Respect is what's needed. Respect for the locals and their way of life. Respect for their own safety and the safety of the locals going about their business. Respect most of all for the countryside you're visiting, and leave it precisely as you find it, No dumping of rubbish for any reason. If you make a mess, clean it up and take it home with you. On single track roads , drive courteusly, if you see another vehicle approaching pull in at the nearest passing place unless they do so first, then it's polite to give a little wave as you pass. Battering along regardless hoping the other will stop first is not a great option.
Just done 2 weeks in Cornwall and met 2 Scottish couples who towed their caravans down to the North Cornish coast. They said the North Coast 500 is way too busy now and is ruined by it.
Nobody could be disappointed with that . Unbelievable . The main thing is spend as much time as possible. 2 or 3 days is never enough. It’s a start though and I for one will definitely be back again and again.
You’re 💯 right. I did this route a few years ago - the west coast route has the best scenery. I went further after Skye in search of our family croft in Sutherland. Stayed in Ullapool and drove further north to Lochinver. Then cross country through Ross-shire to Inverness and down to Edinburgh. East coast is not so spectacular but the Festival was on and the Edinburgh Tattoo!
Great option, and some excellent places to visit plus it misses out all the "industry" of the east NC500. For me, I would start at Stirling and not Glasgow, over to the bottom end of Loch Lomond, then coming back you can either come down to Killin/Loch Tay to Perth, Loch Earn/Crieff or do both and back to Stirling via Callender.
Having done the west coast to the point I know every twist and bend. Yes if your short on time this route in the clip, it’s a ok route but people don’t confuse it with the best of the NC 500 that would be if you crossed the bridge from Skye and headed to Loch Carron, then Applecross over the pass and then taking the coast road from Applecross sticking to the main coast road to Ullapool then Durness. That is where the magic is and the route in this clip you’d understand was just the starter to the real main event. The roads get quieter the further north and the drive from Ullapool to Durness if you get an early start and the weather is breathtaking. Don’t get me wrong the Skye loop is worth doing Arisaig to Mallaig via Camusdarach Beach 🏖 and the white Sands of Moror are stunning too.
Fuel is subsidised on Scottish islands so if you're needing to fill up do so on Skye, don't wait til you're back on the mainland. Oh, and go after the snow but before the midgies to get the best weather (usually..)
It is an excellent route. However, Id extend it a little to take in Elgol on the Isle of Skye and I'd also visit Plockton on the mainland and if time allows Applecross via the Bealach na Bà which is possibly the most stunning mountain pass in the UK.
HI, I have 8 days in scotland. Would you suggest this route with Applecross or should I do Isle of sky and full\half of the NC500. I have been doing my research for a while and getting more and more confused 😆
@@ritipearll Hi. Plockton is only a slight detour so is definitely worth a visit. On Skye the two places I would recommend are Elgol and The Old Man of Storr. Applecross is certainly something you would never forget. It's all stunning provided the weather is kind to you. I don't know what your route is back from Skye but another alternative is the ferry to Mallaig which would allow you to visit the white sands of Morar on your way back to Fort William. I hope I haven't confused you even more. David
I drove up apple Cross the day I passed my driving test in snow from arradoul in morayshire it was insane ❤. Going away fishing on west coast this weekend canna wait
Thanks for the route Chris. Been wanting to experience the best of Scotland but not wanting to do the NC500, so this looks just the ticket. Keep up the great work with the channel - really enjoyable stuff
I considered doing the NC500 this year - but was put off by adverse publicity, and just general discussions about people misbehaving and not being representative of the majority of campervan owners. And I enjoy mixing it up with the locals when I travel. So I did the NL 250 - and truly found a piece of the UK I didn't really know, and enjoyed myself beyond all mean - plus because of a slow puncture, I ended up getting to know whole raft of the local population from Kielder down to Hexham - who helped me keep the tyre inflated until I could get it fixed. Truly lovely people, and a genuinely enjoyable experience. Thank you for sharing this with us, as I will add to my list of next years options - as I like the idea of going Glasgow, Glen Coe, and around Skye. As that sounds like fun.
Hampshire to Skye, following your route. Absolutely stunning, super lucky with the weather, almost 2 weeks of brilliant sunshine. 15 April -29th April 2023. Have shared your route and recommended it to friends. We stopped in Edinburgh on the way back down south, wow what a city. Loved every minute of our trip. Thank you
I purchased the book for this route from Chris' online store. I have collected a few books covering this route. This book (particularly the e-book version due to its interactive nature) is fantastic. Extremely well written with all the tips and help you need. Brilliant. I would thoroughly recommend this to anyone wanting to undertake this route. Well done Chris. Excellent work.
Thanks Peter. Appreciate the feedback! This book was primarily a passion project for me since it is my favourite part of Scotland. I wanted others to see what i love about the place!
I did my own route 4 years ago, just because I didn't want to be a lemming and follow the crowds that year. We did a circular route, which included Ardnamurchan, Arisaig, Isle of Skye etc. Then the isle of Harris & Lewis too, returning to Ullapool and then made our way down. Was disapointed with some parts of the NC500, which we did in June this year.
I’ve done this route, not all at one time though. I can wholeheartedly agree with you. I can also add that when I was planning the trip to Skye, I was told by a friend to avoid the south of the island because the scenery isn’t so nice. He was wrong, and I’m glad I ignored the advice. The whole island is just beautiful. I didn’t get the chance to see the beauty spot you mentioned, which is a shame, so I’m glad you included a shot of the area.
I am sooooooo glad that you have posted this video. I’ve been saying exactly this to so many people on Facebook. The West is by far the best. The eastern side of the NC just isn’t anything spectacular. I would say that Cape Wrath and Durness are worth visiting, but then turn round, heading south and come back down the west. I’m a Scot, living in Scotland and I’ve done these routes a lot.
Great vid. Just did the NC500 and essentially the route you suggested. Our itinerary was Glen Coe, loch Eribol, Durness, Sandwood bay, climbed Stack Polly, Applecross, Plockton, Skye with Quirang and Storr. Eileen Donan Castle and then into the Cairngorms. Got lucky with the weather. Breathtaking scenery.
