Check out our article for inspiration on the best time to go, where to visit and other top tips for exploring Scotland in a motorhome.
Best Time to Go?
Each season offers something different and summer is the most poplular time of the year to go on a road trip in Scotland. Temperatures are never that hot, usually around 18 - 22 degrees so you don't need to worry about melting stuck in traffic. For summer you will need to book campsites inadvance as spaces can fill up quick, but other times of the year there is less demand.
In winter, the driving conditions and weather can be more challenging but when you see the majestic Scottish mountains covered in snow you will be left awestruck. There are though some roads to avoid in Scotland with a motorhome during winter, especially in the highlands. You could plan your trip to take in the world famous Hogmany festival in Edinburgh for new years eve - this is a magical experience.
Spring and Auturm are both recommended seasonal to travel too, there will be less road traffic and although you won't have the hot summer weather, the climate is still mild and road conditions good.
Some of the best and most popular routes in Scotland including the North Coast 500/NC500 and the west coast of Scotland are fine to drive all year round. Having at least 10 days to 2 weeks free to explore is ideal, some places can be done in a shorter itinerary like 5-7 days, but this might be slightly rushed. Most motorhome sites in Scotland are open all year round.
Where to Visit
So, you have decided to hire a motorhome so that you can start your road trip to Scotland? Great decision. This is going to be an exciting holiday and one like no other. You can enjoy all of the stunning scenery from your own motorhome, bringing all your belongings with you on this big adventure.
But where should you travel to? Well, it is common to start in the capital city, Edinburgh.
1. Edinburgh
Lots of hire companies are based in the city who specialise in motorhome hire and Edinburgh is a good base where you can enjoy a few days of the city and everything it has to offer. Must see attractions include Edinburgh Castle and Arthurs Seat. Then, you can move on and head to more rural spots. Let’s take a look at some destinations that should be included on your road trip map.
2. Glasgow
Once you are done exploring Edinburgh, you need to then head to the biggest city in Scotland. We are talking about Glasgow. It is only around one hour away and you can easily drive your motorhome here. Of course, you can walk around the city and see all of the historic buildings, museums and nice café spots here.
3. Fort William
Perhaps you now want to head out of the city and see what Scotland really has to offer. Well, there is another place you need to add to your motorhome agenda. We are talking about Fort William. This is going to be the perfect base for hiking and you can find a lot of stunning trails to explore. Of course, the main attraction here is Ben Nevis, which is the highest mountain you are going to find in Scotland.
4. Isle of Skye
Let’s keep heading to rural parts of Scotland that you should explore. For now, we are talking about the Isle of Skye. This is a popular destination because of its stunning landscape. You can enjoy everything from mountains and trails to beautiful beaches and mesmerising waterfalls.
You get a little bit of everything here. Plus, it can be fun to drive in a motor home along the roads. The main town here is Portree, which you are sure to remember with its brightly coloured houses along the coast. What’s more, do not forget to visit the Fairy Pools.
5. Glenmore
If you like outdoor activities and water sports, then you have to make sure that you stop in Glenmore. Thankfully, there are campsites here, which makes it ideal for those going on a road trip in a motorhome.
You can visit Loch Morlich, which is a freshwater loch that offers plenty of fun activities to enjoy. This includes going paddleboarding on a nice day, as well as exploring on a boat or kayak.
Of course, you can also explore the area by foot, with many walking trails, as well as some beaches you can relax on.
6. Loch Ness
Of course, everybody has heard of Nessie, the Loch Ness monster. But can you imagine saying you have seen this creature with your own eyes? Well, the only way to find out for sure is to make a stop at Loch Ness.
This is a beautiful and relaxing place to be. While you might not be so lucky to catch a glimpse of Nessie, there are trails you can explore and you can take in the lovely scenery for the day on your motorhome trip.
7. Scone
For those that love history and exploring places of the past, you will want to include a trip to Scone during your road trip in Scotland. Here, you are able to visit the beautiful Scone Palace.
This is a place where Scottish kings would be crowned. Indeed, there are 1000 years of history to learn here and you can say you visited the original home of the Stone of Destiny. So, you can get a tour and stand where Macbeth and Robert the Bruce once were.
8. St Andrews
Next on the list is St Andrews. This is a popular town is one of the best places to go in Scotland with tourists and there are so many reasons why. You can come here to play golf, as well as run into famous golfers that often come here.
What’s more, you can learn a lot about history and visit the ruins of St Andrews Castle. Tourists come here because it is where Prince William and Kate met at university. But there is a lot of history here which means you are never going to be bored on your road trip.
