Day 1: Loch Lomond Beginnings
Our adventure kicked off in Luss, Loch Lomond, where the beach was packed with holidaymakers soaking up the sunshine. Wanting a quieter spot, we veered off the beaten path and found a secluded stream where Indy, our spaniel, enjoyed a peaceful swim to cool off. The campsite, right next to the loch, was beautifully picturesque and wonderfully tranquil.
Day 2: Into the Highlands
Heading north into the Highlands from Loch Lomond, the mountains grew taller and more dramatic. We stopped at a tiny car park off the A82, with an incredible view of Buachaille Etive Mór.
A short wander along the River Etive led us to Glen Etive, home to the famous Skyfall viewpoint. The river was dotted with perfect wild swimming spots, plunge pools and small waterfalls – Indy was in and out of the water all day!
As the sun began to set, we made our way to Glen Nevis Caravan & Camping Park. With stunning views, a hot food kitchen, and excellent facilities, it was one of the best campsites we’ve ever stayed at.
Day 3: Nevis Range & The West Coast
The day began at Nevis Range. James tackled the mountain biking trails while Indy and I took the gondola up for a hike around the summit of Sgurr Finniosg-aig.
We then drove west past the Glenfinnan Viaduct along the Road to the Isles, stopping in Arisaig before checking into Sunnyside Croft Touring & Camping Site. With fantastic facilities and breathtaking views, it was another winner.
The beach, just a stone’s throw from our pitch, was absolutely pristine. Crystal-clear water, golden sand, rocky outcrops, and distant mountains made for an incredible landscape. We even caught sight of the Isle of Rum and Eigg on the horizon.
Day 4: Ferry to Skye & Castle Views
We were first in line for the Mallaig to Armadale ferry and were lucky enough to glimpse a porpoise on the crossing.
On the Isle of Skye, we explored Kinloch Forest, enjoying the shade from the heat. The day ended at the iconic Eilean Donan Castle before heading to our campsite at Reraig Caravan & Campsite.
Day 5: Loch Cluanie & Waterfall Adventures
A scenic morning stop at Loch Cluanie led us on a stunning hike around its south side, with a gorgeous waterfall along the way.
Further east, we stretched our legs at Invermoriston Falls, where we watched kayakers navigate the cascading waters.
That night, we stayed at Faichemard Farm near Invergarry. The rain was relentless, so we sought warmth and comfort in Black Isle Bar in Fort William, indulging in delicious pizza and craft beer.
Day 6: Glen Affric’s Hidden Beauty
We spent the day in Glen Affric, one of Scotland’s most breathtaking yet tranquil glens. Hardly another soul in sight, we explored the trails to Dog Falls and Coire Loch, soaking in the untouched beauty.
On the way back, we stopped at Allt na Criche for a final adventure of the day. The trail provided stunning views over Loch Ness and featured more picturesque waterfalls.
Day 7: Mountain Trails & Squirrel Sightings
We started the day with a peaceful moment at Loch Lochy before heading to Laggan Wolftrax for some mountain biking.
While James tackled the trails, Indy and I explored the Spruce & Squirrel Trail, spotting a red squirrel, before hiking the Dun-da-Lamh trail. A sudden downpour had us dashing back to the van!
That evening, we camped at Inver Mill Farm Caravan Park, right on the edge of Dunkeld, where we treated ourselves to a tasty chippy for tea.
Day 8: The Hermitage & Craigvinean
With our campsite backing onto The Hermitage, we spent our final day exploring its towering Douglas Firs, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints.
Venturing into Craigvinean Forest, we hiked to Pine Cone View, a unique tree-line cutout with a structure in the shape of a giant pine cone, that offered spectacular panoramas.
To cap off the trip, we strolled into Dunkeld for a well-earned drink at a riverside pub before calling it a night. The next morning, we headed home, already dreaming of our next van adventure back to Scotland!