24- A Detailed Itinerary for a Campervan Road Trip Through Ullapool

 June 27, 2024

  Read Time: About 16 minutes

view of lake and boats

Ullapool. Jan Ubels

We’re back with a new update on our road trip through the beautiful Scottish Highlands. We began our road trip in North West Sutherland, a National Scenic Area and now we make our way to Ullapool, a charming Scottish village captivating visitors with its untamed beauty and relaxing atmosphere.

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Steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, Ullapool offers a perfect retreat for those seeking a peaceful escape. The settlement rests on the shores of Loch Broom and rests in one of the most unspoilt natural landscapes in the UK. Stroll along the quaint harbour, where fishing boats bob gently on the water, or wander through the narrow streets lined with whitewashed cottages and cosy pubs. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Highlands by exploring local craft shops, and take home unique souvenirs crafted by talented artisans. The surrounding wilderness beckons outdoor enthusiasts with exceptional hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.

Loch Broom

Loch Broom. kanchana.With.a.Camera

Ullapool is also close to the vibrant town of Gairloch entices with its sandy beaches and panoramic views of the coast, while the historic village of Achiltibuie provides a glimpse into traditional Highland life. Further afield, the bustling town of Inverness boasts ancient castles and lively markets. Use our itinerary to add in your must-see attractions in Ullapool, and kick back at one of our campsite recommendations below.

Loch Maree

Loch Maree. Northernpoet

Reaching Ullapool from North West Sutherland will take approximately one and a half hours via the A894 and A835. The village is 55 miles or a 100 kms from Inverness along the A835, which is one of the most scenic routes into the second stop on our Scottish Highlands road trip. Campers driving in from Gairloch can take in the scenery of Loch Maree, Gruinard and Dundonnell via the A832, while visitors coming via the North road can explore Achiltibuie and Coigach and wind their way past the golden sands of Ardmair and Achnahaird.

Is Ullapool Worth Seeing?

Stac Pollaidh

Stac Pollaidh. Tossdy5

Absolutely and indubitably! Ullapool is picturesque and peaceful, hidden amid some of the most attractive and wild landscapes of Britain, this fishing settlement has only 1500 inhabitants, its location between Inverness and the mountains.

These beautiful natural settings have made Ullapool a hotspot for sailors, hikers, rock climbers and outdoor adventurers of varying tastes. Explore the richness of the verdant countryside and uncover an array of unexpected surprises. For example, the village is one of the best places in the UK to admire the Aurora Borealis owing to its dark skies and northern position.

Summer Isles

Summer Isles. Chriswhite001

One of the best ways to explore the spectacular scenery is to take long drives to explore stunning viewpoints like Coigach Peninsula, and potter around pretty villages like Polbain and Reiff. From here holidaymakers can opt to sail over to the Summer Isles, or explore the derelict crofts sprinkled across the gorgeous landscape. Head to the west of Ullapool to explore Inverpolly National Nature Reserve, a stunning, protected landscape home to an array of species not seen often around the UK. Nature lovers are encouraged to bring field glasses and cameras for sightings of pine martens, wild cats, golden eagles and buzzards.

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  • Campervan Road Trip Ullapool

    Fairy Glen

    Fairy Glen. Chachapsl

    Nature enthusiasts, ahoy! We’re rumbling off on an exciting campervan adventure in Ullapool in the wild and rugged Scottish Highlands. Campervans and motorhomes are a cost-effective (and frankly far superior) means to explore your dream destinations, for a fraction of the cost and almost all the comforts of home. There’s no better way to truly enjoy the freedom and flexibility of the nomad lifestyle, than with our campervans in Ullapool. Why not speak to private owners in Elphin, a tranquil village in the heart of Assynt, or Lochinver, home to pristine beaches and renowned seafood? The village of Achnasheen, enclosed by majestic mountains with an enchanting Fairy Glen, is yet another fab spot for campervan rentals. We list campervan hire across the UK, making it easy to find rentals as you follow our itinerary, once you get to Ullapool, a campervan hire in Inverness is like having your own little adventure base – perfect for discovering all those hidden gems around there.

    Don’t forget to scroll to the end of the page for our map detailing all campervan hires near you. Scroll further to find campervan hire towns in the area, also when you make it to Ullapool, a campervan hire in Highland is totally worth it – you can just pull over whenever something looks amazing.

