weddings.

Kinloch Campsite is on the shore of Loch Dunvegan and is a family run site with all the amenities on-site you will need, a short walk will take you into the village where you will find local shops and cafes.

Wildcamping

Wildcamping is available in Skye and can be found in your sat nav, our favourite wild camp spot is at Duntulm.  However you might want to rethink your route because Duntulms is north of Uig, so when you come off the ferry you might want to head north and visit the Skye Museum of life which gives a history of how the Islanders lived and earned a living in bygone years.

If you go past the Museum for around two miles on the left next is a fantastic wild camp spot at Duntulm next to the Sea overlooking the Western Islands of The Outer Hebrides.  We think an overnight stop here with a nice glass of wine and the Barbie on is fantastic, you can sit back and enjoy the most spectacular sunset overlooking the sea across to the Islands.

Day 9 of Motorhome Hire Holiday 

On the way to Armadale to catch the ferry back to the mainland, we suggest you continue south on the west coast of Isle of Skye on the A863, there is 2 fantastic stop before you catch the ferry.

22.  Fairy Pools

At the foot of the Black Cuillins near Glenbrittle are the Fairy Pools, beautifully crystal-clear blue pools on the River Brittle. These famous pools entice visitors from all over the world, and they make some great ‘Wild Swimming’ for those brave enough to enter the cold water. For the less adventurous these magical Fairy Pools make some fantastic photos.

23.  Talisker distillery

Whilst on the Isle of Skye, visit the Talisker distillery is a must, however, young children are not permitted on the tour due to health and safety.  The only distillery on the Isle of Skye, set on the shores of Loch Harport with dramatic views of the Cuillins. This alluring, sweet, full-bodied single malt whisky is so easy to enjoy, and like Skye itself, so hard to leave.

24.  The Oyster Shed Farm Shop

At the village of Carbost near the Talisker distillery, don’t miss a visit to The Oyster Shed Farm Shop which supplies Pacific oysters grown in the crystal-clear waters of Loch Harport. If oysters are not your thing try mussels, smoked salmon, scallops, crab and a variety of cheese and chutney, which ae all beautifully arranged.

Head to Armadale A851 and take the Ferry to Mallaig on the mainland. During the summer the Ferries run every hour or so and normally there is no need to book if the first one is full then simply wait for the next one

25.  Western Isle Cruises

While in Mallaig we would recommend you consider visiting western Isle cruises, who offer 1-hour wildlife cruise – where if you are lucky you can see whale, dolphin and variety of sea birds.

From Mallaig head for Fort William A830.

If you are looking for a campsite then don’t miss the beachside campsites at Arisaig. Sunnyside Croft this is one of our favourites. The owners Ian & Julie have brought camping into the 21st century everything is immaculately clean and modern with underfloor heating in the toilets. Each pitch has an elevated position with views over the bay. The site is situated 200 yards from the bay where Minke whales and dolphins are frequently seen.

On the way to Fort William heading along the A830, stop at Glenfinnan.

Glenfinnan Viaduct

The famous Glenfinnan viaduct has been made famous from its feature in the Harry Potter films and books. The Jacobite steam train runs across the Bridge travelling between Fort William and the seaside town of Mallaig on the west coast during the summer months, the railway bridge spans 1,000 ft and 100 ft above the ground level.  Please bear in mind if you wish to travel on the Jacobite Steam Train it needs to be booked many months in advance to avoid disappointment.

The Jacobite Steam train

The Jacobite steam train is known as one of the world’s best train journeys, the 84-mile round trip enjoys a fantastic list of impressive views.

The journey starts near Fort William close to Britain’s highest mountain Ben Nevis, the journey is through the most westerly Railway station in the UK – Arisaig.  The train passes Britain’s deepest freshwater loch - Loch Morar.  Round by Britain’s deepest seawater loch - Loch Nevis and not forgetting the amazing crossing over the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

This was made famous by J.K, Rowling in the harry potter films, the viaduct is also known as “The Harry Potter Bridge”.

Glenfinnan Monument

At the head of Loch Sheil stands the monument to the final Jacobite rising, the lone highlander in his kilts sits on top the 18-metre-high stone column, with stunning views of the sweeping glen below where highland life was so cruelly extinguished.  The visitor centre gives full details of the Jacobite rise and fall. Be prepared to be emotionally stirred by this tumultuous chapter in Scotland’s history.

