Craving a road trip that blends rugged coastline, ancient history and picture-perfect Highland views? The Argyll Coastal Route is Scotland at its most soulful. Just picture it: winding from the banks of Loch Lomond through fishing villages, prehistoric glens and dramatic sea lochs, all the way to the foot of Ben Nevis. Whether you’re chasing fresh seafood, misty mountain hikes or the simple joy of waking up with the waves outside your motorhome window, this 5-day itinerary will guide you through the best stops, campsites, and scenic stretches along the way.
Day 1 - Loch Lomond to Inveraray
Driving distance: 65 miles
Ready to kick off this West Coast of Scotland road trip? We’ll begin this adventure hugging the shores of Loch Lomond, where misty water meets pine-clad hills. The drive leads you through rolling landscapes into the historic village of Inveraray, its whitewashed buildings framed by castle spires. It's a perfect blend of tranquil loch-side beauty and wistful heritage. You’ll spend about an hour and a half driving in total, with plenty of breaks along the way.
Things to do:
Your first castle of the trip! Although this is a road trip in Scotland, you can expect many more to come. First up is Inveraray Castle, a stately home with stunning architecture, beautiful gardens and exhibits that bring Scottish aristocratic life to life.
Take a stroll through the bustling town of Inveraray. Wander past quaint shops, the 19th-century Inveraray Jail, and enjoy coffee in a cosy cafe overlooking the water.
There’s no better way to appreciate Loch Lomond than from the water itself. Book a boat tour of this majestic loch, stopping at the various islands dotted across it. Keep an eye out for the various wildlife, including ospreys, otters, waterfowl and more.
Sample the famous seafood of Loch Fyne. Indulge in fresh oysters or scallops, celebrated across Scotland for their ocean-fresh quality.
Visit the ancient village of Luss in all its fairytale glory, with its charming stone cottages, flower-filled gardens, and serene views across the sparkling waters of Loch Lomond.
Staying at: Argyll Caravan Park
Walking distance from Inveraray, you’ll find the spacious campsite of Argyll Caravan Park. It offers picturesque views over Loch Fyne, the perfect backdrop to accompany your morning cuppa. You’ll find everything you need at this campsite, including a delicious eaterie; The Hub is a great place for a quick bite to eat when you’re tired from travelling.
Argyll Caravan Park, Inveraray PA32 8XT
56.202576, -5.107684
Day 2 - Inveraray to Kilmartin Glen
Driving distance: 35 miles
Enjoy one last cuppa with that loch view, and then pack up your motorhome. It’s time to head further on our Argyll Coastal Route road trip. Heading west, you’ll pass through wild, wooded valleys into the ancient heartland of Kilmartin Glen. This landscape is alive with prehistoric memory and stands eerily beautiful under open skies. The quiet here invites you to slow down and reflect on millennia of human presence.
Things to do:
People travel the country just to see the Kilmartin Glen monuments. Discover an extraordinary concentration of standing stones, cairns and burial chambers dating back nearly 5,000 years. It's arguably more impressive than Stonehenge.
Visit Knapdale Forest, renowned for its diverse array of furry inhabitants. Venture to the Scottish Beaver Trial to see beavers hard at work in a successful conservation project.
Take a break with a leisurely woodland walk or simply pause to breathe in the peat-smoke scent of the glen and the hush of ancient stones. Holidays should include plenty of rest and reflection, wouldn’t you agree?
Staying at: Ardfern Motorhome Park
This is one of those campsites that you’ll struggle to leave after one night, and immediately plan to return to. Ardfern Motorhome Park overlooks the shimmering waters of Loch Craignish and offers a back-to-basics camping experience. It’s far enough from the road to ensure you won’t be woken up by traffic or headlights. A peaceful little oasis in nature.
Barfad Farm, Ardfern PA31 8QN
56.174010, -5.548005
Day 3 - Kilmartin Glen to Oban
Driving distance: 30 miles
Continue north along your Scotland coastal drive, where winding roads reveal sweeping loch views, pockets of ancient woodland and the occasional castle ruin perched above the water.
As you approach Oban, the sea air grows sharper and the harbour buzzes with fishing boats and ferries bound for the islands. Known as the ‘Seafood Capital of Scotland,’ Oban is famed for its freshly landed catch, bustling waterfront, and a rich whisky heritage that’s best explored with a dram at the iconic Oban Distillery.
Things to do:
Taste local seafood (again). Feast upon freshly landed prawns, scallops or the famous Oban smoked salmon right by the water’s edge.
Discover Oban’s heritage by visiting the iconic McCaig’s Tower for panoramic views.