Great video Chris :-) We always stay at Sunnyside Croft in Arisaig, then have a day on the boat to Eigg and possibly see dolphins on the way. I've been telling people for years about the drive through Glencoe too - I'ts majestic :-)
The Isle of Skye is stunning, saw a hint of the aurora on our way there. Unfortunately and as expected it rained a lot for the time of year but the roads were clear of heavy tourist traffic.
So many different routes you can create for yourself in the Highlands - you can spend a lifetime and still not see it all, NC500 is just an introduction to the Highlands. As someone who is from the Highlands, it's all magical especially the west coast but many roads take you deep inside the highlands away from the coast and those roads are great also for wildlife, hiking, fishing great outdoors!
I would suggest an alternative route other than Loch Lomond…..via Aberfoyle and the dukes pass then on to Crainlarach….much better than the Loch …also my favourite day out
My two favourite places on earth are glencoe and Arisaig area up to morar. Like you say they are unbelievable, just had 2 weeks in Glencoe and going to back of keppoch, Arisaig in August. Heaven on earth, enjoy your trip
Sound advice. Been up Skye, Arisaig, Oban loads of times and the scenery is stunning. Not done NC500 yet but looking at videos it looks rammed in the summer, so the plan is to bung the bike in the back of the van and stay over in Inversneckie / Ullapool and have days out on the bike round the wee coast roads.
Instead off going through Glencoe turn left at Tyndrum and go to Oban town, the best town on the west coast by a country mile. Beautiful restaurants, bars, shops and the stunning McCaigs Tower. Continue north to Fort William and continue route as described.
Overnighted in Oban on my way up to Fort William a couple of years ago. It's also worth stopping at Kilchurn Castle on the northern shore of Loch Awe, one of the most photographed castles in Scotland (after Edinburgh and Dornie!).
I'll second that. I am too lazy to cross the A9 or go past Glencoe most times so I just float up and down that coast and absolutely love Oban. Next up is Mallaig!
Done this route you've suggested on the video, and been to all of the places a number of times. They're all good, but the NC500 is far better. The part between Durness down to Torridon and then onto Lochcarron is the best scenery i've seen in Scotland. And i've been all over touring Scotland, from Dunnet Head to Mull of Galloway, into the Cairgorms and Glencoe a number of times as well. Good video though, and would suit someone with only a long weekend to get 3-4 days away.
Really fabulous areas. The West Coast 300 is also great, especially The Rhins of Galloway with beaches and coves, perfect for swimming, boarding and kayaking. The roads are really quiet, lots of parking. Good for cycling too.
I've been saying this for years, if time allows after Skye I'd add in Applecross and Torridon. The Ultimate road trip would be this route plus the West coast of the NC 500 upto Durness.
Never done the nc500, I've been all over Scotland I love my country only been abroad once, always traveled up the West coast b'coz as we all know West is best, Also East coast mainly Fife on family holidays but for 20+yrs it been Glasgow to Mallaig every year plenty places & still finding hidden gems, Fkn love it
The castle is Eilean Donan castle, its been in movies like Entrapment and Highlander. Bit touristy (Obviously) but you’ll kick yourself if you only drive past it. Time a sunrise or a sunset if your into imagery and you’ll be rewarded and the tour is pretty cool if you want to stretch your legs. As for better than the NC500 - i would say its on a par. I live here and travel the west coast during the spring and summer months and do the NC during the late summer/ winter. The Northern lights while camping up there is impossible to beat. Luckily you’ve left out a few places I’m guessing you haven’t discovered yet… still time tho 😉
We went from Glasgow to Loch Lomond -> Glencoe -> Fort William -> Inverness in the middle of Autumn. The road trip was spectacular and unforgettable. Highly recommended. I think that NC 500 is a overhyped place just to promote tourism in that place. There is nothing there which is not present in other parts of UK. Quite inconvenient and expensive also.
Most of my route home at the end of the week and I never get fed up with it. A nice detour when you are on Skye is to take the ferry to Glenelg which will being you over Mam Ratagan pass. You will then have an excellent view of the five sister of Kintail range. In my opinion the best view in Scotland 🙂👍
We did part of this route 2 yrs ago. From dumfries to Glasgow, loch lomand, Glencoe, fort William then went across loch ness to Inverness, dornoch and up to john o groats. Stayed at embo on the east coast for 5 days . All I can say is just wow . Absolutely stunning and great weather also . Thinking of doing Skye next year .
The castle at Dornie is called Eilean Donan castle. Whisky comes from a distillery not a brewery. Anyway, good to see someone pointing out that there's more to the Highlands than the NC500 although there's a lot more spectacular scenery that you'd miss by following your route.
Just a little note after Glencoe don’t go direct to Fort William, just as you exit the Great Glen there is a right turn to Kinlocheven, stunning drive and lovely places to stop and look, then onwards to Fort William, Arisaig is our favourite for camping, there is a site with a family of Otters, they have lived there for years, a challenge then, find it and the reward is worth it.
Hi Chris, just a quick thank you from me and the missus,watched your video and followed all of it except,we couldn't get a ferry from Mallaig 😪so back tracked and went over the bridge,some fantastic scenery and great places .Once again a big thanks👊👍
Hi Steve. Glad you enjoyed it. We couldn’t either on my recent trip I vlogged and posted last night. If you haven’t watched it give it a watch. It’s an amazing place up their and changes every time you visit too.
Did all of the isle of skye in May 2021 with my girlfriend. Fantastic place. Now I'm getting ready for NC500, solo trip. But yeah, this route is damn good. Did the same even with the ferry in and the bridge on my way back. 6 days we spent on the isle of skye and it was enough too see the main points.
We have done these places many times as we stay in Glasgow and go away every time we can. Ardnarmurchan peninsula is lovely , you can visit the lighthouse, some great beaches like Sanna Bay and Singing sands. You can either get the ferry from Lochaline or Kilchoan over to the isle of mull but there are lots of single track roads that may not be suitable for your camper van. Also after Skye you can visit Torridon. Another great place is Gairloch on the A832 lots of great beaches and views. Looking forward to further adventures x
Problem with the NC500 is all the boards that now do it, so annoying as in the past there was only me up there! Especially annoying are the camper vans who never use the passing lanes… so yes avoid the NC500. Having said that the bit from Tongue to Assynt has to be one of the best driving roads in the UK, except for the aforementioned campers! Avoid Mallaig, it’s horrid though yes the beaches to the south are lovely. And on Skye yup the Quairaing is indeed the most dramatic place in the UK, the ultimate drama.
