Scotland is a land of rugged beauty, steeped in history, and full of adventure. With its rolling hills, majestic mountains, and picturesque lochs, it is the perfect destination for an adventurous road trip. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for some fun and excitement, Scotland has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a look at how to plan an adventurous road trip in Scotland, including where to start, what to see, and where to camp.
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Start of our Road Trip in Scotland: Flying, picking up the camper & finding a camping spot
The first step in planning an adventurous road trip in Scotland is to figure out how you’re going to get there. For many people, flying is the most convenient option. Scotland has several international airports, including Edinburgh and Glasgow. From there, you can rent a car or camper van and hit the road.
Once you’ve arrived and picked up your vehicle, the next step is to find a good place to camp. Scotland has plenty of campgrounds and wild camping spots, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. It’s a good idea to plan your route in advance and have a few options for camping spots along the way. This way, you won’t be scrambling to find a place to sleep at night.
A Good Warm-Up for our Scottish Road Trip in Glencoe
One of the best places to start your Scottish road trip is in Glencoe. This scenic valley is located in the Scottish Highlands and is known for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. There are plenty of hiking trails, cycling routes, and scenic drives in the area, so it’s the perfect place to get into the Scottish spirit.
One of the best hikes in Glencoe is the Aonach Eagach Ridge. This challenging hike takes you along a narrow ridge with steep drops on either side. It’s not for the faint of heart, but the views from the top are absolutely stunning. Another great hike in the area is the Devil’s Staircase. This hike takes you up a steep hill to a high pass with views of the surrounding mountains.
Seals on Skye
No Scottish road trip would be complete without a visit to the Isle of Skye. This stunning island is known for its rugged coastline, picturesque villages, and abundant wildlife. One of the best places to see wildlife on Skye is at the Kylerhea Otter Haven. This wildlife sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, including otters, seals, and dolphins.
If you’re interested in seeing seals, head to the village of Dunvegan. Here, you’ll find a colony of seals that live on the rocks just offshore. You can view them from a safe distance or take a boat tour to get a closer look. The seals are most active in the summer months, but you can usually spot them year-round.
The Famous Old Man of Storr
Another must-see attraction on Skye is the Old Man of Storr. This iconic rock formation is one of the most photographed landmarks in Scotland. The Old Man of Storr is a large pinnacle of rock that stands over 160 feet tall. It’s located on a hillside overlooking the Sound of Raasay and the Isle of Rona.
The hike to the Old Man of Storr is challenging but rewarding. The trail is steep and rocky, but the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction. The best time to visit the Old Man of Storr is early in the morning or late in the evening when the crowds are smaller.
Camping in Scotland During Your Road Trip
One of the best things about a Scottish road trip is the opportunity to camp in some of the most beautiful and remote locations in the country. Scotland has a long tradition of wild camping, which means that you can camp for free in most areas of the countryside as long as you respect the environment and follow a few simple rules.
When camping in Scotland, it’s important to remember that you are camping in a natural environment, so you should leave no trace and take all your rubbish with you. Always choose a spot that is at least 200 feet away from any water source, and do not camp in designated wildlife habitats.
It’s also a good idea to invest in a good quality tent that can withstand the Scottish weather. Scotland is known for its changeable weather, so you should be prepared for rain, wind, and even snow, especially if you’re camping in the mountains.
If you’re not comfortable with wild camping, Scotland has plenty of campsites that offer more facilities, such as toilets, showers, and electricity. Many campsites are located in stunning locations, so you can still enjoy the beauty of the Scottish countryside without roughing it too much.
Some of the best campsites in Scotland include Glen Nevis Camping and Caravan Park in Fort William, which is located at the foot of Ben Nevis, Scotland’s highest mountain. The site has stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is close to some of Scotland’s best hiking trails.
Another great campsite is the Torridon Campsite, located on the shores of Loch Torridon in the Scottish Highlands. The site is surrounded by mountains and offers easy access to some of Scotland’s most scenic drives and walks.
Conclusion
A road trip in Scotland is a great way to experience the natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture of this fascinating country. From the rugged mountains and rolling hills of Glencoe to the picturesque villages and stunning coastline of Skye, Scotland has something to offer every adventurous traveler.
When planning your Scottish road trip, it’s important to do your research and plan your route in advance. Make sure you have a good map or GPS system and have a few options for camping spots along the way.
Remember to respect the environment and follow the rules of wild camping, and be prepared for the changeable Scottish weather. With a little bit of planning and a sense of adventure, your Scottish road trip is sure to be an experience of a lifetime.
