Pennine View Caravan Park did not disappoint: rock up, plug in, cold wine and a beautiful rainbow (without the rain).  This was our first night on the two-staged journey towards Inverness. Why? To complete the North Coast 500 – Scotland’s answer to Route 66.

After making full use of facilities (toilets, warm showers, inclusive Wifi and daily weather updates) we headed east towards Forest-in-Teesdale and High Force Waterfall – the longest uninterrupted waterfall in England. We chose to park in the designated car park which provided safe, secure and adequate parking, toilets, access to refreshments and access to the falls for visitors of all mobilities. The cost, £3 per vehicle (our 7.45m didn’t inflate the price) and £1.50 per adult, seemed reasonable for the well-maintained route to the base of the falls.

Alternatively, if you parked in the closest layby and used the footpath to gain access to the opposite side of the river, Durham Council maintain a good standard of footpath which gives access to the head of the waterfall. This pathway was more uneven, and slippery in places so should be approached with care. That being said, both viewpoints accentuate each other and we thoroughly enjoyed being at both the top and base of this magnificent waterfall. Overall we spent approximately 2 hours with 4 miles of walking over well maintained paths. Definitely one to visit if in the area.

The beauty of the motorhome came into fruition and we enjoyed a warm, dry lunch ahead of our continued journey North. Some three hours later, after navigating the M8 by Glasgow, we arrived at Lagganbeg Caravan Site, situated on the banks of Loch Lomond. The location was the selling point for this site and, the 2.5 stars awarded by UKcampsite.co.uk is probably accurate based on service and facilities. The weather, a summer Scottish speciality, did not dampen our spirits as we were thoroughly happy to be away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Tomorrow: the high road to Inverness and the rest of the Highlands.

Hoping for some sunshine!