We’ll said. Did the NC500 a few years ago. Did enjoy it but after you’ve seen one beach you’ve seen them all. I’d agree that your route through Glen Coe and up to sky etc is probably the best Scotland has to offer. Keep up the good work. Graeme Total agree that
If you haven’t already visited the Outer Hebrides I would strongly suggest you do Ferries from Uig on Skye and Ullapool. Then you will see the most amazing beaches
As someone mentioned, Stirling would be the place to start. Then go to Luss, Crianlarich, Glencoe, Kinlochleven, Fort William, Mallaig, Staffin, Dunvegan, Kyle of Lochalsh, Spean Bridge, Tummel Bridge, Killin, Stirling. As to a name - how about the Gold Coast 500 (for the sunsets). Astonishingly it is exactly 500 miles / 13h 4min - thanks Google April to mid-May or September to avoid midges.
This is a cracking route, I have done it a few times, I won’t do the NC 500 out of principal, it’s just so over done and spoilt,with so many people, plenty of other quieter routes I have planned , I’m new here so I’ll sub, looks a great channel 😊
Originally from the West Coast down by the Mull of Kintyre, and have been through Glen Coe in all weathers, it's spectacular in all of them, the West Coast Railways Jacobite Steam Train is the Harry Potter one, and it goes out west and then returns East over the viaduct. A nice sidebar to the route is off the A82 through GlenCoe to Loch Etive, past where they filmed bits for James Bond Skyfall.
this video just got recommended to me because youtube seems to know that i'll be on a 4-6 week road trip around the uk from august 1st. comin all the way from germany. i can't wait. looking to do the classic NC500 but anti-clockwise as I'll be around Aberdeen on the 13th. July and especially August seem to be the worst time for the West as it's breeding season for midges and I can't be arsed having to deal with them. Hope it won't be that bad so I can spend a good 2 weeks around the amazing western parts of Scotland. Wish I had more time and a proper van. It's going to be an adventure for sure.
I've been going to Scotland since 1973 when I first went with my parents. Since then I have only missed three years, two of which were Covid years. For an exceptional tour, I would cross the Erskine Bridge after you go through Glasgow and head out to Oban and Fort William that way - come back via Glencoe and Ranock Moor. On your way to Fort William, take a small detour round Kinlochleven, just an extra hour or so but so worth it. Skye has become a bit too touristy for me and some of the roads are shocking but the Black Cuilin are still worth visit and worth taking your hiking boots for. I would also take a couple of extra days and head up to Ullapool and Gairloch Head - more stunning beaches and scenery. If you have a couple of weeks get the ferry from Oban to the Western Isles (Outer Hebrides) - you will not be dissapointed. There is so much more on the West coast but not enough space here. I agree the NC 500 is becoming a busy raceway for flash cars and stupid drivers but there is lots to see in the central and Eastern Highlands as well.
Wow i was going to do the NC500, but i stumbled across this vid trying to find best routes, im so glad i watched this, just got back from doing this with family 🏰, i would definitely do it again, so much easier to manage with countless stunning places and views, thanks for uploading this
Ah great to hear that you enjoyed it! Its an amazing roadtrip with some unbelievable locations. Thanks for coming back and letting me know you loved it!
Cheers Chis great route will be doing this , we went up and did most of the 500 for me Sango sands was my favorite but I feel I need to see Coorang ? on Skye. We've a Mwb Crafter newly converted by a friend and we are loving it , maybe see you up there mate cheers Chris
Yep, Fort William to Mallaig is a brilliant road on a motorbike. Fast, twisty...(even the Police pulled to the side to let me pass🤣🏍) The beaches of Morar and Mallaig are amazing as well!
I haven't travelled your exact route, but have been to all rhe places you mention, some of them several times. It is all spectacular. Anyone doing the NC500, I recommend doing anticlockwise. Blast through the first 180 miles in the first day, Inverness to the Kyle of Tongue. It will take about 4 hours. Nice driving roads, but the scenery doesn't comes into its own after this on the north and west coast. The best beaches I found were in the North West, possibly Achmelvich beach.
Hey Chris, I like the alternative plans. Not sure about the beach you mentioned... I'm from Australia, and it looked like a typical beach like we have here (I could be biased), but I like the Ilse of Skye bits you mentioned, along with the ferry ride. Cheers.
Thank you Chris! I will take my wife and little girl (who has not been to Scotland before) on this exact route, when would you say the best time of year to go is to miss the midge’s. Thanks, Dave (new subscriber)
I live in the Highlands on the NC500 route and Chris is telling the truth. The NC500 is over-promoted and has become a nightmare for both tourists and locals. Driving the NC500, especially the far north of Sutherland in the Durness region is a major traffic jam during the peak season. To see the coast and region you need more than two weeks and much of the time you need a car and not a campervan. Scotland is a vast country, so search out the routes and avoid tourist-information spin.
Great little post and good advice on a great and rewarding route through the West Coast; thanks. Personally I’d head off the mesmerising Glen Coe for the even more mesmerising views down Glen Etive……took the classic Alfa there for some memorable shots before heading up to our base in Speen Bridge, passed Fort William. There’s loads of joy to be found in the Western Highlands….just explore and lose yourself in the beauty of it all. I’d also recommend a tour of the Dumfries & Galloway area.
Before rushing to head north from Glasgow, head west towards Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, and Greenock Cut Visitor Centre. Some great walks and bike rides in the area.
Great informative information 👍 cheers. I spent so long around the east coast that buy time I arrived around the west coast I was burnt out and headed back to Glasgow (Travelled with my dog , slept in car) I ended up missing out on sooooo much . I hope I do not take as long to get back up next time. Thank you very much.
Hi we are coming to Scotland beginning of July and a part of our trip is more or less the route you have suggested only in reverse, so hope we made a good choice.
Thank you mate. Haven’t always been comfortable financially and it’s certainly not the be all and end all so gotta just be you. Money and material things come and go, they mean nothing in the long run. Can’t take stuff with you when your dead!