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    Suilven

    Suilven. Gurl_on_The_Hill

    The tiny village of Elphin is a beautifully green oasis tucked amid heather-clad moorland, peppered with charming white cottages and the iconic Suilven standing proud against the sky. With spectacular mountain scenery in every direction, it’s no wonder that this sleepy village draws the active types, keen to clamber up the peaks or explore winding walking routes through the landscape. Don't miss the chance to explore the enchanting Knockan Crag Nature Reserve, where you can delve into the geological wonders of the area. Explore the historic ruins of Ardvreck Castle for a glimpse of Scotland's rich past, or get your thrills at Suilven, the iconic mountain offering challenging yet rewarding hikes. Hire a campervan in Elphin and wind your way north along the A835 to get into Ullapool in no time. Check out more campervan rentals in towns like campervans Dundonnell, campervans Wester Ross and campervans Lairg.

    Achmelvich Beach

    Achmelvich Beach. Highlandcairi

    Soak in stunning mountain vistas and fall in love with a natural playground made up of sparkling lochs, cascading waterfalls and white sand beaches in Lochinver. Tucked on the craggy coastline, Lochinver is a fantastic base for exploring the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Book your campervan hire in Lochinver and spend glorious sunny days lounging on the pristine sands of Achmelvich Beach, lapped by the crystal clear waters ideal for swims on warmer days. Foodies can dip into the vibrant local foodie scene, dining on a tantalising array of freshly prepared dishes made with the region's finest produce. Kick start your holiday in Ullapool with exhilarating hiking and unrivalled panoramic vistas at the peaks of Stac Pollaidh, or sit back and watch the boats bobbing in Lochinver harbour. Don’t miss the beautiful coastal drive to Achiltibuie plus the attractive Drumbeg Loop to Unapool. You can also find campervans in the nearby towns of campervans in Kinlochbervie, campervans in Sutherland, and campervans in Gairloch.

    Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve

    Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve. Agodicer

    Achnasheen is a wee settlement with just 28 inhabitants and plenty of open spaces that provide a promising start to a campervan adventure in the Scottish Highlands. Find campervans in Achnasheen and set to explore the stunning attractions at your doorstep. Visit the awe-inspiring Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve, where ancient pine forests and rugged mountains create a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and hikers. Mosey over to the picturesque shores of Loch Dughaill for a tranquil afternoon of fishing or take a tour of the ruins of Eilean Donan Castle, a striking fortress steeped in centuries of Scottish heritage. Fall in love with Ullapool as you follow our road trip through the Scottish Highlands. Check out more campervan hire rentals in the towns of Garve campervans, Strathcarron campervans, Cannich campervans, Strathpeffer campervans, Lochcarron campervans, Strathglass campervans and campervans Beauly

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    Why is Ullapool Famous?

    Loch Dùghaill

    Loch Dùghaill. Adventureswithaimeee

    There’s many reasons to visit Ullapool and plenty of reasons it’s a big hitter with the adventurous types. Firstly, its stunning natural surroundings make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Secondly, the town rests in a beautiful setting along the shores of Loch Broom, surrounded by majestic mountains. The village is a fantastic base for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting in the Scottish Highlands. It also serves as a gateway to the Western Isles, with regular ferry services departing from its harbour to destinations such as Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis. Come by in your campervan and discover why Ullapool is a widely-known, well-loved,and must-visit destination in Scotland.

    Ullapool Camping

    Ullapool

    Ullapool. Howden_J

    Picture yourself stepping out of your campervan right into glorious views down a moor-covered hill, or perhaps waking up somewhere deep in the woods with a green canopy of trees providing speckled shade throughout the day. Fire up the grill for cosy dinners and admire splendid scenery as you munch on your post-exertion meal. Laze around the campfire at sundown with a canopy of stars twinkling merrily above.. Camping in Ullapool is entirely peaceful and a welcome respite from the unending grind of the modern world. We recommend finding campsites in Dundonnell, Gairloch and Garve. Read on to see why you might enjoy camping here. Visit our main page or more campsites in the UK. Furthermore don't think twice about discovering some absolutely breathtaking campsites in Inverness while you're on your journey around Ullapool – they're seriously worth the detour.

    An Teallach

    An Teallach. Eyes_Of_An_Archaeologist

    You’ll find a map detailing all campsites near you at the end of the page. Scroll around to find more camping options near your chosen campsite, or use our filters to refine your campsite search. Click on an icon, e.g tent, and let the system present a selection of tent-camping locations near you. The blue text at the top of the page denotes all available campsites within 40 miles of your selected camping area. If Ullapool's on your list, check out the brilliant campsites in Highland where you can truly escape and feel free in Scotland's stunning wild landscapes.

