19-Your Camping Guide to the North West Sutherland Coastline

Ben Stack. Raibeart MacAoidh

From moorlands to glens, to peat bogs and vast sandy beaches, the Scottish Highlands seems remote, yet are more accessible than you think. Our first stop in our campervan road trip itinerary is the beautiful North West Sutherland Coastline. We’ll keep you in the driver seat and take on the task of organising the road trip, discovering fantastic campsites and our top campervan hire towns in North West Sutherland. Hop in and follow us on an exciting roadtrip itinerary across this gorgeous National Scenic Area. As always, feel free to amend our itinerary for our campervan road trip to best suit your holiday.

• Itinerary for a Campervan Road Trip in the Scottish Highlands

Sutherland’s name traces back to its Viking heritage, meaning Southern Land. The landscape here fits right into a Viking tale with beautiful rugged wilderness, towering mist-capped mountains, snaking roads, sprawling lochs and heather-clad moorland. Deer frolic freely in the hills, beautiful rare birds soar overhead and shaggy highland cows graze on lush green spaces while the surrounding ocean brims with sea-life.

While its landscape is undeniably enticing, the locals, villages and inimitable atmosphere make it a great place to visit and camp in nature at campsites in Sutherland.

• North West Sutherland Things to do
• Best Campervan Road Trip North West Sutherland
• Camping in and around North West Sutherland National Scenic Area
• Best Campsites At North West Sutherland
• Campsites at North West Sutherland Near Beach
• Tent Camping at North West Sutherland
• Caravan Camping at North West Sutherland

North West Sutherland Things to do

North West Sutherland is a designated National Scenic Area extending over the mountains and the rugged coastline with imposing cliffs and golden sand beaches. Move inland to swap the coastline for the vast moorlands and looming mountains that create a breathtaking backdrop, peppered with shimmering lochs and glens.

Smoo Cave. Olaff81

The landscape may be open and delightfully empty, however there is much to explore, so why not start off at Cape Wrath? This is the northernmost point on mainland Britain, only accessible via ferry or hiking trails. Another must-see is Smoo Cave, an impressive ocean cave with a gorgeous underground waterfall and limestone chambers.

Ardvreck Castle. Priyanka_Iyerr

Cultural highlights include a varied and wonderful collection of ruins, such as Kinlochbervie Castle and Ardvreck Castle. Museums like Strathnaver Museum, which details the life of local communities through the centuries, is a top spot for rainy days with the kids.

Strathnaver Museum. Digitscotlan

Foodies can whet their appetites with tipple of choice before diving into the rich and scrumptious larder of North-West Sutherland with culinary delicacies like smoked salmon from Highland Charcuterie and Smoke House, or (for those not squeamish) traditional Scottish Haggis from one of the numerous local restaurants.

Cape Wrath Trail. Hiker_Heather

Work off a well-earned meal with hikes on long distance trails like Cape Wrath Trail or John O'Groats Trail, while cyclists pedal along the long-distance bike paths like NC500 Route. Whether you decide to walk, pedal or drive, North West Sutherland promises dramatic views at every turn. The best season for open air exploration depends entirely on personal preferences.

John O'Groats. Niguidas

The spring and summer months offer the mildest weather conditions, while autumn and winter are ideal for extreme sports like winter mountaineering. We highly recommend stopping at Sandwood Bay, arguably the prettiest corner in North West Sutherland, with clean sands, crystal-clear waters and a low number of visitors owing to the beach's accessibility via a single hiking route.

Sandwood Bay. _Bethmackenzie

If you like open spaces, a low population density, spectacular views and unrivalled natural surroundings, North West Sutherland is bound to be one of the best UK locations you’ll visit.

Best Campervan Road Trip North West Sutherland

When exploring North West Sutherland, campervan hire Scottish Highlands services provide the perfect way to discover this remote and breathtaking region at your own pace. If you’re ready for an adventure like no other, hire a campervan, pack your bags and head out on a road trip to the Scottish Highlands.

Speak to private owners in North West Sutherland and soak in the incredible scenery of a spectacular National Scenic Area. Don’t forget to scroll to the end of the page for more campervan Hire towns nearby. We recommend speaking to campervan owners in Dornoch, Brora, and Sutherland. Read on to find out why these campervan locations are ideal for starting off your road trip escape.

