High demand for new caravan park on NC500
New caravan park beside one of The Times' top 50 beaches
A new touring caravan campsite on the coast in the Scottish Highlands has reported exceptional demand from holidaymakers in its first three months of opening.
Melvich Bay Caravan Park is a 25-acre site in Sutherland, on the scenic North Coast 500 touring route, which opened in March. The coastal campsite, which is a short walk from the beach, is approaching 70% occupancy, with bookings 50% ahead of projected expectations.
The beach at Melvich Bay featured as one of the top 50 beaches in the British Isles in The Times – Best Beaches Guide in July 2025, and was described as "a wide curve of ochre sand".
Not only is the campsite close to a stunning beach, but, once pitched on site, guests can enjoy panoramic views of Orkney and the North Atlantic Ocean.
Claire Tupholme Content Editor: Travel/Campsites
Claire Tupholme Content Editor: Travel/Campsites
Local farmer, Angus Forbes, launched the business with two co-directors to address the shortage of facilities on the North Coast 500 route which is becoming increasing popular with tourists.
Demand has been well ahead of expectations with a surprising number of overseas visitors, including those from Germany and Australia, and even an enquiry from a couple wishing to get married on the campsite.
With such high demand for the pitches, the directors are increasing their focus on sustainable tourism. In a letter being sent to local stakeholders and the council, co-director Malcolm Morrison calls for the Leave No Trace campaign – which urges North Coast 500 holidaymakers to take their litter home – to be 'beefed up'.
In his letter Mr Morrison writes,
The North Coast 500’s Leave No Trace policy already makes it clear on its website that illegal disposal of waste is unacceptable, but it is the belief of my co-directors and me that a substantially beefed-up campaigning should be developed and broadcast widely throughout the region ahead of this year’s busy tourist season.
Melvich Bay Caravan Park has 30 pitches for motorhomes, campervans and touring caravans. All pitches have direct access to electric hook-up and water, with facilities on the campsite including a toilet and shower block, plus waste water and chemical disposal. The charge for an overnight stay is £35.
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