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North Coast 500 , Travel Guides

37 epic things to do on the north coast 500.

The North Coast 500 is Scotland’s answer to Route 66. It is a magnificent road trip long that covers some of the most beautiful scenery of the north-western Highlands and coastal regions. You can take anywhere between four days and three weeks to drive it, so check out these 37 EPIC things to do on the North Coast 500 and work on your itinerary!

This post contains affiliate links which I may make a commission from. Find out more here . I drove the NC500 as part of a paid project with Hostelling Scotland. All opinions are my own and there was no obligation to write this blog post. This post contains affiliate links, which I may make a commission from. Check my Disclaimer for more information.

The North Coast 500 (short NC500) offers a once-in-a-lifetime road trip through pristine Scottish landscapes and scenery. The far north-west of Scotland is very sparsely populated and the small and winding country roads connect one natural spectacle with the next. 

There are so many places to visit and things to do on the North Coast 500, it can easily take a whole day to cover 30 miles. 

This NC500 travel guide contains everything you need to know to plan your own North Coast 500 adventure – 

• My 7-day North Coast 500 itinerary,
• All travel info for the route,
• A handy map you can save to your Google Maps,
• Practical travel tips for the road,
• My favourite 37 things to do on the North Coast 500 to pick & choose from,
• And a brief packing list to prepare you for this EPIC road trip.

Prepare to walk away with a list of scenic stops and detours from the main route, recommended activities and tours, yummy eateries, beautiful historic sites and many hidden gems off the beaten track.

Use my detailed Northwestern Highlands itinerary to plan your trip on the NC500!

Table of Contents

North Coast 500 Travel Guide

Where is the north coast 500 and how long is it.

The North Coast 500 is a roughly 500-mile road trip around the far north-west of Scotland. 

The circular route starts and finishes in Inverness, the unofficial Capital of the Highlands.

First, the NC500 leads south-west to the Applecross peninsula, Shieldaig and the Torridon mountains. It then turns north towards Gairloch, Ullapool and the mountainous Assynt region.

Passing some of the most beautiful beaches on the northwest coast, the NC500 eventually leads along the north coast towards John O Groats, the northernmost point of mainland Britain. 

From here, the route leads south back towards Inverness. It closely follows the coastline with its castle ruins and quaint small towns, before offering the option for a detour on the Black Isle peninsula.

If you have at least 2 weeks in Scotland, you can combine the NC500 road trip with my Classic Scotland itinerary .

Listen to ‘The Slow Road’ – an episode about the North Coast 500 on my Scotland podcast!

North Coast 500 Map

Check out my map for the North Coast 500 including all scenic stops, recommended activities, places to eat & stay and useful facilities outlined in this post.

How many days for the North Coast 500 road trip?

There is no maximum or minimum for the North Coast 500 and I have certainly heard of people who drive the whole 500-mile loop in 2-3 days.

However, in my opinion, I don’t see the point of rushing and would argue that if you only have 2-3 days, choose one area of the NC500 and explore that more in-depth. 

Otherwise, you will spend all day in the car without the option to spend a significant amount of time discovering the things to do in the North Coast 500 from this post.

We had 7 days to drive the route. One week is a great timeframe to slow down and experience the road trip to the fullest. See my itinerary for the North Coast 500 in 7 days below.

If you have more time, by all means – there is much more to see and do and you could easily spend 2-3 weeks exploring every inch of north-west Scotland.

You might also like: Responsible Tourism in Scotland – 14 Travel Tips for a Positive Impact

Clockwise or anti-clockwise?

We drove the North Coast 500 clockwise, starting and finishing in Inverness. This seems to be the most popular option.

It is possible to drive the NC500 anti-clockwise too. However, keep in mind, that being the only car that goes against the stream can be annoying and tiring on single-track roads. You’d constantly have to navigate around other cars by using the passing places. Here are my top tips for driving on single-track roads .

Since we drove clockwise, the order of the things to do I suggest in this travel guide is also clockwise.

Transport on the North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 is a road trip destination and is best done by car or with a campervan .

There is a train from Inverness to Thurso along the east coast. Regular buses run along the major roads on the east and west coast, connecting the bigger towns and villages.

However, there are very few buses along the north coast. The Durness Bus runs a very limited service between Thurso and Durness on set days of the week.

In short, you won’t be able to reach all the places listed in this travel guide on public transport. Neither will you be able to explore independently or stop at multiple sites each day, as bus services might not be frequent enough. 

Guided Tours of the North Coast 500

If you don’t want to rent a car for any reason, the best option to still experience the North Coast 500 is to book a guided tour . 

Scottish tour company Rabbie’s offers a 3-day NC500 tour from Inverness. Their 5-day Highland Explorer tour from Edinburgh also takes in the southern part of the NC500. Their 10-day Orkney and Outer Hebrides tour spends a few days in the northern and eastern parts of the NC500.

North Coast 500 Itinerary

Our trip lasted nine days. On the first day, we drove from Edinburgh to Inverness with a few stops along the way. Then we spent 7 days on the road trip . On the final day, we drove back down to Edinburgh.

You can maximise your time on the North Coast 500 by flying in and out of Inverness Airport. It is small, but there are many international flights to Inverness.

This is the NC500 itinerary I followed on my first trip. However, I’ve been back to visit specific sections again and explore them in more depth.

Day 1: Inverness to Torridon via Applecross Pass, Distance: 115 miles, Overnight at Torridon Youth Hostel

Day 2: Torridon to Gairloch incl. Beinn Eighe hike, Distance: 35 miles, Overnight at Gairloch Sands Youth Hostel

Day 3: Gairloch to Ullapool , Distance: 58 miles, Overnight at Ullapool Youth Hostel

Day 4: Ullapool to Achmelvich Beach incl. sea kayaking, Distance: 39 miles, Overnight at Achmelvich Beach Youth Hostel

Day 5: Achmelvich Beach to Tongue incl. boat trip to Handa Island, Distance: 87 miles, Overnight at Tongue Youth Hostel

Day 6: Tongue to Helmsdale via John O Groats, Distance: 112 miles, Overnight at Helmsdale Lodge Hostel

Day 7: Helmsdale to Inverness via Black Isle, Distance: 86 miles, Overnight at Inverness Youth Hostel

As you can see, we significantly reduced our daily mileage to make time for activities. I recommend you do the same.

If you have more time, it is worth breaking up the drive from Tongue to Helmsdale or adding a few days in Orkney (min. 2 nights).

You might also like: My Top 20 Places to Visit in Scotland

Top North Coast 500 Tips

Driving tips.

The North Coast 500 is an EPIC road trip destination.

However, it is important to keep in mind that many roads in north-west Scotland are narrow and winding. There are many single -track roads, particularly in the far northern regions and many of the detours I suggest in this post also make use of steep single-track roads.

A highlight on the NC500 road trip is the hair-raising Bealach na Bà road – one of the highest mountain pass roads in the UK and sometimes as steep as 20%.

Here are some tips for driving on the North Coast 500: 

• Familiarise yourself with rules for driving on single-track roads
• Don’t park in passing places
• Allow faster cars behind you to pass you if it is safe to do so
• Hire an automatic car if you don’t know how to drive a manual car
• Obey the road signs , particularly when you hire a campervan. Some roads are too small or steep for campervans and other large vehicles

For more tips, read my post about  driving in Scotland .

Accommodation

The North Coast 500 is one of the most popular road trip destinations in Scotland.

I highly recommend booking your accommodation in advance, particularly if you travel during the summer (May to September).

We stayed at youth hostels throughout our road trip and I found them to be a fantastic, budget-friendly option for solo travellers, friend groups and families alike. 

The hostels on the North Coast 500 are not party hostels but are directed at mature travellers who are looking for short-term self-catering accommodation on a budget. 

Couples should note that not all hostels have private rooms available and some only have bunk or twin beds instead of double beds.

All hostels on the North Coast 500 have shared kitchen facilities making these the perfect place to stay if you are on a budget or need to prepare your own food for dietary requirements.

During peak season, I also recommend booking campsites in advance – especially if you travel by campervan. 

The Access Right does not apply to motorised vehicles, which means that it is not your right to park your car, campervan or motorhome by the side of the road to spend the night. Managed campsites or caravan parks should always be your first choice.

If you decide to park and leave your car to hike to a wild camping site, consider the advice of the Access Code with regards to parking .

You might also like: 20 Tips for Wild Camping in Scotland (Tent + Campervan)

Shops, restaurants and petrol stations

The infrastructure in northwest Scotland is definitely sparser than in other parts of the country. However, due to the popularity of the North Coast 500, the region has seen many new businesses such as shops, restaurants, cafes and activity providers.

There is no shortage of petrol stations (gas stations) all along the route. It is never a bad idea to fill up in larger towns where prices are cheaper.

The biggest supermarkets can be found in Inverness, Ullapool, Thurso, Wick and more frequently as you near Inverness. Smaller villages usually have shops too, such as small Spar shops or village shops run by the local community.

There are generally a lot of restaurants in towns and villages along the North Coast 500. However, if you are vegan, you might want to pack your own lunches and book self-catering accommodation as vegan options can be very limited.

We mostly cooked ourselves, but here are some of the restaurants where I really enjoyed the vegan options:

• Black Isle Bar, Inverness
• West Coast Delicatessen, Ullapool
• Stacks Coffee House & Bistro, John O Groats
• The cafe at Timespan Museum, Helmsdale

You might also like: How to travel Scotland as a Vegan

Guidebooks + Maps

There are many maps and guidebooks for the North Coast 500. Here are the ones I found useful on our trip:

• North Coast Journey: The Magic of Scotland’s Northern Highlands by Brigid Benson: This book had lots of tips for detours, scenic stops and historical context. 
• OS Road Map 1 – North Scotland : A detailed road map that covers all areas of the North Coast 500.

Make sure to pick up the official North Coast 500 tourist map along the route as well (for example at the VisitScotland Inverness iCentre, 36 High St).

37 Things to do on the North Coast 500

Inverness is the start and finish point of the North Coast 500, but it would be a shame to rush through without exploring the city itself.

After a walk through the centre – visit Leakey’s Bookshop – and a stroll along the River Ness, make your up to Inverness Castle. The castle is currently closed to the public while it is converted into a tourist attraction.

You might also like: How to Spend One Day in Inverness

Clava Cairns & Culloden Battlefield

Culloden and Clava Cairns are two significant historical sites just outside of Inverness – well worth a visit in your way out of the city. 

Culloden Battlefield is without a doubt one of the most significant places in Scottish history (FREE for National Trust for Scotland members. Join here! ). 

On 16 April 1746, the English army defeated the Jacobite forces of Charles Edward Stuart in one of the bloodiest battles Scotland had ever seen. Over 1,500 Jacobites were killed in an hour and then the battle was over. 

Today, the Battlefield is a historic site and memorial ground for the many people who have lost their lives here. There is a visitor centre and you can either walk the field by yourself or participate in a guided tour. 

Nearby Clava Cairns is a much older historic site. Here you will find four circular chamber tombs surrounded by standing stones that date back to the Bronze Age (about 2,000 BC). 

The site is free to enter and you can read about the excavation process and the assumed significance of the cairns on the boards around the compound.