Perched on the fringes of Dornoch Firth, the historic town of Dornoch is home to a welcoming community that enjoys a fantastic position on the east coast of the north Highlands. Its sheltered position provides an unusually sunny climate and miles of golden sands pair beautifully with the balmy weather. Hire a campervan in Dornoch and make a beeline down to Dornoch Point to sink your toes in the warm sand and admire the scenery. Nearby, Loch Fleet National Nature Reserve, a Site of Special Scientific Interest brims with flora, fauna and a variety of nesting birds.

Loch Fleet National Nature Reserve. Ceolnamaradornoch

The coastline is famed for excellent sightings of seals and breeding birds, creating a beautiful playground for nature lovers and bird watchers. Golfing enthusiasts need no introduction to the Royal Dornoch championship course, ranking 13th in the world, while the history buffs explore the stained glass windows and magnificent architecture of Dornoch’s impressive cathedral, which was founded in 1224. For those seeking a wider selection of vehicles, campervan hire Inverness offers additional options just a scenic drive away through the stunning Highland landscapes. Browse through our list of campervans within 120 miles of Dornoch, or check out more models in Tain, Brora, Invergordon, and Lairg.

Brora enjoys a lovely position on the east coast of Sutherland, and is best known as a prime golfing location plus an excellent base for campervan touring Caithness and Sutherland. A small yet pristine beach with Jurassic rocks and s sloping seafront is a hotspot for observing dolphins, grey seals, minke whales, and other sea life. Find a campervan in Brora and start your holiday right with a lovely picnic on its golden beach. Don’t forget to check out our campers for hire in nearby hire towns like Helmsdale, Dornoch, Dunbeath, and Burghead.

Sutherland, a once historic county, enjoys fine views over the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, and boasts unrivalled ocean views, with jagged cliffs jutting out into the ocean, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere. Use our campervans in Sutherland to rumble from standing stones and chambered cairns to hill forts, and prehistoric remains. Pop into small settlements like Talmine, Elphin, Durness, and Kinlochbervie for a bite to eat and refreshing tipples at one of the cosy pubs, and ask the friendly locals for pointers on local attractions. Sutherland has excellent transport links with the A9 providing access to Inverness and Glasgow - ideal if you’re planning on driving in from either of these locations.

Camping in and around North West Sutherland National Scenic Area

Foinaven, Jamesjontour

Camping in North West Sutherland is the best way to get right in the midst of Scotland's untamed beauty, while being a quick drive from local amenities and attractions Nestled amidst rugged landscapes, our campsites in North West Sutherland are the perfect place to awaken to the tranquil sounds of nature and enjoying an open-air breakfast before embarking on adventures. Explore historic peaks like Suilven and Quinag or let the kids build sandcastles and run free on dramatic coastlines. Make friends with the locals while meandering through charming villages steeped in history and head back to your campsite of choice for relaxing evenings where the simplicity of camp life under unpolluted skies trump the stress of modern life and electronic devices. We recommend campsites in Invergordon, Helmsdale, and Dingwall, however, our campsite map at the end of the page makes it easy to zoom in on other camping locations in the surrounding towns.

The Scottish Highlands, a region of rugged terrain and majestic beauty, captivates campers with untamed landscapes and rich cultural heritage. As Scotland's largest county, it holds an enticing collection of rolling hills, dramatic mountains, and pristine lochs, creating a picturesque backdrop for exploring and admiring from your campsite. From the iconic peaks of Ben Nevis to the mysterious depths of Loch Ness, the Highlands brim with an array of natural wonders. Many visitors choose to stay at the well-equipped campsites in Inverness, which serve as an ideal base for exploring both the bustling Highland capital and the surrounding wilderness. The region is dotted with ancient castles, historic battlefields, and charming villages, each adding to its enchanting allure. Whether hiking through the remote wilderness or basking in the warmth of a traditional Highland welcome, the Scottish Highlands campsites offer timeless landscape promising an unforgettable camping escape.

Ben Nevis. Wildrootsguiding

Camping in Invergordon combines a unique blend of coastal charm and Highland adventure. Nestled on the shores of the Cromarty Firth, our campsites are ideal for waking up to breathtaking views of shimmering waters and distant mountains. Head out on an array of exciting outdoor escapes, or spend your days twiddling your toes on a generous pitch, enclosed by memorable vistas. Take a stroll along the picturesque shoreline, or explore nearby hiking trails through lush forests and rolling hills. After a day of sightseeing rumble back to base, and, unwind by a crackling campfire as the stars sparkle above. Use our campsites in Invergordon to immerse your senses in the beauty and tranquillity of the Scottish Highlands. If you’d like more camping options in the area, take a peek at our campsites in Evanton, Rosemarkie, and Fortrose.

