Exploring Scotland's NC500 Route: A Comprehensive Guide to Planning a Camper Van Road-Trip

Scotland's North Coast 500, also known as NC500, is a 516-mile long route that takes you on a journey through some of the most spectacular landscapes Scotland has to offer. From rugged coastlines to stunning mountains, the NC500 route is a must-do for any nature lover. And what better way to experience this breathtaking scenery than in a camper van? We'll guide you through everything you need to know to plan your own camper van road-trip along the NC500 route.

Picking a Camper Van

The first step in planning your road-trip is choosing the right camper van. There are plenty of companies that offer camper van rentals in Scotland, so it's important to do your research and choose the one that's right for you. Consider factors like the size of the van, the number of beds it has, and the amenities it offers. You'll want to make sure you have everything you need for your trip, from cooking utensils to bedding.

We went with a company called Rockin Vans. They provided us with a VW pop-top camper that included a built in fridge, stove, sink, camping chairs/table and two options for bedding: a pop-top bed and bedding within the van with the seats laid flat. One key thing to note is that Scotland can be brutally windy, so sleeping up top with a pop-top camper van was quite impossible some nights. Luckily, we had the option to fold the seats inside the van down flat and sleep in the much warmer and quieter ‘bottom compartment’ of the camper. The van also came with a built-in heater which came in handy as we didn’t think initially it would get that cold in early October, but it can get chilly at night, so make sure you have adequate heating.

When to Go

Scotland's weather can be unpredictable, so it's important to choose the right time of year for your road-trip. The best time to go is between May and September, when the weather is generally mild and the days are longer. Keep in mind that this is peak season, so you'll want to book your camper van and campsites well in advance. We were there end of September to early October, just as the rain (and wind!) really started kicking in. If you’re going during rainy season, be sure to pack solid rain gear and shoes/boots.

The Route

The NC500 route starts and ends in Inverness, taking you along the northern coast of Scotland. Here are some key sights and attractions along the way:

Loch Ness: While Loch Ness is not directly on the NC500 route, it is a popular attraction that can be easily accessed from the route.
Dunrobin Castle: This stunning castle is located in the town of Golspie and features beautiful gardens and a museum of the castle's history.
Smoo Cave: Located near Durness, this dramatic sea cave is one of Scotland's largest and can be explored by boat or on foot.
Stornoway: This picturesque town on the Isle of Lewis is known for its historic harbor, beautiful beaches, and vibrant arts scene.
John o' Groats: This small village is known as the northernmost point of mainland Britain and is a must-visit on any NC500 road-trip.
Orkney Islands: This archipelago off the north coast of Scotland is rich in history and culture, with ancient sites like Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar to explore. We didn’t get a chance to go here as we didn’t have enough time, but if you do go, there are two ferry operators that offer regular services to the islands.

Campsites

There are plenty of campsites along the NC500 route, so you'll have no problem finding a place to park your camper van for the night. Some of the best campsites include the Sands Caravan and Camping Park in Gairloch, the Dunnet Bay Caravan Club Site in Thurso, and the John o' Groats Caravan and Camping Site. We also did manage to find a few spots to park our campervan for free at certain parking lots or at inns that allow campers to park in their lots (always ask first). This handy website is useful if you’re looking for a nearby free campsite. If doing so, remember to respect the environment - Scotland's natural beauty is its biggest attraction, so be sure to leave no trace or garbage behind.

Sample Route

The above Google Maps route was the 7-day camper van route we took, starting in Glasgow and ending in Edinburgh.

What to Pack

Packing for a camper van trip around Scotland's NC500 can be a bit challenging, especially if you're not used to traveling in a camper van. Here are some essential items to consider packing for your trip:

Clothing: Scotland's weather can be unpredictable, so it's important to pack clothing for both warm and cold weather. Make sure to bring warm layers, waterproof jackets and trousers, sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots, and a hat and gloves.
Bedding: Most camper van rental companies provide bedding, but it's always a good idea to bring a sleeping bag and pillow if you prefer to use your own.
Kitchen Supplies: Most camper vans come equipped with a basic kitchen setup, but it's a good idea to bring along some essentials such as a reusable water bottle, a portable gas stove, pots and pans, utensils, plates, and cups.
Food and Drinks: It's a good idea to bring along some non-perishable food items such as pasta, rice, canned goods, and snacks. Don't forget to bring along your favorite hot drink, like tea or coffee. We brought a few of our favourite instant noodles from home.
Thermos: Super handy to hold hot drinks and soups.
Electronics: Make sure to bring a charging cable for your phone and any other electronics you might need on the trip. It's also a good idea to bring a portable battery pack in case you don't have access to electricity.
Phone Holder: I always bring a magnetic car phone holder to keep our phones accessible for looking up our route on Google Maps.
Outdoor Gear: Don't forget to pack your outdoor gear, such as a backpack, hiking poles, and a headlamp. This will come in handy when exploring the beautiful countryside.
Personal Items: Make sure to bring along any personal items you might need, such as toiletries, medications, and a first aid kit.

Remember, space can be limited in a camper van, so it's important to pack light and only bring what you need.

We hope this guide is handy if you plan to explore Scotland's NC500 in a camper van!