The best spots to explore Scotland by campervan

It’s the time of year that many of us start dreaming of a holiday. We picture white sand beaches, idyllic islands, clear waters and towering landscapes. Luckily, all of the above are just some of the many highlights of a Scottish staycation.

Continually topping travel blogs about areas to explore and bucket list holiday features, Scotland’s incredible natural scenery is the gift that keeps on giving. To celebrate, and with the return of The Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show at SEC Glasgow from Thursday to Sunday, we have compiled a list of the best spots to visit and top tips, according to some of the country’s top travel experts and influencers.

1. Siobhan Daniels is the author of Retirement Rebel and host of the forthcoming Retirement Rebel – Life after 60 podcast.

After retiring from a career as a journalist, Siobhan decided that life had only just begun. Taking life by the horns, and with no previous experience of van life, she sold her house and most of her belongings, bought a motorhome and set out on the open road. Her remarkable story has led her to travel across the world, yet she keeps finding herself back in bonnie Scotland.

Siobhan said: “There’s an uprising of solo female travellers, and what’s great about Scotland is that there is a really supportive culture and community of people who are opting for a life on the road which makes van life even more fulfilling.

“Last year I spent five weeks on Orkney and I can’t recommend it enough – it’s one of my top recommendations because it offers so much to do and see which means you can go there and tick off so many brilliant activities such a wild swimming, see the northern lights (if you plan it right!), and, of course, eat fish and chips on the beach – it’s a one stop shop if you don’t have much time or just want to spend quality time in one spot.”

2. @wanderingbird.adventures, now owner of one of the UK’s largest van life websites, Wandering Bird, Kat quit her job in 2018 and has been travelling since.

She said: “Oh, this is tricky because there are so many incredible places in Scotland to enjoy. One of my all time favourites has to be the Cairngorms, in particular I love Prince Albert’s Cairn because it’s so unexpected, romantic and draped in history and mystery – the 41x41ft structure gives you unbelievable panoramic views across the countryside and is a great spot for a picture. You can also make a bit of a day of it if you fancy: there are a total of 11 cairns plotted around the Balmoral Estate for people to explore and discover – it’s a great one for families looking for something a bit different.”

3. @Gemsadventures95 – full time travel influencer Gemma has been travelling Scotland since she was a baby.

“If I had to pick just one place in Scotland to recommend, it has to be the Isle of Gigha. I honestly feel so much peace when I’m there and it’s just beautiful. It’s only 2.5 hours from Glasgow so it’s an easy to reach spot for those in the central belt, or travelling up from further south. While you’re there, make sure to check out the coast. The island has the most beautiful beaches and has higher than standard daylight hours too, so in the summer you feel like you could be in some far away tropical island – it’s truly spectacular. Although small, it’s a buzzy wee island with plenty to do: there’s even a campervan site which you can park up at while you hire an electric bike to drive round the island to sample the local seafood and much more.”

4. @TravelTwo_ – adventure loving couple Laura and Tom are photographers by trade and hate sitting still. A few years ago, they had their first experience travelling in a Volkswagen campervan and since then always love getting out into Scotland to immerse themselves in the beauty of Scotland. They commented:

“It’s really hard to pick one spot in Scotland that’s our favourite. There’s certainly a lot of places that will take your breath away and exploring the north-west region of Assynt is always a favourite of ours. It’s truly a land of the giants (Munros that is) and the view just from the roadside will live long in the memory. It’s an area full of wildlife – we’ve seen deer at sunrise and eagles at sunset and then there’s all the many walks in the area that could take you a lifetime to complete. It’s truly a special place we return to as often as we can.”

5. Stylish @barefoot_caravans will be exhibiting at The Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show for the first time this year. Owner of a gorgeous duck egg blue Barefoot Caravan and avid traveller, Dan said:

“Ullapool to Durness is probably one of the world’s most stunning drives. One of my top tips for this drive, and for anyone exploring Scotland, would be: take your time, soak it all up, and you’ll leave a piece of your heart here forever.

“Too many folk dash through, tick off the usual must-sees and miss all the hidden gems. Stay put for a few days in each location to really take it in and experience everything each local area has to offer!

6. @Highlands2Hammocks’ Gemma and Campbell are a young couple who have been living and adventuring in their motorhome full time since 2021. Having travelled the world together, Scotland remains at the top of their favourite places to explore. They said:

“Touring around Scotland, we are always on the lookout for the best hidden gem that is also easily accessible by motorhome. From beaches to waterfalls, there are so many places that stand out to us as our favourite places to visit.

However, when it comes to tranquil beauty there is one that is head and shoulders above the rest. High up on the west coast of the highlands, the golden stretch of sand known as Clachtoll Beach sits tucked away from civilisation and is the perfect place for a relaxing escape. Here the crystal-clear water of the Scottish Highlands laps upon an empty beach, teasing you into the water for a refreshing (albeit quite cold) dip in the one of the best hidden beaches that Scotland has to offer. There is also a nearby campsite that offers direct access onto this beautiful stretch of paradise, the ideal location for an escape from the 9-5.”

7. Wild swimmer @alittebitofclaire Claire Ferguson knows Scotland’s open waters better than anyone. Having travelled most of the country dipping more than just her toes into Scotland’s seas and lochs, this tip is one for those looking to work some cold-water experiences into their travel itinerary:

“Isle of Iona is easily one of the most picturesque wild swimming spots in Scotland. Small but mighty, it’s one of my favourite places to visit for a swim, as well as for everything else this tiny island has to offer. Boasting a whopping nine white shell-sand beaches and turquoise waters, you really are spoiled for choice on Iona.

One thing to note is that the island is inaccessible by car or motorhome, so if you’re thinking of visiting here, you’ll have to leave the motorhome in a park off-island – but don’t worry, the ferry itself is a must-do activity in its own right!”

The Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show is back at the SEC, Glasgow Feb 1-4. Visit to explore the many vehicles, equipment and accommodation options, as well as speak to the experts who are there to offer help and advice to visitors new and old.

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