Bealach na Bà Road to Applecross

The Bealach na Ba road to Applecross is among the finest roads in Scotland and makes for an incredibly scenic drive through the Highlands. However, this is not a drive for the faint-hearted! 

A sign at the beginning of the road warns drivers of the notorious single-track road that climbs up to 626 metres (2,054 ft) above sea level and has several hairpin bends. 

At times it is as steep as 20% and is therefore not suitable for nervous and learner drivers, large motorhomes or campervans. 

Here is an article about the impact motorhome drivers have on the road, and here is a story about a lorry that attempted the journey – just to give you an idea.

If you are in a small vehicle though, you are rewarded with mind-boggling hairpin bends and fantastic views throughout the drive. 

There is a car park at the highest point so you can catch your breath and once you have descended into Applecross you can take it easy along the scenic coastal drive to Shieldaig.

You might also like: The Most Scenic Drives in Scotland

Walk on the Shieldaig Peninsula

Shieldaig is easily one of the prettiest seaside villages in Scotland with its colourful waterfront facing Loch Shieldaig. 

It is well worth stopping here for a few hours and taking in the gorgeous scenery on a walk. 

There is a lovely loop walk around the Shieldaig peninsula which offers stunning views and lots of opportunities to spot wildlife, like otters and sea birds. It is just under 5 km (3 miles) and takes only 1.5 hours – or a little more if you bring a picnic, for example from the Loch Torridon Smokehouse in the village.

You can find a detailed route description here .

Torridon is a tiny village at the foot of the Torridon Hills. Aside from stunning mountain views, it also boasts lovely views across Upper Loch Torridon.

Torridon is a popular home base for hillwalkers and mountaineers who make the most of the variety of Munros and lower peaks in this area. 

The small village shop is well-stocked and doubles up as a cafe. There is an easy walk to rocky headland across the road from the shop. The path leads down to the water and to the ruins of Am Ploc church.

If you love outdoor activities (hiking, kayaking etc), Torridon would be a great home base for a few extra days in the area.

Detour Road Trip to Lower Diabaig

The main road of the North Coast 500 route is scenic as it is, but there are many little detours you can drive to reach even more off-the-beaten-path villages and mountain views. The detour from Torridon to Diabaig is one of them.

As you drive to the end of Torridon village, keep going as the road gets smaller and narrower and continue past a sign that advises learner drivers and campervans/motorhomes to turn around. However, if you are in a campervan or a nervous driver definitely follow this advice! 

The road to Diabaig is one of the most beautiful NC500 add-ons, but it is not for the faint-hearted. The narrow single-track road winds its way up to a viewpoint at 250 metres above sea level. To reach it you have to master various steep hills and hairpin bends, all the while looking out for incoming traffic. 

The views as you descend to Diabaig are fantastic and the small village at the end of the road offers a scenic harbour and the seaside cafe Gille Brighde (closed Mondays & Tuesdays).

When you have had enough of the views, take the same road back to Torridon and continue on the main route of the North Coast 500.

PS: We used the OS North Scotland Road Map to find and navigate these detours!

Hiking at Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve

The Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve is the UK’s oldest and also one of its largest. It stretches from Loch Maree over the peaks of Beinn Eighe towards Liatach and Torridon. Its biodiversity of fauna and flora make it a site of special scientific interest and attracts a wide range of botanists, biologists and geologists.

There are many trails at Beinn Eighe, some of which climb the peaks of the mountain and require at least a full day and lots of mountain experience. However, there are also easier trails that are more accessible to NC500 road trippers. 

One of my favourite stops along the North Coast 500 was the afternoon we spent at Beinn Eighe. We chose the Mountain Trail which starts and finishes at the Coille na Glas-Leitir car park on the shore of Loch Maree. 

The trail is waymarked – a rare occasion for mountain trails in Scotland – and is just over 6 km (4 miles) long. It takes 3 to 4 hours to complete.

After climbing steeply through the Caledonian pinewoods the trail emerges above the tree line and becomes very rocky. Cairns mark the trail from here and they can be a little hard to spot sometimes – keep your eyes peeled. Sturdy hiking boots are an absolute must and so is a general comfort with light scrambling. 

Once you emerge at the top, the trail flattens out and leads across the windy plateau. The views of Beinn Eighe and other surrounding mountains are gorgeous! The trail loops around and descends through the pinewoods back to the car park. 

Pick up an educational leaflet at the car park for more info and find a detailed trail description here . Learn more about the nature reserve here .

You might also like: My Favourite Hikes in Scotland – From Easy Trails to Munros

Detour to Redpoint Beach

Just before the main route Kerrysdale and Gairloch, turn left for another scenic detour. The narrow single-track road to Redpoint leads through several small villages and finally, to a gorgeous red sand beach. 

If you have a bit more time and would like to stay in the area, get in touch with Gairloch Trekking Centre who offers guided pony trekking in the area. Imagine riding across this beautiful beach!

Books & Local History in Gairloch

I love quirky cafes and bookstores and the Scottish Highlands are certainly full of them! Hillbillies Bookstore and the adjacent cafe Mountain Coffee Company are a must-see on the North Coast 500.

The cafe offers a variety of refreshments and snacks as well as cakes, teas and coffees in a quirky setting among model gondolas, national park stickers and shelves filled with adventure books. 

These shelves continue in the bookstore next door and hold anything from Scottish poetry to contemporary crime novels and vegan cookbooks. It’s a treasure trove!

Another great place to visit in Gairloch is the Gairloch Museum . The exhibitions showcase the history, culture and natural heritage of the area, including a replica croft house showing how people used to live.

You might also like: 20 Beautiful Towns to Visit in Scotland

Beach Picnic at Big Sands

We stayed at Gairloch Sands Youth Hostel, which gets its name from its proximity to the beautiful beaches of the area. Behind the hostel – a 20-minute walk or 5-minute drive – lies Big Sands, a sandy beach with views of the mountains of Torridon and Skye.

We only stopped for a few photos, but since the beach is sheltered from the strong winds you could easily bring a picnic and spend a few hours here.

Inverewe Garden

Gardens on the Scottish west coast are fascinating. You’d imagine that this far north, the climate would be too harsh for anything but gorse and heather – but the Gulf Stream actually has a huge impact on the local flora.

Inverewe Garden near Poolewe is home to plants from across the world, many of which are rare species (FREE for National Trust for Scotland members. Join here! ).

Some of the highlights are a collection of Californian Redwoods, Himalayan blue poppies and various species of rhododendron. 

Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve

Leaving the coast and driving inland to loop around to Ullapool felt a bit like a disappointment. Where are all the views?

Then we reached Corrieshalloch Gorge and got excited again. I love a surprise, so when I stepped onto the suspension bridge above the gorge, I was blown away by how narrow, deep and long it was. 

Corrieshalloch Gorge is up to 60 m deep and 1.5 km (1 mile) long. The River Droma rushes through the rock over a series of waterfalls, cutting it deeper and deeper over millions of years. 

The woodland trails make for a lovely walk to break up the drive and you get a lovely view of the waterfalls and bridge from the viewpoint further down the gorge. 

The brand-new Corrieshalloch Gateway to Nature Centre at the car park has a cafe, toilets and a ranger-on-site service. It’s a great place to learn more about this special gorge or simply take a comfort break.

Ullapool is a small seaside town on the shore of Loch Broom.

Lying about halfway through the NC500, it makes for a great stop with its restaurants, shops and pubs. But it is well worth a closer look.

The town has some amazing food options, especially if you like fresh seafood, and a thriving pub and live music scene. I loved our lunch at West Coast Delicatessen (vegan options available) and exploring all the quirky shops. 

I loved the selection at Ullapool Bookstore , including the children’s book The Guillemot Who Wouldn’t Jump which is written and illustrated by a local artist Jenny Rant. The White Rabbit on Argyle Street is a treasure trove for antiques and map lovers and has a selection of vintage fashion as well. 

I also enjoyed our visit to the local VisitScotland iCentre – the staff there was super helpful and knew everything about everything in the area! They are a great resource if you are looking for more recommendations or tour options.

Top tip: From Ullapool, you can catch the Calmac ferry to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis and spend a few additional days exploring the Outer Hebrides. Two nights is the minimum to have enough time to see the best things to do on Lewis and Harris.  

Hike up Stac Pollaidh

The mountains of Assynt north of Ullapool offer trails for all levels of experience. There are challenging climbs for experienced mountaineers, but also a few moderate hikes that you can easily incorporate into your North Coast 500 road trip. 

Stac Pollaidh (also called Stac Polly) is one of them. The hike is just under 5 km (3 miles) and takes just 2-4 hours. 

From the top, at 612 m you will be able to enjoy great views of the surrounding higher mountains, the coastline and the Summer Isles offshore. The true summit requires a fair bit of technical scrambling, but even without that this mountain makes for a great half-day hike on your way north from Ullapool. Get a detailed trail description here .

Kayaking to Summer Isles

Driving along the beautiful coastline of northwest Scotland made me anxious to get out of the car and into a sea kayak. 

There are many sea kayaking outfitters and activity providers on the North Coast 500, for example in Plockton, Gairloch or Ullapool, but booking an excursion is not always straightforward. You have to email, check for availability and then there is the thing with the weather – no one enjoys sea kayaking when it’s rainy or windy, so your trip might have to be cancelled. 

We picked up several flyers and recommendations at the VisitScotland iCentre in Ullapool, called around and ended up booking a spontaneous half-day sea kayaking trip with Will from Kayak Summer Isles . 

Will was 2015’s Scottish Adventurer of the Year for sea kayaking around the entire coast of Scotland and climbing all the Munros in winter and has set up this company to share his love for the coastal waters of Ullapool. 

Will took us out to the Isle Martin, the furthest outlier of the Summer Isles and the one with the most impressive sea cliffs (40m tall and another 40 m under the surface). 

Along the way, he pointed out local wildlife, showed us sea urchins and sea stars, deep-sea anemones which we could see thanks to the low tide and several seabirds like fulmars, shags and guillemots. We even spotted an otter pup munching on a sea urchin among the sea kelp! 

Will also shared some of his adventure stories from Scotland and abroad and as a professional photographer offered to take some stunning photos of us in our kayaks.

I’d say as far as kayaking trips in Scotland go, this was my favourite yet!

You might also like: 18 Fun Outdoor Activities to Try in Scotland

Ardvreck Castle

Ardvreck Castle might just be the most popular castle in the west of the North Coast 500. The castle dates back to the 16th century and stands in a prime location overlooking the wide-spanning Loch Assynt. 

After the Clan MacKenzie took control over these lands from the Clan MacLeod in the 18th century, they built a more modern house nearby, Calda House. The house was destroyed in a fire in 1737 and both buildings lie in ruins today.

You can climb the ruins, however, be respectful and mindful of the strong winds that rush through this area.

Achmelvich Beach 

There really is no shortage of beautiful beaches on the North Coast 500. West, north, east coast – all three sides of the route have beautiful beaches with clear water and the finest sand. One of my personal favourites was Achmelvich Beach. 

Achmelvich Beach is slightly off the main route of the NC500 and requires you to drive down a small single-track road for a couple of miles. It is definitely worth the effort though once you reach the end of the road! 

The beach has some of the whitest sand I have seen in Scotland and is well-sheltered from the wind. You might even be brave enough to put on your swimsuit!