Ending up north to do this route plus a few detours along the way next Friday , done the 500 and have to say it’s not me . I’ve got 10 days up there so plenty time to find new views .
Great video and guide to the best places to visit in Scotland.Just wish he would’ve named campsites to stay at , especially when he mentions Mallaig. But thanks for the guidance on the rest really helpful!
I have to agree, we did this trip in 2019 the exact one, in fact actually going back on Friday but this time by train (so I can look out the window more) and then back to the northeast the next day. We never came back the same way, we went from mallaig back to fort william but then over to fort Augustus stayed there for a night (being lochness) then drove to aviemore then to a place called kildrummy over the cairngorms which is beautiful drive! Then past Balmoral and though Edinburgh. But yes you have to do this route to mallaig it is stunning! Great video by the way!
@@rea_lifeson8897 I know, I have been around Eilean Donan many years ago too! I'm just not that pedantic about every error people make on here. The Highlander film is great too, it's just a shame that the most notable Scottish actor plays Ramirez!
@@rea_lifeson8897 I agree, the lead played by Christopher Lambert is very strange casting. A lot of these uploads are done by amateurs and using dubious sources of information too. I tend to gloss over errors as I know the area. I especially love Skye and have ridden every road on the island by motorbike, first trip was 1987!
I done that very same route years ago on a motorcycle in one day. You look too young to remember a film called "Local Hero" that was filmed in Mallaig and incorporate the very white sands of Morar. I've done the NC500 and it is just a tourist marketed route that has always been their pre-tourism again on a motorcycle. I've just competed The Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland, which is also a tourist marketed route, but more interesting in my opinion than the NC500.
Scotland is my go to place for spectacular scenery and this year did the Outer Hebrides, from Oban to Barra then island hopping up to Lewis before crossing back over to Skye from Tarbert. Did that in about 10 days but could easily have had a couple of weeks up there. If you like seafood you’ll be spoiled for choice up there, Oban Seafood hut for starters, right next to the Calmac office serves the most amazing selection of fresh seafood you can even get mussels straight out of the pan at the front of the stall. Kallin Shellfish on North Uist is also well worth a slight detour off the main route north but the fresh scallops were about the best I’ve ever bought and along with some hot smoked salmon - culinary bliss!! There’s a number of small shops and cabins on the islands offering some gorgeous home baked biscuits cakes and pastries as well, what a tour. ❤️ like Arnie, I’ll be back.
haveing worked all over scotland up to Lochinver,John ,o,groats all the way down to the borders there is so much to see that people miss,,,i always suggest doing some research an plan your stops during the day and overnight,,,i worked at inchnadamph for a while and watched the deer come up the stream every night from the hotel and 2 of them came to the door every night to be fed on cheese and onion crisps was something that most people will never experience,,,enjoy your trip and the locals are very friendly,,like all us Scots,,,haste ye back
Pretty spot on with this route. I’d never thought about getting the ferry from Mallaig before so that’s a must for next time 👌 The road up through Loch Lomond and Glencoe is stunning but unfortunately it’s too full of campervans and tour buses these days to fully enjoy it. But the scenery more than makes up for it 👌
I have two question….from a a couple of pensioners who have not done this before and who are using their own car. Firstly, we have planned to go in the second week in September, hoping for reduced cost accommodation. Secondly, how easy it is to even find a place to stay as you go along, as we have not booked anything. Do we take our changes and sail close to the wind !
the main problem for me with the NC500 is the distance to get to it, I'm in Kent and its actually further to get to the NC500 than it is to get to the Furka Pass in Switzerland. Think the Furka Pass, Grimsel pass wins hands down.
Hi Chris just watching the new NC500 video is Skye easy to drive on we have a Swift Bessacarr 584 26ft long 7.5ft wide also just wondering if I can use going on the ferry Many thanks Dave. P. S books are great 👍😁
Driven most of this earlier this summer stayed at the campsite at dunvegin and did a traverse of the Cullin, I have to agree Skye is epic, but I missed out on the beach, need to go that way next time
Respect is what's needed. Respect for the locals and their way of life. Respect for their own safety and the safety of the locals going about their business.
Respect most of all for the countryside you're visiting, and leave it precisely as you find it, No dumping of rubbish for any reason. If you make a mess, clean it up and take it home with you. On single track roads , drive courteusly, if you see another vehicle approaching pull in at the nearest passing place unless they do so first, then it's polite to give a little wave as you pass. Battering along regardless hoping the other will stop first is not a great option.
Just done 2 weeks in Cornwall and met 2 Scottish couples who towed their caravans down to the North Cornish coast. They said the North Coast 500 is way too busy now and is ruined by it.
Nobody could be disappointed with that .
Unbelievable .
The main thing is spend as much time as possible. 2 or 3 days is never enough.
It’s a start though and I for one will definitely be back again and again.
You’re 💯 right. I did this route a few years ago - the west coast route has the best scenery. I went further after Skye in search of our family croft in Sutherland. Stayed in Ullapool and drove further north to Lochinver. Then cross country through Ross-shire to Inverness and down to Edinburgh. East coast is not so spectacular but the Festival was on and the Edinburgh Tattoo!
Great option, and some excellent places to visit plus it misses out all the "industry" of the east NC500. For me, I would start at Stirling and not Glasgow, over to the bottom end of Loch Lomond, then coming back you can either come down to Killin/Loch Tay to Perth, Loch Earn/Crieff or do both and back to Stirling via Callender.
Having done the west coast to the point I know every twist and bend. Yes if your short on time this route in the clip, it’s a ok route but people don’t confuse it with the best of the NC 500 that would be if you crossed the bridge from Skye and headed to Loch Carron, then Applecross over the pass and then taking the coast road from Applecross sticking to the main coast road to Ullapool then Durness. That is where the magic is and the route in this clip you’d understand was just the starter to the real main event. The roads get quieter the further north and the drive from Ullapool to Durness if you get an early start and the weather is breathtaking. Don’t get me wrong the Skye loop is worth doing Arisaig to Mallaig via Camusdarach Beach 🏖 and the white Sands of Moror are stunning too.
