The North Coast 500: Scotland’s Ultimate Road Trip Adventure
Are you ready to embark on a journey filled with breathtaking views, charming villages, and the occasional sheep blocking the road? Then buckle up for the North Coast 500 (NC500) route in Scotland, where tranquility meets adventure, and your GPS may or may not lead you astray.
Must-Visit Stops Along the NC500 Route
Start your adventure in Inverness, where you can stock up on snacks, marvel at ancient artifacts, and try to pronounce Gaelic street names without butchering them too badly. As you make your way north, don’t forget to snap a selfie at Eilean Donan Castle and resist the urge to reenact scenes from Braveheart.
- Stock up on supplies in Inverness while trying not to get lost in a maze of tartan scarves
- Pretend you’re a medieval knight at Eilean Donan Castle (but please don’t actually joust anyone)
- Strike a pose in Plockton and watch as the locals wonder why you’re taking pictures of their houses
Keep cruising along the coastal roads, where you’ll be greeted by dramatic cliffs, deserted beaches, and the occasional herd of Highland cows giving you side-eye. Make a pit stop in Ullapool for some fresh seafood and an impromptu ceilidh that may or may not involve bagpipes.
Tips for a Memorable Van Life Experience
Remember, when in doubt, leave only tire tracks and take only memories (and maybe a few rocks as souvenirs). Embrace your inner outdoor enthusiast by hiking, biking, or kayaking your way through the rugged landscapes of Scotland.
- Leave no trace (except for that one time you accidentally dropped a crisp packet)
- Get your adrenaline pumping with outdoor activities that may or may not lead to questionable decisions
Embracing the Freedom of Van Life
Let your wanderlust guide you as you uncover hidden gems and stumble upon quirky roadside attractions that will make for great stories (or embarrassing photos) back home. Immerse yourself in local culture by sampling haggis, tapping your foot to some traditional music, and attempting to understand the Scottish accent.
- Go off the beaten path and discover places Google Maps has never heard of
- Engage with locals and try not to nod along pretending you understand what they’re saying
So pack your sense of adventure, hit the road, and let the NC500 be your North Star (or at least your guide to finding the nearest pub). Who needs a plan when you have Scotland’s rugged beauty and unpredictable weather to keep things interesting?

UK Custom Covers SB160AD3 Luxury Interior Tailored Front Windscreen Blind Black - To Fit VW Transporter T6/T6.1 2015 Onwards
FITS VW TRANSPORTER T6/T6.1 (2015 ONWARDS)
£69.95
Buy Now on Amazon
Our Road Trip Adventure Log: 30-day road trip adventure log for motorhomes and campervans. Record details quickly and easily with quick note features and What3Words locations
£8.99
Buy Now on Amazon
2.5L Stainless Steel Whistling Kettle - Suitable for Fishing, Camping, Hiking, Indoor & Outdoor | Camping Kettle for Gas Stove, Electric Stove, Camp Fire | Lightweight, Fast Boil, Phenolic Handle
✅ 👍 COOL HANDLE - Stay cool and comfortable while pouring with our ergonomic handle design made of durable black phenolic material. The combination of high-quality phenolic and stainless steel construction effectively insulates, preventing scalds of the gas kettle for a safe and enjoyable camping experience.
£9.49
Buy Now on Amazon