A footpath leads over the rocky outcrops over to the next bay which is even more secluded and a perfect sunset spot! 

To get the most out of your visit to Achmelvich Beach, I recommend staying at the Achmelvich Beach Youth Hostel, which is right next to the beach.

Achmelvich Beach Youth Hostel is one of my accommodation favourites:  Unique Places to Stay in Scotland  – from hotels to B&Bs!

Old Man of Stoer

The Old Man of Stoer is a spectacular sea stack that towers 60 m (200 ft) above the sea.

To get there, continue north on the single-track road past Achmelvich and make your way to Raffin. There is a car park by the Stoer Lighthouse. From there, it’s a 2-mile walk along the coast.

The path is rough, but the coastal scenery is stunning. You may even be able to spot whales and dolphins in the waters below. Return the same way, or continue on a loop trail – here is a description.

Boat trip to Handa Island 

The paradise beaches of Handa Island should definitely be on any beach lover’s NC500 bucket list! 

Handa is a small uninhabited island near Scourie that is managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust. A small passenger ferry takes visitors from Tarbet to the island (approx. 10 minutes) where they are greeted by a welcome committee of volunteer guides. 

While the beaches are truly stunning, the main reason people flock to the island during the summer is its wildlife. Skuas nest on the rocky slopes of the island and thousands of seabirds form colonies along the cliffs. 50-60,000 guillemots visit the island every year!

There is a 6 km (4 miles) trail around the island which takes about 3 hours to complete. The volunteer guides will give you a little map, but the path is very easy to follow. 

You might also meet some of the resident scientists who spend all summer on the island to research different species of plants and birds. 

I would set aside at least 4 hours to visit the island – the more the better. You can find out more about my trip to Handa Island here .

In 2024, the ferry runs from 3 April. Note that from 3 April to 3 May, it departs from Scourie. After that it returns to its usual pier in Tarbet.

You might also like: The Best Places for Wildlife Watching in Scotland

Sandwood Bay Hike

Sandwood Bay is one of the most magical places in the northwest of Scotland. I highly recommend adding an additional day in the area between Ullapool and Durness to make time for the hike to the beach!

A clear track leads from Blairmore car park near Kinlochbervie all the way to Sandwood Bay. The hike takes about 4-5 hours round-trip, but add a few hours to enjoy the beach in its full glory! It is most famous for Am Buachaille, a giant sea stack!

Find a detailed route description here .

Smoo Cave near Durness is a very special place and a must-visit on the North Coast 500. It is a combined sea and freshwater cave which means it has been formed from two sides at the same time. It has one of the largest sea cave entrances in the UK – over 50 ft high! 

There is a car park at the top and you have to walk down quite a few steps to reach the cave, but it is worth the effort. If you visit during the day, you can even head deeper inside the cave on a guided walk or a boat tour and explore the rear chambers of the cave. After hours you can only go as far as the first chamber, but that is still really impressive.

Sango Sands

Sango Sands is a breathtaking beach in Durness, particularly famous for its viewpoint boardwalk. I’m sure you have seen it before on Instagram!

There are a campsite, restaurant and bar here, making this a perfect place to spend the night.

Durness Zipline

I first read about the Golden Eagle Zipline in a blog post about family-friendly activities on the North Coast 500 (and subsequently asked the author to write a guest post about visiting Scotland with kids )!

I love zip lining and the idea of flying high above one of Scotland’s beautiful beaches while looking out over the sea was just too much to handle for me. We had to do it!

Unfortunately, we ran out of time and had to head on to our next accommodation, but this zip line will not get away that easy – I will be back!

You might also like: The Go Ape Ziplining & High Ropes Course in Aberfoyle (Review)

Tongue Viewpoint

Tongue is a small village that sits on the edge of the Kyle of Tongue – a shallow sea loch with sandy ground. When the sun is out at low tide, the water turns into an abstract landscape painting with all hues of blue. It’s stunning!

There is a small car park near a War Memorial and fantastic views just across the road.

If you have a bit more time, you can hike to the ruins of Castle Bharraich (Varrich). It only takes about an hour to get there and back. Here is a walk description.

Detour to The Crask Inn

The Crask Inn must be one of the remotest inns in Scotland. It lies along a single-track road between Tongue and Lairg. Driving there from Tongue takes about 45 minutes, although you’ll want to stop to admire the scenery every few miles.

The Crask Inn was built around 1815 and has served as a rest stop for weary travellers for generations. Food is served daily and rooms are available if you’d like to spend the night.

Scenic highlights along the way are the Loch Craggie viewpoint, the winding drive along the shore of Loch Loyal, the ruins of an old sheep-fank building on the loch and the small village of Altnaharra with views of Loch Naver.

From Altnaharra you can also pick up the Strathnaver Trail which highlights sites of interest for the history of Highland Clearances in this area. You can visit Clearance villages, abandoned settlements, burial grounds and monuments for the people who were forced to leave their homelands.

If you follow this trail all the way to Syre and Bettyhill, you’ll miss a short section of the NC500, but you won’t miss our on any of the upcoming places to visit.

The Beaches on the North Coast

On the north coast of Scotland, you’ll find a string of golden sandy beaches. There are many beaches you could visit between Tongue and Thurso. Here are two of my favourites:

• Farr Bay, Bettyhill: This small beach lies behind the village of Bettyhill. You can park at Bettyhill Tourist Information or near Farr Bay Inn and approach the beach through the sand dunes. The beach faces slightly north-westerly and is relatively sheltered.
• Strathy Beach: This sandy beach forms where the River Strathy flows into the ocean. You can park at the Beach car parkby the cemetery and follow a grassy path down to the beach.
• Melvich Beach: This large beach lies near the village of Melvich. A rough track leads to a small car park and a grassy footpath takes you through the dunes to the beach. Allow time to also explore the estuary of the Halladale River.

Strathnaver Museum

The Strathnaver Museum is located in a former parish church and tells the history of the area from the Bronze Age to the early 19th century.

This part of the northern Highlands was one of the worst affected by the Highland Clearances and this museum is a fantastic place to learn about this era.

The museum also has a room dedicated to its collection of Clan Mackay memorabilia and can assist with family history research .

Detour to Dunnet Head Lighthouse

Fancy visiting the northernmost point of mainland Britain? Then do the detour to visit Dunnet Head Lighthouse! 

The lighthouse is only 66 feet tall but sits on cliffs that rise 300 feet above sea level. Next to the lighthouse, you can walk along the cliffs and spot sea birds nesting at these soaring heights.

John O’Groats

John O’Groats gained fame as the northernmost point of mainland Britain (today we know it’s at Dunnet Head Lighthouse) and is thus the natural endpoint of so-called end-to-end walks and cycles. 

End-to-enders are walkers or cyclists who make their way across 1,407 km (874 miles) from Land’s End in Cornwall to John O’Groats in Scotland. The most common off-road walking route is even longer – 1,900 km (1,200 miles). 

At John O’Groats you can visit the famous signpost pointing out Land’s End, New York, Edinburgh, Orkney and Shetland. There are a few shops and restaurants – I recommend Stacks Bistro for vegan options – and several boat tours leaving from the little harbour.

Walk to the Duncansby Sea Stacks

From John O Groats make your way to the lighthouse at Duncansby Head – it’s just a 5-minute drive. A coastal path leads along the mind-boggling cliffs here until you are face to face with the two Duncansby Sea Stacks. 

The winds here can be treacherous so if you decide to go through the gate at the end of the path and on to the unprotected side of the cliffs, take a lot of care and watch the edge.

The site is recognised as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and the cliffs of the headland offer plenty of nesting space to thousands of sea birds. If you are lucky, you can even spot puffins here!

Old Keiss Castle

The ruins of Old Keiss Castle stand on sheer cliffs overlooking Sinclair’s Bay. The castle looks like it is clinging on to dry land for its life and it’s a fascinating site to visit.

The castle dates from the late 16th/early 17th century. In the 18th century, its owners built a new Baronial-style townhouse a stone’s throw away (known as New Keiss Castle) and left the old castle to the elements. 

It’s best to park at Keiss Harbour and walk to Old Keiss Castle along the shore.

Ousdale Broch

Caithness, the northernmost region of Scotland, has more brochs than any other part of Scotland. Brochs are circular drystone towers that were built during the middle Iron Age, between 400 BC and 100 AD.

They can be very tall – even 10-13 metres – and have incredibly thick walls. This makes them architectural wonders of the prehistoric time.

One of these brochs in Caithness is Ousdale Broch . It lies just north of Helmsdale and offers fantastic views of the North Sea. The broch was mentioned in the Norse Orkneyinga Saga which describes the history of Orkney and Shetland, and archaeological surveys of the area have documented close links to Norse incomers.

The broch was first excavated in 1891, but increasingly falling into disrepair until the Caithness Broch Project consolidated the structure and reopened it in 2020.

There is a small car park just off the A9 and a gravel path with information panels that lead down to the broch.

Helmsdale was one of the biggest surprises on our North Coast 500 road trip. The town was only on my radar because we spent a night at Helmsdale Youth Hostel to break up the drive back. 

Some people we met on the road had suggested that the east of the North Coast 500 was not quite as scenic and exciting as the west. So I prepared myself for a quick and uneventful drive back to Inverness. How wrong I was!

Indeed, the east coast is not as mountainous as the west and since you drive on a much larger road (the A9) it looks like there is not much to do. When in fact, you just need to make a little extra effort to seek out the beautiful spots along the east coast!

Helmsdale is one of them, a lovely small seaside town which is surrounded by gorse-covered hills and sandy beaches. 

To learn about the local area and its role during the Highland Clearances, visit Timespan Museum . There is a cafe here too and tables on a terrace overlooking the River Helmsdale.

Other places to visit in the village are the colourful harbour and the Emigrants Monument.

Helmsdale would be a great home base to spend a few days in the area and discover places like the Whaligoe Steps, Lybster, Latheronwheel, Dunbeath Castle, Berriedale Braes and Ousdale Broch.

Detour to Forsinard Nature Reserve

Much of the very north of Scotland is covered by a vast expanse of blanket bog called the Flow Country . To get an introduction to this beautiful landscape, head inland from Helmsdale and drive northwest to Forsinard.

Forsinard Nature Reserve lies at the heart of the Flow Country. There is an RSPB visitor centre at the train station in Forsinard and two waymarked trails to take you safely into the bog.

The short walk (allow 45 minutes to 1 hour) leaves from right across the train tracks. Follow a boardwalk to the viewing tower and enjoy fantastic views of the area. The flagstone back takes you past dark bog pools and interpretation boards tell you more about the unique flora and fauna of this bog.

The longer walk (allow 2.5 hours) is a loop trail and leaves from Forsinain farm. It takes you through different stages of natural and restored blanket bog and offers many opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Driving from Helmsdale to Forsinard takes approximately one hour. You can also get here from Melvich in about 30 minutes.

Dunrobin Castle 

What Ardvreck Castle is for the west, Dunrobin Castle is for the east of the North Coast 500. Even if the two could not be more different!

The castle looks straight out of a fairytale. With its 189 rooms, it is one of Scotland’s largest castles and is surrounded by a well-landscaped garden. 