    Red Point Beach

    Red Point Beach. Kristina.Bina

    For those seeking adventure, Dundonnell, just a short from Ullapool, is home to the dramatic peaks of An Teallach, famed for their challenging yet rewarding hiking opportunities plus breathtaking views. Located on the south side of Little Loch Broom, is home to remarkable mountains that may well rival the peaks in Skye. The area around Dundonnell is called the ‘Great Wilderness’ and is home to many natural hectares that lie uninhabited by locals. Fish, kayak or spot wildlife on the shores of Loch Broom, or explore the ruins of Dundonnell House, a historic mansion nestled amidst scenic woodlands, offering a glimpse into the area's rich heritage. Don’t forget to use our icons to refine your search for campsites in Dundonnell. We currently list 37 campsites within 40 miles of Dundonnell, and offer more campsite listings in campsites Wester Ross, campsites Lochinver, campsites Strathcarron and campsites Strathpeffer.

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    Gairloch Museum

    Gairloch Museum. Ldnarchitects

    In Gairloch, visitors can lounge on the pristine sands and turquoise waters of Red Point Beach, perfect for a refreshing dip on a sunny day. Set on the shores of Loch Gairloch, this quaint village rests in a tranquil setting with far reaching views and the soothing sounds of lapping waves lulling you to sleep at night. Explore miles of rocky coastline with the opportunity to see whales frolicking in the sparkling ocean, plus glorious views extending as far as the volcanic peaks of Assynt. There are several fantastic beaches in the area, including Red Point Beach, which enjoys vistas to Raasay, Skye and the Western Isles. Pop over to the Gairloch Heritage Museum for an insight into the region's rich maritime heritage, or wander through the enchanting Inverewe Garden and Estate, brimming with exotic plants and vibrant blooms. Our campsites in Gairloch are great for unwinding and escaping the modern world. Take your pick from 44 campsites within 40 miles of Gairloch, and check out more campsites in Lochcarron, campsites in Achnasheen, campsites in Portree, campsites in Kyle Of Lochalsh and campsites in Elphin.

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    Corrieshalloch Gorge

    Corrieshalloch Gorge. Maryquitecontrarypritchard

    History comes alive in Garve, home to the Corrieshalloch Gorge, where one can soak in panoramic views of Falls of Measach on a suspension bridge. The small village sits beside the glimmering waters of Black Water River and straddles the A835, making it easy to get to Ullapool on the west coast of the Northern Highlands. Kick back at your campsite in Garve and enjoy the tranquillity of a wild, open landscape brimming with natural beauty, especially when the bright yellow gorse flourishes. The village is enclosed by isolated moorland and magnificent peaks, providing big skies for ramblers and rock climbers. The scenic Rogie Falls is a sight to behold with thunderous cascades and tranquil forest trails, ideal for peaceful picnics. Don’t forget to pop by at Garve's historic railway station, a beautifully preserved Victorian gem showcasing the area's rich railway heritage. Not only do you have the option of browsing through 72 campsites within 40 miles of Garve, we also offer heaps of campsites in Dingwall, campsites in Strathglass, campsites in Beauly, campsites in Evanton, campsites in North Kessock, campsites in Moray and campsites in Cannich.

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  • Best Campsites at Ullapool

    Rogie Falls

    Rogie Falls. D3vi4nt666

    Take a look at our recommended camping spots in Ullapool, and you just might find yourself sighing in contentment as you sit back and soak in the views from a spacious pitch. These campsites are surrounded by majestic mountains, serene lochs, and verdant landscapes, providing a delightful space for relaxing sore muscles after a long day of driving or sightseeing. Disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature as you wake up to the sounds of nature, and fall asleep under the stars, with no packed schedules or alarms to jar you out of a peaceful slumber. Take a look at Broomfield Holiday Park, Kinlochewe Caravan Club Site and Gruinard Bay Caravan Park,or scroll below for a look at our dedicated camping sections for tents, motorhomes and caravans.

    Kinlochewe Caravan Club Site in Achnasheen

    Kinlochewe Caravan Club Site in Achnasheen

    Kinlochewe Caravan Club Site, Achnasheen

    Kinlochewe Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite is a serene and intimate camping location at the base of the craggy slopes of Beinn Eighe. Wake up to clear blue skies and attractive mountain views, and look forward to a friendly welcome from the cheery owners, who are praised for being helpful and very knowledgeable of the local area. Leave behind the worries of the modern world as you wake up at your pace, and enjoy a slower pace of life. The site is perfect for tent campers, touring vehicles and glampers, and is well-positioned for day trips. All pitches rest on sturdy stone and the site is close to the local village, which has a cafe, a licensed shop, and a petrol station. Pet owners can exercise canines on a designated dog walk, and the owners encourage barbeques on the pitches.

