Scotland’s Great Glen in a campervan hire - Part 2

In the first part we looked at a route from Edinburgh to Inverness and Fort Augustus along Scotland’s Great Glen. This trip is one of our top picks for those who want to experience some of the best of the Highland’s outdoors in a campervan. The Great Glen has it all- hiking, cycling, paddling, and, as we will find out, even some of the finest ice climbing and snow sports in the UK!

Ben Nevis – Campervan Hire Scotland

From Fort Augustus, you’ll head south to Fort William (that’s the town) and Lochaber (that’s the council area) in your campervan hire, passing through delightful villages and bucolic vistas. As the Outdoor Capital of the UK, here you can tackle white water rapids, pedal thrilling mountain bike trails or hit the slopes. Or maybe you enjoy something a bit more mild than wild, such as riding the gondola up Ben Nevis, strolling forest trails or sledging down the bunny slope? No matter what you choose to do, there’s nothing like returning to the comfort of your warm luxury motorhome at the end of the day to clean up, cook a hearty meal and have a nice lie down in a comfy bed. Why rough it in a tent on your Great Glen camping trip when you can take all the comforts of home with you?

Some of the finest powder in Scotland draws winter sports enthusiasts to Lochaber from around the world from October through spring. At Nevis Range or Glencoe Mountain Resort, you can rent equipment and hit the slopes, or just get a ticket for the gondola or the ski lift and enjoy the scenic ride to the top for a cuppa hot chocolate and the views! Try your hand at the ice-climbing centre if you dare, or sign up for a white water rafting trip if you don’t mind getting a bit damp. Lochaber is ground zero centre for hill walking and Munro climbing in Scotland- especially Ben Nevis- and is the terminus point for the West Highland Way and the Great Glen Way.

Campervan Hire Scotland – Jacobite Train

If your campervan hire isn’t magical enough transportation for you, then you must take a ride on the Jacobite Steam train, which was featured in the Harry Potter films. You might just spot a regal stag or majestic hawk on the hills! If taking a walk on the wild side is your favourite way to enjoy Scotland, we highly recommend a campervan holiday in the Great Glen.

Scotland’s Great Glen in a campervan hire - Part 2

Scotland’s Great Glen in a campervan hire- Part 1

Stretching from the capital of the Highlands to the Outdoor Capital of the UK, the Great Glen is one of the best places in Scotland to experience nature, and when you explore it in a motorhome or campervan hire, everything is right outside your doorstep. We recommend this trip for outdoor sports lovers of any stripe, from hikers to paddlers to ice climbers- and yes, even monster hunters! Are you ready to take a walk on the wild side in Scotland’s Great Glen?

Edinburgh to Inverness and Fort Augustus in a campervan hire

The Great Glen snakes across the beautiful Highlands of Scotland on a natural fault line, resulting in some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. From Edinburgh, head to Inverness, which is a popular stop for campers. Discover the charming streets, shops and eateries of Inverness, visit Culloden Battlefield- and be on the lookout for Nessie, who may be stealthily swimming around Loch Ness!

Fort Augustus & Campervan Hire

Fort Augustus is home to the Caledonian Canal Visitor Centre and the Clansman Centre, the local history museum. This area is another great base for your campervan hire, with many scenic touring parks and plenty of spots to pick up supplies. You can rent a canoe or kayak to paddle the canal yourself, or bring your bikes or hiking boots and get out on the 80-mile long Great Glen Way, which offers a fantastic trail of walking paths and waymarked trails along the canal.

Forget about roughing it in a tent during your Great Glen holiday- at the end of a long day getting back to nature, it’s back to the luxury of your motorhome, where you have all the comforts of home, but the views and tranquillity that you can only get while camping. Next week, we’ll continue our trip down the Great Glen in a motorhome rental as we discover the Outdoor Capital of the UK- Fort William and Lochaber!

Scotland’s Great Glen in a campervan hire- Part 1

North Coast 500 in a campervan rental

Just like The Proclaimers song, you can travel 500 miles on Scotland’s ultimate road trip- the North Coast 500! And you can get the best out of your trip to this amazing part of the world in a luxury campervan rental from Roseisle.

Are you ready to explore the “Route 66” of Scotland? After all, the North Coast 500 was meant to be enjoyed in a motorhome or campervan rental!

Recommended locations to take a picture along the route include:

• Spectacular beaches such as Achmelvich and Dornoch

• Stunning mountain ranges such as Ben Hope and Suilven

• Mesmerising castles such as the fairytale Dunrobin and the striking ruins of Ardvreck

Nessie in a campervan rental

After you pick up your motorhome hire, head to Inverness, where the North Coast 500 begins and ends. Between the vibrant city, Urquhart castle and the famous loch, you’ll be spoiled for choice in the capital of the Highlands, so leave plenty of time to browse- and be on the lookout for Nessie!