Fuel is subsidised on Scottish islands so if you're needing to fill up do so on Skye, don't wait til you're back on the mainland. Oh, and go after the snow but before the midgies to get the best weather (usually..)
It is an excellent route. However, Id extend it a little to take in Elgol on the Isle of Skye and I'd also visit Plockton on the mainland and if time allows Applecross via the Bealach na Bà which is possibly the most stunning mountain pass in the UK.
Applecross is a must.
💯💯💯
HI, I have 8 days in scotland. Would you suggest this route with Applecross or should I do Isle of sky and full\half of the NC500. I have been doing my research for a while and getting more and more confused 😆
@@ritipearll Hi. Plockton is only a slight detour so is definitely worth a visit. On Skye the two places I would recommend are Elgol and The Old Man of Storr. Applecross is certainly something you would never forget. It's all stunning provided the weather is kind to you. I don't know what your route is back from Skye but another alternative is the ferry to Mallaig which would allow you to visit the white sands of Morar on your way back to Fort William. I hope I haven't confused you even more. David
I drove up apple Cross the day I passed my driving test in snow from arradoul in morayshire it was insane ❤. Going away fishing on west coast this weekend canna wait
Thanks for the route Chris. Been wanting to experience the best of Scotland but not wanting to do the NC500, so this looks just the ticket. Keep up the great work with the channel - really enjoyable stuff
I considered doing the NC500 this year - but was put off by adverse publicity, and just general discussions about people misbehaving and not being representative of the majority of campervan owners. And I enjoy mixing it up with the locals when I travel.
So I did the NL 250 - and truly found a piece of the UK I didn't really know, and enjoyed myself beyond all mean - plus because of a slow puncture, I ended up getting to know whole raft of the local population from Kielder down to Hexham - who helped me keep the tyre inflated until I could get it fixed. Truly lovely people, and a genuinely enjoyable experience.
Thank you for sharing this with us, as I will add to my list of next years options - as I like the idea of going Glasgow, Glen Coe, and around Skye. As that sounds like fun.
Hampshire to Skye, following your route. Absolutely stunning, super lucky with the weather, almost 2 weeks of brilliant sunshine. 15 April -29th April 2023. Have shared your route and recommended it to friends. We stopped in Edinburgh on the way back down south, wow what a city. Loved every minute of our trip. Thank you
I purchased the book for this route from Chris' online store. I have collected a few books covering this route. This book (particularly the e-book version due to its interactive nature) is fantastic. Extremely well written with all the tips and help you need. Brilliant. I would thoroughly recommend this to anyone wanting to undertake this route. Well done Chris. Excellent work.
Thanks Peter. Appreciate the feedback! This book was primarily a passion project for me since it is my favourite part of Scotland. I wanted others to see what i love about the place!
I did my own route 4 years ago, just because I didn't want to be a lemming and follow the crowds that year. We did a circular route, which included Ardnamurchan, Arisaig, Isle of Skye etc. Then the isle of Harris & Lewis too, returning to Ullapool and then made our way down. Was disapointed with some parts of the NC500, which we did in June this year.
Did the NC500 April this year so now I am free to do my own route next time we go up there, some great stops along the way there
Newbies to van life and your channel. 😊 Thanks for sharing it looks amazing, will be definitely adding this to our list of travels!
I’ve done this route, not all at one time though. I can wholeheartedly agree with you. I can also add that when I was planning the trip to Skye, I was told by a friend to avoid the south of the island because the scenery isn’t so nice. He was wrong, and I’m glad I ignored the advice. The whole island is just beautiful. I didn’t get the chance to see the beauty spot you mentioned, which is a shame, so I’m glad you included a shot of the area.
I am sooooooo glad that you have posted this video. I’ve been saying exactly this to so many people on Facebook. The West is by far the best. The eastern side of the NC just isn’t anything spectacular. I would say that Cape Wrath and Durness are worth visiting, but then turn round, heading south and come back down the west. I’m a Scot, living in Scotland and I’ve done these routes a lot.
Great vid. Just did the NC500 and essentially the route you suggested. Our itinerary was Glen Coe, loch Eribol, Durness, Sandwood bay, climbed Stack Polly, Applecross, Plockton, Skye with Quirang and Storr. Eileen Donan Castle and then into the Cairngorms. Got lucky with the weather. Breathtaking scenery.
Great video Chris :-) We always stay at Sunnyside Croft in Arisaig, then have a day on the boat to Eigg and possibly see dolphins on the way. I've been telling people for years about the drive through Glencoe too - I'ts majestic :-)
Cheers Chris, you’ve sold it to me just need to hear our van has arrived 😂. Thanks, Ruth
The Isle of Skye is stunning, saw a hint of the aurora on our way there. Unfortunately and as expected it rained a lot for the time of year but the roads were clear of heavy tourist traffic.
So many different routes you can create for yourself in the Highlands - you can spend a lifetime and still not see it all, NC500 is just an introduction to the Highlands. As someone who is from the Highlands, it's all magical especially the west coast but many roads take you deep inside the highlands away from the coast and those roads are great also for wildlife, hiking, fishing great outdoors!
I would suggest an alternative route other than Loch Lomond…..via Aberfoyle and the dukes pass then on to Crainlarach….much better than the Loch …also my favourite day out
My two favourite places on earth are glencoe and Arisaig area up to morar. Like you say they are unbelievable, just had 2 weeks in Glencoe and going to back of keppoch, Arisaig in August. Heaven on earth, enjoy your trip
Sound advice. Been up Skye, Arisaig, Oban loads of times and the scenery is stunning. Not done NC500 yet but looking at videos it looks rammed in the summer, so the plan is to bung the bike in the back of the van and stay over in Inversneckie / Ullapool and have days out on the bike round the wee coast roads.
Instead off going through Glencoe turn left at Tyndrum and go to Oban town, the best town on the west coast by a country mile. Beautiful restaurants, bars, shops and the stunning McCaigs Tower. Continue north to Fort William and continue route as described.
Overnighted in Oban on my way up to Fort William a couple of years ago. It's also worth stopping at Kilchurn Castle on the northern shore of Loch Awe, one of the most photographed castles in Scotland (after Edinburgh and Dornie!).
