East Coast Scotland

East Coast Route

With our years of experience in motorhome travelling, we carefully designed this 7-14-day circular route that will take you on an unforgettable trip along Scotland’s stunning East Coast and the Black Isle. 

From coastal paths, wild camps, and outdoor activities, this route is crafted to make sure that you enjoy the beauty and culture of each town on the East Coast of Scotland at your own pace.  

Check out our complete campervan for hire route below. 

 

 

Guide to Road Trip at the East Coast 

From Perth, we recommend heading to Scone for your first night. If you’d like to ease into your motorhome adventure, there’s a well-located campsite on the edge of the River Tay, perfect for getting familiar with your motorhome while enjoying a lovely evening walk along the river. 

You also have the option to visit Scone Palace the next morning, which is just 20 minutes away from our depot. As the historic crowning place of Scottish kings, Scone holds a special place in Scotland’s past. It was the rightful home of the Stone of Destiny, last used at the coronation of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and the site where Robert the Bruce was crowned in 1306. 

 

Dundee

From Perth, you can travel to Dundee’s waterfront where Captain Scott’s ship Discovery has been restored. There is also a museum where you can board and walk around the ship. This ship was launched in 1901 and was designed for Artic Ice Exploration. The expedition’s zoologist was to die with Scott on the fateful journey to the pole in 1912. 

Another popular tourist spot in Dundee is the V&A, which opened in September 2018, marking the first Victoria and Albert Museum outside of London. 

 

St. Andrews

If you are interested in Golf then St Andrews is only 30 Minutes’ drive from Dundee , Overnight parking is Not allowed beside the beach in St Andrews, Wild camping is available near Dundee at Broughty ferry next to the beach follow this link to view on google Earth,  or if you follow the A919 to St Andrews there is an overnight parking spot at Kingsbarns which is south of St Andrews (ask us for directions) this is a lovely spot right by the edge of the beach.  

 

 

Aside from golf, St. Andrews offers plenty of other attractions: 

• St. Andrews Aquarium 
• St. Andrews Castle and Cathedral 
• A range of boutique shops to explore 
• Plenty of cafes and restaurants 
• Scenic coastal walks or cycle routes 

While overnight parking is not allowed beside the beach in St. Andrews, there are wild camping options near Dundee at Broughty Ferry, right next to the beach. You can also park overnight at Kingsbarns, south of St. Andrews. Just follow the A919 and ask us for directions to this lovely spot right by the beach. 

From St. Andrews, head back to Dundee and along the coast towards Arbroath, passing Carnoustie on the way. In Carnoustie, you’ll find a beautiful beach and the famous Carnoustie Link Golf Course, known as one of the most challenging links courses in the world, and consistently rated as one of the top 10 golf courses globally. 

Arbroath

Arbroath was once a key fishing town, and its attractive old harbour is still bustling today. There’s plenty to explore in Arbroath, from the pleasure beach to a variety of historical landmarks. 

If you enjoy fishing, Mari Dawn Fishing Charter offers both sea angling and pleasure trips. Be sure to look out for the Bell Rock Lighthouse, located off the Arbroath coast. This iconic lighthouse is the world’s oldest working sea-washed lighthouse. 

Arbroath is also famous for its Arbroath smokies, a must-try local delicacy. These traditional smoked fish are prepared using a method dating back to the 1800s. The fish are salted overnight, tied in pairs with hemp twine, and left to dry.  

After that, they’re smoked over a special hardwood fire, suspended on a unique "kiln stick" - a process that creates a flavour that’s delicious and not to be missed. 

 

 

For a peaceful stop, wild camping is available at Arbroath's seafront. And if you’re looking for a great meal, we highly recommend the Arbroath Boat House restaurant, just a short walk from the seafront. We particularly enjoy their Lobster Thermidor - it’s a treat! See the photo below. 

 
 
 

Stonehaven

From Arbroath, head up the coast towards Aberdeen, with a recommended stop in Stonehaven, where there’s plenty to see and do in the area. 

Husky Haven 

For an unforgettable experience, visit Huskyhaven, where you can drive your own team of dogs on a trail and learn more about these incredible animals with a kennel tour.  