Next, you will venture west towards Applecross, and in your campervan rental you’ll drive through some of the most stunning scenery in Scotland. Charming villages, traditional inns and friendly Highlanders welcome you, all before you hit Bealachna Bà, which is Gaelic for “the Pass of Cattle.” Take it slow here on the hairpin turns (and allow those queuing behind you to overtake!) and you won’t have any problems driving your motorhome rental on one of Scotland’s most twisty roads. The sugar sands of Applecross and Gairloch beaches and the verdant Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve are your rewards! This is an outdoor lover’s paradise, and it’s just outside the doorstep of your campervan hire, with all the amenities of home.

From Ullapool you can take in the view of the Summer Isles from the comfort of your motorhome rental, and explore this stunning landscape at the edge of the world-at your own pace. Towards Durness, there is just one spectacular vista after another- we recommend stopping at Achnahaird Bay for a picnic lunch before heading on to Sango Sands to stay.

As you continue on the North Coast 500 towards Wick, you will go through remote and wild Caithness, with sweeping views, ancient archaeological sites and wildlife reserves. We recommend taking your campervan hire off the beaten path and exploring Talmine Bay near Melness, as well as Castle Mey. Notice how the local culture has definitely Norse vibes- after all, the Vikings used to rule here! Wick has everything you need for enjoying a comfortable stay in your campervan and stocking up on supplies.

Campervan Rental Edinburgh, Scotland

From here, it’s back to Inverness or Edinburgh in your campervan rental. There really is nothing quite like the open road, and from the comfort of your luxury campervan from Roseisle you never know, at the end of the 500 miles, you might just be tempted explore 500 more!

North Coast 500 in a campervan rental

Exploring the Royal Burgh of Inveraray in a motorhome hire

Along the shores of scenic Loch Fyne lies one of the most charming towns in Scotland. As you approach Inveraray in your motorhome hire, you’ll first see, perched high above the town and castle, the brooding silhouette of the Dun na Cuaiche watchtower. Then, Inveraray Castle itself comes into view, and it will simply take your breath away!

Inveraray castle, still the living home to the Duke and Duchess of Argyll, is one of the most beautiful castles in the west of Scotland. Used as a location for the filming of Downton Abbey, the castle and gardens are open for tours, where you can see an impressive collection of historic weaponry and artefacts related to the duchy. Take the short, steep walk from the car park to the watchtower for a spectacular bird’s eye view of the Fyne Valley and loch!

Motorhome Hire in Scotland

The next stop is the town itself, with its cheery whitewashed buildings along a sparkling lochfront that evokes the 18th century, when the Duke himself planned the town. (Don’t worry, there is plenty of room to easily park your motorhome hire in the main parking lot by the pier or along Main Street!)

Listen for the bells from All Saints Bell Tower- it’s the second heaviest peal of ten bells in the world. Then listen for the uplifting sound of the Inveraray and District Pipe Band, which sometimes rehearses on the waterfront. Nothing says Scotland quite like the sound of bagpipes and drums floating over the loch! Browse the charming wee shops and the woollen mill for traditional crafts, fine art, clothing and browse the best selection of West Coast malt whiskies in the area. Pick up some of the bounty of the waters from local fishmongers at the pier to prepare in your motorhome hire, or take advantage of the tasty array of eateries, and enjoy anything from haggis to ice cream to curry. (In fact, the food is one of our favourite things about Inveraray- don’t get away without trying the local smoked salmon or a traditional fresh haddock supper!)

In your motorhome hire, you can then head to Inveraray Jail, where the echoes of the town’s shadier past have become a fascinating attraction. In the 1800s, the jail hosted the dredges of Argyll society, but today, you can take a tour, try out the beds, sit in on a mock trail, or even search through the prison records for wayward ancestors. The jail is also allegedly haunted and you can catch a ghost tour some nights, especially around Halloween… spooky!

Visit a farm township in a motorhome hire

For a glimpse into the life of the area’s more well behaved past residents, Auchindrain Township nearby is the most complete and well-preserved example of a Scottish Highland farm township, so you can really travel back to the past.

With welcoming touring parks nearby, the best way to enjoy all the stunning scenery and Highland culture that Inveraray in Argyll, Scotland has to offer is in a motorhome hire!

Exploring the Royal Burgh of Inveraray in a motorhome hire

"Fall" in love with Scotland in a campervan hire

Lonely Planet voted Scotland one of the greatest places in the world to view Mother Nature’s autumn show, and the best way to catch all of this beauty is in a motorhome from Roseisle.

The show goes on through October, and paints an already breathtaking landscape in eye-popping golds, reds, bronzes and oranges. And the best part about exploring Scotland in a campervan hire in the autumn? You’ll miss the throngs of holiday makers and other campervans and get to enjoy it with a bit of breathing space this fall!

Top Spots in Scotland in a campervan hire

Discover Galloway Forest Park’s 300 miles of gorgeous fall scenery in a campervan and enjoy top rate touring parks, stunning hikes, sweeping mountain ranges and more. As a Dark Skies Park, a visit to Galloway in the autumn affords an outstanding opportunity to view the night sky in all it’s glory- you might even catch the Northern Lights if you are lucky!

