Campervanning the Cairngorms: A Wild Highland Escape

Introduction

Few road trips in the UK can match the raw beauty of the Cairngorms National Park. Towering peaks, ancient pine forests, and loch-side lay-bys make it the perfect place to explore by motorhome.

Starting your journey from Aberdeen, you’re just a short drive away from Royal Deeside, Braemar, Ballater, and some of the best driving roads in Scotland. In this guide, we’ll cover an ideal Cairngorms campervan route, top campsites, wild camping tips, and must-see spots along the way.

Why Start from Aberdeen?

Hiring your campervan or motorhome from Aberdeen gives you:

• A quieter start than larger cities like Edinburgh or Glasgow

• Direct access to Royal Deeside and the eastern Cairngorms

• Beautiful coastline if you want a mix of sea and mountains

• Convenient location for starting or ending a NC500 detour

Need wheels? Hire your campervan from Roam N’ Roost in Aberdeen for fully equipped, modern vehicles made for Highland adventures.

Suggested Cairngorms Campervan Route (from Aberdeen)

Here’s a scenic 3–5-day route, ideal for nature lovers and first-time campervanners:

Day 1: Aberdeen to Braemar

• Drive through Royal Deeside, stopping at Crathes Castle or Balmoral

• Enjoy the forests and riverside views of Ballater

• Overnight: Braemar Caravan Park or wild camp responsibly nearby

Day 2: Braemar to Aviemore (via A93 & Cairnwell Pass)

• Drive one of Scotland’s highest and most scenic roads

• Stop at Glenshee, Corgarff Castle, or Tomintoul

• Overnight: Dalraddy Holiday Park or wild camping near Glenmore

Day 3: Aviemore & Loch Morlich

• Explore Rothiemurchus Forest, visit the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd, or paddleboard on Loch Morlich

• Overnight: Glenmore Campsite

Return to Aberdeen via the A95 and A93 for a different route through Speyside—perfect for whisky lovers.

Best Campsites in the Cairngorms

• Braemar Caravan Park – Clean, warm, and centrally located

• Dalraddy Holiday Park (Aviemore) – Woodland pitches with great facilities

• Glenmore Campsite – Close to Loch Morlich and perfect for families

• Ballater Caravan Park – Great for village walks and castle visits

For more ideas, check out our post: 7 Scenic Campsites Near Inverness

Wild Camping in the Cairngorms

Scotland allows wild camping, but motorhome and campervan travellers should follow specific guidelines:

Do:

• Park late, leave early

• Use a portable toilet or find a site with waste disposal

• Keep a low profile and stay one night max

• Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code

Don’t:

• Camp near private homes or farmland entrances

• Leave any waste, including grey water

• Light open fires unless in designated areas

Top Stops Along the Way

• Crathes Castle – Beautiful gardens just outside Aberdeen

• Loch Muick – A peaceful Highland loch with wildlife walks

• Balmoral Castle – Royal summer residence (open seasonally)

• Corgarff Castle – Remote and atmospheric

• Rothiemurchus – Outdoor activities from zip-lining to quad biking

• Cairngorm Funicular Railway – Stunning summit views

Packing Essentials for the Highlands

• Warm layers & waterproofs

• Insect repellent (midges!)

• Refillable water bottles

Final Thoughts

Hiring your campervan in Aberdeen gives you a head start on one of Scotland’s most rewarding road trips. The Cairngorms National Park combines natural beauty, Highland culture, and total freedom. Whether you’re a seasoned vanlifer or a first-time explorer, this journey promises peace, adventure, and unforgettable landscapes.

Ready to start your Highland road trip? Hire a campervan from Aberdeen now and explore Scotland your way.