Neptune’s Staircase

Neptune's Staircase is on the Caledonian canal near Fort William, comprising of 8 locks. It was built between 1803 and 1822 by Tomas Telford, it is the longest lock staircase in the UK, the original system was hand-powered and has been converted to an electric hydraulic system in recent years. It lifts boats 64 feet through the eight locks which are 180 feet by 40 feet and takes about 90 minutes to pass through the system.

Fort William makes an ideal stop overnight, known as the Scottish outdoor capital of Scotland there will be something here for everyone whether you enjoy walking, fishing or more adrenaline-fuelled hobbies.

Glen Nevis campsite situated at the bottom of Ben Nevis, this a lovely campsite with everything you need on-site from restaurants, shop kids play area and laundry facilities.

Wild Camping

From Fort, William take the Glen Nevis road (Near Fort |William) and follow the road past the waterfall right to the top (Not suitable for Lewis or Bara models due to height restriction), here you can park overnight at the bottom of Ben Nevis in complete peace and tranquillity in the heart of the highest Mountains in the UK.

Wildcamp at the Glencoe Ski Centre - from Fort William follow the coast road A82 down towards Oban on the way bare left into Glencoe A82 turn round at Kings house and head back towards Oban A828 this is a stunning drive with Through Scotland's highest mountain range overnight parking is available at Glencoe Ski Centre £12.00 per night.

Day 11 of Motorhome Holiday 

From your Fort William head towards Oban on the A82, then take the A828 and follow the road down by Loch Linnhe.

26.  Cruachan power station

Cruachan Power Station is an amazing feat of engineering with the inside of the mountain hollowed out to house the power station, this is so the local scenery was not spoiled.  The tour will take you the 1 km inside the mountain, the guided tour takes you on a short journey deep inside the mountain Ben Cruachan.

The power station lies at the heart of the mountain one kilometre inside. Once inside the mountain on the walkway you will notice sub-tropical plants which are well suited to the humid conditions inside the mountain, in the massive generating hall there is a viewing gallery, showing the four generators producing the electricity from the water which is stored in the loch above the mountain.

When in Oban there are many burger style vans along the promenade but they are selling fresh-caught seafood which is cooked in front of you, Scallops, Crab, mussels etc, If you want to spoil yourselves then head to the Temple Restaurant, on the seafront with magnificent views and food to match, freshly caught and all the sauces are homemade.

Known locally as The Green Shack, the Oban Seafood Hut is a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike and has a delicious array of lobster, scallops, crab and other seafood delicacies, it’s situated at the south side of Oban near the railway pier, you can buy your favourites to eat on the spot or to take home with you to enjoy later.

From Oban head down the A816 towards Lochgilphead then take the A83 along the Banks of Loch Fyne towards Inveraray.

Loch Fyne Oyster Bar

Near the top of Loch Fyne is the Famous Loch Fyne Oyster bar, the oysters are harvested in Loch Fyne itself and served up in some the finest Michelin star restaurants.   Providing you dine in the Restaurant they will allow you to park overnight in the overspill car park next to the loch, making this an ideal spot to wild camp overnight.

Day 11 of Motorhome Hire Holiday 

From here take the A82 through the Arrochar Alps and down the Famous Rest and be Thankful road towards Crianlarich. Then the A85 towards Lochearnhead wild camping is available at various spots along the loch, then take the A84 towards Stirling.

Inverary is on the water’s edge of Loch Fyne and is a small quaint town with lots of history. Inverary Castle is the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll, Chief of the Clan Campbell and the iconic, must-see visitor attraction on the West Coast of Scotland.

27.  Inverary Castle

Inverary Castle is the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll, Chief of the Clan Campbell and the iconic and beautifully romantic castle was built sometime in the 17th century, built on the shore of loch Fyne, and the beautiful highland scenery behind this is good stop where you can explore the castle and gardens before stopping for a quick cup of tea in the café and browsing the gift shop a must-see visitor attraction on the West Coast of Scotland.

From Inverary you have 2 options - if you have time to visit Stirling then head along the A85 then join the A84 for Lochearnhead heading towards Callander.

