The Ultimate NC500 Road Trip – Hire one of our VW Campervans. We hire out to lots of adventurers from Lancashire, Greater Manchester & Beyond.
Dreaming of the North Coast 500? There’s no better way to explore Scotland’s most iconic driving route than in one of ourVW campervans.
We are in a great location on the edge of the M65, just outside Bolton, making us accessible Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Bolton, and more locally Ramsbottom, Greenmount, and Blackburn our adventure starts right on your doorstep.
Clare and Darren recently toured the NC500 and gave some some great info and tips. We’ve put it together in a blog for you!
Plan the Perfect NC500 Road Trip
The NC500 loops around the north of Scotland, offering breathtaking coastal views, dramatic mountains, and unforgettable experiences. If you’re hiring one of our VW campervans here are some insider tips to help you get the most out of your trip:
1. Plan Ahead & Go Anticlockwise
Start your route from the east (Inverness up to John O’ Groats) and loop west – this way, you’ll save the most stunning scenery for last. The west coast is incredibly dramatic and a true highlight of the NC500.
2. Travel in Spring
April or May is the sweet spot – you’ll avoid the summer crowds and pesky midges while still enjoying great weather and open roads.
3. Book Campsites Early
Popular spots get booked fast, so reserve in advance. We recommend hardstanding pitches with electric hook-ups – perfect for our fully equipped VW campers.
4. Research What You Want to See
There’s so much to explore! Grab a copy of NC500 by Robbie Roams – his book and YouTube channel are packed with great tips.
Must-Visit Stops & Campsites
We’ve explored the NC500 ourselves and here are some highlights you won’t want to miss:
• Foodie Faves:
• Surf and Turf in Dornoch
• Lochinver Larder
• Cheese ‘n’ Toasted – seriously good!
Top Campsites:
• Ardmair, Ullapool
• Sango Sands
• Clachtoll Beach Campsite – incredible facilities
• Applecross Campsite – with access to the jaw-dropping Bealach na Bà Pass
Natural Wonders & Sights:
• Smoo Cave
• Whaligoe Steps
• Ardvreck Castle
• Castle Sinclair
• Eilean Donan Castle
• Wailing Widow Falls
• Falls of Foyers
• Rogie Falls
Beaches That’ll Blow You Away:
• Sango Sands
• Strathy Bay
• Crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sands – among the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Wildlife & Scenic Gems:
• Highland cows, dolphins at Chanonry Point, epic Lochs including Loch Ness and Loch Maree
• Torridon Mountains – absolutely awe-inspiring
Final Thoughts from Claire and Darren…
“We absolutely loved our NC500 trip and will 100% be booking with Ascent Campers again. There’s so much more to see, and the experience is simply unforgettable. Trust us – once you hit the road, you’ll be hooked”.
Why Hire a VW Campervan from us?
Hiring from Ascent Campers means you are right on the edge of Lancashire and Greater Manchester, so you’re ready to roll in a perfectly sized, easy-to-drive, and fully equipped vehicle. It’s got everything you need for the journey – and nothing you don’t.
Whether you’re in Bolton, Ramsbottom, Bury, Chorley, Wigan, Blackburn or Manchester our VW campervan hire is ideal for adventurers looking to explore in comfort and style.
Ready to hit the NC500? Book your VW campervan hire today from us– and get ready for the road trip of a lifetime!