Highland Fling

Highland Adventure: Touring the Scottish Highlands in an Campervan

There’s no better way to explore the wild beauty of Scotland than from the comfort and flexibility of a campervan — and with an hire campervan, you’ve got the perfect base on wheels. Here’s a week-long adventure around the Scottish Highlands, taking in lochs, mountains, castles, and coastlines, all at your own pace.

📍 Day 1: Pickup in Edinburgh – Head to Loch Lomond

Start point: Pick up your hire campervan from either Edinburgh . After a quick intro to the van (they’ll show you how everything works), hit the road north.

Stop: Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Drive time: ~1.5 hours

  • Park up near Balmaha or Luss.
  • Take a gentle walk along the loch or climb Conic Hill for a stunning view over the water.
  • Stay overnight at a campsite like Cashel Campsite, right on the loch’s edge.

Tip: Stock up on local food before leaving the city — ideal for your camper’s kitchenette!

📍 Day 2: Glencoe and the Great Outdoors

Drive time: ~2 hours

The road through Glencoe is one of the most dramatic in the UK. Towering mountains and deep valleys tell stories of ancient clans and geological drama.

  • Visit the Glencoe Visitor Centre.
  • Hike a section of the Lost Valley or take a shorter walk in the area.
  • Wild camp responsibly, or stay at Red Squirrel Campsite tucked in the glen.

Don’t miss a sunset here — the colours on the mountains are unreal.

📍 Day 3: Fort William and Ben Nevis

Drive time: ~30 minutes

Make your way in your hire campervan to Fort William, the outdoor capital of the UK.

  • If you’re up for it, hike Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain. Or try a more moderate trail like Steall Falls.
  • Take the Nevis Range Mountain Gondola for alpine views without the hike.
  • Overnight at Glen Nevis Caravan & Camping Park.

Hot showers and a view of the mountains? Yes, please.

📍 Day 4: The Road to Skye

Drive time: ~2.5 hours

Wind your way west through Glen Shiel, past Eilean Donan Castle, and onto the Isle of Skye via the Skye Bridge.

  • Visit the iconic castle — it’s worth the short detour.
  • Park up near Portree or further north around the Trotternish Peninsula.
  • Camp at Torvaig Campsite or try wild camping (check local guidance).

📍 Day 5: Explore the Isle of Skye

Skye deserves a day or two. Don’t rush.

  • Walk the Old Man of Storr, see Kilt Rock, and hike to the Quiraing.
  • Visit Fairy Pools near Glenbrittle for a cold-water dip.
  • Pick a remote beach or cliffside layby for an unforgettable overnight.

Skye’s beauty lies in its weather — moody or sunny, it’s always magical.

📍 Day 6: Loch Ness and Inverness

Drive time: ~3.5 hours

Head back to the mainland and up to Loch Ness via Kyle of Lochalsh and Drumnadrochit.

  • Try spotting Nessie from Urquhart Castle.
  • Continue to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands.
  • Overnight at Bught Park Caravan Park or a rural spot along the loch.

Inverness is great for a meal out and a bit of Highland culture.

📍 Day 7: Cairngorms and Return South

Drive time: ~3 hours back to Glasgow or 3.5 to Edinburgh (via Cairngorms)

Take the scenic route home through the Cairngorms National Park.

  • Stop in Aviemore for coffee or a short hike.
  • Watch for deer and eagles as you wind through the hills.
  • Drop off your campervan, tired but happy.

🛏️ Campervan Tips

  • Wild camping is legal in many parts of Scotland, but follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
  • Always park responsibly and avoid blocking roads or private land.
  • Many local pubs and restaurants welcome campervans if you eat with them – ask politely.

For more details on hiring a campervan from our Edinburgh location contact us on 0131 322 6597