Explore Scotland by Campervan: The Best Routes to Hire and Drive

From behind the wheel of a campervan, Scotland unfolds before you – and all at your own pace. You’re free to explore the towering mountains, misty glens, rugged coastlines and peaceful lochs, unlike traditional holidays, where you’re tied to hotel bookings or train timetables. With Dicksons of Perth as your trusted starting point, a Scotland adventure will begin with quality, convenience and expert local support – and a great place to hire a great vehicle! 

Why choose a Campervan to explore Scotland?

Scotland is a campervan traveller’s dream. Our country’s compact size means diverse landscapes can be covered in a matter of hours – from windswept beaches and dramatic cliffs to serene lochs and historic towns. It’s not just the scenery that makes campervan travel ideal. Scotland is very well-equipped for van life, with numerous well-maintained campsites, easy-to-navigate roads and, of course, warm Highland hospitality. 

Hiring a campervan means you can holiday with flexibility. Fancy staying an extra night in an area you’ve just fallen in love with? Want to skip the busy spots and chase sunshine across the islands? No problem. Scotland also offers savings. When your accommodation and transport are rolled into one, the cost of travel becomes far more manageable – especially useful for families on longer holidays. 

Scotland’s best Campervan routes

Whether you’re into coastal drives, ancient castles, whisky trails or mountain hikes – there’s a route to match. We’ve chosen some of the most popular and rewarding campervan journeys across Scotland, each of which offers its own unforgettable stops and a mix of scenery or culture. 

The NC500: The North Coast 500 is sometimes referred to as Scotland’s answer to America’s famous Route 66, and is arguably the most iconic road trip in the UK. Begin and end in Inverness, and this 500-mile route will wind you through some of the most dramatic and remote parts of the Scottish Highlands. 

Travelling along the coastline, you’ll encounter everything from towering sea cliffs and white-sand beaches to ancient castles and charming villages. Highlights include the haunting ruins of Ardvreck Castle on a rocky promontory of Loch Assynt, the jagged peaks of the Torridon mountains and the picture-perfect beaches of Durness. The route is dotted with excellent campsites and motorhome facilities, and is an unforgettable loop for those who want to immerse themselves fully in Scotland’s wild north. 

The Heart 200: For those looking for a slightly gentler introduction to campervan touring, the Heart 200 offers a shorter yet equally scenic experience. This circular route covers, as you might expect from its name, around 200 miles. It loops from Stirling and Perth through the Trossachs and Highland Perthshire, a route made for campervans. 

There are special historic landmarks – Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument to name but two – and there are stunning natural beauty spots such as Loch Tay, the Falls of Dochart and The Hermitage Forest trail. Best of all, the Heart 200 route begins just 20 miles or so from Dicksons of Perth, making it the perfect choice for your first few days on the road – or your entire holiday if you prefer a slower pace. 

Argyll Coastal Route: For those who crave seafood, sea lochs and salt-air mornings, the Argyll Coastal Route is a sensual feast. This west coast journey from Tarbet on Loch Lomond to Fort William traces the edge of Scotland’s loch-laced coastline, offering breathtaking views at every turn. You’ll pass through the romantic town of Inveraray, with its gothic castle, you’ll skirt the shores of Loch Fyne, known for its oysters and smoked salmon, and you’ll reach the bustling harbour of Oban, sometimes referred to as the ‘Gateway to the Isles’.  

The scenery on the Argyll Coastal Route is varied and lush, with rugged peninsulas, dense woodlands and glassy waters all making welcome appearances. The route is perfect for travellers who want to enjoy a slightly slower pace, coastal charm and the occasional ferry ride to explore nearby islands. 

Isle of Skye and the Inner Hebrides: No Scottish road trip list is complete without a mention of Skye. This is a place that feels like a step into another world. The island is reachable via bridge from the mainland or by ferry, and it’s well worth the effort. Think jagged peaks, lunar landscapes and mythical stories whispered in the wind. 

It’s possible to spend days exploring Skye, from hiking to the Fairy Pools to climbing the Old Man of Storr, or simply soaking in the spectacular views from your campervan window. With a bit of planning, you could also combine a Skye visit with a jaunt to nearby islands such as Mull or Raasay.  

Campsites on Skye range from rustic to well-equipped. Summer is busy, so book campsites in advance or plan to visit in the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for fewer crowds and clearer skies. 

Cairngorms National Park Loop: For campervan travellers looking for forests, fresh air and perhaps a bit of wildlife spotting, this loop around the Cairngorms are a must. As the UK’s largest national park, this region is ideal for campervans, with scenic loops that wind through peaceful glens, sleepy towns and high plateaus. Base yourself at Braemar or Aviemore and take your time exploring. Loch Morlich offers beachside picnics with mountain views, Glenlivet and Speyside are home to world-famous distilleries, the Highland Wildlife Park is a great stop for families and the dark sky reserves make for spectacular starry nights. 

This loop is less crowded than some other routes, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting (including red squirrels, golden eagles or even wildcats if you’re lucky). 

Tips for touring Scotland in a Campervan

Whichever route you decide to take, following these tips will help.  

• Planning: A little planning will go a long way. During peak season the campsites in popular areas (especially on the Isle of Skye or along the NC500) can fill up very quickly, so making advance bookings is recommended wherever possible. That said, one of the joys of a campervan holiday is flexibility. If you can leave room for spontaneity too, then you have the best of both worlds. 

• Respect: Showing respect for local communities and the environment is essential when you’re travelling the routes we’ve detailed here. Keep Scotland beautiful for future travellers – ‘leave no trace’, and use designated waste disposal facilities. 

• Weather: In Scotland the weather is famously unpredictable. Be prepared for ‘four seasons in a single day’. When it does rain, however, the conditions often add a mystical quality to the landscape. Even during the summer, it’s a good idea to pack a few layers and a decent waterproof.  

• Connection: Mobile signal can be quite patchy in more remote areas, so it’s a good idea to have downloaded offline maps, or take along a GPS device on your trips. You’ll also want a campervan that suits your travel group, whether it’s a cosy two-berth for couples or a spacious motorhome for families. 

Why use campervan hire from Dicksons of Perth?

We’re passionate about helping travellers experience the very finest elements of Scotland in the best possible way – with comfort, freedom and total peace of mind.  

We offer a wide range of modern, fully-equipped campervans (and motorhomes) to suit all group sizes and preferences. Our campervans come with everything you need to hit the road – from cooking kits and bedding options to optional extras like GPS systems, outdoor furniture and insurance packages. Many of our customers are first-time renters, and we’re happy to walk you through every step before you set off. Contact us for more information!