The entrance ticket includes the castle and the gardens. If you are on a budget – or simply don’t have the time to tour that many rooms, you can walk down a road on the right side of the castle and take photos of it from the seaside.

Open 10 am to 5 pm (1 April to 31 October)

Big Burn Falls Walk

This hidden wee gem is a quick and easy walk just outside Golspie near Dunrobin Castle. Park at the little car park next to a stone mason’s and follow the waymarked trail for Big Burn Falls. 

The path leads through lush green vegetation to a series of awe-inspiring waterfalls.

The Black Isle

The Black Isle peninsula is worth a trip of its own, but it is also a perfect final place to visit on the North Coast 500. 

There is a lot to do on the Black Isle – from the RSPB nature reserve at Udale Bay and the waterfall walk at Fairy Glen, to the delights of a tour at Black Isle Brewery. 

The Moray Firth to the east of the peninsula is home to a thriving bottlenose dolphin population – to see them get aboard a dolphin cruise from Cromarty Bay or peel your eyes at Chanonry Bay. We were not lucky enough to spot any dolphins as it was raining, but we did see some seals bobbing in the water.

The Black Isle is a lovely final stop before returning to Inverness.

Are you ready for your own North Coast 500 adventure?

Before you decide on am NC500 itinerary and how many days you spend on this road trip, go through this list of things to do on the North Coast 500 or inspiration. Write down which places are highest on your bucket list for you and work out an itinerary based on that.

The Trip Planning Workbook in my Scotland Travel Resource Library is the perfect tool to help you plan a great NC500 road trip. Get it here .

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20 thoughts on “ 37 EPIC Things to do on the North Coast 500 ”

Hey, I’m about to go on nc500 in a couple of months and this was a great read! Thank you so much ?

You’re very welcome – I’m happy to hear that! Have a fantastic trip!!

Thanks for publishing such an awesome NC500 itinerary.

The info you provided on Dunrobin Castle helped us to plan our visit so thank you for that!

We spent 9 days completing the NC500 route and absolutely loved it! If you or your readers are interested, we have written a hiking focussed guide on the best 18 trails along the NC500 here: https://travelmademedoit.com/nc500-hikes/

We really like your website, and have followed you on IG and subscribed to your YouTube channel.

Cheers, Dan & Beck from Travel Made Me Do It

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Hi Kath, I have done parts of this a few times , favourite place has to be Smoo cave , and as for clockwise or anti clockwise , you really need to do Applecross from both directions. Enjoyed this wright up thank you. Mike

Thank you so much for chiming in, Mike! Glad you enjoyed the post 🙂

Wild camping is legal in campervans as long as you stick to the rules of the Scottish Outdoor Access Code regarding the duration of stays and waste disposal.

The above from your article is incorrect information. The SOAC specifically excludes activities reliant on motorised activities, this common misconception is causing serious environmental damage here in the Highlands. In fact if you park at the roadside without the owners permission, you are breaking the law, please amend.

Hi June, thanks for pointing out this error in the article!

I thought this for the longest time, because I saw SO many campervans wild camping in the Outer Hebrides, but realised upon closer reading of the Outdoor Access Code, that this is actually not the fact. I corrected the information in my main guide for wild camping in Scotland, but clearly forgot to amend it here.

I strive to provide correct and factual information on this blog, but sometimes things fall through the cracks. Cheers, Kathi

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There is no issue with campervans using the Bealach na Ba pass. The advice you gave is misleading. It is not difficult or antisocial to drive them here.

Hi Dave, I stand by my advice 100%. Bealach na Ba road is single track, steep and has hairpin bends. There is a sign at the bottom stating that it is not suitable for learner drivers, caravans and very large vehicles – see photo on the article; unfortunately, many people put stickers on top of this essential warning. Many people who hire campervans or motorhomes in Scotland are driving these for the first time and thus, a road like this can be very stressful and even dangerous – i.e. when backing up into a passing place or in the hairpin bends. Maybe experienced drivers in a small campervan would be fine, but I would rather be on the side of caution to avoid issues. I personally don’t recommend driving this road to my clients who hire large vehicles and would not want to communicate this any different on my blog. I want my readers to be realistic and prepares for their trips!

Here are some articles about the issue too: https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/highlands/1736567/video-tourists-failing-to-heed-campervan-warning-on-busy-section-of-nc500/ https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/highlands/1771097/scenic-nc500-hill-road-closed-after-lorry-becomes-stuck-on-twisty-route/

I’m lucky enough to live on NC500. Our days out consist of visiting two or three of the places you mentioned. I congratulate for getting so much out of your journey and also taking your lovely little detours. Sadly many people see how fast they can get round, this is not what the NC 500 is about as you discovered. It’s an exploration not a race.

I completely agree! We only had a week and it felt rushed – there are so many places I missed and I wanna go back to all the places we saw – how is that even possible 🙂 You’re lucky to live up that way! Thanks for reading and taking the time to leave a comment!

Yaaaayyy I’m so glad you gave Helmsdale a shout out!! I love it there, such a cute little town and I never see anyone mention it. There used to be a diner in the house next to the bridge, which was fantastic. I was really sad when it shut down because that was a perfect stop off on the way down (or up!). Dunrobin Castle is one of my favourite castles in Scotland, and Golspie itself is a really nice town. I’ve STILL never done the west coast, so that’s on the list for this year. There are so many places along there that I need to see!

Loved following along on your trip and this is a great detailed post that should help all planning the NC500. I will be doing many of the things you have listed in June but will unfortunately have to skip others. I guess it is a chance to return for more on another opportunity!

Absolutely! Like I said in the post, we had to make choices too because you can only fit so much into a week. But I can’t wait to go back and zoom in on different regions!! Have a great trip 🙂

I am planning a trip to Scotland in May 2020. The North Coast 500 is something I would be very interested in doing. All the photos were breath taking. I would like to know if this particular trip is wheelchair accessible or could modification be made .

Hi Mary Jane, many thanks for your comment and question. I can’t speak from experience, but can offer a bit of insight: I would imagine that depending on the vehicle you have, some roads, such as the one to Diabaig might be too small to drive [not sure how big your vehicle is though]. In terms of activities and walks, a lot of the walks we did, such as the Mountain Trail at Beinn Eighe, Handa Island or the coastal walk to the Duncansby Stacks were not paved or wheelchair accessible. Disability Information Scotland is a good resource for access in Scotland, http://www.disabilityscot.org.uk/accessible-outdoors-scotland/ , and there is a great travel blogger focussing on accessible travel called Emma, https://www.simplyemma.co.uk/ . I hope these resources are of greater help than me and that you can travel the NC500! All the best, Kathi

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18 Best Road Trips in Scotland You Can’t Miss

February 21, 2024

Scotland is one of the world’s best road trip nations.

The country has countless scenic drives, a massively diverse landscape, stunning lochs , endless remote adventures, and lots of charming towns, cities and villages . But more importantly than that, Scotland’s road trip infrastructure is great, with a surprising number of well-planned and perfectly-waymarked official road trips .

So in this article, I’ve brought you the best of them, along with a small few other routes I like.

I’ve included in my list both short trips and long trips, so there’s an adventure you can enjoy no matter how much time you have.

For each road trip, I’ve recommended some top things to do and see along the way, and a guideline for how long each one should take.

Anyway, enough of all the introductions. Here they are: the top 18 road trips in Scotland.

1. The North Coast 500

2. north and west highlands route, 3. the heart 200, 4. the south west coastal 300, 5. highland tourist route, 6. argyll coastal route, 7. deeside tourist route, 8. the arran ring road, 9. perthshire tourist route, 10. the trotternish loop, 11. galloway tourist route, 12. the snow roads scenic route, 13. moray firth route, 14. forth valley tourist route, 15. fife coastal route, 16. angus coastal route, 17. borders historic route, 18. clyde valley tourist route, before you go.

The big boy. The top dog. The number 1.

The North Coast 500 is by far the most famous Scottish road trip. If you’re only going to do one road trip in the nation, make it this one. The other ones are great, they’re just not this great.

I love the North Coast 500. I’ve done it twice, and I’d be happy to tackle it ten more times. A 500 miles (800km) loop through the most northern parts of the Scottish Highlands, the route includes some of the best mountains, lochs , beaches, cliffs, scenery and villages you’ve probably ever seen.

Most people tell you to do this in 2-5 days. Don’t listen to those people. You could probably spend a month on the NC500 , and still want to spend more.

If you like walking, you should be particularly slow. Along the way, there are loads of beautiful hiking spots. All of my favorites are the hikes along the northern part of the west coast, in and around places like Ullapool, Torridon and Gairloch. If you only do one hike along the NC500, make it Stac Pollaidh.

• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in Inverness (or Applecross)
• Distance: 500 miles/800km
• Time: 5-21 days
• Highlights: Ullapool, Torridon, Lochcarron, Durness, the Bealach na Bà and much, much more

If you don’t have time to do the entire North Coast 500, but want to enjoy (most of) the best bits, ride the North and West Highlands Route instead.

That said, because this route isn’t a loop, it’s nearly as easy to just complete the entire North Coast 500. So my advice is, unless you have some huge reason to not do the NC500 instead, you should do the NC500 instead.

But the North and West Highlands Route is still great.

You start in Ullapool, one of the world’s most endearing port towns, and you end in the iconic John O’Groats. Along the way, you still get all of the northern coast, most of the best bits of the western coast, and plenty of hikes, hills, beaches and tiny towns.

• Itinerary: Ullapool to John O’Groats
• Distance: 158 miles/254km
• Time: 4-10 days
• Highlights: Ullapool, Durness, the mountains and the beaches

One of the newest official road trips in Scotland, the gimmick here is that the route goes right through the so-called heart of the nation.

This road trip itinerary takes drivers in and around Perth, Stirling, the southern tip of the Cairngorms, the eastern tip of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, and some other lovely places.

It’s a pretty unique route, because it takes drivers through a remote, rural and unexplored area sandwiched between lots of massively popular places. It’s a weird little no-man’s land where few tourists go, but way more should.

The Heart 200 narrowly misses Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee and some of the nation’s most popular hiking spots, but it hits lots of under-the-radar stuff. So if you want to see the hidden gems of a relatively accessible area of Scotland, the Heart 200 is a really good choice.

And as a sweet little bonus, the route passes through loads of lovely towns and villages including Pithlochry, Callander and Bridge of Allan.

• Itinerary: Loop starting and ending in Perth or Stirling
• Distance: 158 miles/320km
• Time: 3-7 days
• Highlights: Perth, Striling, Bridge of Allan, Loch Tay, Loch Tummel, and the eastern tip of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

Another loop, this one takes drivers through the southwest of Scotland, and to some of the most underrated parts of the nation. You probably haven’t heard of Stranraer, Moffat and Ayrshire-but after tackling this scenic drive, you’ll wonder why.

It’s a good choice if you don’t want to be surrounded by lots of other tourists. Rides such as the North Coast 500 and the Trotternish Loop, though brilliant, are always ridiculously busy. But the South West Coastal 500 is exactly the opposite. So if you like quiet drives, undiscovered terrain, and secluded experiences, you’ll absolutely love it.

It’s also a good option if you don’t have time to head too far north-the most easterly point of the loop is right beside the English border.