Whisky runs through the veins of Scotland, so no trip is complete without a whisky tasting (or four). We recommend taking the whisky tour at Oban Distillery for a full-rounded view and a warming dram.
You’re surrounded by all this water, so it’s time to get your feet off solid ground! Set sail to one of the Inner Hebrides for a short island adventure, where heather moors, seals and bird colonies await.
Staying at: Oban Holiday Park
Just a ten-minute drive from town, you’ll find Oban Holiday Park. This cosy campsite offers scenic views of Kerrera Island, an on-site play area, a shop, and dog-friendly, powered grass pitches. Visitors are particularly pleased with the spacious pitches, which allow you to feel like the only campers there!
Gallanachmore Farm, Gallanach Rd, Oban PA34 4QH
56.388283, -5.517868
Day 4 - Oban to Glencoe
Driving distance: 35 miles
A shorter drive today and more time on your feet! The road out of Oban bends into rugged mountains, and soon you're enveloped by dramatic, glacier-sculpted peaks. Glencoe rewards your drive with majestic scale. It’s no surprise that these spectacular views have attracted numerous filming crews. Here, every breath feels more alive. This might just be our favourite stop on this West Coast Scotland road trip—but keep that between us!
Things to do:
Lace up your walking boots for a breathtaking hike in the valley. Choose from gentle walks to steep ridge routes framed by peaks immortalised in film and legend. You might recognise these majestic mountains from films such as Skyfall and Harry Potter.
Shelter from rain or wind at the Glencoe Folk Museum. Learn about local life through the centuries in this intimate, well-curated museum.
Glencoe boasts plenty of cosy pubs, but if we had to choose just one, it would be the legendary Boots Bar at the Clachaig Inn. Serving up excellent local ales, a fine selection of whiskies and a lively, welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of Highland adventures.
Staying at: Invercoe Caravan & Camping Park
If you’re someone who can’t pass a dog without stopping to say hello, you’ll adore Invercoe Caravan & Camping Park. It’s beloved by dog owners, as it has great walking routes, dog-friendly services, and lots of open space for your pet to tumble about. Expect lots of new furry friends here! This campsite also features excellent cycle routes, as well as great loch views right from your pitch.
Glencoe, Ballachulish PH49 4HP
56.686428, -5.105458
Day 5 - Glencoe to Fort William
Driving distance: 15 miles
And just like that, we’ve reached the final leg of our Argyll Coastal Route road trip. Can you believe it? We wouldn’t blame you for spreading it out over a few extra days, just so the magic never has to end…
A short final drive brings you to Fort William, the “Outdoor Capital of the UK,” nestled at the foot of mighty Ben Nevis. The town pulses with outdoor spirit, from climbing gear shops to cosy pubs. Whether summits or steam trains call you, adventure is only minutes away.
Things to do:
Watching Harry Potter as a child, did you ever wish you could ride the Hogwarts Express as well? Now you can! Take the Jacobite Steam Train through unforgettable Highland scenery, over viaducts and into legend.
Can your legs handle a final hike? (You’ve got this). Climb or walk around Ben Nevis with a guided ascent if you're up for the challenge. Or if you’re feeling like something a little easier, explore gentler trails in Glen Nevis.
Head into the bustling town of Fort William. Browse for outdoor gear, enjoy hearty Highland fare or savour a pint overlooking the loch as the sun sets.
Staying at: Glen Nevis Caravan & Camping Park
For the final night of your Argyll Coastal Route road trip, we’ve selected the idyllic Glen Nevis Caravan & Camping Park. With four fields dedicated to motorhomes, they’ve thought of everything you might need for your stay. Warm showers, a fully-stocked on-site shop, laundry facilities, and much more. Expect lots of hikers, as this is the go-to campsite for tackling nearby Ben Nevis.
Caravan & Camping Park, Glen Nevis Caravan & Camping Park, Glen Nevis, Fort William PH33 6SX
56.805578, -5.073944
Your 5-day Argyll Coastal Route road trip has come to an end. This itinerary is packed with lochs, legends and a whole lot of fresh Highland air. The Argyll Coastal Route proves you don’t need to rush to the North Coast 500 to find Scotland’s wild magic; here, every bend in the road reveals something worth slowing down for. So pack the kettle, fuel up your motorhome, and let the waves, whisky, and winding roads lead the way. Argyll is ready when you are.
Goboony can help you find the perfect motorhome hire in Scotland for your trip. Looking for more bonny inspiration? Check out our Glen Coe road trip or Isle of Mull itinerary.
