The North Coast 500: A Van Life Adventure Through the Scottish Highlands
Welcome, my fellow adventurers, to a wild ride through the majestic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands on the notorious NC500 route. Get ready to be spellbound by quaint coastal villages, rugged mountain passes, and more fluffy sheep than you can count. Let’s dive headfirst into this van life escapade like never before!
Starting Point: Inverness
Ah, delightful Inverness – the jumping-off point for our NC500 expedition. Stock up on haggis, whiskey, and bug spray before hitting the road, because you’re in for a rollercoaster of an adventure. As you journey northward, prepare to feast your eyes on stunning lochs, ancient castles, and enough tartan to make your head spin. Ah, bonny Scotland!
Camping and Wild Adventures
Along the NC500, you’ll stumble upon numerous campsites and wild camping spots where you can park your van and pretend to be a survival expert for a night. Immerse yourself in nature as you admire the untamed beauty of the Scottish wilderness, all while praying you don’t get chased by a Highland cow. Pro tip: don’t forget your spirit of adventure and a healthy dose of fear towards those pesky midges.
Iconic Landmarks and Cultural Delights
No NC500 odyssey is complete without a visit to iconic sites like the Bealach na Bà pass and the enchanting Eilean Donan Castle. Immerse yourself in Scottish heritage and culture as you explore ancient ruins and ponder how anyone survived wearing a kilt in the freezing cold. Truly a mystery for the ages.
Essential Gear and Survival Tips
- A trusty stove: for whipping up some haggis or boiling water for your cuppa.
- Cozy blankets: because let’s face it, Scotland isn’t exactly known for its tropical climate.
- A reliable map: to navigate the winding roads and avoid accidentally stumbling upon Nessie in Loch Ness (unless you’re on a monster-hunting mission).
Local Cuisine and Whisky Tastings
Don’t pass up the chance to sample traditional Scottish fare like haggis, neeps, and tatties at charming eateries along your journey. Wash it all down with a wee dram of whisky – or two – to warm your bones after a day of exploration. And remember, no Scottish escapade is complete without indulging in a deep-fried Mars bar. It’s practically mandatory.
Reflections and Memories
As you make your way back to Inverness, take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable moments created during your van life voyage on the NC500. Whether you’re a seasoned road warrior or a novice explorer, Scotland’s North Coast 500 is sure to leave you enchanted and dreaming of bagpipes for days on end.
And there you have it, dear readers – an extraordinary van life experience through the Scottish Highlands beckons. Are you prepared to embark on this once-in-a-lifetime journey? Pack your wit, your sense of wonder, and perhaps an extra kilt – it’s going to be one heck of a ride!

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