If you’re planning to drive the Argyll Coastal Route in a motorhome and are looking for the perfect itinerary, you’re in the right place. Stretching 129 miles from Tarbet to Fort William this glorious journey will take you through some of the most awe-inspiring scenery that Scotland has to offer. From expansive beaches that never seem to end to mountains that will impress on your memories forever; evocative castles and historical monuments and remote villages where the distant past feels closer than the present, this road trip has it covered.
Our Argyll Coastal Route itinerary has been carefully created to ensure you get the most from your trip. We’ve tried to include a variety of activities to provide contingencies for when the weather doesn’t cooperate - spoiler alert: this is rather likely to happen! And we have included recommendations for great motorhome campsites on the way that will give you a good balance of comfort with a feeling of being close to nature. Let’s get started.
Before your trip
As mentioned, the weather in Scotland is changeable, to say the least. No matter what time of year you undertake your trip you will need to come prepared. That means packing good, breathable waterproof clothing, strong and sturdy waterproof boots, high-factor sunscreen, and good insect repellent. Even if you are staying on campsites you should bring a few good waterproof torches, offline or paper maps, blankets and emergency supplies and a comprehensive first aid kit.
Keep a close eye on the weather forecast when you are setting out on a hike or bike ride and always stick to the paths. You can also take a look at some of these travel apps for restaurant recommendations and route planning. On the subject of routes, let’s start exploring our Argyll Coastal route itinerary
Day 1
This road trip along the wonderful Argyll Coast starts at Tarbet, which means a narrow strip of land or isthmus in Scots Gaelic. You may see the name again along your travels as there are at least 14 places in Scotland sharing this moniker!
Nestled on the western shores of Loch Lomond, Tarbet is a pretty village with a couple of eateries and a village shop if you need to stock up on last-minute supplies. It’s a popular place for boarding a cruise along Loch Lomond which, if you have time, we would definitely recommend. You could also set aside a stop to climb the 31 steps to the top of the Inveruglas Pyramid, where you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views across the loch, Ben Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.
The next stop is Inverary, just over a half-hour's drive from Tarbet. This is your chance to immerse yourself in the finest Georgian architecture that Scotland has to offer including a neo-classical church and jail. There is also a fascinating museum and a neo-gothic castle to explore. If you’re feeling energetic climb the 800 feet path to the highest point of the grounds where you can gaze over Loch Fyne. Tea and cake are available from the castle cafe or you can choose from a tempting range of pubs and restaurants in Inverary including The George and the Loch Fyne Hotel.
Staying at: With every pitch facing the glittering waters of Loch Fyne, Argyll Caravan Park is the ideal choice for a night near Inverary. Well-behaved dogs kept on leads are welcome, and the facilities are clean and well-maintained. There’s an onsite restaurant with free wifi and tasty food and kids and adults can enjoy the games room complete with a pool table and table tennis. Visit the website for details on how to book and get prices.
Day 2 - 3
Inverary to Ardfern
The next leg of this Argyll Coastal Route road trip is from Inverary to Oban. As you can imagine, there are plenty of wonderful distractions along the way so take a good look at your map and pick some choice spots to while away a few hours. Here are a few we recommend.
Heading southwest for seven miles from Inveraray will take you to Furnace, where you can enjoy a pint at the community-owned pub (open only at specific times during the week), pick up some supplies from the community-owned village shop and visit the old iron furnace and gunpowder walks. There are also a number of walking tracks to choose from. A half hour’s drive further along your route takes you to the Knapdale Forest and the Scottish Beaver trial where you can witness the successes of this exciting conservation project and catch a glimpse of these charismatic creatures.
We’ve recommended a motorhome campsite in the village of Ardfern which is half an hour's drive from Knapdale Forest. We thoroughly recommend you stop halfway at Kilmartin Glen where you can experience a collection of cairns and standing stones dating back almost 5,000 years.
Staying at: Ardfern Motorhome Park offers ten pitches, all with hook-ups on a lovely site just a few minutes walk from a sea loch. BBQs and kids are welcome and there’s a pub and shop just down the road. Ardfern is open all year round. Pitches cost £25 including showers and wifi.
