Camplify Uncovered | Alex Spurway's utopian UK holiday

Want to fill your summer with epic adventures and good times? Look no further than the UK, home to breathtaking views, gorgeous beaches, charming villages and plenty of outdoor activities to keep the good times rolling and the good vibes high. Recently, Hannah (@hannah.depper) and myself (@spurwaya) spent 14 days cruising around Britain in ‘Miss Daisy’, a purpose-built 4x4 Sprinter based in Edinburgh. Out on a mission to prove that all roads lead to summer, we covered over 2000km and dipped into three countries, making it one of the longest van trips we’ve done to date.

To make sure we would be well equipped and comfortable, as well as prepared for longer stays and remote locations in the far north, we made sure our van was fully self-contained, off-grid and four-wheel-drive capable (Miss Daisy). Over the course of two weeks, these are some of our highlights, not to be missed on your next summer road trip.

Pembrokeshire Coast

Starting off in the South West corner of Wales, the Pembrokeshire Coast is the lesser visited - but equally as stunning alternative to the wildly popular Cornwall Coast. You’ll find stunning beaches, coastal walking trails, quaint fishing villages, rolling hills and jagged cliffs. On those gorgeous summer days when the heat is really turning up, you'll find great ocean swimming at Newgale Beach, Whitesands Beach and Freshwater West. Don’t miss the colourful town of Tenby, or the dramatic Coastal cliffs off Saint Govan’s Head, for scenes reminiscent of the Jurassic Coast.

Snowdonia

In the North of Wales, Snowdonia National Park and the surrounding villages are what we could only describe as the closest thing to a real life fantasy world. The drive through Eyri was otherworldly, with craggy peaks towering over the road, waterfalls cascading down every mountain and ancient castle ruins scattered all over the district. If you’re a fan of the outdoors, the walks in Snowdonia will not disappoint, with options from short waterfall circuits to adrenaline-filled summit scrambles. Don’t miss Lake Ogwen, Pistyll y Cain Waterfall, Dolwyddelan Castle walk and the spectacular scenery of Pen-y-Pass.

Lakes District

Just shy of the Borders region, the Lakes District is another destination that springs to mind when you think of Summer in the UK. Home to some of the most picturesque villages around, pristine lakes, rolling fells and the highest peak in England, the Lakes District is a true outdoor lover’s destination. Here you’ll find plenty of walks ranging from strolls along country lanes, to longer day walks and mountain ascents for panoramic views across the valley. Don’t miss Windermere, Ambleside, Buttermere, Moss Force Waterfall and Derwentwater.

Glencoe + Fort Williams

Arguably the most scenic drive in the UK, the A82 through to Glencoe is mind blowing at every turn. Known as the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, this drive is the start of every quintessential Scottish road trip. While the views from the road alone are jaw dropping, there are plenty of trails and waterfalls to explore along the way. You’ll pass through the village of Glencoe, at the foothills of Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the UK. The Drive skirts along the very scenic Loch Linnhe to the charming town of Fort William. Don’t miss a side trip out to the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, just a short drive from Fort William.

Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland, home to rugged scenery, thundering waterfalls and colourful fishing villages. There is a certain charm to Skye that makes it so alluring, and the weather experienced on this island is dynamic and ever changing, making it a truly unique place to visit on any UK road trip. If you’re lucky enough to catch some sunshine on the Island, the coastline is home to some truly beautiful beaches and sparkling turquoise - albeit very brisk - waters. Don’t miss the village of Portree, Uig and the Fairy Glen, the Old Man of Storr and Meal Falls.

North Coast 500

Colloquially known as the NC500, this 500 mile circuitous route passes very close to the Isle of Skye as it winds its way around the far North of Scotland. It can be done in as little as 4 days, or you can take as long as you’d like exploring every inch of the coastline. This route passes through so many dynamic and ever-changing landscapes, from rugged highland peaks, rolling green hills, deep blue lochs, white sandy beaches and everything in between. The further north we pushed, the more remote everything started to feel, adding to the allure and charm of this iconic road trip. Don’t miss Smoo Cave, Duncansby Head Stacks, Dunnet Head, Durness and Bealach na Ba Pass.

There’s just something so special about life on the road and travelling in ‘Miss Daisy’ kept us comfortable and well equipped for any adventure - from hiking in the highlands, to lazy days in the lakes district. As we made our way further North, the landscapes became increasingly more rugged and dramatic. Cruising around the UK was honestly one of the wildest road trips of my life. Thanks again to @camplifyeu for supporting our adventures and encouraging exploration in the great outdoors.