If you need to get back to Perth continue on the A85 towards Crieff there is campsites available in Crieff, Perth and at Scone all of which are within half an hour driving of Peth, this will allow you to empty the chemical waste, bins and top up freshwater before you return the motorhome – don’t forget to allow time to top up the gas if you have not done so already.

On the way to Stirling, stop off at Blair Drummond Safari Park.

28.  Blair Drummond Safari Park

  Blair Drummond Safari park is a great stop to allow the kids to run about and play there is lots to see and do.  Drive the motorhome through the various enclosures and get close to, Lions, Monkeys, Tigers, Elephants, Giraffes, Bears etc, it is also a Kids adventure park with water slides and Sealion/ seal shows, a great day out for kids and adults alike.

29.  Stirling Castle   One of Scotland’s most famous castles, this was home to Mary Queen of Scots Stirling, Castle sits high on top of the hill and dominating the Stirling skyline a worthwhile visit, they offer tour guides and have a gift shop and café for any souvenirs.

For your last night, I would recommend The Witches Craig campsite, it is close to the Wallace monument and is an ideal last night stop to clean the motorhome and empty the toilet before the 45-minute journey back to Perth.

I hope you find this route planner helpful in planning your holiday to the Outer Hebrides, the western isles of Scotland in our opinion has some of the most breathtakingly beautiful scenery making it a pleasure to drive.  Although we have broken it into suggested nights the whole point of a motorhome holiday is not to be tied down to certain locations and hope when you’re out driving you can experience the freedom of the motorhome and use this as a guide.

While we prefer not to stay in campsites , we would like to remind all our customers about the importance of responsible wild camping.   ·         Only take pictures and only leave footprints. ·         If there is any litter, please pick it up even if it’s not yours. ·         Use common sense, never park in front of someone’s house blocking their view. ·         Don’t park in farmers gates or field entrances. ·         Please use the local village shops rather than the big supermarkets, the product is normally sourced locally and is of much higher quality and tastes delicious.   Warning this route and wording is copyright by Scottish Tourer and only available for use by customers of Scottish Tourer, Any other Campervan Hire Company using any material copied from this route will result in copyright infringement and  we will prosecute. 

Motorhome Hire Scotland - Itinerary Guide Scotland is a very beautiful country, rich in culture and history...

We are the only company who have all brand new very high specification motorhomes, however and more important than that is the service and advice of where to go and also where not t o go from experienced expert local motor homers.

This is a route designed by us for your motorhome holiday.  

Trying to strike a balnce of keeping the kids amused and still enjoying a holiday thats both active and intresting is not always easy, our west coast route is based on our own experiance's with some suggested stops that my children have enjoyed along the way.

The Ultimate Scottish Distillery Tour in a Campervan

Scotland has a long tradition of whisky-making and a tour of its distilleries is the perfect way to experience the vibrant culture of the country. A whisky distillery tour in a campervan provides the perfect combination of exploration and luxury; you’ll have access to some of Scotland’s most iconic distilleries and picturesque countryside, while also enjoying the comfort of your own campervan .

You’ll be able to stop off at whisky tasting rooms, learn about the history of Scottish whisky and soak up the atmosphere of these incredible places. The Ultimate Scottish Distillery Tour by Campervan will take you through some of the best whisky-making regions of Scotland, while also giving you a chance to explore the countryside and sample some of the finest whiskeys in the world. So, what can you expect from this unique experience? And where should you go?

Benefits of Taking a Campervan Tour

There are many benefits to taking a whisky distillery tour by campervan. In addition to the amazing experience itself, touring by campervan is also a very flexible way to travel. You can choose how long you want to stay in each place and what you want to do. You’ll also have the luxury of your own space and a kitchen, so you can eat whenever you feel like it and have the freedom to take your time between distilleries. Another major benefit of a whisky tour by campervan is that you can visit some distilleries that don’t offer public tours. If an organised tour is too rushed or not to your taste, a private tour is the perfect way to experience these places. And of course, a whisky tour in a campervan is also a great way to meet fellow travellers from around the world. A tour is a social experience and you’ll likely meet many people along the way.