I'll second that. I am too lazy to cross the A9 or go past Glencoe most times so I just float up and down that coast and absolutely love Oban.
Next up is Mallaig!
Agreed. I always think I will do a different route. But the A 82 calls me every time
Done this route you've suggested on the video, and been to all of the places a number of times. They're all good, but the NC500 is far better. The part between Durness down to Torridon and then onto Lochcarron is the best scenery i've seen in Scotland. And i've been all over touring Scotland, from Dunnet Head to Mull of Galloway, into the Cairgorms and Glencoe a number of times as well. Good video though, and would suit someone with only a long weekend to get 3-4 days away.
Have you been to Tesco's on Maryhill Road though? You can't beat that on a Friday evening.
Really fabulous areas. The West Coast 300 is also great, especially The Rhins of Galloway with beaches and coves, perfect for swimming, boarding and kayaking. The roads are really quiet, lots of parking. Good for cycling too.
I've been saying this for years, if time allows after Skye I'd add in Applecross and Torridon. The Ultimate road trip would be this route plus the West coast of the NC 500 upto Durness.
Applecross an absolute MUST
Never done the nc500, I've been all over Scotland I love my country only been abroad once, always traveled up the West coast b'coz as we all know West is best, Also East coast mainly Fife on family holidays but for 20+yrs it been Glasgow to Mallaig every year plenty places & still finding hidden gems, Fkn love it
The castle is Eilean Donan castle, its been in movies like Entrapment and Highlander. Bit touristy (Obviously) but you’ll kick yourself if you only drive past it. Time a sunrise or a sunset if your into imagery and you’ll be rewarded and the tour is pretty cool if you want to stretch your legs.
As for better than the NC500 - i would say its on a par. I live here and travel the west coast during the spring and summer months and do the NC during the late summer/ winter. The Northern lights while camping up there is impossible to beat. Luckily you’ve left out a few places I’m guessing you haven’t discovered yet… still time tho 😉
Eilean Donan looks best at high tide...
We went from Glasgow to Loch Lomond -> Glencoe -> Fort William -> Inverness in the middle of Autumn. The road trip was spectacular and unforgettable. Highly recommended.
I think that NC 500 is a overhyped place just to promote tourism in that place. There is nothing there which is not present in other parts of UK. Quite inconvenient and expensive also.
Most of my route home at the end of the week and I never get fed up with it. A nice detour when you are on Skye is to take the ferry to Glenelg which will being you over Mam Ratagan pass. You will then have an excellent view of the five sister of Kintail range. In my opinion the best view in Scotland 🙂👍
Sounds good but only have a certain time from 🇦🇺. We’re doing the NC500. Perhaps WC500 next time. Wish we could spend longer. This sounds amazing!
Great video again Chris, don't know how I didn't see this sooner.
We did part of this route 2 yrs ago. From dumfries to Glasgow, loch lomand, Glencoe, fort William then went across loch ness to Inverness, dornoch and up to john o groats. Stayed at embo on the east coast for 5 days . All I can say is just wow . Absolutely stunning and great weather also . Thinking of doing Skye next year .
The castle at Dornie is called Eilean Donan castle. Whisky comes from a distillery not a brewery. Anyway, good to see someone pointing out that there's more to the Highlands than the NC500 although there's a lot more spectacular scenery that you'd miss by following your route.
Just a little note after Glencoe don’t go direct to Fort William, just as you exit the Great Glen there is a right turn to Kinlocheven, stunning drive and lovely places to stop and look, then onwards to Fort William, Arisaig is our favourite for camping, there is a site with a family of Otters, they have lived there for years, a challenge then, find it and the reward is worth it.
Hi Chris, just a quick thank you from me and the missus,watched your video and followed all of it except,we couldn't get a ferry from Mallaig 😪so back tracked and went over the bridge,some fantastic scenery and great places .Once again a big thanks👊👍
Hi Steve. Glad you enjoyed it. We couldn’t either on my recent trip I vlogged and posted last night. If you haven’t watched it give it a watch. It’s an amazing place up their and changes every time you visit too.
Have to agree. Been all up that route doing photography and it’s stunning!
I’ve been on that route many times and truly love it.
Did all of the isle of skye in May 2021 with my girlfriend. Fantastic place. Now I'm getting ready for NC500, solo trip. But yeah, this route is damn good. Did the same even with the ferry in and the bridge on my way back. 6 days we spent on the isle of skye and it was enough too see the main points.
At last ! Someone who realises that six days are needed for Skye...
We have done these places many times as we stay in Glasgow and go away every time we can. Ardnarmurchan peninsula is lovely , you can visit the lighthouse, some great beaches like Sanna Bay and Singing sands. You can either get the ferry from Lochaline or Kilchoan over to the isle of mull but there are lots of single track roads that may not be suitable for your camper van. Also after Skye you can visit Torridon. Another great place is Gairloch on the A832 lots of great beaches and views. Looking forward to further adventures x
Excellent video Chris....solid / succinct advice stylishly illustrated ,....cheers for the tips 👍👍
Problem with the NC500 is all the boards that now do it, so annoying as in the past there was only me up there! Especially annoying are the camper vans who never use the passing lanes… so yes avoid the NC500. Having said that the bit from Tongue to Assynt has to be one of the best driving roads in the UK, except for the aforementioned campers! Avoid Mallaig, it’s horrid though yes the beaches to the south are lovely. And on Skye yup the Quairaing is indeed the most dramatic place in the UK, the ultimate drama.
Totally agree. That's what we did last May (2022). It's absolutely stunning. Scotland is a beautiful country 🏴💙
We’ll said. Did the NC500 a few years ago. Did enjoy it but after you’ve seen one beach you’ve seen them all.
I’d agree that your route through Glen Coe and up to sky etc is probably the best Scotland has to offer.
Keep up the good work.
Graeme
Total agree that
If you haven’t already visited the Outer Hebrides I would strongly suggest you do Ferries from Uig on Skye and Ullapool.
Then you will see the most amazing beaches
I did both this route and the NC500. What I would add as a highlight of one of our trips is a boat trip to Staffa.
Wow, I'm so pleased you done this video,. that's my route sorted 👏👏👍
Good mate you will not regret it.
As a Scot I’m pleased to see this video it’s easy for us to forget about those beaches and we live here.