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs are so near the central belt that it’s easy to explore in a campervan. Whether water sports or trail walking is your pleasure, there are so many ways to get back to nature here. Don’t miss the Drum Wood trail, or, for a more adventurous trek, there is the Mell Circuit, where you will be rewarded with an absolutely fantastic view.

Queen’s View at Loch Tummel is a must for any nature lover’s bucket list, especially in autumn. It is said to be a favourite spot of Queen Isabella, wife of Robert the Bruce, as well as Queen Victoria, who loved to picnic here. Hike or cycle the waymarked trails through the autumn display- we especially love St Mary’s Walk, the Knock and Glen Lednock.

More to come in a campervan hire

Next week we will continue our exploration of the best autumn leaves displays in Scotland to explore in a campervan hire from Roseisle.

"Fall" in love with Scotland in a campervan hire

Experience a true Highland Games in an automatic motorhome rental

It’s that time again, when dancers and pipers are rehearsing their hearts out and athletes are stepping up their training.

Highland games are an icon in Scotland, a traditional remnant of days past, when kings and clan chiefs held contests to choose the most talented members of their entourages. Today, games are held all over the world, but only in Scotland will you experience authentic Highland games! In your automatic motorhome rental, you won’t miss a moment of the fun- and you will have all the comforts of home with you.

Here are a few of our favourite games to inspire your motorhome Highland holiday…

Travel to games in an automatic motorhome rental

Helensburgh Highland Games

Saturday June 3

Traditional competitions here such as the dancing and athletics are on show, with the Heavies events such as caber tossing attract competitors from all around the UK. The spectators can even get in the act by competing in race events for old and young alike, with prize money in play.

Bute Highland Games

Saturday August 19

Head ‘doon the water’…Bute Highland Games always has a reputation for a good turn out of bands and drum majors, with a 10K road race being the highlight.

Glenfinnan Gathering

Saturday August 19

Said to be the site where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745, you can join in the games at the annual Glenfinnan Gathering. As well as being able to watch all the events in the main ring, visitors can browse a variety of stall holders offering refreshments, local food and traditional crafts. Glenfinnan is also a lovely area to explore in an automatic motorhome rental!

Argyllshire Gathering Oban Games

Thursday August 24

The Argyllshire Gathering (Oban Games) is one of the grandest Highland Games held in Scotland. The event includes some of the biggest dancing, track, field and piping competitions around. Park your automatic motorhome rental at one of the area’s welcoming touring parks, and set aside a day or two to do some island hopping from Oban- we love Mull!

 

Cowal Highland Gathering

August 24-26

World Highland Dancing Championships & automatic motorhome rental

Welcoming over 23,000 people each year to one of Scotland’s premier cultural events, Cowal Highland Gathering showcases Scotland’s great traditions and sports such as pipe band competitions and heavy athletics as well as playing home to the World Highland Dancing Championships.

Experience a true Highland Games in an automatic motorhome rental

Seas the day in an automatic campervan rental - Part 3

This week we look at more brilliant beaches to inspire you to plan your own summer holiday. Our destination in the automatic campervan rental today is Kintyre, home to some of the most remote and stunning beaches on mainland Scotland.

Kintyre-Southend Beach in an automatic campervan rental

Southend Beach in Kintyre is steeped in natural beauty and history. Whether you prefer sunbathing or surfing, there is something for every taste at Southend’s beautiful beaches, all without the crowds you might find at other spots. From the comfort of your luxury automatic campervan rental, you can spot oyster catchers, dolphins and the resident seal colony from Keil shore and explore Neolithic caves. Or, for the more adventurous, choose to hike on the nearby Kintyre Way, which has its terminus here. Dunaverty Castle overlooks Southend, and several important historical sites are nearby, including the ruins of Keil School and St. Ciaran’s Cave, which is said to hold relics of the Irish saint. Be sure to get a taste of the local seafood, served pier to plate- it doesn’t get any fresher! Look for ‘St Columba’s Footsteps’ etched in rock centuries ago to show where Christianity was first brought from Ireland to Scotland.

From Oban on the A83, pick up the A83 in Lochgilphead all the way down to Southend on the tip of Kintyre.

Automatic campervan rental and Kintyre- Carradale Beach

Located south of the charming wee village of the same name, Carradale Beach boasts one of the most delightful harbours in Scotland. On Carradale Bay, the broad sandy beach faces south, making it a lovely spot to paddle, sunbathe or beachcomb. From your campervan rental, you will enjoy the panoramic views across the Sound of Arran, and look for the wild goats that inhabit a Scottish Wildlife Trust nature reserve on the east side of the beach on Carradale Point. Torrisdale Castle overlooks the bay, and while it is run as a private lodge, there is the organic Tannery and Craft Shop on site. Paul McCartney found inspiration from Kintyre’s gorgeous coastal scenery- it’s where the ‘Long and Winding Road’ is, and you will too when you visit Carradale Beach in an automatic campervan rental.

