Short answer: The North East 250 is a circular route of about 250 miles through Aberdeenshire, Moray Speyside and the Cairngorms National Park. VisitScotland says it starts and ends in Aberdeen (Glenshee and Ballindalloch are other common start points). Allow 3 to 6 days in a campervan. It suits motorhomes, but some rural Cairngorms roads are narrow and the Cairnwell Pass is high, so check conditions.
The North East 250 at a glance
The NE250 is three trips in one: the fishing villages of the Moray Firth and Aberdeenshire coast, the whisky distilleries of Speyside, and the mountains of Royal Deeside and the Cairngorms. VisitScotland says the driving alone is about 5 to 6 hours, but the route is "designed to be enjoyed over several days". It is a good choice if the NC500's single track puts you off: most of it is ordinary two-lane road.
| Detail | North East 250 |
|---|---|
| Length | About 250 miles |
| Days | 3 to 6 |
| Start and finish | Aberdeen (VisitScotland); Glenshee or Ballindalloch also used |
| Direction | Either; this guide goes from Glenshee through Speyside to the coast |
| Best for | Coastal villages, whisky, castles, mountain scenery |
| Van-size watch-outs | Narrow rural roads in parts of the Cairngorms; high pass at Glenshee (Cairnwell) |
Stops in order
This follows Goboony's six-day motorhome itinerary, with highlights from VisitScotland.
| Day | Stops | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Glenshee to Speyside | Cairnwell Pass, Ballindalloch Castle, Speyside Cooperage near Craigellachie |
| 2 | Speyside to the Moray Firth coast | Portknockie, Cullen |
| 3 | The coast to Aberdeen | Pennan, Crovie, Gardenstown, Troup Head gannets, Fraserburgh's Museum of Scottish Lighthouses, Peterhead Prison Museum, Cruden Bay |
| 4 | Aberdeen | Footdee (Fittie), the old fishing village by the harbour |
| 5 | Royal Deeside | Banchory, Aboyne, Braemar and Braemar Castle |
| 6 | Cairngorms and back to Glenshee | Mountain walks; the Braemar Gathering if you are there in September |
Where to sleep
VisitScotland says the route has campsites, motorhome stopovers and holiday parks throughout, and asks drivers to use designated stopovers and campsites where possible. Aberdeenshire Council is explicit that motorhomes, campervans and vehicles with rooftop tents are excluded from Scottish access rights, so wild camping rules do not cover sleeping in your van. Goboony's itinerary uses sites at Craigellachie, near Forres, Peterhead, Maryculter, Rothiemurchus and Braemar. Check before you go, and see our wild camping guide.
Fuel, water and van-size notes
- Fuel is easiest in Aberdeen and the coastal towns. Fill up before heading into the Cairngorms, where towns are small and far apart.
- VisitScotland warns that some rural roads are narrow, especially in the Cairngorms, and advises checking vehicle restrictions and planning stops in advance.
- The Cairnwell Pass at Glenshee is one of the highest roads in the UK. Check the weather and road status outside summer.
- Rule of thumb: the little harbour villages on the coast, like Crovie and Pennan, are easier on foot. In a bigger van, park above the village and walk down.
- Water and waste at campsites. See our water and waste guide.
The NE250 is one of the ready-made routes coming to Roam after the NC500. It is not in the app yet; join the waitlist.
Related routes
Pair it with the NC500 (Inverness is a couple of hours from Speyside), or browse all UK campervan routes.
Questions
How long is the North East 250?
About 250 miles, with 5 to 6 hours of driving if you did not stop.
Where does the NE250 start?
VisitScotland describes it as starting and ending in Aberdeen. Glenshee and Ballindalloch are also used as start points, and you can go either way round.
Is the North East 250 suitable for motorhomes?
Yes. VisitScotland says it suits motorhomes and campervans, with sites throughout. Watch for narrow roads in the Cairngorms and steep village roads on the coast.
How many days should I allow?
Three days is possible; five or six lets you enjoy the coast, Speyside and Deeside properly.