Helmsdale, tucked along the scenic North Sea coast, is famed for its exceptional golf courses and some of the best salmon fishing around. The village boasts rich history, and provides camping sorts with excellent opportunities to explore its charming harbour, potter around the Timespan Museum, or indulge in trout and salmon fishing in the River Helmsdale. Nature enthusiasts can mosey into the nearby Strath of Kildonan, where picturesque glens and rolling moorlands offer exceptional hiking routes and wildlife-spotting areas. As the day draws to a close, gather around the campfire at your campsite in Helmsdale to share stories and, if you’re here at the right time, the spectacle of the Northern Lights painting the night sky will create unforgettable memories and enhance an already lovely holiday in this enchanting corner of Scotland. We have 50 campsites within 40 miles of Helmsdale, plus other options in Brora, Dunbeath, Thrumster, and Burghead.

Timespan. Artfund

Dingwall, lively market town in Cromarty Firth, is a delightful spot for camping holidays, combining Highland charm with miles of open countryside and unrivalled serenity. Nestled amidst rolling hills and lush greenery, our campsites in Dingwall offer the chance to become one with nature. What better way to start your day than to wake up to birdsong and the crisp Highland air? Dingwall's rich history and quaint atmosphere beckon exploration, so go ahead and don your walking boots to explore historic streets, browse displays at the fascinating Dingwall Museum, or perhaps enjoy a leisurely stroll along the banks of the River Peffery. Hiking trails through picturesque glens and woodlands, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside create the perfect atmosphere for leaving the worries of the modern world behind. Use our camping accommodation icons to filter your campsite search by tent pitches, touring pitches or glamping abodes. Alternately, scroll to the end of the page for more campsite locations in proximity to Dingwall, like Evanton, Strathpeffer,and Invergordon,

Best Campsites At North West Sutherland

Foinaven, Jamesjontour

You’re currently soaking in the sights and sounds of North West Sutherland, one of Scotland’s most remote and breathtaking landscapes, hidden away in the northern reaches of the Highlands. Camperbug lists thousands of campsites in the UK but in North West Sutherland explore this rugged terrain and let wild beauty and its sprawling, uncrowded landscapes captivate the soul. Here, amidst vast moors, shimmering lochs, and towering mountains, campers find themselves immersed in an untouched wilderness. Iconic peaks like Suilven and Quinag dominate the skyline, while the pristine waters of Lochinver and Loch Assynt beckon anglers and kayakers alike. As night descends, the absence of light pollution reveals a dazzling canopy of stars overhead, creating an awe-inspiring backdrop for evenings. We recommend resting your head at Woodend Caravan And Camping Site in Lairg, Sango Sands Caravan and Camping in Durness, and Inver Caravan Park in Dunbeath. Read on to see if these camping locations have what it takes to entice you and your camping group.

Woodend Caravan And Camping Site in Lairg

Woodend Caravan And Camping Site, Lairg

Woodend Caravan and Camping Site is a serene camping space boasting stunning vistas over Loch Shin. Owners Alan and Karen Ross extend a warm Scottish welcome to all guests and look forward to sharing a well-maintained camping area with jaw-dropping vistas of rolling hills plus a glittering loch. The site rests an easy 10 minute drive from Lairg, and is perfectly positioned for exploring Loch Craggie, Loch Merkland, and Ben Hee. Guests have the option of parking on grass or hardstanding pitches with optional electric metres, or living it up with a holiday in a swish two bedroom static caravan. Pets are most welcome to tag along. Scroll down the page of our campsite listings to view the campsite on the map, and use the cursor to move around the map and check out more camping locations nearby.

.

Sango Sands Caravan and Camping in Durness

Sango Sands Caravan and Camping, Durness

Hop on over to Sango Sands Caravan and Camping, a cracking spot for all following the NC500. Perched on a hilltop location above beautiful, award-winning beaches, Sango Sands boasts some of the finest ocean views around with the little village of Durness offering a range of local amenities nearby. The site is great for holidays filled with wild swimming, surfing, sea life spotting, gentle hilltop strolls, and quiet picnics,so pack your bags and make your way over post-haste. An on-site restaurant and bar makes it easy to stay right where you are throughout your escape, however, we highly recommend getting out and about. For more camping spots, check out Campsites Sutherland, Polglass, Golspie, Thurso, Edderton, and East Sutherland.