Day 3 to 4
Ardfern to Glencoe via Oban
This part of your journey can be done in one day or, if you possibly can, stretch it out to two or three or more. There is just so much to see in this part of Scotland and you’ll probably need an afternoon or so to absorb all the amazing experiences so far. Either way, here are some of the highlights and info you will need.
It’s 25 miles (46 minutes) from Ardfern to Oban then Oban to Glencoe is around an hour (34 miles). On arrival in Oban, you’ll quickly see why this lovely west coast resort is so popular. In fact, unless you love crowds of tourists you might want to avoid visiting here in the summer.
Nestled on the west coast, Oban is known as the seafood capital of Scotland and is also famous for its delicious whiskey. When you aren’t sampling the local produce you can take part in a variety of activities such as diving, kayaking, cycling, hiking or visiting the museums or castles in the area. If you want to stay a night or two, the Oban Caravan and Camping Club is a good bet.
Keep some energy reserved for your onward trip to Glencoe where the majestic mountain scenery will certainly take your breath away. A location in a number of films such as Skyfall and Harry Potter, this glorious valley and peaks were carved out by glaciers and volcanic explosions and remain one of the most beguiling and beautiful places in the Highlands. We can’t even begin to cover the myriad activities, hikes and explorations available here but take a look at this fabulous blog from The Chaotic Scot for the complete lowdown.
If you’re a Potter fan and fancy visiting some sites from the franchise, check out our blog on the Ultimate Harry Potter Road Trip.
Staying at: The Invercoe Caravan and Camping Park has more than earned its four stars from the Visit Scotland Tourist Board. This lovely site has good facilities, incredible views and a range of mostly level hard-standing touring pitches, with hook-up if required. Dogs are welcome and there is a great play area for kids. Invercoe is open all year round. Prices start at £31.
Invercoe Caravan & Camping Park, Glencoe, Ballachulish PH49 4HP
56.686509938136965, -5.105401357104592
Day 4- 5
Glencoe to Fort William
And so we come to the last leg of our Argyll Coastal Route itinerary. It is only another half-hour drive up to Fort William though many people prefer the quieter atmosphere at Glencoe over the amenities and relative bustle of Fort William. If you decide to head northwards, however, you won’t be disappointed. Known as the outdoor capital of the UK you’ll have plenty of options for exploring the area by foot, boat, kayak, ski or snowboard. There are also some beautiful train routes in the area for those who would rather sit back and soak it all up.
Fort William is a popular spot for climbing Ben Nevis and there are plenty of companies in Fort William who can help with planning your ascent. It goes without saying that this is not for the fainthearted. Take plenty of time to find out more about climbing Ben Nevis before you set off.
As you’d expect from such an outdoorsy settlement there are also plenty of eateries and drinkeries to restore your energy. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Staying at: Spacious and welcoming, Glen Nevis Caravan and Camping Park has four fields devoted to motorhomes and campervans, all with mind-blowing views of the surrounding mountains. This multiple award-winning site is open between 15th March and 5th November offering a range of good facilities including a well-stocked shop, hot showers, laundry and a nearby restaurant and bar. Prices start at £32 per night for an electric hard-standing pitch. There is space for an awning, with no extra charge.
Caravan & Camping Park, Glen Nevis Caravan & Camping Park, Glen Nevis, Fort William PH33 6SX
56.804578373575445, -5.0741509519853745
We hope this itinerary for driving the Argyll Coastal Route in a motorhome has got you inspired and excited about a trip to this unique and awe-inspiring region. We’ve said it before but it bears repeating, being prepared in this part of the world is vital so take your time to create a good packing and shopping list before you depart. There are a variety of shops around, though you don’t want to be caught out with low supplies or to have to deviate from your route unnecessarily.
Having your own motorhome makes taking those extra creature comforts much easier. Cuddled up under your favourite blanket beneath the stars or lighting your JetBoil or stove for your morning coffee as birds of prey fly overhead and you will be glad of that extra space.
If you don’t currently have your own motorhome and would like to find out more about renting one from our trusted customers, check out the motorhomes for hire on our website. Once you’ve found your perfect four-wheeled travel companion you can dust off those binoculars, waterproofs and walking boots and start getting prepared for your trip to the Argyll Coast!