From Lochgilphead on the A83, five miles south of Tarbert take the B842 to Carradale. Or go by ferry from Adrossan to Arran, then drive to Lochranza for the Claonaig ferry to Kintyre and down the B842 to Carradale.

Get in touch today and book your 5 star holiday with an automatic campervan rental from Roseisle Luxury Campervans!

Seas the day in an automatic campervan rental - Part 3

Seas the day in an automatic campervan rental - Part 2

This week we continue our look at the best beaches in Scotland to visit in a luxury campervan.

Cliad Beach, Isle of Coll in an automatic campervan rental

This is a nature lover’s paradise and when you go in a campervan, you won’t miss a thing. With stunning views over the Outer Hebrides of Scotland, the dunes of Cliad Beach are remote and quiet, with only the call of seabirds and the hypnotic lapping of the blue waters against the shore as your soundtrack. Coll is a Dark Skies area, which means there is no light pollution to get in the way of the breath-taking sunsets and night skies. Just step outside your luxury automatic campervan rental for the best view of the sky you might ever get! From Oban, the ferry to Coll takes 2.5 hours, and Cliad Beach can be reached from Arinagour.

Automatic campervan rental at Luskentyre Beach, Isle of Harris

Harris is famous for its spectacular beaches, and there is none more perfect in Scotland to visit in an automatic campervan rental, perhaps anywhere in the world, than Luskentyre Beach on the south west coast of Harris, voted one of Europe’s top islands. At high tide it is submerged under crystal clear waters, looking across to Taransay – made famous as the setting for BBC’s Castaway – and the mountains of north Harris. Accessible from a small single track road that arches across the north side of the bay, Luskentyre is fairly easy to reach with your campervan – go direct on the ferry from Uig on Skye or take the Ullapool ferry to Stornaway. Spend just one night here and the worries of the world will melt away- after all, you are on the edge of the world. But in a luxury campervan from Roseisle, you’ll have all the comforts of home while you walk on the wild side.

Seas the day in an automatic campervan rental - Part 2

Scotland’s most fantastic castles in a motorhome hire - Part 4

In the final part of our series about the best castles in Scotland, we travel in our campervan deep into the Highlands. Enjoy fine Highland hospitality at the many welcoming touring parks and experience some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.

Look for Nessie as you drive your motorhome hire along famous Loch Ness to Urquhart Castle. One of Scotland’s most impressive medieval ruins, Urquhart is very popular with visitors. The visitor centre features fascinating displays of artefacts. Climb Grants Tower for unbeatable view of Loch Ness and the Great Glen. Take some time in Inverness for some fine local dining and shopping- it’s easy to find a parking spot for your motorhome hire in town.

Motorhome Hire & Eilean Donan Castle

One of the most photographed and filmed castles in Scotland, wild and magical Eilean Donan Castle will capture your heart. Set on a rocky island at the spot where three lochs meet, it was built in the 13^th century for Alexander II as a defence against Vikings; however, Pictish forts probably existed here since the 7^th century. Eilean Donnel’s story is as romantic as its setting- Robert the Bruce is said to have taken refuge from the British here, and stories abound of a ghostly Spanish soldier who fought at a battle here in the 1700s. Leave plenty of time for exploration and picture taking before heading to Inveraray in your campervan.

Inveraray Castle in a motorhome hire

Truly as if out of an enchanted fable, Inveraray Castle has been the ancestral seat of the Dukes of Argyll since it was built in the 18^thcentury, and the current Duke and his family still reside there. Overlooking scenic Loch Fyne and handsome gardens, the castle has been turned into a museum, where you can explore an impressive collection of historic weaponry of Scotland, magnificent tapestries and priceless artworks along with other family heirlooms. Stay for a refreshment in the tearoom (the scones are lovely!) and explore the Royal Burgh of Inveraray, with its quaint shops, woollen mill and historic sites.

We hope you have enjoyed our tour of Scotland’s finest castles. Start making your bucket list and reserve your luxury motorhome hire from Roseisle!

Scotland’s most fantastic castles in a motorhome hire - Part 4

Scotland’s most fantastic castles in a motorhome hire - Part 3

As befitting its name, Royal Deeside has deep regal connections, including Balmoral Castle, the royal family’s Scottish residence. This area has more castles per square mile than almost any place in Scotland! From early medieval ruins to Victorian opulence, there is so much to tickle your castle fancy. You’ll want to spend a few days here, enjoying the well-appointed and lush accommodation of your motorhome and exploring the various castles, gardens, kirks and villages- and be sure to nip over to the Royal Lochnagar Distillery for a wee dram! For a bit of Highland culture, pop into any one of the delightful pubs for a chinwag with the locals and traditional music.