Regions to Visit on the Tour

There are many regions in Scotland where you can experience the rich culture of whisky making. The best route is to start in the northeast, where you can visit the islands of Orkney and the Highland capital of Inverness. Here, you can explore the history of whisky and visit distilleries such as Scallywag ( Orkney ) and Dalmore and Highland Park (both in Inverness). From Inverness, you can drive south to visit the famous Speyside region, home to many of Scotland’s most famous distilleries, including the home of the most awarded single malt whisky in the world: The Macallan . You’ll also pass through the richly wooded region of Royal Deeside, where you can visit the Aberlour distillery, owned by the same family since 1879. Finally, from Speyside, you can drive west towards the end of the tour in the city of Glasgow, where you can visit the expansive and modern Glasgow distillery or sample some of the city’s best bars.

Distilleries to Visit

There are many iconic distilleries in Scotland that are worth a visit:

• The Macallan: the Macallan distillery is the home of the most awarded single malt whisky in the world. It’s also one of the most beautiful, with lush gardens and a Victorian-style distillery that’s worth a photo op. The Macallan offers tours, tastings, and a whisky shop.
• The Speyside Visitor Centre: this modern exhibition center and distillery shop has an ever-changing exhibition about the history of whisky and what goes on behind the scenes, as well as a shop where you can purchase single malts from all over Scotland.
• The Glenlivet Distillery: this is famous for its Black and White blend, and it’s one of the most beautiful places to see in Scotland. Not only can you tour the distillery and sample some whisky, but you can also hike across the outdoor path that runs along the distillery gardens.
• The Balvenie Distillery: this is an old-fashioned distillery in the heart of Royal Deeside. It offers regular tours throughout the day, and you can also book a private tour.
• The Glenfiddich Distillery: another one of Scotland’s most famous distilleries, and it’s also the most popular visitor attraction in the Highlands. Here you can experience regular tours and tastings, and there’s a visitors center near the distillery where you can purchase whisky.

Activities to Enjoy

• Visit The Country’s Top Parks : Scotland has some of the most beautiful and iconic parks in the world, including the world’s largest flower garden, the Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh. You can also visit the famous gardens of Drummond Castle, which are renowned for their collection of rhododendrons, or head to Culzean Castle and Gardens, which have gardens that blend Scottish and Mediterranean influences.
• Go Castle-Hopping : Scotland has many castles and historic buildings, which are a great way to learn about the country’s history. If you want to visit a lot of different castles and historic buildings, it’s best to hire a car, but if you’re taking the whisky tour by campervan, you can also make a day trip to Castle Fraser, which has a stunning view of the Great Glen Valley.
• Visit the Highlands : the Highlands of Scotland are one of the most iconic places to visit in the country. The best time to visit the Highlands is between July and October when there are fewer tourists and the weather is most temperate. You can visit the Scottish Highlands on a day trip from Inverness or by taking a cruise on Loch Ness.
• Sample the Local Food : Scottish food is famous for being hearty and rich, and you’ll find the best examples of it in the Highlands. You can visit a traditional Scottish restaurant, or you can make a stop at a Scottish farm shop, where you can buy local produce like whisky, cheese, and meat.

How to Prepare for the Tour

If you’re planning to take a whisky tour by campervan, you need to make sure that both you and your vehicle are prepared for the experience. Your campervan will likely be your home for a few days, so you need to make sure that it’s clean and comfortable. You should also think about how you’re going to store your things, especially if you’re traveling with a group of people, and make sure that you have enough food and snacks on hand. A good idea is to plan some small meals, like rice and easy pasta dishes, that can be prepared quickly. Finally, make sure that you have enough water and coffee on hand to keep you going. A whisky tour by campervan takes a lot of energy, so you’ll need to stay hydrated and caffeinated.

Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

Remember that a whisky tour by campervan is all about enjoying the journey and meeting new people. Don’t put pressure on yourself to visit every distillery; enjoy the experience of being in Scotland and making new friends. Be sure to take time to relax as you’ll likely be driving for many hours each day. If you’re visiting the Highlands, be prepared for some bad weather. The weather in the Highlands is notoriously unpredictable, and it rains more here than it does further south. Similarly, if you’re visiting in the summer months, make sure to pack warm clothes for the evenings, as temperatures can drop at night.