The relatively straight stretch of coast between Ayr and Stranraer is lovely, while just south, you’ll find Mull of Galloway lighthouse, the most south westerly point in Scotland. Other highlights include towns and villages Girvan, Portpatrick and Whithorn, and the hikes and hills of Galloway Forest Park.

• Itinerary: Loop starting and ending in Dumfries
• Distance: 300 miles/482km
• Time: 7-14 days
• Highlights: Ayr, Stranraer, Mull of Galloway, Moffatt, Galloway Forest Park, and huge stretches of coastline

The name of this route is sort of misleading.

The most famous tourist spots in the Highlands are Loch Ness, Fort William, Glencoe, and all the other places you’ve already heard of.

So you’d assume this drive goes through all of them.

It doesn’t. It actually runs from Aberdeen to Inverness, on an inland route through some of the lesser-known parts of the Highlands.

You cross through some of the Cairngorms, the biggest national park in the UK, where you can get involved in loads of hiking and nature-spotting.

But the real highlight here is all the historical stuff. You drive past four brilliant castles (including Cawdor Castle and Fort George), and you hit Culloden Battlefield, an immersive experience unpacking a massive battle between the British and the Jacobites.

If you want insights into Scottish history and heritage, this is one of the best road trips in Scotland.

• Itinerary: Aberdeen to Inverness
• Distance: 116 miles/187km
• Time: 3-5 days
• Highlights: Cawdor Castle, Fort George, Culloden Battlefield, Aberdeen, Inverness and Grantown-on-Spey

This route runs 129 miles (208 km) between Fort William and Loch Lomond, two of the most popular spots in the Highlands.

But it doesn’t go inland. As you probably worked out from the name of the route, it hugs the western coast for the majority of its length.

The Argyll Coastal Route is a good choice for foodies, as it takes drivers past some of Scotland’s best (and most famous) seafood eateries, including Loch Fyne Restaurant & Oyster Bar, Iverary’s Samphire, and the Green Shack in Oban.

A huge highlight is the town of Oban itself. One of the most popular tourist spots on Scotland’s west coast, the crescent-shaped settlement is ridiculously pretty.

Considering how short the route is, it’s unbelievably diverse. You get lochs, coasts, tourist towns, some of Scotland’s biggest mountains, and several of its most well-known spots. If you want an introduction to all that Scotland’s famous for , it’s brilliant.

• Itinerary: Tarbet to Fort William
• Distance: 129 miles/208km
• Time: 4-7 days
• Highlights: Oban, Fort William, Ben Nevis, Loch Lomond, Tarbet and all the food

This inland ride from Perth to Aberdeen, like a lot of the routes we’re featuring, takes you through some of Cairngorms National Park.

But because it travels through one of the more remote regions of the Cairngorms (and that’s saying something), you get to see lots of the area’s lesser-known sites. There’s also a huge amount of wildlife-so take your time and you might see deer, eagles, pine marten and more.

You’ll pass through Blairgowrie (most famous for its fruit-growing fields and farms), hit the two lovely cities of Perth and Aberdeen, and drive through and beyond loads of mountains and forests. If you want a remote inland adventure on the eastern side of Scotland, the Deeside Tourist Route is a brilliant little solution.

• Itinerary: Perth to Aberdeen
• Distance: 108 miles/174km
• Highlights: Braemar, Ballater, Perth, Aberdeen, and the quieter Cairngorms

This drive around the island of Arran is one of my favorite Scotland experiences.

Arran is the perfect size for an island adventure. And even better, it’s like someone took all the best bits of Scotland, squashed them together, and shipped them off to an island.

Not too big, not too small, you can do all of Arran’s best bits, hidden gems and everything in between in around a week. So if you’re a pedantic completionist (like me), you’ll find the place appealing.

And luckily for us, there’s a big ol’ ring road that basically runs around the entire perimeter of the island. The road is only 56 miles (90 km), but you’ll see plenty to stop and explore.

Important: this route is actually part of a 5-drive collection of road trips called ‘The Coig.’ Making up the 5, you have the Arran route, a route running around the perimeter of Bute, a route running around the perimeter of Great Cumbrae, a 138-mile (222km) circular trip around the western coast of Scotland, and another 55-mile (88km) loop just north of its bigger brother.

• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in Brodick
• Distance: 56 miles/90km
• Time: 2-7 days
• Highlights: Brodick, Goatfell, Lochranza, Eas a’ Chrannaig, and all the coastal views

The Perthshire Tourist Route is a tiny trip that runs through a similar area to the Heart 200. So if you want a flavor of the ride without committing to the full thing, it’s a great option.

Running in a near-straight line just west of Perth, it clocks in at only 43 miles (69km), so it’s a lovely little option for a day trip. That said, it still packs lots of excellent highlights into its relatively diminutive dimensions, so you can easily stretch it out to two or three days (or even more!) if you want to.

If you like woodlands and forests, you’ll love this one-there are loads of easily-accessible wooded trails you can explore on excellent hikes. In and around these woodlands, you can often spot deer, squirrels, golden eagles and mountain hares.

If you want to feel remote without really being remote, this is one of the best road trips in Scotland.

• Itinerary: Greenloaning to Ballinluig
• Distance: 43 miles/69km
• Time: 1-3 days
• Highlights: Gleneagles, Innerpeffray Library, Highland Safaris near Aberfeldy, and all the woodland

This isn’t an official road trip, but it’s one of my absolute favorite on-road Scottish adventures.

The Isle of Skye is made up of a little central portion along with lots of explorable peninsulas. The most famous of them, the Trotternish peninsula, is the most northern part of Skye. It’s home to some of the most iconic places on the island, including the Quiraing, the Old Man of Storr, Mealt Falls and more. And at its southern tip, there’s the colorful capital of Portree.

So if you want to see some of Skye’s most famous attractions (and loads of other lovely places too) , the Trotternish Loop is a perfect solution. Even better, the drive itself is absolutely phenomenal.

Most people complete this in a day, but I recommend longer. The well-known highlights are brilliant, but the other stuff is even better.

• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in Portree
• Distance: 50 miles/80km
• Time: 2-4 days
• Highlights: The Quiraing, the Old Man of Storr, Mealt Falls and Portree

Just like the South West Coastal 500, which we’ve already covered above, this ride is in the massively underrated region of Dumfries and Galloway. But while it’s in the same area as its longer neighbor, it’s a slightly different experience.

Firstly, it’s not a loop. Secondly, a large part of the ride runs along the eastern perimeter of Galloway Forest Park, one of the least-explored adventure areas in Scotland. If you like woodland walks, you can access loads of them via this route. While the South West Coastal 500 is mainly coasts, seas and shores, the Galloway Tourist Route is all hikes, hills and secluded woods.

One of the least-populated regions in southern Scotland, you get lots of peace and seclusion along this route.

The ride starts in the elopers’ paradise of Gretna Green, and ends with an endearing coastal finalé in Ayr.

• Itinerary: Gretna to Ayr
• Distance: 92 miles/148km
• Time: 3-4 days
• Highlights: Gretna Green, Galloway Forest Park, Robert Burns Birthplace Museum and Ayr

The Snow Roads Scenic Route takes drivers through the highest public road in Britain. It’s named so because this road is usually the first in Britain to be covered in snow . So, inevitably, the route is packed with snow-capped peaks, lofty mountains, heathery moors and wide-open bogs.

The vast majority of the ride is in the Cairngorms National Park. So you get loads of forests, Scottish heather , endless peaks and summits, and lots of cute towns and villages. The infrastructure along the Snow Roads Scenic Route is also great: there are designated ‘photo-posts’ along the way, offering the best views, and the best places to watch the landscapes change.

Because you drive over lots of passes, you hit lots of tight switchbacks, blind turns and towering summits. If you like driving on (relatively) challenging roads, you’ll love this ride. The highest point is Cairnwell Pass, which measures in at around 670 meters.

For lofty panoramas, this is without doubt one of the best road trips in Scotland.

• Itinerary: Blairgowrie to Grantown-On-Spey
• Distance: 90 miles/144km
• Highlights: Cairnwell Pass, Braemar, Tomintoul, Corgarff Castle, and all the lofty roads

If you’re staying in Inverness (or if you live in Inverness!), this is a great option for a short but beautiful trip. The semi-circle route starts (or ends) in the city, and takes drivers through some of Scotland’s least-explored Highland landscapes.

What’s great about the route is that it heads north, in a similar area to the North Coast 500. But instead of following the same route, it instead heads inland, offering a more remote part of an already-remote part of the world. Two highlights are Easter Ross and Sutherland, a pair of rural, rugged, untouched Highland regions.

If you visit between May and November, make sure you go to the Falls of Shin. You’ll see loads of salmon diving upstream.

Considering its short length, The Moray Firth Route is a pretty diverse ride, offering coastlines, lochs, great waterfalls , and lovely towns.

• Itinerary: Inverness to Loch Fleet
• Distance: 80 miles/128km
• Highlights: Inverness, Beauly, Rogie Falls, Falls of Shin, Easter Ross and Sutherland

If you don’t have much time to explore and you’re looking for an easy road trip out of Edinburgh, the Forth Valley Tourist Route is a great choice. It takes drivers between Edinburgh and Stirling on a relatively remote ride which avoids the direct M9 motorway route.

Measuring in at only 43 miles (69 km) you can easily do this as a day trip if you’re short on time.

If you like architecture and engineering, you’ll love this route. You come across lots of famous buildings, statues and monuments, including the Forth Bridge and Antonine Wall, a pair of UNESCO-listed heritage sites . The second is one of Scotland’s most significant Roman sites, sort of like a mini Hadrian’s Wall.

You end your ride in Stirling, a friendly city bustling with charm and dominated by a huge castle.

• Itinerary: Edinburgh to Stirling
• Distance: 43 miles/69 km
• Time: 1-2 days
• Highlights: The Forth Bridge, Antonine Wall, The Falkirk Wheel, Edinburgh and Stirling

An excellent option for people who like beaches, under-the-radar adventures and slightly shorter road trips, the Fife Coastal Route is a lovely ride along one of Scotland’s most underrated coastal spots.

And because the southern tip of the route is just north of Edinburgh, it’s a good choice if you want an adventure close to Scotland’s capital-or if you don’t want to travel very far north.

Starting just short of Stirling and coming really close to Dundee, the route runs along a pretty populated part of Scotland. So if you like fishing villages, beautiful houses, coastal towns and lots of conveniences, you’ll probably prefer this drive to some of the country’s more remote and rural road trips.

Elie, Crail and Pittenweem are all pretty cosy and alluring, while Kirkcaldy, Anstruther and St Andrews are three of the bigger settlements along the way. The last of them, you’ve probably heard of-it’s one of the world’s most famous golfing destinations.

For an accessible adventure, this is one of the best road trips in Scotland.

• Itinerary: Kincardine to Newport-on-Tay
• Distance: 77 miles/124km
• Highlights: Elie, Crail, Pittenweem and St Andrews

Another short coastal option, this ride runs between Dundee and Aberdeen.

It starts just north of the most northern point of the Fife Coastal Route (which we just covered above). So if you want to combine those two smaller routes into one longer route, you can!