Motorhome Hire & Balmoral Castle

Balmoral Castle is definitely a highlight of a visit to Royal Deeside. Called “my dear paradise in the Highlands” by Queen Victoria, you will find your own paradise among the splendid grounds, gardens and exhibitions. (Note: some portions of the castle are closed from August to early October when the Royal family is in residence.)

Choose from several other beautiful castles and gardens in the area-visit one, two, or all of them if you care to! Our favourites? Drum Castle, Braemar Castle, Craigievar Castle, and Crathes Castle, Garden and Estate.

Luxury Motorhome Hire

When you travel in a luxury motorhome hire from Roseisle, you can do more and see more. After all, you only have a limited time for your holiday, why waste it packing, unpacking and trudging from hotel to hotel? You will be comfy and self-contained, and it’s easy to drive your motorhome from castle to castle, where there is plenty of easy parking.

Stay tuned for our final look at the most fabulous castles in Scotland!

Scotland’s most fantastic castles in a motorhome hire - Part 3

Scotland’s most fantastic castles in a motorhome hire - Part 2

We continue our look at the best castles in Scotland to visit in a motorhome hire. Why move from hotel to hotel every couple of nights when you can travel in luxurious self contained comfort in a motorhome and hit all the high points? Now, let’s travel to Perthshire, Fife and Angus in search of castles!

13^th century Blair Castle rises up against the backdrop of Highland Perthshire as if from a fairy-tale. Historic home of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl, this unique castle was the scene for many important set pieces in the history of Scotland. Discover its 30 elegant rooms featuring period furnishings and displays.

St Andrew’s Castle in a Motorhome Hire

Fife may be the home of golf but it’s also known for its picturesque castles. Enjoy the hospitality of a lovely touring park in your motorhome hire, and then spend a morning strolling through St Andrews’ cobblestone streets. They are teeming with students and stylish cafés, brew pubs and curious shops, and the scenic ruins of St Andrew’s Castle. Sitting on a rock promontory overlooking the North Sea, the castle, dating to the 12^th century, was an important religious centre in Scotland. There is an informative visitor centre featuring display of fine stone carvings. Explore the ruins of the huge medieval Norman cathedral- at one time the largest in Scotland and one of the most famous in all of Europe.

It’s a 40-minute drive in your motorhome hire from St Andrews to Falkland Palace, the country residence of the Stuart monarchs for two centuries. Located in the heart of charming Falkland conservation village, this Renaissance palace complex consists of both ruins and original and remodeled rooms full of 17^th century Flemish tapestries, antique furniture and delicately painted ceilings.  For you Outlander fans, scenes from the TV series were filmed here.

Motorhome hire and Glamis Castle

Named best attraction in the UK for 2015, legendary Glamis Castle in Angus was built in the 14^th century. Home of the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne, it was here that Shakespeare set Macbeth. The castle has a close association with the current royal family. The Queen Mother spent much of her childhood here and Princess Margaret was born here. You might just see one of the castle’s mythical ghosts- after all, it’s said to be one of the most haunted in Britain!

Next time we travel in our motorhome to Royal Deeside, where there are more castles per square mile than most any other place in Scotland.

Scotland’s most fantastic castles in a motorhome hire - Part 2

Scotland’s most fantastic castles in a motorhome hire- Part 1

When you think of Scotland, you probably think of castles. With over 3,000 castles, including some of the oldest and most famous (or infamous!) in the world, Scotland is bursting with romance, mystery and legend.

Each castle tells a tale woven of both myth and truth, from important clans to famous historical figures, such as King Robert Bruce and Mary Queen of Scots. Some are brooding ruins, others are remarkably restored, and some stand as museums celebrating Scotland’s long and storied past. The best way to explore the castles of Scotland is in a luxury motorhome hire, so you can make the most of your holiday and pack as much in as possible!

Fly into Edinburgh, where the friendly Roseisle team will pick you up and get you on the road in comfort and style in a motorhome hire. And to make it easy, we will share our favourite castles in this series. Are you ready to plan your trip of a lifetime?

Castles in a Motorhome Hire

Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline of this magnificent city from its perch on Castle Rock, where a fortress has stood since at least the 12^th century. Plan for at least a morning to explore this large complex, including St Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest building in Edinburgh, the Royal Palace, the Great Hall, as well as the National War Museum, the crown jewels and the legendary Stone of Destiny.

One of Scotland’s grandest, Stirling Castle is one of its most popular attractions, looming 250 above the plain below on an extinct volcano. Plan at least two hours to see the sights and enjoy coffee or a bite in the café. Don’t miss the National Wallace monument nearby, celebrating Scotland’s favourite hero- it’s easy to get there and park your motorhome!

Motorhome Hire & Scone Palace

Scone Palace is one of Scotland’s most historically rich sites, where kings such as Macbeth, Robert the Bruce and Charles II were crowned. See the needlework bed-hangings that Mary Queen of Scots herself made, as well as a fine collection of exquisite furniture and objects d’art. Explore the tartan beech tree maze and visit the gift shop to pick up some souvenirs before heading to the lovely Victorian spa town of Pitlochry in your motorhome, where many scenic campsites cater to your every need.

