Guide for North Coast 500 Motorhome Journey - Routes, Attractions, and Useful Tips
Exploring the North Coast 500 (NC500) in a Motorhome: A Comprehensive Guide
The NC500, one of Scotland's most scenic drives, offers an unforgettable journey for motorhome and campervan enthusiasts. With its breathtaking beaches, rugged landscapes, and incredible views, this circular route is a must-do for any road trip enthusiast.
Duration and Pacing
A recommended length of time to drive the NC500 in a motorhome or campervan is at least 5 to 7 days. This allows time to enjoy key sights without feeling rushed. Multiple sources suggest that 6 to 7 days is ideal for completing the main route with stops at famous places and hidden gems, balancing driving time and exploration. Driving around 3 to 4 hours per day works well to avoid exhaustion and have enough time to explore. A minimum of 5 days is recommended to see most highlights; shorter trips (2-3 days) require sacrificing sights. Some travelers recommend even longer — up to 3 weeks — if you want to explore extensively.
Key Sights and Attractions
The NC500 passes through numerous memorable destinations, including Smoo Cave, Clashnessie Falls, Inverness, Corrieshalloch Gorge, Bealach Na Ba, Clachtoll Beach, Kylesku Bridge, John o'Groats, Dunrobin Castle, and Brora Beach. Don't forget to visit additional points of interest such as Duncansby Head stacks and the historic Dornoch Cathedral. For those seeking adventure, veering off the NC500 to explore the Isle of Skye or Orkney is also an option.
Tips for Driving the NC500
- Be aware of single track roads, farm vehicles, and wildlife, and use passing places appropriately.
- Be cautious when encountering other vehicles, and don't forget to have a paper map as a backup.
- It is strongly advised to avoid driving Bealach Na Ba with a motorhome longer than 8m, especially if towing a trailer or have a caravan, if a new driver or hiring a vehicle which you're not used to, if a nervous driver, if driving on your own, if the weather is bad, or if the weather is thick fog.
Camping and Accommodation
Wild camping with a motorhome on the NC500 is possible, but it is recommended to find approved overnight parking areas or campsites due to recent incidents of damage and waste left by irresponsible van owners. Some North Coast 500 campsites close during the off-season, making it difficult to find water or empty waste or find overnight parking. Campsites on the NC500 may have specific check-in times, so it is important to plan accordingly. The Dornoch Caravan and Camping Park is a suggested campsite for the final night of the North Coast 500 route.
Safety and Security
Security tips for protecting a motorhome or campervan while traveling and at home are available in a free guide. A motorhome reversing camera is essential for driving the NC500 in a motorhome.
Weather and Season
Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter offer unique experiences on the NC500, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 17°C. Midge season in Scotland is from May to September, with tips to combat midges including staying indoors at dusk, using citronella candles or spray, wearing Avon Skin So Soft body spray, using a midge veil/hat, staying away from still water, and going somewhere windy. The best time to explore the NC500 with a motorhome or campervan is between April and October, with May/June and October-November being the least crowded and still warm months.
Additional Resources
A free NC500 road trip itinerary, including routes, places to visit, and campsites, is available for download. Motorhome and campervan hire options are available for the NC500 trip, with essential questions to ask before booking and recommendations for deals on rentals. Additional guides for motorhoming and campervanning in Scotland, the most scenic driving routes in Scotland, and planning the perfect UK road trip are available on the Wandering Bird website.
Inspiring Stories
Kathryn Bird, the founder of Wandering Bird, shares her story of going from a career as an air traffic controller to a digital nomad and motorhome travel enthusiast.
Embrace the Adventure
With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and endless opportunities for exploration, the NC500 promises an unforgettable adventure for motorhome and campervan travelers. So, pack your bags, grab your map, and embark on an epic journey along the NC500!
[1] NC500 Itinerary [2] NC500 Travel Tips [3] NC500 Driving Guide [4] NC500 Travel Guide [5] NC500 Road Trip Planner
- To make the most of the NC500 journey in a motorhome, it's advised to allocate at least 5 to 7 days for exploration, allowing time to visit key sights like Smoo Cave and Kylesku Bridge without feeling rushed.
- In case of helping fellow travelers on the NC500, remember that driving Bealach Na Ba safely with a motorhome longer than 8m should be avoided, especially when conditions are unfavorable or if you're inexperienced.