Dunnottar Castle 

Alternatively, consider taking the Stonehaven Land Train to Dunnottar Castle. The train departs from Market Square, and the onboard storyteller will share fascinating tales along the way. 

Dunnottar Castle was once the ancestral home of the Earls Marischal, one of Scotland’s most powerful families. The last Earl was convicted of treason for his role in the Jacobite Rising of 1715, and as a result, the castle and its estates were seized by the English government. 

The castle has hosted several notable figures, including Mary Queen of Scots, The Marquis of Montrose, and the future King Charles II. Most famously, it was at Dunnottar where a small garrison of men held out against Cromwell’s army for over eight months, saving the Scottish Crown Jewels from English capture. The Honours of Scotland (Crown, sceptre, and sword) are now on display at Edinburgh Castle. 
 

 

After a busy day, when hunger strikes, stop by Bay Fish and Chip Shop on the promenade: an award-winning shop that has been named UK No. 1 Independent Takeaway, where fish is freshly caught and cooked to order. 
 

Aberdeen

From Stonehaven, follow the A92 to Aberdeen, often referred to as the Silver City due to its buildings made from grey and silver granite. Aberdeen is a thriving business hub and one of the UK's eight super cities.  

There’s plenty to explore here, from historic attractions to the beach. For family-friendly fun, visit Cadona’s Fun Park, or head to the harbour for a boat trip and try your luck spotting dolphins. 

As wild camping spots in Aberdeen are scarce, we recommend booking a campsite if you plan to stay overnight. 
 

 

Moray Coast

From Aberdeen, head up the coast to Fraserburgh, then continue along the stunning Moray Coast from Fraserburgh to Nairn. The Moray coastline boasts breathtaking scenery, with dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches. As you travel, you’ll pass through charming coastal villages and picturesque harbours. 

Things to do along the coast 

Wildlife 

The Moray Firth is one of the best places in the UK to spot dolphins, with an estimated 130 bottlenose dolphins calling the area home. Along the coastline, you can also spot  

• Seals 
• minke whale 
• harbour porpoises 
• pilot whales 
• killer whales 
• Otters 
• Ospreys 
• Oystercatchers 

Moray firth is quite a unique spot for spotting bottlenose dolphins, as they tend to stay close to the shoreline. Although they live here year-round, the best time to see them is in July, during the height of the salmon migration. 

While traveling along the coast, be sure to stop at Spey Bay, where you can visit the Scottish Dolphin Centre. Here, you can enjoy a coffee while browsing the informative visitor centre. 

 
 

Coastal path 

The Moray Coast offers numerous coastal paths and cycle routes, each boasting beautiful sandy beaches, quaint fishing villages, and dramatic cliffs. Plus, the abundance of wildlife makes it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts. There truly is something for everyone along this stunning coastline.  

 

The Moray Coast Trail

This 50-mile walk typically takes around 3 to 5 days to complete, though you can easily choose sections for day trips. The trail begins in Cullen and stretches all the way to Findhorn, offering breathtaking views along the way.  

You'll discover dramatic cliffs, hidden caves, and sandy beaches, passing iconic natural features like Bow Fiddle Rock at Portknockie. 
 

 

Whisky 

The Speyside Whisky Trail boasts the world's largest concentration of Scotch malt whisky distilleries, ranging from globally renowned brands to smaller, artisan producers. As you travel through the region, you're sure to pass several along the way.  

Be sure to stop in, explore a few, and take advantage of their distillery tours for an authentic taste of Scotland’s whisky heritage. 
 

 

Golf 

Being keen golfers ourselves, we believe the Moray Firth is a golfer’s paradise. With a fantastic selection of courses, the region offers excellent value for money and stunning links courses with breathtaking views. Here are a few of our favourites: 

• Spey Bay - Spey Bay 
• Hopeman - Burghead 
• Strathlene Golf Club - Buckie 
• Buckpool – Buckpool 

Castles 
 

• Duffus Castle (near Elgin): Explore the ruins of this ancient castle, dramatically set atop a round mound. 
• Balvenie Castle (near Dufftown): One of Scotland’s oldest stone castles, rich in history. 
• Ballindalloch Castle & Gardens (near Aberlour): A fantastic stop where you can explore the castle and its beautiful gardens, visit the on-site distillery, and enjoy a play park and tearoom. 
   