Stay tuned for more of our favourite castles…

Scotland’s most fantastic castles in a motorhome hire- Part 1

Skye Trip in a VW Campervan Hire – Part 5

by Michelle McAnally

Destination Skye: Cullin, calm and collected

Day 5- On the road again

We are nearing the end of our campervan hire adventure to the Isle of Skye, one of the most popular holiday destinations in Scotland. We have had so much fun and have fallen so much in love with this Westfalia Club Joker that we never want to go home!

When we woke up yesterday it was sprinkling, and by the time we got on the ferry from Raasay back to Skye, it was raining pretty hard. The weather had held out for most of our trip up to now, and for the end of March, that’s pretty good odds, so we weren’t too heartbroken. After all, inside the Club Joker campervan hire, it’s comfy and cosy. We made a quick detour to the village of Plockton, the “Jewel of the Highlands”, one of those places that makes you say ‘I could live here”!

After a hearty breakfast at the pier in Kyle of Lochalsh, we headed south to Oban, the Seafood Capital of Scotland, for the night. Our drive took us through Lochaber, and more stunning mountain scenery, past Ben Nevis and through scenic Fort William, one of the dramatic set pieces in the Outlander books and TV series. Dramatic Glencoe is one of Scotland’s most famous landscapes, dominated by Buachaille Etive mor and Buachaille Etive Beag and the drive along Loch Etive is stunning.

VW Campervan Hire in Scotland

Oban, or  “Wee Bay” in Gaelic, is a bustling town that hugs the bay and looks over the islands of Mull and Kerrera. From here, Caledonian MacBrayne ferries leave to go all over the Hebrides- after all, Oban is also known as ‘The Gateway to the Isles.”  But it’s definitely worth a stay here rather than jumping off to the islands too soon, with lots of nice shopping and a plethora of fine seafood restaurants.

We found another out of the way wild camping spot down a small glen and treated ourselves to a big seafood dinner at a country pub featuring local hand dived scallops, huge langoustines, and locally smoked salmon. To our delight, there was some live local music and we joined on in!

Westfalia Club Joker City Campervan Hire

This Westfalia has been the perfect companion to the perfect campervan hire holiday in Scotland, and, an automatic, it drives like a dream. It’s smooth, even on the rugged island roads, and it’s so easy to manoeuvre and park. It has enough power to pull even the steepest of tracks with no problem, something that is very important in this part of Scotland. The lovely brown colour of this particular Club Joker City adds to the ‘stealth camping’ effect, making it a piece of cake to find a spot to wild camp and subtly pull in for the night, just blending right in to the scenery.

We would never have seen so much and had such brilliant adventures if we had lodged at a hotel or guesthouse, rather than using a campervan hire. With our ‘hotel on wheels’ we were able to venture out as far and wide as we wanted- for example, our impromptu trip to Raasay was one of the highlights of our holiday, and that never would have happened if we were worried about finding lodging on the island. In fact, we are now officially hooked on the campervan hire experience and it’s opened up a whole new world of travel opportunities to us.

Big thanks to Emanuel, Louise and Heather and the entire Roseisle Campervan Hire team for taking care of all the details so we could relax and just enjoy ourselves. This luxurious Westfalia Club Joker and all the accessories really do provide all the comforts of home, so for those who think camping in Scotland isn’t really for them- like I used to- then I encourage you to try it in a campervan hire. Having traveled extensively all over Scotland, I can honestly say that this has been our favourite holiday experience of all time, and we’ll cherish the memories always!

Photo caption:

Oban means ‘Wee Bay’ in Gaelic, and Gaelic culture is alive and well in this bustling Victorian town.

For 5* campervan hire – look no further than Roseisle Luxury Campervans!

Skye Trip in a VW Campervan Hire – Part 5

Skye Trip in a VW Campervan Hire – Part 4

Destination Skye: Cuillin, Calm and Collected in a campervan hire

Day 4- Calum’s Road

This morning we are waking up to the sound of birdsong, nestled in our perfect forested wild camping spot near Inverarish off Burma Road on the charming Isle of Raasay.

Yesterday the weather was lovely and we were feeling adventurous, so on a whim, we decided to go from near Staffin in our campervan hire to the island Raasay for the night. The ferry was a breeze to park on (and this time of year it’s not crowded) and in no time, we arrived on the island. Our first stop was Raasay House, where we treated ourselves to a big lunch and enjoyed sitting in the sun in their lovely gardens.

Our next destination was the north of the island and the famous Calum’s Road. The landscape is almost lunar like in the higher north parts of the island, and after leaving Raasay House, the only humans we saw for 24 hours were a couple of farmers.

