Glasgow to Skye: The best 5 day itinerary for a road trip

We’re not ashamed of our undying love for Scotland. The rugged northern third of Britain is quite possibly the best place in the world to travel through in a van, thanks to its fairytale scenery, generous people, and of course, the wild camping laws that make living in the outdoors a breeze. There’s so much to see and do in the country that we couldn’t possibly list it all in one article, so we’ll focus now on an unforgettable 5-day trip from Glasgow to the Isle of Skye. Buckle up and pack your haggis, we’re going camping.

Day 1: Glasgow > Loch Lomond > Arrochar

Driving time: 1 hour

Pick up your van in Glasgow, or head toward the port city to begin our adventure into the western heartland of the country. A 45-minute drive north will see us arrive at the base of the venerable Loch Lomond , lying across the border between the lowlands of Central Scotland and the Highlands. Head along the eastern shores of the loch to find Balmaha, where the West Highland Way , one of Scotland’s most loved multi-day hikes cuts through. Tackling a section of the walk along the banks of the loch makes for an ideal first glimpse into the beauty of the Highlands , with the undulating hills around the lake providing jaw-dropping views as you meander through verdant forest and pebble-lined beaches.

Track back to Balmaha to arrive at the Oak Tree Inn, a gorgeous pub resting in the shade of a 500-year-old oak tree, for a well deserved pint before setting off. We’ll swing back around the southern base of the loch and head up the western shore, where you’ll be treated to the first of many stunning drives through the Scottish country. The tiny village of Arrochar lies at the tip of Loch Long , where you can wild camp for a modest fee of ten pounds at the Loch Long Car Park and Picnic Area. Sleep soundly staring down the mouth of an ancient glacier-carved valley. Talk about starting your trip strongly.

Day 2: Arrochar > Loch Awe > River Orchy

Driving time: 1 hour

Wake up nice and early to catch day breaking over the fog-shrouded mountains around you, as we begin our journey north. The road out of Arrochar is nothing short of spectacular as it ascends alongside the might of Benn Ime and Benn an Lochain. Make sure you stop off at the Rest and be Thankful viewpoint, where you can grab a coffee from the cart stationed here and gaze back the way you came through the rippling hills of the mountain pass.

Continue on towards Loch Awe , the aptly named body of water that on a sunny day reflects the sky like a narrow mirror, glimpsed through the dense foliage lining the shores. Stop off at Kilchurn Castle, the ruins of the former Clan Campbell stronghold on a spit of land at the northernmost edge of the loch. The grassland around here makes for a picnic taken straight from the poetry of Robert Burns, and might very well leave you wondering if you could permanently move here. Take a swim if you’re brave, or explore the vibrant architecture of St Conan’s Kirk on the eastern shores. Our camping spot for the night is Glen Orchy Car Park, a wild camping site on the banks of the River Orchy. Spend the night stargazing as the Milky Way puts on your own private show.

Day 3: River Orchy > Oban > Glencoe

Driving time: 1 hour 45 minutes

A little more driving time today as we cut west to the iconic seaside town of Oban, but first we’re starting off our day with an invigorating (read: cold) swim at Tralee Beach at the top of Ardmucknish Bay. This famous beach is as mysterious as it is wide, and provides the perfect hit of dopamine to start another day of adventure. Hop back in the van and drive the short distance south to Oban, where lunch sees us queuing up at the Oban Seafood Hut, a Scottish institution where fresh catches are served daily. The mussels and scallops are a must. Sample a nip of whisky from the esteemed Oban Distillery, and wander through the bustling harbour.

Hearts and bellies full, hit the road again for Glencoe at the entrance to Loch Leven. Here is where you’ll really begin to feel ensconced within the Highlands, with mighty mountains crowding around the tranquil waters of the lake. Check in to the Invercoe Caravan and Motorhome Park, where every site is greeted with sweeping panoramas of the enviable surroundings. Spend the afternoon lazily gazing outwards. Life doesn’t get any better than this.

Day 4: Glencoe > Fort William

Driving time: 30 minutes

We’re swapping a foot on the pedal for a foot on the mountain today, making the most of the scenery on our doorstep to climb the notorious Pap of Glencoe. The Pap is a tough climb, but rewards you tenfold with the views you encounter along the way. Less of a hike and more a scramble, the ascent can be tricky in stages but can be completed by hikers of any level. Take in the views at your own pace, and upon reaching the ridge below the summit, you can choose to take the vertigo-inducing path to the top or settle for reaching one of the grandest viewpoints you’ll ever encounter.

Heading back down the Pap, put your aching feet up in the van before turning north to Fort William at the meeting point of Loch Linnhe and Loch Eil. Free parking for the night can be found at the Old Inverlochy Castle, with the town only a short walk or taxi ride away. Grab dinner at Black Isle Brewery Bar, where balcony seating provides excellent views across the water as you try some of Scotland’s premier craft beers alongside woodfired pizza. You’ve earned it.

Day 5: Fort William > Isle of Skye

Driving time: 2 ½ hours

Wake up bright and early in the shadow of the Old Inverlochy Castle, because we’ve got some distance to cover. Drive north toward Invergarry , before turning west and heading through more remarkable scenery that will leave you stopping for photos every ten minutes, until arriving at Kyle of Lochalsh where the bridge takes you onto the Isle of Skye. The change from jaw-dropping scenery to actually-impossibly-beautiful is instantaneous, as you skirt around volcanic crags, under black rock overhangs and through sheep-covered hills in what is simply the most stunning part of the world.

Head to Portree, the largest town on the island where not only do they serve up colourful houses bursting with character, but the best fish and chips you’ll likely find at The Harbour Fish & Chips Shop. After you’ve downed your portion, continue on toward Dunvegan Castle on the western edge of the island, where wild camping spots can be found dotted along the road to Coral Beach. Any spot will do, as they’re all million pound views. Watch the sunset over the water, knowing you’ve found paradise. Good on you.

This trip is just a tiny taste of what Scotland has to offer. From the rugged coastline of the north, to the ancient forest of The Cairngorms , there’s plenty more to explore on your journey. Check out our full guide for wild camping in Scotland before you go, and don’t forget to find your van on Camplify. See you out there.