Even if you don’t, you’ll love the Angus Coastal Route. When they’re looking for bigger settlements, most tourists visit Edinburgh, Glasgow or Inverness. But both Dundee and Aberdeen are beautiful, and not enough tourists visit them-or the towns and villages between them, such as Stonehaven and Montrose. It’s an underrated part of Scotland, and it’s a lovely route.

For the majority of this ride, you have mountains to the west and the sea to the east, so you get lots of brilliant views and vistas.

• Itinerary: Dundee to Aberdeen
• Distance: 68 miles/109km
• Highlights: Dundee, Aberdeen, Arbroath Abbey, Stonehaven, and the Grampian Mountains

When most people visit Scotland, they head to the Highlands, the coast, or the big cities, but Scotland’s border region is brilliant. Nowhere near enough people explore the most southern stretches of Scotland.

On the Borders Historic Route, you start in Northumberland, in the very north of England, and make your way to Edinburgh via an inland route taking in some of southern Scotland’s least-explored areas.

The coastal stretch between Edinburgh and Northumberland is great, but the inland stretch (which this route follows) is way less busy. So if you want remote, rural and southern, you’ll absolutely love the Borders Historic Route.

Some highlights along the way include the small towns of Hawick, Selkirk and Galashiels. And Edinburgh is pretty good too.

Because I’m from Northumberland, I might be biased, but I think this route is incredible.

• Itinerary: Scots Dyke to Edinburgh
• Distance: 89 miles/143 km
• Highlights: Hawick, Selkirk, the remote rolling hills, and Edinburgh

If you’re in Glasgow and you’re looking for a short and speedy road trip from the city, the Clyde Valley Tourist Route is a great choice.

A quick-one day adventure, the ride is perfect if you’re traveling with kids. It’s not Scotland’s most rural or intrepid adventure, but it’s a lovely drive south of Glasgow that takes you past loads of excellent day trip destinations .

The route runs (almost) parallel to the M74 motorway, so it’s a good way to see secluded spots in a busy, built-up area.

Stop-off options along the way include ancient castles, forests, country parks, a bird of prey center, waterfalls, wildlife reserves, and much more.

• Itinerary: Abington to Hamilton
• Distance: 38 miles/61 km
• Time: 1 day
• Highlights: Lanark Loch, Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve and West Forth Forest

Thanks for reading my guide to the best road trips in Scotland!

If you want to know anything else about one of my favorite nations on the planet, we have plenty more stuff on our site. Check out our guides to the best road trips from Edinburgh , the best road trips from Glasgow , the best hikes in Scotland , the best cliffs in Scotland , and the best coastal walks in Scotland .

And again, if you want to explore Scotland’s best road trip, here’s my full guide to the North Coast 500 .

For more road trips in the UK head over to my selection of the best road trips in England , the best road trips in Wales , and the best drives in Northern Ireland .

And don’t forget to check out my extensive list of the best road trips in the UK .

About the author

Senior Travel Reporter

Paul is a handsome and hilarious travel writer and travel journalist from the UK. He's hiked, hitchhiked and laughed his way through more than fifty countries, and he's always looking for a new place to call home. Originally from Newcastle, he's lived all over the UK, spent more than three years in Asia, and most recently lived in Vietnam and then in Georgia.

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The North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 (Or NC500 for short) is a stunning 500-mile coastal road trip in Scotland that takes you around the Highlands and Isles. Starting in Inverness, the route features dramatic cliff-top drives along the North Coast, idyllic white-sand beaches of the Hebrides, historic fishing villages, castles and remote inland glens. It’s an incredible journey, weaving through some of Scotland’s most remarkable scenery.

Read on to find out all the best things to see and do as you drive the North Coast 500…

1. Little Garve Bridge and Silver Bridge

These are two beautiful old stone bridges that span the Black Water River They are right off the Nc500 main route and are very quick and easy to visit, providing fantastic photo opportunities right at the beginning of your journey.

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2. Rogie Falls

Rogie Falls is a stunning set of waterfalls located in Wester Ross, Scotland. The falls are part of the River Broom and can be found just off the North Coast 500 coastal route. The falls form a series of cascades and are surrounded by lush green vegetation and evergreen trees, making them a truly beautiful sight. It’s easy to access most of the viewing points, which can make for some great photo opportunities.

3. Glen Dochart View Point

As you are driving down this road you get to a point where the road cascades in huge sweeping S bends all the way down a huge, v-shaped valley, way out in front of you. It really is am amazing sight to behold: be sure to stop off at the viewing point on the right to take a picture.

4. The Bealach Na Ba Road

The Bealach na Ba mountain pass road at Applecross in the Highlands of Scotland

The Bealach Na Ba road to Applecross is an iconic stretch of road, and one of the most popular parts of the North Coast 500. It’s considered to be one of the finest roads in the UK, as well as being both the steepest and the highest. The road’s steep ascent over the mountain ridge is not suitable for many vehicles and can have difficult weather conditions so be wary of this before you take it on.

5. Applecross to Torridon

There’s nothing more to say here, other than enjoy the drive!

6. Am Ploc – Open Air Church

Through centuries of religious upheaval in Scotland there was once a need for open air churches. This is one of the finest preserved example that you can walk into and explore, all for the grand total of £0.

7. Red Point Beach

The road to Red Point is single track, and not really suitable for camper vans and larger vehicles. The views, however, are incredible with a clear view of the Western Isles of Harris and Lewis, as well as a side on view of the magically Isle of Skye. The five mile stretch of road which leads to the beach ends at a parking area for 15 or so vehicles. There is a 200 metre walk through a field of sheep, that leads to the most incredible sand dunes and beach. There are no words to describe it – you just have to see it for yourself.

8. Badachro Inn

An old fishing boat on the shore of Gair Loch at Badachro in the Highlands of Scotland An insanely beautiful spot for a bite to eat. There is a lovely deck overhanging the water’s edge and it is a fantastic place to eat. When we arrived there was also a fresh pizza and prosecco van – not something you see every day!

9. Gairloch Museum

Gairloch Museum was recently relocated from an older building in the town, to a former Cold War bunker, which is, in itself, well worth a visit. Built to withstand a nuclear blast, the thickness of the walls and the huge blast doors are a reminder of the museum’s former purpose. These days, the first thing you see when you walk in the huge light salvaged from a lighthouse along the coast – not something you see every day. The rest of the museum is filled with fascinating artifacts and exhibits that delve into the local area. There are specific areas that are fantastic for children, such as a make your own earthquake jumping pad, and a dress-up area where children can try on traditional outfits.

Gairloch beach meanwhile, is nearby, and is very clean with great views. We recommend a stop at the local golf club, for some of the best macaroni cheese around.

10. Arctic Convoy Memorial

On the way back you can stop off at Firemore beach which has fantastic rock pools for kids, and which you’ll often have all to yourself.

11. Inverewe Gardens

Inverewe Gardens is a beautiful historic botanical garden located in Poolewe, on the North Coast 500. This picturesque spot boasts a vibrant range of plants and trees from around the world grouped into various areas. Even in early spring it was still a wonder to behold. The garden features winding pathways, gazebos, ponds, and fountains for visitors to enjoy. With its tranquil atmosphere, Inverewe Gardens is the perfect place for a relaxing stroll and has a lovely modern cafe selling simple but hearty food.

12. Arctic Convoy Museum

13. Corrieshalloch Gorge

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There is a bit of a tight car park at the top of the Gorge, however, the path down is steep but well maintained. The Victorian era suspension bridge is not for the faint of heart as it does sway left and right as well as up and down, but the drop into the valley below is breathtaking. After you cross the bridge you can walk for a few hundred meters to the left to a moder viewing point that gives a beautiful view back to the bridge and gorge.

14. Ullapool

Ullapool is a picturesque harbour town in the North West of Scotland, situated on the banks of Loch Broom. It’s an area full of natural beauty, with a stunning coastal landscape, rolling hills and open moorland all waiting to be explored.

The port of Ullapool has a long history and was initially established as a fishing village in 1788. Nowadays it remains one of Scotland’s top fishing spots – boasting some of the best catches in Europe!

For those looking for something more cultural, why not take a visit to the local Saturday market or stop by one of Ullapool’s excellent museums? Here you can discover more about the town’s captivating heritage and explore artefacts from times gone by.

15. Clashnessie Waterfall

This beautiful waterfall cascades over a rocky outcropping and into a small, tranquil pool below.

The Falls are one of Scotland’s most spectacular sights, surrounded by lush greenery and jagged cliffs that provide an awe-inspiring backdrop. Visitors can explore the rugged terrain of this area as they take in the breathtaking views on offer – from the rushing waterfalls to the bubbling streams. They can even make their way up to the top of the Falls for a truly memorable experience.

15. Strathnaver Museum

Bettyhill is worth a stop for the Strathnaver museum. This is a lovely little museum which tells the history of the Scottish Highlands, from ancient times to the present day.

The museum is home to many artefacts and objects that have been carefully collected and displayed over the years – giving visitors an engaging overview of Highland life and culture. Highlighting both traditional pastimes and modern developments, Strathnaver Museum also offers interactive exhibitions and activities centered around local folklore and heritage.

What’s more, you don’t have to drive the North Coast 500 to visit, as Strathnaver Museum has recently implemented virtual tours and audio guides so you can take in its rich offering even if you’re unable to visit in person! And at just £3 Strathnaver Museum is well worth a visit when it comes to discovering Scotland’s captivating past.

You can also few the Farr stone in the graveyard which is an ancient Pictish stone.

16. Smoo Cave

A beautiful shot of a man walking along the Smoo Cave, Scottish Highlands, Scotland

Smoo Cave in Durness is a remarkable natural landmark on the North West Coast of Scotland. Home to some of Britain’s most spectacular cave formations, Smoo Cave is an incredible sight to behold, encompassing a range of chambers filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

The main part of the cave has a high arched entrance that gives way to an underground lake fed by the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can explore the many caverns and grottos, which are thought to have formed over 5000 years ago. As you venture further into the darkness you will discover ancient artefacts along with impressive waterfalls, hidden pools and even a massive underground chamber known as ‘Cathedral Cave’.

Smoo Cave is something special – its extraordinary beauty has earned it a reputation as one of Scotland’s must-see attractions.

17. Tongue Castle Varrich

Visitors can explore its unique twin towers, grand stone walls and other fascinating features – including an underground vault beneath the castle’s courtyard – as they learn about its turbulent past. From its days as an important stronghold to its eventual abandonment during World War II, Tongue Castle Varrich has borne witness to some of Scotland’s historic events.

18. Dunnet Head

Dunnet Head is the most northerly point in mainland UK; it’s a bleak landscape but a good talking point if you’re already planning to drive the North Coast 500.

19. John o’ Groats + more

Fishing boats in the harbour at Jon O Groats in Scotland

John o’ Groats is the most northerly village in mainland UK, as well as being the most northerly stop on the North Coast 500. Although most people who visit will stop to take a photo with the famous sign, not many will also take the short drive to Duncasby head Lighthouse. The views from here are lovely, but if you take a 5 minute walk to the south, you’ll also see the stunning Geo of Sclaites – a gap in the cliffs that will take your breath away. Then walk 5 minutes further to the south, and you will be treated to a view of the Duncansby sea stacks.

