Best Places to Visit in Scotland: The Top 10

Armies, history, and nature are the first things that come to mind when we think about Scotland. Scotland has much to offer, from towering mountains and beautiful coastlines to fairytale castles and vibrant cities. Whether you’re an explorer, history buff or simply a fan of breathtaking sights, endless places are worth a visit. 

The ideal way to see Scotland in all its glory is to travel in comfort and style, and what better way to do so than hiring a campervan? Here we take a look at the top 10 spots you can’t afford to miss while in Scotland.

Hiring a campervan is one of the best ways to discover many of Scotland’s varied landscapes. It allows you to explore off the beaten track, uncover hidden gems and wake up with a view to die for. Go where the views are serene and the roads are few, to islands off the west coast.

Compass Campervans have a variety of stylised, well-maintained vans which make for great choices for your Scottish adventure. The campervans have been created with simplicity and comfort in mind, meaning that travelling around Scotland is a breeze.

A must-see is Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. The heart of its bustling capital, a city that combines the old and the new, takes pride in its historical landmarks, including Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and The Royal Mile. Don’t overlook the opportunity to experience vibrant cultural life, including some of the world’s top museums, galleries and the renowned Edinburgh Festival. The city is small enough to explore on foot and has a rich heritage with a collection of historical and modern sites that cater to every travel taste.

The Isle of Skye is one of Scotland’s most famous travel destinations, celebrated for its rugged scenery. With serrated mountain peaks, misty glens and stunning coastal cliffs, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Check out the fairytale-like Fairy Pools, trek to the Old Man of Storr or explore the otherworldly Quiraing landslip. The alluring, rugged terrain of Skye is ideal for a hideout in the wilds with nothing but nature in sight. Its remote nature makes it a perfect place to park up your campervan and soak up the peace of the island.

Loch Ness is known internationally for its mysterious monster, but it is also home to plenty of natural beauty. Perfect for scenic drives, boat cruises or calming walks, the loch is enveloped by dense woods and dramatic hills. If you’re at all interested in the Loch Ness Monster, we’d recommend visiting the quaint village of Drumnadrochit, where you can get your fill of monster myths and legends at the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition, or explore nearby Urquhart Castle for a taste of Scotland’s medieval history. A stop at Loch Ness has a nice mix of lore and nature.

Scotland’s biggest city, it’s both an industrial centre and a happening hub for culture, music and nightlife. Head to the famous Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, walk along the River Clyde or do some serious shopping on Buchanan Street. The live music scene is thriving in the city, which serves as a hub for the arts. The mix of old and new in Glasgow is what makes the place so exciting to discover, and it definitely deserves to be part of your Scottish trip itinerary.

History seeps out from every stonework of Stirling, a city that narrates the story of Scotland’s past. Famous for the Battle of Stirling Bridge and William Wallace’s triumph, Stirling Castle is among Scotland’s most splendid, historically rich castles. It has an unbeatable mix of historical sights combined with beautiful spots, and the nearby Ochil Hills are full of pretty walks and hiking trails. History enthusiasts will take delight in Stirling, with a chance to turn back the clocks and relive Scotland’s medieval past.

Cairngorms National Park is an outdoor lovers dream. Situated in the centre of the Scottish Highlands, it has a wide variety of flora and fauna, and includes glens and mountains. Some of the options for active leisure include hiking, mountain biking and skiing in this gorgeous natural playground. Stay in the scenic town of Aviemore, from where you can access the park, or book a trip to the nearby village of Ballater for a peaceful getaway. The Cairngorms are an ideal place to get outdoors in the wilds.

A tranquil island off Scotland’s west coast, the Isle of Mull is famous for its rugged scenery, picturesque towns and wealth of wildlife. Wander through the picture postcard town of Tobermory, visit Duart Castle or take a boat ride to see puffins, seals and, if you are lucky, whales. Unspoilt by tourism, Mull is peaceful and wonderful for lovers of nature. It’s also a really good place to park your campervan if you want to take a more leisurely approach to exploring.

Fort William, in the Scottish Highlands, is a popular jumping-off point for exploring the nearby mountains, such as the UK’s highest, Ben Nevis. Renowned as the “Outdoor Capital of the UK”, Fort William is great for hiking, mountain biking and snowy activities. It is also the entrance point to the West Highland Way, one of Scotland’s most popular long-distance walking routes. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or looking to simply take in the breathtaking sights, Fort William offers an experience that you won’t soon forget.

For a unique experience, head to the Orkney Islands in northeastern Scotland. This heady mix of history, culture, and spectacular coastal scenery is home to some of Europe’s oldest archaeological sites: the prehistoric village of Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar. The islands are also prime spots for wildlife watching, with puffins, seals, otters, you name it. Orkney is a fantastic place to visit, with a lot of history and outstandingly beautiful scenery for those looking to explore Scotland away from the tourist trail.

Indicatively called “Scotland in Miniature,” the Isle of Arran provides a little bit of everything that Scotland has to offer. From the wild, hilly north to the sandy south, Arran offers much for nature enthusiasts. Visit the stunning Brodick Castle, hike the Goat Fell mountain, or enjoy a peaceful stroll along the coast. Arran is also a great place to explore by campervan, allowing you to take in the island’s beauty at your own pace.

A country that provides something for all tastes: gorgeous scenery and historic attractions, exciting cities and idyllic islands. And with a campervan, the adventure is in your own hands; you can discover the distinct landscapes of this beautiful country and experience it all in your own time. 

Whether you love the vibrancy of Edinburgh, the awe-inspiring scenery of the Isle of Skye or the peace and tranquillity of the Orkney Islands, Scotland has something for everyone. So book your ticket, come to Compass Campers and set off on the Scottish adventure of your lifetime!