Exploring the Enchanting Highlands by Van
As I gazed out over the serene waters of Loch Ness, the shimmering surface hinted at the mysterious depths below, where the legendary Nessie was rumored to lurk. But I wasn’t here to hunt for monsters – I was here to embark on a grand adventure, touring the captivating Scottish Highlands in the comfort of my very own campervan.
It all started when my partner and I decided to tackle the iconic North Coast 500 route, a breathtaking 516-mile loop that winds its way through some of Scotland’s most stunning landscapes. Armed with our trusty home-on-wheels from Bunk Campers, we set off to discover the rugged beauty of this enchanting region, one winding road and sweeping vista at a time.
Loch Ness Shores: Our Home Base
Our journey began at the Loch Ness Shores campsite, a scenic haven on the quieter southern shore of the famous loch. Tucked away amidst towering forests and majestic mountains, this 99-pitch oasis boasted all the amenities we could need, from clean shower facilities to innovative eco-friendly technologies.
As we set up our cozy campervan, the friendly husband-and-wife team of Donald and Lyn provided us with invaluable local knowledge, helping us plan the perfect route to make the most of our time in the Highlands. With their guidance, we learned about the abundant wildlife that calls this region home – from red squirrels and badgers to otter and wild goats. Binoculars at the ready, we couldn’t wait to immerse ourselves in the natural splendor surrounding us.
Chasing Waterfalls and Conquering Mountain Passes
Fueled by a hearty breakfast cooked in our van’s well-equipped kitchen, we set off on our Highland adventure. Our first stop was the mighty Falls of Foyer, where we hiked along the banks of the roaring cascades, marveling at their raw power.
As we continued our journey, the scenery only grew more breathtaking. Winding our way up the heart-pounding Bealach na Ba, a steep, single-track road that snakes through the mountains, we were treated to panoramic views that took our breath away. Despite the hairpin turns and steep inclines, our nimble campervan handled the challenge with ease, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the awe-inspiring landscape.
Secluded Beaches and Cozy Campsites
As we continued our journey along the North Coast 500, we discovered hidden gems that left us in awe. At Mellon Udringle Beach, we fell asleep to the soothing sound of the waves lapping against the shore, our campervan nestled just steps away from the pristine sands.
Another highlight was the charming town of Durness, where we indulged in the best hot chocolate we’d ever tasted at Cocoa Mountain and explored the captivating Smoo Cave, its dark, narrow passages leading us deep into the heart of the earth.
Throughout our journey, we took advantage of the freedom that our campervan provided, mixing up our accommodations between cozy campsites and wild camping spots that offered unparalleled views. Whether we were sipping our morning coffee overlooking the ocean or enjoying a sunset barbecue by our van, every moment was infused with a sense of adventure and wonder.
Whisky, Wildlife, and Unforgettable Memories
As we neared the end of our North Coast 500 odyssey, we couldn’t resist the temptation to explore a few of the region’s renowned whisky distilleries. In the charming town of Dornoch, we indulged in a tasting flight at the award-winning Dornoch Castle Whisky Bar, savoring the complex flavors of Scotland’s celebrated spirit.
But our adventure wasn’t just about the breathtaking landscapes and delectable indulgences – it was also about the wildlife that captivated us at every turn. From the playful red squirrels scurrying through the trees to the majestic deer grazing by the roadside, we felt immersed in the natural world, our senses heightened by the serenity of our surroundings.
As we reluctantly bid farewell to the Highlands and made our way back to Loch Ness Shores, we couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible journey we had just experienced. The freedom and flexibility of our campervan had allowed us to explore Scotland’s most awe-inspiring corners, creating memories that will last a lifetime. And who knows – perhaps one day, we’ll return to Loch Ness, on the hunt for a glimpse of the elusive Nessie.