20. Nybster Broch

Nybster Broch is an ancient Iron Age monument located near the village of Wick in Scotland. Built around 2000 years ago, this impressive circular fortification stands proudly on a hill and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape – from the dramatic cliffs of Duncansby Head to the shimmering waters of Sinclair Bight.

21. Old Keiss Castle

The sharp rock formations on the coast of the sea on a gloomy day

Old Keiss Castle is a stunning seaside ruin located in the small village of Keiss, in Scotland’s north-eastern corner. The castle is perched on a rocky promontory surrounded by panoramic views of the North Sea. There is evidence of a fortress on this land to protect the coastline from raids by Danish Vikings over 1000 years ago.

22. Timespan museum

Step back in time at Timespan Museum and explore the rich history of Scotland’s Northern Highlands. Located in the heart of Wick, this interactive museum tells the story of Caithness and Sutherland through a host of fascinating exhibits, artifacts, displays and interactive activities.

From ancient artifacts to modern-day technology, Timespan Museum offers something for everyone. From an exploration of local geology to the incredible Viking boat exhibit, discover the incredible past that has shaped North Scotland over centuries. Or relive the industrial heyday of Wick with an audio-visual journey into its mills, harbours and shipyards.

23. Grey Cairns of Camster

The Grey Cairns of Camster are a mysterious and incredible ancient monument located in the small village of Lybster, Scotland. Believed to have been built more than 5000 years ago which makes them amongst the old structures in the UK. You can still enter them via narrow passageways.

24. Whaligoe Steps

The famous Whaligoe Steps, a man-made stairway of 365 steps near Wick, Caithness, Scotland

Whaligoe Steps is, as the name suggests, an ancient set of 350 steps that winds down a cliff face in Caithness. Built hundreds of years ago to provide fishermen with easy access to the waters below, the steps have been a part of local history for centuries, and represent a unique part of Scotland’s culture.

Today, Whaligoe Steps offer visitors an unforgettable experience as you make your way down the winding staircase and explore its spectacular coastal views. The steps are not too difficult, but it’s very easy to miss the turn off for the parking so be prepared.

25. Dunrobin Castle

A beautiful shot of the famous Dunrobin Castle, in Sutherland, Scotland

Dunrobin Castle is a stunningly preserved Scottish castle located in the heart of the Highlands. Set upon a hill overlooking the Dornoch Firth and surrounded by stunning formal gardens, this magnificent castle has been home to the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland for over 700 years, and is one of the most impressive stops on the North Coast 500.

Take a guided tour of its grand state rooms, explore its impressive grounds and gardens, or watch birds of prey soar overhead. Feel like royalty as you enter its lavish drawing room and learn about the castle’s long history through its many exhibits.

Kirstie Will Travel

Making Everywhere You Go An Adventure

Scottish Highlands · July 10, 2020

3 Day North Coast 500 Itinerary (Scotland Road Trip Guide)

Are you ready for a great Scottish adventure? Then welcome to my 3 Day North Coast 500 Itinerary ! This comprehensive guide will take you through three days of west coast adventure. There are hikes, beaches, beautiful views, and pretty much everything that makes Scotland so great.

I should clarify, this is not a full North Coast 500 route. It covers just over 200 miles. In fact, we could probably rename this the West Coast 200, but I’m not sure anyone would know what I was talking about! This is a great itinerary if you don’t have enough time to cover the full North Coast 500. You can have the chance to discover some of the best parts of the route in just 3 days. However, if you do have more time, you can still use this itinerary for the section of the North Coast 500 that this covers. You’d simply carry on further north when we turned back east.

I’ve included loads of practical information about what to pack, how much it cost and accommodation tips. The itinerary is very comprehensive and I’ve made an interactive map with all the stops on it.

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3 Day North Coast 500 Itinerary Interactive Route Map

This interactive map takes you through the whole route in this 3 day North Coast 500 itinerary. The different colours indicated the stops for different days, and the yellow markers indicate surrounding towns that I recommend throughout the itinerary if you have some more time.

You can save this map to your Google Maps account by clicking the star button next to the title. It will then appear under Your Places>Maps in Google Maps.

Accommodation on the North Coast 500

My friend and I decided to camp during our North Coast 500 road trip . It worked really well for us, especially since my friend was a pro at putting up the tent (I, on the other hand, had never actually camped before so I happily observed).

We chose to stay in campsites and pay for camping . It wasn’t expensive, I mention the prices for each place on the itinerary, but I don’t remember paying more than £10 each for any campsite.

Wild camping is legal in Scotland, but make sure you read up on the rules and restrictions to avoid getting in trouble or ruining protected land. This website will help you.

If you don’t want to camp, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding accommodation at the stops, since the North Coast 500 route is so popular these days. I give a few suggestions of BnBs or hostels throughout the itinerary, and I would recommend booking these in advance to be sure of their availability – you definitely don’t want to be stuck without anywhere to stay in the middle of nowhere!

What to Take on a North Coast 500 Road Trip

Make sure you’re prepared for a road trip like this. Everyone’s needs will be different but here are some of my recommendations .

Clothing and Footwear

I would recommend taking clothing for all weather . The weather can be so unpredictable in Scotland. We went from shorts to jumpers, and it rained a lot. You’ll need a good pair of walking shoes that are comfy (and preferably waterproof), and I’d also take a comfy pair of trainers or sandals for driving and less adventurous activities.

We took a lot of food with us, and I’d recommend taking more than you think you’ll need. Hiking is hungry work and countless snacks were needed . Stick to non-perishable foods, but since the road trip was only a few days, we were able to take things like fruit and bread that we knew wouldn’t go off in that short amount of time.

The food we took was primarily for breakfast and lunches, as we planned to eat out for dinners. If you have the right equipment you could definitely cook your own dinners, but this was the best option for us.

Camping Equipment

If you’re planning to camp as we did, make sure you have everything to make it as comfy as possible. Of course, you’ll need a good tent with all its attachments, a mattress pad, and sleeping bag. An inflatable (or regular) pillow is good to remember, and you might want to look into some extra reinforcements for your tent in case the weather is windy. Make sure you have a good torch and/or lamp for when it gets dark.

Some other optional items to consider are collapsable camping chairs and table.

There are lots of miscellaneous items to remember as well. Take books and games to keep yourselves busy in the evenings. Don’t forget electrical items like phone chargers , and make sure your car is kitted out to charge them. You’ll want an AUX cable or CDs too, as road trip music is pretty much essential.

If you plan to do any water-sports or swimming, think about what you’ll want to take and where to store it. We took wetsuits and bodyboards. Also, consider where you’ll dry these items. You might want to take a washing line to hang up, but we just draped them across the car when we weren’t driving.

Cash is a good thing to consider. Once you’re on the west coast i t’s unlikely that you’ll have easy access to a bank or a cash machine , and some places won’t take card.

How much does a North Coast 500 Trip Cost?

We didn’t need to spend too much on our trip. The main things you’ll have to budget for are fuel, accommodation and food . All of the activities in this itinerary are free but it’s something to think about if you want to add any other activities to your route.

We covered just over 200 miles on the route. I don’t drive but I’m pretty certain you can do it on less than a tank of fuel.

I can’t remember exactly how much I spent on food but I’d estimate it was a maximum of £20 on the supermarket shop for snacks and non-perishable items. Then I’d say a maximum of £30 for cafe stops and dinners.

This is an estimate again, but I spent a maximum of £25 on campsite accommodation over the two nights.

Don’t have a car?

It’s hard to do a Scottish road trip without a car, but why not try joining a guided tour instead? You could opt for a day trip to the Scottish highlands or a multi-day tour!

Scottish Highlands Day Trips

3-Day Tours to the Scottish Highlands

3 Day North Coast 500 Itinerary – Day One

The first day of the road trip was fairly laid back, mainly because we didn’t set off until late afternoon. The main aim of the day was to get to Ullapool and set up for the night.

If you have more time during the day, I’d recommend exploring Inverness or the surrounding area of Cromarty and Ross-Shire. There are loads of great towns to visit but I’d recommend Fortrose , Dingwall and Strathpeffer (I’ve marked them on the interactive map). You could also drive to Ullapool earlier and spend the day there!

Driving to Ullapool

The driving route is very easy, as you will just drive the A835 all the way to Ullapool. From Inverness, take the A9 across the Kessock Bridge to Tore Roundabout. Take the second exit at the roundabout to start the A835. Then you simply follow that road all the way to the end and you’ll find yourself in Ullapool – the only other roundabout you’ll cross is the Maryburgh roundabout where you should take the second exit. The journey should take just over an hour.

Corrieshalloch Gorge

You definitely want to stop at Corrieshalloch Gorge on the way to Ullapool. During this road trip the bridge across the gorge was closed for construction so we could only look from afar, but luckily I’ve visited since and been able to enjoy it. The gorge is one of the deepest in Scotland, and the falls that run through are spectacular.

Corrieshalloch Gorge is situated just off the A835 so it’s really easy to stop at. You can read my guide to Corrieshalloch Gorge to get all the info you need about the exact location, and how to explore.

Setting up Camp in Ullapool

For our first night, my friend and I camped at Broomfield Holiday Park . It’s right on the water, so waking up in the morning was absolutely gorgeous. The price was around £20 for the two of us camping . If you’re looking for a guesthouse for the night, there are plenty of options for all budgets. Ullapool has a youth hostel and loads of BnBs around the town. I’ve never stayed in a BnB in Ullapool but I’ve been told that Riverside is nice.

We ate dinner at The Seaforth . It was a lovely space with a well-priced menu (and amazing quality food!), and their terrace was perfect for a summer evening. If you fancy eating at the beach or back at the campsite, they also have great takeaway options.

Ardmair Beach

After dinner, we drove to Ardmair Beach. It’s actually on the route that we would be driving the next day, but since we had such an action-packed itinerary already, we thought it best to visit the beach on the first night, instead of trying to cram it in the next morning. Although the weather was a little grey, the beach was still beautiful. One of my favourite things about Ardmair beach is that it’s filled with loads of flat stones, and people love to make towers out of them . Ours were a bit pathetic but some people managed to stack their towers really high!

3 Day North Coast 500 Itinerary – Day Two

Day 2 of our North Coast 500 Itinerary is where the real adventure starts! This is an action-packed day with a lot of walking and hiking . Day 2 of the itinerary will take us from Ullapool to Achmelvich, with around four stops along the way.

We set off bright and early after breakfast in the car, and here’s how we filled the day!

Knockan Crag

Our first stop, Knockan Crag, was about 30 minutes away in the car. It’s easily one of the most unique hikes I’ve done. Knockan Crag is a National Nature Reserve that focuses on the unique geology of the Moine thrust that runs through it.

There’s a visitor centre and dedicated trails to walk along, so you can learn while you hike. Knockan Crag is completely free to visit , and this extends to car park access as well. Also, you’re on the west coast of Scotland so, of course, the views are amazing.

The trails aren’t too long. I’d say we spent about an hour at Knockan Crag.

The Bone Caves

The second stop of the day is only another 15-minute drive away, which shows you how amazing the hills are in this area. This hike is a little longer (I’d say we spent a good few hours here), and a little more demanding , but definitely still accessible to a capable walker. I’ve marked the car park on the interactive map, but make sure you watch this closely because I can’t remember there being any signposts when approaching it.