 

Along the Moray coast, you'll find excellent wild camping spots and some fantastic restaurants. The seafood here is particularly delicious and well worth trying. 
 

Inverness 

Inverness is the capital of the Scottish Highlands and serves as a central hub for the surrounding communities. As you travel down the Moray coast towards Inverness, there are several worthwhile stops along the way: 

• Nairn Beach: If you enjoy the seaside, the historic fishing village of Nairn boasts a fantastic beach. The village itself has excellent local amenities, including a pharmacy, bakery, and butcher, making it a great place to pick up essentials. 
• Fort George: Built after the Jacobite defeat at Culloden in 1746, Fort George was designed by Bonnie Prince Charlie as the ultimate defence against further uprisings. 
   

 

• Culloden Battlefield: If you're interested in Scottish history, a visit to Culloden Battlefield is highly recommended. Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, the visitor centre provides insights into the Jacobite Rising and the brutal battle that took place on April 16, 1746. The battle, which lasted just an hour, resulted in a devastating defeat for the Jacobite army and changed the Highlands forever. 
   

 
 

We do not recommend visiting Loch Ness, as the views are largely obstructed by roadside trees, and the area is often overcrowded with tourists and filled with souvenir shops selling plastic monsters.  

Instead, for a more authentic experience, consider visiting Urquhart Castle in Drumnadrochit, located on the shores of Loch Ness. It offers stunning views, and a much more meaningful historical attraction compared to the Loch Ness Visitor Centre. 
 

Black Isle

This small peninsula in the Scottish Highlands is truly unique, with three of its four sides surrounded by the sea. The Black Isle is easily accessible via Kessock Bridge, making it a convenient destination.  

If you travel north from the Black Isle, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views over Dingwall and Invergordon. 
 

 

Things to see and do in Black Isle

• Visit the Black Isle Brewery in Munlochy, Scotland’s only organic brewery. Established in 1998, the brewery produces its own barley, grains, fruits, vegetables, and herbs. They offer guided tours and have a shop where you can pick up a few bottles to enjoy back at your motorhome. 
• Go dolphin spotting at Chanonry Point or explore one of the two RSPB nature reserves. The Fairy Glen Trails at Fortrose offer an enchanting woodland walk with waterfalls, songbirds, and wildflowers. 
   

 

• If golf is more your thing, try the Fortrose and Rosemarkie Golf Club. The course offers stunning views across the water to Fort George. 
   

Aviemore

From the Black Isle, follow the road south back towards Aviemore for the final stop of your journey. This is a fantastic place to wrap up your holiday, with plenty to see and do.  

If you're planning to stay overnight, wild camping is available at the Cairngorm Ski Centre - just remember to leave £5 in the honesty box. Alternatively, there are campsites in the area. 

Here are some of our favourite activities around Aviemore: 

• Take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Train and enjoy a scenic 20-mile journey through the Cairngorms National Park. 
• Visit the Highland Folk Museum in Kingussie. 
• Spend the day at Landmark Adventure Park. 
• Explore the Aviemore Wildlife Centre. 
• Make use of the many cycle paths in and around the area. 
• Try water sports at Loch Morlich. 
   

 

Tips and Advice for Your Camping East Coast Scotland 

When wild camping in the East Coast: 

• Take only pictures, leave only footprints. 
• If you spot any litter, even if it’s not yours, please pick it up. 
• Be respectful. Never park in front of someone’s house and block their view. 
• Avoid parking in front of farmers' gates or field entrances. 
• Support local businesses by shopping at village stores instead of large supermarkets. Local produce is often fresher, better quality, and tastes far better. 

For more routes and helpful blogs, covering everything from the best campervan parking spots near Edinburgh city centre to must-see destinations across the country, be sure to explore our website. 

Please note: This route and its content are copyrighted by Scottish Tourer and are only available for use by our customers. Any other motorhome hire companies using this material will be subject to copyright infringement, and we will take legal action. 
 

Embark on Your East Coast Scotland Camping Adventure! 

With this guide in your hands, you’re now ready to explore the beauty of the East Coast of Scotland. Book your campervan now and experience the best of coastal views, historic sites, and stunning landscapes!