Blog 18th August 2026
Welcome to the ScotCampers tri-weekly blog.
This period can be summarised by; Coolcations; Outer Hebrides; Superbikes.
Coolcations.
I read recently around an emerging trend being experienced in places like Scotland, Scandinavia, Iceland and even Greenland – Coolcations. Here’s my chum, AI with a view on it!:
“A coolcation is a holiday in a cooler destination, chosen as an alternative to hot and crowded summer resorts. Instead of spending time in extreme heat, people can enjoy activities such as hiking, cycling, wildlife watching and exploring nature in places with milder temperatures. Coolcations are becoming increasingly popular as travellers look for relaxing and active holidays away from the heat.”
The evidence I have in front of me is that this is actually a thing. Over the past 6 weeks I have welcomed a number of guests from continental Europe. As well as the usual reasons for visiting Scotland, there is an emerging theme/chat around escaping the late 30s temperatures they are now consistently feeling at home. In particular, Valentin from Nice last week talked about a pleasant trip here away from the 38 degree heat he’d had over the past month in the city.
Maybe it’s just because I read it I’m now looking for but what we can’t ignore are temperatures are rising.
Valentin on Skye – looks like a perfect temperature to me
Outer Hebrides.
Two weeks ago, Megan and Hamish took Bilbo on a big adventure to the Uists. If you catch the weather this is a cracking spot. I’ve previously done this via the ferry from Oban onto the southern tip of the Hebrides, then driving north and off via Harris to Western Skye. A pretty epic road trip – loads of ancient history, still relatively untouched by tourism and stunning landscapes.
Megan and Hamish caught the ferry from Ullapool for this trip and caught the weather – big style. They were kind enough to share pictures and I was tempted to just jump in a van and join them! Stunning empty beaches, the sense of drama from the Atlantic. I’m happy to assist in helping anyone plan a route there so just reach out please.
Like something out of a promotional brochure!
One of the Uists
Motorbikes.
Finally, bikes and a road trip for me. After a lot of faffing, I eventually made it to Oulton Park in Cheshire for the latest round of the British Superbikes (BSB). Bizarrely, I lived 20 minutes from this circuit for some 6 years and never visited! My mate Jason met with me and we had a good night in Chester ahead of race day on Saturday. I even managed to get knocked back from my old “local” as I was dressed too casually! You gotta laugh……
Raceday was pretty fab. The Superbikes are the main event but Jason and I actually preferred the BMW 900 twins racing. Stock motors provided at the beginning of the season so it’s all about rider ability. Lots of overtakes and jostling.
The thing that caught my eye at the racing was the campervan set ups. There were literally 100s of them and many were just a few feet from the track and set up for the weekend. Has put me in mind for next year – weather usually fab, there’s racing all day and you are right up close and personal. And it’s reasonable to stay. Get in touch if you want any tips.
Looking up Knickerbrook at Superbike Race 1. Brad Rae took it on the Yamaha
Another busy few weeks ahead. Have a video shoot in the diary, a meeting with Sophie gets Social (Social Media), a number of van exchanges and some maintenance to carry out. Roll on November and a bit of downtime!
Until next time. Not all those who wander, are lost……