As someone mentioned, Stirling would be the place to start.
Then go to Luss, Crianlarich, Glencoe, Kinlochleven, Fort William, Mallaig,
Staffin, Dunvegan, Kyle of Lochalsh, Spean Bridge, Tummel Bridge, Killin, Stirling.
As to a name - how about the Gold Coast 500 (for the sunsets).
Astonishingly it is exactly 500 miles / 13h 4min - thanks Google
April to mid-May or September to avoid midges.
Sort of did this route last year came back down via the kelpies and loved it will be doing it again was good to see the sights again 👍🏻
This is a cracking route, I have done it a few times, I won’t do the NC 500 out of principal, it’s just so over done and spoilt,with so many people, plenty of other quieter routes I have planned , I’m new here so I’ll sub, looks a great channel 😊
Originally from the West Coast down by the Mull of Kintyre, and have been through Glen Coe in all weathers, it's spectacular in all of them, the West Coast Railways Jacobite Steam Train is the Harry Potter one, and it goes out west and then returns East over the viaduct. A nice sidebar to the route is off the A82 through GlenCoe to Loch Etive, past where they filmed bits for James Bond Skyfall.
Great video and I 100% agree with you. This is a fantastic route and I think some of the beaches around Mallaig are the best in the world.
this video just got recommended to me because youtube seems to know that i'll be on a 4-6 week road trip around the uk from august 1st. comin all the way from germany. i can't wait. looking to do the classic NC500 but anti-clockwise as I'll be around Aberdeen on the 13th. July and especially August seem to be the worst time for the West as it's breeding season for midges and I can't be arsed having to deal with them. Hope it won't be that bad so I can spend a good 2 weeks around the amazing western parts of Scotland. Wish I had more time and a proper van. It's going to be an adventure for sure.
I've been going to Scotland since 1973 when I first went with my parents. Since then I have only missed three years, two of which were Covid years. For an exceptional tour, I would cross the Erskine Bridge after you go through Glasgow and head out to Oban and Fort William that way - come back via Glencoe and Ranock Moor. On your way to Fort William, take a small detour round Kinlochleven, just an extra hour or so but so worth it. Skye has become a bit too touristy for me and some of the roads are shocking but the Black Cuilin are still worth visit and worth taking your hiking boots for. I would also take a couple of extra days and head up to Ullapool and Gairloch Head - more stunning beaches and scenery. If you have a couple of weeks get the ferry from Oban to the Western Isles (Outer Hebrides) - you will not be dissapointed. There is so much more on the West coast but not enough space here. I agree the NC 500 is becoming a busy raceway for flash cars and stupid drivers but there is lots to see in the central and Eastern Highlands as well.
Part of the appeal of NC500 is its northerly location, maybe you cpuld fine a precise name for your route? Which can be q different holiday to nc500?
Wow i was going to do the NC500, but i stumbled across this vid trying to find best routes, im so glad i watched this, just got back from doing this with family 🏰, i would definitely do it again, so much easier to manage with countless stunning places and views, thanks for uploading this
Ah great to hear that you enjoyed it! Its an amazing roadtrip with some unbelievable locations. Thanks for coming back and letting me know you loved it!
Cheers Chis great route will be doing this , we went up and did most of the 500 for me Sango sands was my favorite but I feel I need to see Coorang ? on Skye.
We've a Mwb Crafter newly converted by a friend and we are loving it , maybe see you up there mate cheers Chris
Quirang - pronounced keerang
Excellent, thankyou, we are going up the west side in the end of August and will deffenalty follow your route 👍
Yep, Fort William to Mallaig is a brilliant road on a motorbike.
Fast, twisty...(even the Police pulled to the side to let me pass🤣🏍)
The beaches of Morar and Mallaig are amazing as well!
I haven't travelled your exact route, but have been to all rhe places you mention, some of them several times. It is all spectacular.
Anyone doing the NC500, I recommend doing anticlockwise. Blast through the first 180 miles in the first day, Inverness to the Kyle of Tongue. It will take about 4 hours. Nice driving roads, but the scenery doesn't comes into its own after this on the north and west coast.
The best beaches I found were in the North West, possibly Achmelvich beach.
great video mukka ill be doing this route next time I go up on the bike thanks again for the vid
Hey Chris, I like the alternative plans. Not sure about the beach you mentioned... I'm from Australia, and it looked like a typical beach like we have here (I could be biased), but I like the Ilse of Skye bits you mentioned, along with the ferry ride. Cheers.
Thank you Chris! I will take my wife and little girl (who has not been to Scotland before) on this exact route, when would you say the best time of year to go is to miss the midge’s. Thanks, Dave (new subscriber)
I live in the Highlands on the NC500 route and Chris is telling the truth. The NC500 is over-promoted and has become a nightmare for both tourists and locals. Driving the NC500, especially the far north of Sutherland in the Durness region is a major traffic jam during the peak season. To see the coast and region you need more than two weeks and much of the time you need a car and not a campervan. Scotland is a vast country, so search out the routes and avoid tourist-information spin.
Great little post and good advice on a great and rewarding route through the West Coast; thanks.
Personally I’d head off the mesmerising Glen Coe for the even more mesmerising views down Glen Etive……took the classic Alfa there for some memorable shots before heading up to our base in Speen Bridge, passed Fort William. There’s loads of joy to be found in the Western Highlands….just explore and lose yourself in the beauty of it all.
I’d also recommend a tour of the Dumfries & Galloway area.
Top video as usual Chris I think we’ll do that route thanks
Before rushing to head north from Glasgow, head west towards Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, and Greenock Cut Visitor Centre. Some great walks and bike rides in the area.
Great informative information 👍 cheers.
I spent so long around the east coast that buy time I arrived around the west coast I was burnt out and headed back to Glasgow
(Travelled with my dog , slept in car)
I ended up missing out on sooooo much .
I hope I do not take as long to get back up next time.
Thank you very much.
Hi we are coming to Scotland beginning of July and a part of our trip is more or less the route you have suggested only in reverse, so hope we made a good choice.
