Day 2: Inverness to Stornoway via Ullapool with CalMac Ferries

After rolling into Inverness aboard the Caledonian Sleeper, it's time to switch gears – quite literally. Day 2 is all about hitting the road, soaking in the Highlands from the front seat of a campervan, and boarding your first CalMac ferry to begin the island-hopping part of your journey.

Person in pink hoodie and sunglasses seated on rock ledge, overlooking a forested waterfall under a clear sky.
Person stands on ferry deck facing blue water and distant green hills, with red seats lined along the deck railing.
Man with glasses looks out a vehicle window at a scenic view of a lake and mountains.
MV Loch Seaforth ferry berthed at the Port of Stornoway, Lewis.

Morning in Inverness

After disembarking at Inverness Station around 8:40am, grab a coffee and stock up on essentials for the road trip ahead. A few quick stops to check out if you’ve got time:

  • Victorian Market – charming local shops and street food.
  • Leaky’s Bookshop – Scotland’s largest second-hand bookshop, full of character.
  • Culloden Battlefield – just a 15-minute detour, rich in history and atmosphere.

Next, you can pick up your home-on-wheels from Opens in new windowNorth500 Motorhomes, conveniently located in town. Camper keys in hand? You're ready to roll.

Road Trip to Ullapool

Set your playlist, open the windows, and enjoy one of Scotland’s most scenic drives. The journey from Inverness to Ullapool takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, winding through rugged hills and mirror-like lochs. Keep your camera ready – this route is part of the famous North Coast 500 and it’s absolutely stunning.

We made a quick stop at Loch Ness, chased waterfalls at Rogie Falls, and headed west to Ullapool.

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Ferry to Stornoway with CalMac

  • Departure: 5:30pm from Ullapool
  • Check-in closes: 4:45pm
  • Duration: Approx. 2 hours 40 minutes

Arriving at the port is stress-free – drive on, park up, and make yourself at home. The CalMac ferry is much more than just transport: it’s part of the experience.

Head to the Coffee Cabin for a hot meal or snack (the Fish & Chips and our famous CalMac & Cheese come highly recommended) and enjoy sweeping sea views as you cross The Minch toward Lewis.

Before you travel, be sure to check our Service Status and Timetable pages for the latest updates on ferry times and any changes. To stay informed on the go, download our app and receive service notifications directly to your device.

Check Ullapool Port Info

Super smooth check-in, genuinely great food from the Coffee Cabin, and of course… a ferry coffee with a view.

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Evening Arrival in Stornoway

Check in by 9:00pm, plug in the camper, and unwind after a big day of travel. The campsite is quiet, clean, and just a short drive from town, perfect for your first night in the Hebrides.

Pro Tip: The ferry crossings with CalMac often feel like mini-cruises. Get to the top deck early to grab a seat and keep an eye out for dolphins along the way!