    Gruinard Bay Caravan Park in Wester Ross

    Gruinard Bay Caravan Park in Wester Ross

    Gruinard Bay Caravan Park, Wester Ross

    Giddy on up to Gruinard Bay Caravan Park, a lovely beachfront site in a spectacularly beautiful location on Scotland’s west coast. The site has a long list of amenities, including fishing on-site and boat launching nearby, creating an excellent space for families to unwind. Take a stroll to the nearby village of Laide for the local petrol station, post office and a small grocery store. This small, privately-owned caravan park is relaxed and friendly, offering a mix of 35 grass and hardstanding pitches, many enjoying spectacular views of the ocean. There is a separate camping area for tents and access to holiday caravans for hire.

    Tent Camping at Ullapool

    Beinn Eighe

    Beinn Eighe. _Jj_adventures

    Hark ye, all tent campers, We’ve got some fantastic tent pitch supporting campsites in Ullapool. Check out Badrallach Campsite, a fantastic space for tents and small campervans on the shores of Little Loch Broom. Northern Lights Campsite is a quiet, no-frills site with spectacular views on all pitches and an intimate camping feel. The owners aren't always on-site and the camping area is never really full, creating comfortable camping space for everyone. Sands Caravan and camping is perfect for family-friendly escapes with your loved ones. The site boasts spectacular views of the Isle of Skye and the Outer Hebrides, too.

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    Motorhome Campsites Near Ullapool

    Fionn Bheinn

    Fionn Bheinn. Scramblesandstrides

    If you’re on the search for roomy pitches and stunning vistas, we might have the perfect fit for you. Birchbank is a gorgeous certificated location along route 66 the North Coast 500. Kinlochewe Caravan Club Site welcomes members of the Caravan and Camping club who want to explore the shimmering lochs, quiet woodlands and mist capped mountains in Achnasheen. For more motorhome friendly camping in Ullapool, check out Ledgowan Lodge Bunkhouse and Campsite set on the grounds of a county house at the base of Fionn Bheinn, with easy access to the surrounding mountains

    Caravan Camping at Ullapool

    Ullapool

    Ullapool. Binyarah

    Caravan camping is just as fun as campervan adventures, and we’ve got a range of fab spots for you. Ardmair Point Caravan and Camping Park offers a range of pitches on grass and hardstanding, and the opportunity to park your caravan right up on the tranquil shores of Loch Kanaird. Port A Bhaigh Campsite is a fab caravan friendly campsite in Ullapool with friendly staff, clean amenities, and a gorgeous location looking across the Summer Isles on the North West coast. Shore Caravan Site is ideal for exploring Achmelvich Bay, and offers a range of facilities, including an on-site shop, a fish and chips shop, and a launderette.

    Ullapool Campsites Open All Year

    Are you keen to explore Ullapool, but unsure of when you’ll head down? No problem! These campsites are open throughout the year and welcome you to savour the sceneries of the seasons. Badrallach Campsite Bothy and Holiday Cottage, Port a Bhaigh Campsite, and Gruinard Bay Caravan Park are three campsites welcoming guests all year round.

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    What is a Fun Fact About Ullapool Scotland?

    Loch Kinord

    Loch Kinord. Chrismsutcliffe

    There’s plenty of fun facts we’ve already included above but let’s dive into a few.

    The name Ullapool was derived from Norse, which means Ulla’s steading, indicating that the settlement was likely named after a local who had a farm there many years ago.

    The village was commissioned by the British Fisheries as an organised fishing village in 1788, and the locals were in the clutches of the volatile fishing industry, however, today, tourism is what powers the economy.

    Ullapool and surrounding areas support a vibrant arts scene, with an array of galleries, craft shops, and music festivals showcasing local talent and culture.

    The best time to spot the Northern Lights is during autumn and winter, when there are longer periods of darkness, limited light pollution, and clear skies. Visitors can also view the aurora borealis at Lochinver and the Applecross Peninsula on the west coast of Scotland.

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    We hope we’ve enticed you to give Ullapool a visit on your next Scottish road trip.

    Achmelvich Bay

    Achmelvich Bay, Scotland. Chamiergina

    And so we say goodbye to the second stop on our campervan road trip itinerary - Ullapool. We hope you’ve had a memorable road trip exploring rugged landscapes, sleepy villages, and winding roads that snake through dramatic mountain passes. Don’t forget to set aside a day to sit back and savour the scenery, perhaps with a picnic on the serene shores of Loch Broom, listening to the waves dance against the harbour.

    Enjoy the warm Highland hospitality as you sit down to freshly caught seafood at a local eatery, ask for directions on your way to an ancient castle shrouded in history, or relax on a spacious pitch at your chosen campsite. Take home a slice of the Highland spirit that we hope will tempt you to return to the untamed lands of the Scottish Highlands.

    Our next leg takes us to The Black Isle, and as always, we’ll be including our top points of interest, most scenic camping locations, and a list of campervan hire towns in and around the area.. We’ll see you next week for the next update on our Itinerary for a Campervan Road Trip in the Scottish Highlands.

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