With its magnificent coast and countryside, Scotland is the ideal place for a motorhome hire holiday. You can explore all the country has to offer without being confined by hotel reservations and transport limitations but with protection from the somewhat variable weather conditions! Motorhomes give you freedom to go where the road takes you, so there’s no need to confine yourself with set plans, but here’s a few trip ideas to get you started.
Drive the North Coast 500
Taking in 500 miles of the Scottish north coast, the North Coast 500 is Scotland’s most famous road trip – it’s our answer to Route 66 and one to consider when looking for motorhome hire holiday ideas.
Crossing six regions – Black Isle, Caithness, Easter Ross, Inverness-shire, Sutherland, and Wester Ross – the drive is an experience in itself; the scenery is captivating. As for stops, you’ll pass through wee towns and be able to explore unspoilt beaches, wondrous caves, and historic castles. There’s plenty of campsites and places to park your motorhome, though you may need to book in advance in summer as it gets busy.
Escape the Mainland With Some Island Hopping
No holiday to Scotland is complete without a visit to one of its many islands. Not all are open to motorhomes, so an island-hopping holiday requires a bit preplanning, but don’t let that put you off – it’s well worth the effort. Shaped by the waters around them, all the islands have something unique to offer visitors. The Shetland Isles, which are the furthest north, are beautiful islands with a strong community spirit and fishing at heart. They were also listed as one of the top 10 places to visit in Europe by Lonely Planet in 2019 – the only UK location to make the list!
Coming back towards Scotland, Orkney has many hidden gems to explore including the, a UNESCO Heart of Neolithic Orkney a group of Neolithic monuments that beautifully highlight the history of the islands. To the west of Scotland, you have the Inner and Outer Hebrides with their outstanding natural beauty and abundant wildlife; they are also the home of Harris Tweed and other traditional delights.
East of Scotland Adventure
What’s better than an adventure that starts in Scotland’s enchanting capital, Edinburgh? There’s lots do before you even set off – explore the famous Edinburgh Castle, climb Arthur’s seat or shop on the iconic Prince’s Street, for just a few examples.
When you’re ready to take off, get behind the wheel of your motorhome and head to Queensferry and the famous Forth Bridge, A UNESCO world heritage site. Drive across the Forth Road Bridge, pick up the Fife coastal route and head towards St Andrews, where you can play a round of golf on one of the many courses, look around the cathedral or simply wander the traditional cobbled streets. Keep following the route, and you’ll pass through Scotland’s fourth-largest city, Dundee and be able to pick up the Angus coastal route for more stunning scenery before you reach Aberdeen.
Turning around, come back through the wildlife-filled Cairngorms National Park towards Pitlochry, where you relax on walks or get your adrenalin pumping on the mountain bike trails. The east coast has something for everyone!
Scottish Borders Historic Trail
The Scottish Borders Historic Trail covers 89 miles from Gretna Green to the Capital Edinburgh. It’s the ideal route for a Motorhome trip, passing through vibrant countryside and past historical attractions such as the Clan Armstrong Centre at Gilnockie Tower, the Borders Textile Towerhouse and the National Mining Museum of Scotland in Newtongrange. You can also detour slightly along the route to take in the stunning abbey ruins at Melrose and Jedburgh.
You’ll also get the opportunity to sample local brews at Stewart Brewing or to learn about and explore nature in Edinburgh Butterfly and Insect World and while exploring Dalkeith Country Park. There’s plenty of detours to take advantage of along the way as well; Melrose isn’t far off route, and neither is Traquair House, so having the flexibility of a motorhome is ideal.
Argyll’s Secret Coast
Hidden away in South Argyll, Argyll’s secret coast is an undiscovered gem overlooking the Mull of Kintyre and the Isles of Arran and Bute. It has all the beauty of the west coast of Scotland while being extremely accessible and easy to navigate in a motorhome.
Along the route you’ll find glistening lochs, wild woodlands, wonderous wildlife, including the elusive and native red squirrel, and many untouched bays and beaches. Just one of the routes highlights is Loch Fyne, the longest of the sea lochs and home of delicious seafood.
Others include Ardlamont peninsula, Ostel Bay and Kyles of Bute, which separates Bute from Argyll. It’s an area of outstanding natural beauty that will not disappoint – just keep your eyes open for goats!
Find Out More From the Motorhome Hire Holiday Experts
If you’re interested in a motorhome hire holiday and want to find a vehicle or just want to find out more, our team are always happy to help. From choosing the right luxury motorhome hire for your needs to arranging a bespoke itinerary for your trip, you’ll be in safe hands with our knowledgeable and friendly team of experts. Get in touch today with any enquiries or queries.