Starting at dramatic Brochel Castle, this windy, narrow road built by Calum MacLeod to connect the north of the island to the rest of it, goes to Torran where it dead ends. Our Westfalia Club Joker campervan hire is so easy and nimble, tackling this somewhat dodgy single track was no problem at all, though I wouldn’t take any larger vehicle on it. The views are spectacular, and at the end, there is a walking trail down the point, which was so lovely and a great way to unwind after that long and winding road. What a feeling of being at the end of the world!

We were a bit afraid that the weather might turn overnight, so rather than stay up north for the night, we descended to the forest and found a great spot to wild camp right off Burma Road in a forest trails parking lot. No people to be seen, ahhh….total peace and quiet! That’s a great advantage to going camping on Skye before the spring rush.  We had the whole island virtually to ourselves. A forest walk before dinner was just the ticket to end our day.

VW Campervan Hire Scotland

Raasay has been such a fun adventure, and might just be one of our favourite parts of the trip so far- even more so, because it was an impromptu decision, something you can’t do if you are lodging. Only in a campervan hire can you truly live for the day and go wherever the wild road takes you!

At this point, we want to give a shout out to this fabulous Westfalia Club Joker campervan hire. This low profile van is perfect for ‘stealth camping’….meaning that we have been able to wild camp so easily!.The bed is so comfy, and we wake up each morning well rested and ready for whatever the day brings. Our water and gas supply is still holding out, so even in these remote spots, we have all the comforts of home. Also a shout out to the Roseisle team, who have supplied us with luxury bedding, towels, kitchenware and accessories- this isn’t ‘roughing it’ at all!

Photo captions:

The perfect wild camping spot for the night, nestled in the forest off Burma Road on the Isle of Raasay. We haven’t seen another person for 24 hours! Thank you Roseisle Campervan Hire!

Skye Trip in a VW Campervan Hire – Part 4

Skye Trip in a VW Campervan Hire – Part 3

By Michelle McAnally

Destination Skye: Cuillin, calm and collected in Scotland

Day Three

This morning we awoke to another stunning view after pitching up for the night at the Staffin Pier in our Westfalia Club Joker campervan hire. The view overlooking one of Scotland’s most iconic little islands, Staffin, is breathtaking, especially at dawn!

After doing a bit of hiking around Loch Slapin, we headed for Glenbrittle and the famous Fairy Pools. The crowds were already starting to gather by mid morning, but we had a lovely hike through this renowned landscape.

Next stop- Carbost, home of Talisker distillery. This charming wee village is a great place to stop for a bit in your camperva hire- tour the distillery, have lunch at the Old Inn, then take advantage of the nice new shower facilities at the pier.

We headed for Dunvegan next in our campervan hire, intending to see the castle, but it was closed until April. Our trip was not wasted, though, as we headed on to Edinblane to visit the pottery shop. We got to visit with the potters and picked up a souvenir of our trip.

VW Campervan Hire Scotland

We took the north route and drove up to Uig and then cut across to Portree via the Quiraing- what a stunning bit of scenery, some of the most beautiful and rugged in Scotland! (There is a touring park with hookups near Uig but we decided to carry on.) We stopped in Portree to walk around and stock up on supplies, then headed to Staffin, where we found a place to pull up in our campervan hire and wild camp right between the pier and the dramatic cliffs.

After just a few days, we are feeling so relaxed, wild and free in our luxury Westfalia Club Joker City – we might never want to go home!

Photo captions

Staffin Island from the pier at sunset from our Westfalia Club Joker campervan rental from Roseisle. With a view like this, who wants to go home?

Skye Trip in a VW Campervan Hire – Part 3

Skye Trip in a VW Campervan Hire – Part 3

By Michelle McAnally

Destination Skye: Cuillin, calm and collected in Scotland

Day Three

This morning we awoke to another stunning view after pitching up for the night at the Staffin Pier in our Westfalia Club Joker campervan hire. The view overlooking one of Scotland’s most iconic little islands, Staffin, is breathtaking, especially at dawn!

After doing a bit of hiking around Loch Slapin, we headed for Glenbrittle and the famous Fairy Pools. The crowds were already starting to gather by mid morning, but we had a lovely hike through this renowned landscape.

Next stop- Carbost, home of Talisker distillery. This charming wee village is a great place to stop for a bit in your camperva hire- tour the distillery, have lunch at the Old Inn, then take advantage of the nice new shower facilities at the pier.

We headed for Dunvegan next in our campervan hire, intending to see the castle, but it was closed until April. Our trip was not wasted, though, as we headed on to Edinblane to visit the pottery shop. We got to visit with the potters and picked up a souvenir of our trip.

VW Campervan Hire Scotland

We took the north route and drove up to Uig and then cut across to Portree via the Quiraing- what a stunning bit of scenery, some of the most beautiful and rugged in Scotland! (There is a touring park with hookups near Uig but we decided to carry on.) We stopped in Portree to walk around and stock up on supplies, then headed to Staffin, where we found a place to pull up in our campervan hire and wild camp right between the pier and the dramatic cliffs.

After just a few days, we are feeling so relaxed, wild and free in our luxury Westfalia Club Joker City – we might never want to go home!