Soak up the Atmosphere

The Ultimate Scottish Distillery Tour by Campervan is a great way to explore the vibrant culture of whisky-making in Scotland. You can visit one of the country’s most famous distilleries, learn about the history of Scottish whisky and soak up the atmosphere of these incredible places. You’ll also have the chance to explore the beautiful countryside, see the Scottish landscape and sample some of the finest whiskeys in the world. So, what can you expect from this unique experience? And where should you go? Let us know on our Facebook or Instagram pages.

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How to Plan a Camper Van Trip Around Iceland

Choosing a Camper Van for Your Trip in Iceland

Where to stay on your camper van trip in iceland, how to stay safe on your camper van trip in iceland, being a responsible traveler in iceland, what to pack for your camper van trip in iceland.

Iceland is a country made for road trips. In fact, one of the most popular things to do in Iceland is to drive the 1332 kilometer long Ring Road, while discovering many of this island nation’s most popular attractions along the way. With so much more to do outside of the capital and the Golden Circle, a camper van trip around Iceland is the perfect way to see the land of fire and ice.

It’s true that Iceland can be an expensive country to visit, though many of Iceland’s attractions are free. The biggest costs you’ll experience in planning your trip to Iceland are a car rental and accommodations. Renting a camper van combines transportation and accommodation costs in to one, leaving you a bigger budget to splurge on some of Iceland’s most unique experiences that can only be seen or done on a guided tour like glacier hiking on Sólheimajökull .

Ready to set out and explore Iceland by camper van? Use this complete guide to help plan your camper van trip in Iceland.

Camper vans are a popular way to travel around Iceland and these days there are a lot of different options. So where do you even begin to know which is the right option for you?

There are several things to consider when choosing your camper van for your trip in Iceland:

1. How many people are you traveling with?

Your camper van needs to be able to comfortably fit you, your travel companions and your stuff. Camper vans are ideal for 2 – 4 people. Motor homes can accommodate 4 adults or a family with kids of up to 6 people.

2. Do you plan to drive on F-roads or go into the Highlands?

Iceland’s Route 1, or the Ring Road as it’s popularly known, is an excellent and almost entirely paved two-lane road. With the exception of a small gravel section in the East Fjords, any type of vehicle is suitable to circumnavigating Iceland during the summer months.

Iceland has a classification of roads called F-roads and the Highlands are only accessible by F-roads. You need a 4x4 vehicle to drive on F-roads. You can encounter all conditions even in the best summer months, and you might have to cross rivers or streams.

There are some camper vans and 4x4 vehicles with roof tents that are suitable for F-roads and the Highlands. Rental car companies mean business and know what they’re talking about when they specify that a particular vehicle is not suitable for F-road conditions. And your insurance won’t cover you when – yes, WHEN – something goes wrong because you took an inappropriate vehicle on an F-road.

Carefully plan your itinerary and look at what roads you’ll need to drive on before you choose the right camper van for your trip.

3. Do you want to sleep inside the camper van, in a roof tent or a motor home?

There’s a saying in Iceland that if you don’t like the weather, just wait five minutes. You will experience every kind of weather in any given day. And Iceland does experience high winds.

The weather, no matter what time of the year you decide to visit Iceland, should definitely be a consideration in choosing the right camper for your comfort level. It may very well be too windy to use a roof tent on more than one night of your trip. We’ve seen the wind ravage and topple over top-heavy motorhomes.

4. What time of year will you be visiting Iceland?

Most campsites are open from May – September and campsites in more remote parts of Iceland like the Highlands and Westfjords have an even shorter season from June – August. There are very few year round campsites in Iceland.

While it is possible to plan a winter camper van trip, and many camper vans come equipped with powerful heaters, winter camping isn’t for the faint of heart. Complete white outs and extreme cold are very real possibilities – even probabilities – of traveling in Iceland in winter.

One thing to note is that it’s illegal to spend the night in tents, camper vans or motorhomes outside of designated campsites. So no, you can’t just park your camper van or pitch a tent anywhere. This is a more recent change in the law as Iceland continues to try to deal with the influx of tourism.

Iceland has many campsites, with the majority located around the Ring Road and in the Westfjords and Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The center of Iceland, known as the Highlands, does not have many campsites and you can wild camp.

Iceland’s Campingcard is a company that’s been around for more than a decade. You can purchase the Campingcard, which is shipped to your home address ahead of your trip, and gives you access to 40 campsites around Iceland without the need to pay on the spot or book ahead.

