The Ultimate 2-Week Scottish Winter Road Trip

Crisp air, quiet roads, and breathtaking winter scenery, Scotland in winter is pure magic. Touring by motorhome or campervan at this time of year means fewer crowds, peaceful campsites, and dramatic landscapes at every turn. 

At Dicksons of Perth, we’ve put together the ultimate two-week Scottish winter road trip itinerary, designed to help you experience the best of the Highlands, coasts, and lochs in comfort and safety. 

Before You Go: Prepare for Winter Touring

Before setting off, make sure your motorhome is winter-ready. Check your heating, tyres, antifreeze, and water systems, and pack cold-weather essentials such as thermal clothing, extra blankets, and a snow shovel. 

If you’re hiring from Dicksons of Perth, all our vehicles are prepared for winter conditions, with heating systems, double glazing, and full insulation, so you can travel in warmth and comfort whatever the weather. 

Week 1: Highlands & the North Coast

Day 1–2: Perth to Inverness (via Cairngorms National Park) 

Start your journey from Perth, heading north through the Cairngorms National Park. Stop in Pitlochry or Aviemore to enjoy forest walks, whisky tasting, or even skiing if the conditions are right. Stay overnight at one of the open-year-round campsites near Aviemore. 

Highlights: Loch Morlich, Rothiemurchus Forest, Dalwhinnie Distillery. 

Day 3–4: Inverness to Ullapool 

Travel north-west along the North Coast 500 route, taking in sweeping coastal views and snow-topped mountains. Ullapool makes a lovely base for winter walks and seafood dining by the harbour. 

Highlights: Corrieshalloch Gorge, Loch Broom, Leckmelm Gardens. 

Day 5–6: Ullapool to Durness 

This section of the NC500 offers some of the most remote and scenic roads in the country. Take your time on the winding coastal route, stopping for photos and short hikes. 

Highlights: Ardvreck Castle, Smoo Cave, Balnakeil Beach. 

Stay overnight at Durness or Tongue, just remember, daylight hours are short, so plan driving carefully. 

Day 7: John o’ Groats & the Far North 

Continue east along the coast to reach John o’ Groats, the northern tip of mainland Britain. Even in winter, the views across to the Orkney Islands are spectacular. 

Highlights: Dunnet Head, Castle of Mey, Wick Heritage Museum. 

From here, begin your journey south towards the east coast. 

Week 2: East Coast & Central Scotland

Day 8–9: Caithness to Aberdeen 

Follow the coastline south, stopping in Helmsdale or Golspie before reaching Inverness again. Then head east to Aberdeen, known for its granite architecture and bustling harbour. 

Highlights: Dunrobin Castle, Moray Firth dolphins, Speyside whisky distilleries. 

Day 10–11: Aberdeen to Dundee (via Stonehaven & St Andrews) 

Drive south to Stonehaven to visit the dramatic Dunnottar Castle, perched high above the North Sea. Continue through Angus to St Andrews, famous for golf, sandy beaches, and historic ruins. 

Highlights: Dunnottar Castle, St Andrews Cathedral, coastal walks. 

Stay overnight in Dundee and explore the V&A Museum and waterfront before returning inland. 

Day 12–14: Return to Perthshire 

End your journey back where you started, in the heart of Scotland. Spend your final days exploring Perthshire’s forests, lochs, and quaint villages. Visit Loch Tay, Kenmore, or Aberfeldy for a relaxed end to your winter adventure. 

Highlights: The Hermitage at Dunkeld, Loch Tay, Blair Castle. 

Winter Touring Tips

• Plan ahead: Daylight is limited (around 7 hours mid-winter), so schedule shorter drives. 

• Check forecasts: Snow is likely in the Highlands, always monitor road conditions. 

• Book winter-open campsites: Many sites close from November to March, but select ones remain open year-round. 

• Keep supplies stocked: Fuel, gas, and fresh water can be limited in remote areas. 

• Layer up: Scottish weather can change quickly, be prepared for cold, wind, and rain. 

Why Tour with Dicksons of Perth

As Scotland’s trusted name for motorhomes and campervans, Dicksons of Perth offers vehicles designed for comfort and reliability in all seasons. Whether you’re planning your first road trip or are a seasoned explorer, our team can help you choose the perfect model, and route for your journey. 

We also offer motorhome hire, servicing, and expert advice to make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible. 

Start Your Scottish Winter Adventure

With its dramatic scenery, quiet roads, and cosy campsites, Scotland in winter offers an unforgettable touring experience. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, a two-week winter road trip is the perfect way to see the country from a fresh perspective. 

Visit Dicksons of Perth to explore our range of new and used motorhomes or to enquire about winter motorhome hire for your next Scottish adventure.