Photo captions

Staffin Island from the pier at sunset from our Westfalia Club Joker campervan rental from Roseisle. With a view like this, who wants to go home?

Skye Trip in a VW Campervan Hire – Part 3

Skye Trip in a VW Campervan Hire – Part 2

By Michelle McAnally

Destination Skye: Cuillin, calm and collected in a campervan

Day Two

This was the first full day of our epic journey to the Isle of Skye, and, wow, we have seen so much already!

After starting our day with breakfast in our Westfalia Club Joker campervan hire overlooking Loch Tummel, we hit the road and headed west to our first stop of the day. We had a fabulous drive up through the Cairngorm Mountains and down the Kyle of Lochalsh, one of the most beautiful areas of Scotland.

The first item on our bucket list was Eilean Donan Castle, an iconic landmark that has famously appeared in film and television, from Outlander to James Bond. It certainly didn’t disappoint!

As we cruised past the Five Sisters mountain range in our campervan hire, the landscape became more dreamlike with every mile. Between the shimmering lochs, scenic mountains and remoteness, it really is like being immersed in a Lord of Rings landscape!

VW Campervan Hire

We arrived in Skye and stopped for supplies and diesel for our VW Westfalia Campervan in Broadford, the first settlement you come to on the island. Then we set out in search of the perfect wild camping spot, and wow, did we find it. We parked in an unpopulated spot overlooking Loch Slapin, in view of the dramatic Cuillens range, one of the most iconic in Scotland. Not another person was in sight, so we got to enjoy our own campervan paradise in peace- ah, heaven! Forget about a crowded lodge, this is our idea of the perfect holiday.

Photo captions

Eilean Donan Castle, Kyle of Lochalsh is one of Scotland’s most iconic castles.

 

Skye Trip in a VW Campervan Hire – Part 2

Skye Trip in a VW Campervan Hire - Part 1

By Michelle McAnally

Destination Skye: Cuillin, calm and collected in a VW campervan hire

Day One

It’s a beautiful sunrise over Loch Tummel, and we have awoken to a cacophony of ducks and geese- and a gorgeous rainbow to start our holiday!

Our ultimate destination is the magical Isle of Skye. I have never been before, and my husband last went when he was a wee boy, so it was time to tick this one off the bucket list. We have a loose plan of sights we want to see, but by discovering Scotland by campervan hire, we can be flexible and just go wherever the road takes us.

VW Campervan Hire from Roseisle

This holiday is off to a brilliant start, thanks to Roseisle Luxury Campervans in Edinburgh who offer 5* campervan hire! Just a few hours after picking up our Westfalia Club Joker, we were watching the sun set over one of the most celebrated views in all of Scotland.

The team at Roseisle was so friendly and welcoming, and the process was quick and easy. Louise and Heather helped us with the paperwork, and then Louise gave us the grand tour of this beautiful Westfalia Club Joker with all the bells and whistles- everything we will need to explore Scotland in style and comfort!

This Club Joker hire is kitted out with a fully functional kitchen, toilet, sitting area, air con/heat and pop-up sleeping berth. After Louise showed us the ropes, it all seems pretty easy to operate and the controls are slick and user friendly. Topped up with petrol, water and gas to last several days, away we go!

We plan to wild camp in Skye, but Louise suggested that for our first night in the campervan hire, we might want to stay at a touring park, just to get the hang of it.

We caught the A9, stopped in Perth for supplies, and then headed for Strathtummel near Pitlochry. It’s a two-hour drive from Roseisle, just in time to stop in Pitlochry for dinner and a stroll through this charming wee town.

This Westfalia Club Joker drives like a dream- it’s automatic and is as smooth as a car.  Believe me, you want to pack light, but this small campervan hire is flexible enough get anywhere a car can, and with its lovely brown colour, it will blend in subtly to any environment, making wild camping much easier (we hope!) and with very low impact to the environment.

After dinner, we headed for our spot in Tay Forest Park, which has electric hook-ups and a phone signal. Not really roughing it yet, I know, but I’m not complaining. Our pitch is right on the shore of Loch Tummel, overlooking Schiehallion, just a bit down from Queen’s View. There are forest walks nearby, and the visitor centre is just down from the campsite.

This is Big Tree Country, simply gorgeous, and you can see how it earned its name. We walked up to the view (the visitor centre was closed so we had the whole place to ourselves!) and watched one of the most spectacular sunsets we have ever seen from the favourite spot of Queen Isabella and Queen Victoria- all to the soundtrack of singing ducks, geese and frogs. Simply magic, and what a romantic start to our holiday!

It was early night for us; we have a big day today in our campervan hire, with the Cairngorms, the Kyle of Lochalsh and Eilean Donan Castle on our route. We might not be able to get a reliable phone or Wi-Fi signal over the next few days, but, you know what? That’s the whole point, and we can feel those workaday blues melting away already! See you on Skye!

Skye Trip in a VW Campervan Hire - Part 1