I love how humble this guy is. You wouldn’t really know that he’s had a lambo and has a sv autobiography unless you’ve been a keen viewer
Thank you mate. Haven’t always been comfortable financially and it’s certainly not the be all and end all so gotta just be you. Money and material things come and go, they mean nothing in the long run. Can’t take stuff with you when your dead!
@@ChrisSloanes 100% love that you focus so much on enjoying life to the fullest especially with loved ones
That’s the best way mate. Making memories because tomorrow isn’t a guarantee
Just because you had a Lamborgini doesn't mean shit, the fact you are alive and can appreciate what God has given you does.
@IRISHROVER god doesn’t exist. I worked hard for everything I have. Nobody especially not “god” gave me anything.
Ending up north to do this route plus a few detours along the way next Friday , done the 500 and have to say it’s not me . I’ve got 10 days up there so plenty time to find new views .
Beaches are not at Mallaig, their either at Back of Keppoch or by Arisaig. It’s a beautiful area , and love they are part of your choices.
Great advice. I would throw Neist Point in there as well if anyone is doing Isle Of Skye
Great video and guide to the best places to visit in Scotland.Just wish he would’ve named campsites to stay at , especially when he mentions Mallaig. But thanks for the guidance on the rest really helpful!
I agree with you, that would've been helpful. I can't find anywhere to stay in Mallaig!
Great stuff. A trip north or south through the Outer Hebrides is something I would add on to your journey. It's so beautiful!
I have to agree, we did this trip in 2019 the exact one, in fact actually going back on Friday but this time by train (so I can look out the window more) and then back to the northeast the next day. We never came back the same way, we went from mallaig back to fort william but then over to fort Augustus stayed there for a night (being lochness) then drove to aviemore then to a place called kildrummy over the cairngorms which is beautiful drive! Then past Balmoral and though Edinburgh.
But yes you have to do this route to mallaig it is stunning! Great video by the way!
Thank you and I’m glad you enjoyed it too. Stunning up there absolutely gorgeous
As someone who has lived on Skye for 10 years my recommendation would be to take the misty Isle boat trip from elgol to see the views.
Ah man. I need this in my life.
* Eilean Donan Castle - just in case ppl are confused looking for a castle in near by Dornie
This looks mint - i have a month so i'll add this to my NC500 trip!
Great recommendation, I know all you mentioned and have been many times and love it!
@@rea_lifeson8897 I know, I have been around Eilean Donan many years ago too! I'm just not that pedantic about every error people make on here. The Highlander film is great too, it's just a shame that the most notable Scottish actor plays Ramirez!
@@rea_lifeson8897 I agree, the lead played by Christopher Lambert is very strange casting. A lot of these uploads are done by amateurs and using dubious sources of information too. I tend to gloss over errors as I know the area. I especially love Skye and have ridden every road on the island by motorbike, first trip was 1987!
I done that very same route years ago on a motorcycle in one day. You look too young to remember a film called "Local Hero" that was filmed in Mallaig and incorporate the very white sands of Morar.
I've done the NC500 and it is just a tourist marketed route that has always been their pre-tourism again on a motorcycle.
I've just competed The Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland, which is also a tourist marketed route, but more interesting in my opinion than the NC500.
Scotland is my go to place for spectacular scenery and this year did the Outer Hebrides, from Oban to Barra then island hopping up to Lewis before crossing back over to Skye from Tarbert. Did that in about 10 days but could easily have had a couple of weeks up there. If you like seafood you’ll be spoiled for choice up there, Oban Seafood hut for starters, right next to the Calmac office serves the most amazing selection of fresh seafood you can even get mussels straight out of the pan at the front of the stall. Kallin Shellfish on North Uist is also well worth a slight detour off the main route north but the fresh scallops were about the best I’ve ever bought and along with some hot smoked salmon - culinary bliss!! There’s a number of small shops and cabins on the islands offering some gorgeous home baked biscuits cakes and pastries as well, what a tour. ❤️ like Arnie, I’ll be back.
Planning on a road trip from Inverness, guess it will work too with this Itinerary!
Yep it will
haveing worked all over scotland up to Lochinver,John ,o,groats all the way down to the borders there is so much to see that people miss,,,i always suggest doing some research an plan your stops during the day and overnight,,,i worked at inchnadamph for a while and watched the deer come up the stream every night from the hotel and 2 of them came to the door every night to be fed on cheese and onion crisps was something that most people will never experience,,,enjoy your trip and the locals are very friendly,,like all us Scots,,,haste ye back
Pretty spot on with this route. I’d never thought about getting the ferry from Mallaig before so that’s a must for next time 👌 The road up through Loch Lomond and Glencoe is stunning but unfortunately it’s too full of campervans and tour buses these days to fully enjoy it. But the scenery more than makes up for it 👌
I have two question….from a a couple of pensioners who have not done this before and who are using their own car. Firstly, we have planned to go in the second week in September, hoping for reduced cost accommodation. Secondly, how easy it is to even find a place to stay as you go along, as we have not booked anything. Do we take our changes and sail close to the wind !
Love these tipps! Thinking about doing this route this summer, how many days would you recommend for completing it without having to rush?
Cracking video mate done it a good few times but you still need to go north the north west of Scotland is beautiful. ✊🏻🏴
the main problem for me with the NC500 is the distance to get to it, I'm in Kent and its actually further to get to the NC500 than it is to get to the Furka Pass in Switzerland. Think the Furka Pass, Grimsel pass wins hands down.
Thanks, Chris. How many days did the trip take you and I'm curious which camper van did you rent (and possibly where)?
I have my own grand California 600 campervan so I can’t really recommend that for you. The trip I’d say at least 3 nights 4 days
@@ChrisSloanes thanks, I've just checked out your other videos and noticed that. cheers
Hi Chris just watching the new NC500 video is Skye easy to drive on we have a Swift Bessacarr 584 26ft long 7.5ft wide also just wondering if I can use going on the ferry
Many thanks Dave.
P. S books are great 👍😁
Thanks Bro, great video. I imagine this route is quieter than the NC 500 🤩👌
Driven most of this earlier this summer stayed at the campsite at dunvegin and did a traverse of the Cullin, I have to agree Skye is epic, but I missed out on the beach, need to go that way next time
Hoping to do this in a 1995 peugeot 106 ive just picked up, its got no power steering so that should be fun!