.

Inver Caravan Park in Dunbeath

Inver Caravan Park, Dunbeath

Inver Caravan Park is a well-placed for stopovers on the way to Orkney, or an excellent base for hill walking, cliff climbing, fishing and relaxing. Located right next to the NC500 route, the campsite enjoys enchanting views over Dunbeath Bay and the Moray Firth, and the landscape around the site is generously sprinkled with cliffs and sea stacks housing marine and birdlife, including puffins. Mosey over to Caithness for numerous archaeological attractions like the Castle of Mey, or hop on your bike and explore John o` Groats, located just 3 miles away. The campsite offers ten hardstanding pitches with 14 electric connections, and access to clean amenities like toilets, showers, a laundry room and more. Find more campsites in Burghead, South Ronaldsay and Talmine, or refine your campsite search by filtering results based on your preferred accommodation options.

.

Campsites at North West Sutherland Near Beach

Castle of Mey. Castlesofscotland

What better way to wake up than to the sound of waves lapping the shores and the fresh ocean air signalling the dawn of another glorious day in North West Sutherland? The landscape extends from ocean to countryside and there are many beautiful spots by gleaming lochs and quiet countryside. If coastal capers are more your vibe, check out our campsites near the beaches of North West Sutherland, and spend unforgettable days lazing on golden sands while the kids lark about and enjoy a sense of freedom not often found at home. Camp your camper right by the beach at Crakaig Loth Campsite, well-placed on the stunning north coast of Moray Firth. Sango Sands Caravan and Camping overlooks the beautiful Blue Flag beach of Sango Bay, and offers spacious well-drained pitches for tents, campers and tourers. Take a look at our other camping locations in North West Sutherland and use our handy features to filter through camping locations or browse through campsites nearby.

Tent Camping at North West Sutherlan

Laxford Bridge. Simon__Ward On Instgram

Tent camping requires less gear, less effort and less maintenance, and might be the cheapest way to camp. Your only expenses (apart from the tent and other camping gear) is campground fees, and petrol if you are travelling by car. You can pitch just about anywhere and you’re more likely to find a spot, even in the swing of summer. Woodend Caravan and Camping Site, highlighted above, is a fantastic tent camping site in North West Sutherland. You could also check out more tent pitch supporting camping spots in Lairg like Pondside Campsite, or turn your sights to Kyle Of Tongue Hostel Campsite in the coastal village of Tongue. Alternatively, Bayview Campsite, just off the famed North Coast 500 route is a prime spot for getting out and about. All these sites are excellent for quiet camping holidays paired with open vistas and easy access to local amenities.

Caravan Camping at North West Sutherland

Whether you’re in search of an extended getaway, or have the kids clamouring for another outdoorsy escape where they can dig around in the dirt all day, why not hook up your caravan and hit the open road? Altnaharra Club Campsite, tucked on the tranquil shores of Loch Naver enjoys spectacular vistas of Ben Klibreck, and rests in natural surroundings, brimming with wildlife. Birchbank is a fab spot for members of the Caravan and Motorhome Club who enjoy the high standards and limited pitches of certificated sites. Craigdhu Caravan Site is another splendid caravan friendly campsite in Thurso, and the bay views at Scourie Caravan and Camping Park are a delight to behold.

Waving Goodbye To This Gorgeous Coastline

Ben Klibreck. Ourscottishhighlands

And there you have it! The first stop on our Itinerary for a Campervan Road Trip in the Scottish Highlands. We have a ways to go, so don’t hang up those hiking shoes just yet. Stop number two takes us from a beautifully untamed landscape to a vibrant village and picturesque fishing port in Northern Scotland. Ullapool is a fantastic holiday destination and easy to access from A894 and A835, which takes approximately one and a half hours over 54.1 miles.

Our adventures are geared towards campervan, motorhome and tent adventures, however, backpackers and glampers are most welcome to use our itinerary to craft a wonderful escape through the Scottish Highlands. Combine this route with destinations in the Scottish Lowlands, or wander at a leisurely pace, stopping to soak in the scenery, and laze under big skies on secret campsites at night.

As always, all our stops include campervan hire locations and camping spots, so keep an eye on this space for our next update.