Nc500 October

[AmilyChestnut]

Good afternoon! We are planning to drive to Scotland and the Nc500 in October, end of the month to be specific. I would like some advice on a few things from those in the know please...

Is it likely to be busy at that time of year?

Can anyone recommend any family campsites to stop at along the way? Ideally with stuff for the kids to do, so not just a field. Anywhere to avoid?

Also, what sights MUST we see along the way?

We are used to winding roads as we live in the countryside, but how much of it is single track?

Is it particularly windy or rainy in October? So I know what sort of outer wear to pack for us all.

Any other advice would be fab. Thank you!

End of October campsites may be closed, you'd need to double check. October can be beautiful but expect it to be low single figures at night, wet etc. Shorter days too eg Wick 25th Oct sunrise 8.10, sets 5.40pm. I've never camped more than a day or two at that time of year... and I'm a camper!

There aren't really any campsites that I know of with thisngs for kids to do. Maybe better with a caravan park where you will have leisure facilities and entertainment. It's very seasonal so a lot of places close in October.
Worth checking ahead. I wouldn't camp in October, it's too cold for me and I live on Skye.
Must haves for me are the beaches on the east coast.
Enjoy your trip.

When you say you’re looking for campsites is that for a van or to camp in a tent? I wouldn’t camp in a tent end of October for more than a night or two - it could be really cold. Plus if your stuff gets wet it’ll be really horrible after a few nights. Check if places are open too. If you’re keen to camp you could do a night or two and stay at a hotel/BnB etc.
How long do you have for it? Would you consider booking into BnBs for the duration?

Is it likely to be busy at that time of year? No it will probably be pretty much local traffic

Can anyone recommend any family campsites to stop at along the way? Ideally with stuff for the kids to do, so not just a field. Anywhere to avoid? There aren’t that many campsites, most are pop up fields with facilities or wild campsites. I stayed at a few campsites but I cannot recall any having a play park, there certainly aren’t any evening facilities unless you stop at Grannies Heilan Home.

Also, what sights MUST we see along the way? Dunrobin castle, John O Groats

We are used to winding roads as we live in the countryside, but how much of it is single track? 3/4s to 2/3rds

Is it particularly windy or rainy in October? So I know what sort of outer wear to pack for us all. Yes, winter clothing with sturdy waterproofs, and extra waterproofs for when the rain works it’s way in high it will

I would recommend going in May, June, or September if you want to enjoy the sights/scenery without being caught up with all the other tourists.

Check if campsites (and restaurants, attractions etc) will still be open. Many places close down after the Scottish half term which is earlier in October.

The weather could be rain, hail, snow or beautiful sunshine.

Take full set of good quality waterproofs and wellies. You might strike it lucky though! Expect and prepare for the worst so anything else is a bonus!

Id recommended Smidge for the midgies!!

Try looking at log cabin-type accommodation rather than camping. I’m pretty hardy but would avoid tents at that time of year in northern Scotland!

Wildwoodz in Munlochy has a few cosy cabins in beautiful woodland and activities for families - archery, laser tag, paint balling, etc.

https://www.wildwoodz.co.uk/