12 Road Trips in Scotland Every Motorhome Traveller Should Do at Least Once

If you’ve been dreaming of taking your motorhome across Scotland’s wild coasts, lonely glens and tiny single-track roads, this list is basically your new best friend. I’ve driven most of these routes myself – sometimes under the rain (ok, souvent sous la pluie), sometimes under a sky so clear it almost looked fake – and honestly, every one of them has something unforgettable.

Ready to pick your next adventure ? Or maybe two ? Let’s dive in.

1. The North Coast 500 (NC500)

Yeah, it’s famous. Sometimes too famous. But there’s a reason everyone talks about it. The 516-mile loop around the northern Highlands mixes cliffs, white-sand beaches (yes, in Scotland), and villages where time feels… slower. I still remember pulling up at Achmelvich Beach early one morning : nobody around, just the turquoise water doing its thing. Magic.

Tip : Start early each day – parking spots for motorhomes fill up fast in summer.

2. The Isle of Skye Loop

Skye isn’t huge, but wow, it packs a punch. The drive to the Quiraing alone feels like entering a fantasy movie set. The roads can be narrow, sure, but if you’re patient, the reward is massive : waterfalls everywhere, the Old Man of Storr sticking out like a giant tooth, and sunsets you’ll think about for weeks.

3. Glencoe &amp ; Glen Etive

Glencoe is dramatic. No other word works. Steep mountains on both sides, sudden shafts of light through the clouds… it’s unreal. But do yourself a favour : take the detour into Glen Etive. The single-track road winds for about 12 miles until it ends at a quiet loch. I once sat there eating a sandwich that honestly tasted better just because of the view.

4. The Argyll Coastal Route

If you like a mix of sea, castles and forests, this one’s for you. From Tarbert to Oban, you get little harbours, stretches of road that flirt with the coastline, and that fresh sea smell that instantly wakes you up. This route feels calmer, more “local” than the big-name ones.

The Edinburgh to St Andrews Coastal Road

For a shorter, softer trip, follow the coast from Edinburgh into the Kingdom of Fife. Fishing villages like Pittenweem and Anstruther look straight out of postcards. Grab fish-and-chips by the harbour (Anstruther’s are famous – and yeah, they’re worth it). St Andrews at the end feels like the perfect reward.

6. The Outer Hebrides Hop

Okay, this one takes a bit more planning because of ferries, but driving through Harris and Lewis ? Pure joy. The A859 between Tarbert and Leverburgh might actually be my favourite road in Scotland – mountains, lochs, beaches that look tropical from a distance. Luskentyre Beach is the showstopper.

7. The Cairngorms Snow Roads

Despite the name, you can do it outside winter too (and honestly, I prefer it then). The road between Blairgowrie and Grantown-on-Spey crosses some of the highest public roads in the UK. Expect wide, wind-sculpted landscapes and the kind of silence you only get in big mountain areas.

8. Loch Lomond to Inveraray

This region is perfect if you want a mix of peaceful lochs and pretty villages. The drive down the western side of Loch Lomond feels cosy, almost friendly, compared to the rough Highlands up north. Then you arrive in Inveraray, with its white-fronted houses and big castle – it’s like stepping into a film set.

9. The Moray Firth Route

If you’re chasing wildlife (who isn’t ?), this coastal trip is gold. You’ve got a genuine chance of spotting dolphins around Chanonry Point. The towns here feel sunny and welcoming. Even the light looks different – softer maybe ?

10. The Kintyre 66

A newer, quieter itinerary. The Kintyre Peninsula is long, narrow and oddly shaped, which makes it perfect for a motorhome exploration. You get empty beaches, whisky stops, and views across to Ireland on a clear day. The pace is slow, in the best way.

11. The Angus Coastal Route

Not as famous as it should be. Arbroath’s red cliffs are stunning in late afternoon light, and if you’ve never tried a “smokie” straight from the smoker, prepare yourself. The coastline here is gentle and easy to drive – ideal if you want something relaxing.

12. The Orkney Mainland Loop

Orkney feels like another world. The roads are calm, the landscapes wide and clean, the archaeological sites everywhere. Driving between Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar and the cliffs of Yesnaby gives you this strange mix of ancient history and fresh sea air. I loved every minute.

Which Route Should You Start With ?

Honestly ? It depends what you crave :

  • Big dramatic scenery : Glencoe, NC500, Skye.
  • Peaceful coastal vibes : Moray, Angus, Argyll.
  • Wild islands : Outer Hebrides, Orkney.
  • Shorter intro trip : Edinburgh–St Andrews.

Ask yourself : do you want rugged ? Quiet ? Famous ? Hidden ? That’s the beauty of Scotland – you can pick a mood, and there’s a road trip for it.

If you’re planning your journey in a motorhome, take your time, start early when you can, and trust me – even a simple picnic stop can become a highlight here.

So… which one is calling your name first ?