Each campsite in Iceland is unique. Check out the facilities of each, which can include bathrooms, swimming pools, hot tubs or natural hot pots, kitchen facilities, wifi and more.

If you go the route of booking your campsites individually in advance, you’ll pay a fee for the use of the campsite. Fees typically are the price for two adults, caravan, car, power and local taxes per night.

No matter if you decide to purchase the Campingcard or book campsites individually, be sure to check the opening dates for each one you plan to visit. Even in the summer season, campsites can be closed during festivals or inaccessible.

Each year the Institute for Economics and Peace and the Economist Intelligence Unit calculate the Global Peace Index by ranking 163 countries on a variety of factors. Iceland consistently comes in first place as the world’s safest country.

Iceland is very safe and there are no land predators. The Arctic Fox is Iceland’s only natural land mammal, so there are relatively few dangers to contend with when visiting Iceland.

The thing to be aware of is weather. Possibly the only thing more unpredictable than Iceland’s weather is winning the lottery.

The notorious weather can suddenly shut down roads because conditions have made them impassible. Bookmark road.is , which is updated in real-time and make a habit of checking the website regularly.

Also download the 112 Iceland app before your trip. This app is run by the Icelandic Search and Rescue Team and has two functions: a 1-click emergency button and a check-in feature.

The check-in feature, which you’re encouraged to use, stores your last five check-ins and can aid the Icelandic Search and Rescue Team in getting to you if something does go wrong. Feel free to check-in often through the app.

The final safety concern is being aware of services and being comfortable with changing a tire. Outside of the capital of Reykjavik, there are only three persons per square kilometer. That so much of Iceland is wild and uninhabited is definitely a huge part of its magic and allure. But that also means no one may be around to help if you run out of fuel or get a flat.

Don’t let the fuel run down too low in your vehicle. Gas stations can be few and far between, or non-existent if you venture into the Highlands.

Being one of the world’s most popular travel destinations does have its fall backs, and Iceland is currently trying to combat irresponsible travelers. Don’t be one of those travelers.

1. Don’t just stop in the middle of the road.

Look, we get that there’s something jaw dropping around just about every bend of the road in Iceland. Keep in mind, though, that you’re not the only vehicle on the road and Iceland’s two-lane roads simply can’t accommodate you stopping as you please.

2. Leave no trace.

Iceland has a public swimming pool in every town and village. Swimming is a huge part of their culture and these swimming pools typically have shower facilities. Between swimming pools and campsites, there’s little reason you should have to bathe yourself in Iceland’s lakes, streams, rivers, waterfalls or hot pots.

If you do find the need for a natural bath, be sure to use organic soap.

And no matter what you do, do not relieve yourself and leave your natural waste behind.

Be sure to place all rubbish in the bins at campsites. If there’s not a rubbish bin around, take your rubbish with you until you can dispose of it properly.

3. Be respectful of private lands.

Some attractions are located on private land and in recent years landowners have been forced to close off these attractions to the public. Don’t be that person that ruins it for everyone else by being disrespectful, trespassing or leaving anything behind like rubbish and graffiti.

4. Never go off-roading.

It’s illegal to go off-roading in Iceland. The environment is very delicate and off-roading can destroy the fragile environment.

Now that you’ve chosen the right type of camper van for your trip, understand a few laws of the land and have taken some safety precautions, it’s time to pack for your epic adventure in Iceland.

Some basic essentials we recommend for your camper van trip in Iceland:

A quick-dry towel – a regular towel won’t dry efficiently and can stink up your camper. A quick-dry towel also packs much easier and can be stuffed in a daypack for use at a natural hot pot.

A daypack – you’ll probably do at least a little hiking even though your 4x4 camper can take you just about anywhere. Bring a daypack that you can put some things like your quick-dry towel, flip-flops and carry water in while you’re out and about.

Flip-flops – camper vans are a popular way to travel and a lot of other feet could have used the bathroom and shower at campsites before you. Pack a pair of flip-flops that you can wear in the shower.

Car chargers for your phone and any electronics – if you already have car chargers at home, bring them along and save a little money on renting these.

Sleeping bag – you can rent sleeping bags, but if you have one at home that is suitable to -7°C, bring it along and save money on the rental.

• See Also: Camping in Iceland | All You Need to Know

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