We didn’t follow a route and although there isn’t an incredibly clear path, it’s still easy to find your way. You can check out this Bone Caves route to make sure you’re going in the right direction.

As the name suggests, the main attraction of this hike is the caves you’ll find at the top . Excavators found the remains of animals like polar bears and reindeer that used to roam the area. You can explore the caves with care , but I’m a big scaredy-cat so we just chilled out at the top and enjoyed (once again) the beautiful views.

Ardvreck Castle

After a wonderful lunch in the Bone Caves car park, composed of bread rolls with Dairylea cheese triangles and some crisps, we headed further north.

As far as I remember, we hadn’t planned to stop at Ardvreck Castle . One of my favourite parts of a road trip is being able to just pull over whenever you see something interesting! These medieval ruins sit right next to the road on the banks of Loch Assynt.

We didn’t spend too long at Ardvreck Castle, but it’s a great place to stretch your legs and explore.

It’s time to get back to civilisation! Lochinver is a lovely village. There isn’t much to do but it’s on the water and there are a couple of cute gift shops.

In the late afternoon, we ate at an amazing spot just on the edge of Lochinver called the Lochinver Larder . These guys know how to make a pie , and they have an extensive menu! We went for a sweet option and had some apple pie, but in retrospect, it would have been a good idea to have an early dinner here. We struggled to find anywhere that was open later on in Lochinver. As it’s such a small village, it’s worth doing some research into the available dinner options, or eat at the Larder.

There is a small shop and a chip shop in Achmelvich, where you’ll be camping for the night. You could also consider this for dinner, but check ahead because if they’re closed you’ll be stuck.

Achmelvich Beach

When you’re ready to set up camp, head along to Achmelvich beach. This place is beyond beautiful , and waking up here in the morning couldn’t be more peaceful. And if I’m not bigging it up enough, this is one of my favourite places in the world .

The Shore Caravan Site is right on the beach. It cost around £15 with the car and tent . There are a couple of other options if you aren’t planning to camp, like a small Youth Hostel , and some caravans and pods. Make sure you research well and book in advance, as I doubt you could show up and expect to book a place to stay on arrival. If you can’t find accommodation in Achmelvich you could stay in Lochinver.

Pretty much the only thing to do in Achmelvich is to visit the beach, but it’s so beautiful that you won’t want to do anything else! We had some fun swimming (with wetsuits on, even in summer the water is freezing!) and then relaxing on the beach.

3 Day North Coast 500 Itinerary – Day Three

The third and final day of our trip was a bit more laidback , we visited a couple of beaches. Unfortunately, the weather took a turn for the worse so we rushed through the second part of the day to head home. However, there are plenty of things that you can do along the route that I’ll recommend as I go through.

Exploring Achmelvich

We had a very relaxed morning on Achmelvich beach. I think I could have spent the whole day here! I woke up early in the morning to sit out on the sand, and then once we got up and ready for the day we went exploring in the hills. There is another small beach along from the main one that’s just as fun.

Stoer Lighthouse

After finally dragging ourselves away from Achmelvich beach, we carried on north and found ourselves at Stoer Lighthouse. The lighthouse juts out west so there’s nothing but sea all around you , it’s a beautiful sight.

We didn’t go inside the lighthouse because they’re actually self-catering accommodation ! After finding this out it immediately became our dream to come back and stay. Although there definitely wasn’t space for this in our budget at the time, the prices aren’t actually too expensive (£149 a night/minimum 3-night stay) and you can fit around 4 people in each one.

Clashnessie Beach

We came back inland and drove through Clashnessie. We had to pull over when we saw Clashnessie Bay and the beach! It’s another gorgeous sandy beach (as if we hadn’t seen enough already) and we stayed here for a while simply enjoying the sunshine.

Drumbeg Viewpoint

The further north we drove, the more picturesque the surroundings became. Between Clashnessie and Drumbeg we were surrounded by greenery, rocky hills and plenty of small lochs.

Drumbeg has another great viewpoint where you can look right out to sea. I might be wrong, but I think you can see over to Scourie in the distance, where we’ll end up later!

Kylesku Bridge

Unfortunately, this is where the weather started to turn. We stopped briefly at Kylesku bridge (mainly because I wanted to take a photo for my engineer dad) but then carried on driving. I’ve heard that Kylesku is a lovely, albeit tiny, hamlet, so if you wanted to have a wander around here I’m sure it would be great.

Heading Home

We grabbed a simple lunch at The Anchorage in Scourie. This was about as north as we went, as we turned down at Laxford Bridge towards Lairg. There isn’t much to do until you reach Lairg so we drove straight down to the Falls of Shin.

The Falls of Shin is a popular spot to watch salmon jumping and there are some nice woodland walks where you can follow the falls and the river.

That was our final stop, we then carried on driving, through Bonar Bridge, and heading south to Inverness. Since my friend and I were heading back home, we’d been to the surrounding towns many times, so we didn’t bother stopping. However, if you’re not a local resident, I’d recommend stopping at either Dornoch, Portmahomack/Tarbert Lighthouse or Glenmorangie (if you’re a fan of whisky and not the designated driver!).

Accommodation for the 3rd Night

As a final point, you should think about your final night’s accommodation . Luckily we could head home and sleep in our own beds, but you might need to brave another night in the tent if you live further away.

Since you’re back to a more built-up area, you shouldn’t have any problems finding a campsite for the night . You could stay up north in Dornoch, head to Dingwall or back to Inverness and stay in the city.

I hope you enjoyed this 3 Day North Coast 500 Itinerary, and are now inspired to go out and explore some of Scotland! If you liked this post, you might want to check out some of my other Scotland posts , such as Corrieshalloch Gorge: The Ultimate Day Trip Guide , or The Glasgow Mural Trail: Your Complete Guide (With Interactive Map)

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You’ll Also Love

July 11, 2020 at 6:08 pm

I feel so rubbish that I’ve travelled to so many places but barely explored my home country at all! Your post has inspired me to get on that right away!

July 11, 2020 at 9:48 pm

I’m becoming a huge fan of road trips these days! Would love to do this someday. Looks like a gorgeous adventure.

July 11, 2020 at 10:30 pm

This looks like such a fun road trip! Ardmair beach is so cool, I’d love to visit! Thanks for sharing.

July 11, 2020 at 11:04 pm

Looks like you had sooo much fun! I’d love to return to Scotland and go on this road trip!

July 11, 2020 at 11:10 pm

What a great post! I’ve been to Scotland once and fell in love with it. I’ve been dying to go back and even though I saw a lot I haven’t seen any of these beautiful spots. Hopefully next year I can go back and take this route!

July 12, 2020 at 11:46 am

So lucky you leave so close to this. Scotland has always been in my bucket list

July 12, 2020 at 5:27 pm

I could not have read this post at a better time as we are planning to do this route! Thanks so much for all the great info. x

July 12, 2020 at 9:21 pm

Ive been dying to arrange a road trip ( currently wishing for Italy) but now you have turned my attention to Scotland too! 😍

August 12, 2020 at 11:55 pm

I loved Scotland and was intrigued about the wild camping. I heard many stories about locals opening their yards to campers. Sounds beautiful and like a great way to see the country!

August 13, 2020 at 12:50 am

Scotland is so high on my list right now! We want to ret a campervan and do a driving trip, so this itinerary is perfect. Thanks so much.

August 13, 2020 at 4:47 am

What a fun road trip! I really want to visit Scotland some day, adding some of these places to my list (especially those gorgeous beaches)!

August 13, 2020 at 5:52 pm

This looks awesome!! I travel to the UK annually to visit family and have only done a road trip down from Glasgow to the south of England, but would love to do more road trips, especially in Scotland! Thanks for the tips – saving for when we can go!!

August 17, 2020 at 12:16 am

I love the North Cost 500!! It is such a beautiful drive, your photos are stunning! Seeing your photos has made me want to do the road trip again.

October 3, 2020 at 10:12 am

Clashnessie Beach looks stunning – I’d love to explore some of Scotland one of these days.

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North Coast 500: Guide to Scotland’s Most Scenic Road Trip Route

Home » Blog » Europe » United Kingdom » North Coast 500: Guide to Scotland’s Most Scenic Road Trip Route

The North Coast 500 route is the best road trip in the UK. To make the most of your trip through Scotland, it is important to plan ahead. This guide to visiting the NC500 will ensure you have a smooth journey.

Written by guest author: Gemma Spence

Rated the best road trip in the UK, the North Coast 500 (NC500) showcases some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Scottish countryside. 

The route captures everything from historical sights dating back thousands of years, to some of the most pristine sandy beaches and rugged mountains along Scotland’s north coast.

Although the NC500 road trip is a popular driving route, there are actually limited facilities and amenities along the route. Due to how remote this part of Scotland is, pre-planning is necessary. 

To make the most of your North Coast 500 road trip, we’ve broken down everything you need to know. This article is chock-full of insider tips and advice to make your route more comfortable.  

What is the North Coast 500?

The North Coast 500 is a 516 mile scenic road trip route around the north highlands in Scotland. Beginning and ending in Inverness, the driving loop showcases some of the most unique and remote sights in the country. 

Dotted with tiny towns with minuscule populations, this part of north Scotland is incredibly remote. You’ll mostly be surrounded by vast wilderness occupied by a variety of wildlife from livestock to deer.

Along the winding roads you will be greeted by countless breathtaking views. You don’t even need to get out of your vehicle to appreciate the scenery—it’s all part of the experience. 

Launched in 2015 as part of the North Highland Initiative, the popularity of this route has increased visitor numbers to these harder to reach areas of Scotland. This has brought many economic benefits to these areas. 

People travel from all over the world to tour the NC500, some by foot, bike, motorbike or supercar. However, the most popular form of travel around the NC500 is by campervan or car.

Psst! Check out our guide to hiring a campervan in Scotland if you want to give a campervan a spin. 

NC500 Planning Guide

Highlights of the nc500, things to know before you go.

• Best time of year to go
• Tips for driving the NC 500

What to pack

• Where to stay

The North Coast 500 Route

The North Coast 500 route is split into 5 different regions: Inverness-shire, The Black Isle, Easter Ross, Caithness, Sutherland and Wester Ross. 

It officially starts and ends in Inverness , the unofficial “capital city” of the Scottish Highlands. From there it encircles the northernmost part of Scotland, hugging the coast line in a loop back to Inverness. 

Some of the most scenic areas on the route include:

• driving through the mountains in Tongue
• along the coastline in Durness
• the Torridon mountain range

Psst! Don’t leave before you check out our bucket list of fun things to do in Inverness , including the unique Inverness Castle .

There are many highlights of the North Coast 500 that you will want to enjoy on your trip. Many of which are outside and are best visited in fair weather.

Dunrobin Castle

Dunrobin Castle is located on the east coast of the NC500, just north of the small town of Dornoch. 

The castle dates back to the 13th century. It has been home to the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland for over 700 years. Visitors can enjoy a stroll around the gardens, admiring the picturesque castle or taking a tour inside.

Duncansby Stacks

Some of the most iconic geological features on the NC500 are the Duncansby Stacks. Some tower up to 60 meters above sea level. 

The sea stacks were formed as a result of erosion against the cliffs. Over time land has crumbled away and left the stacks standing out at sea. 

This is a favorite spot for many to visit. It is located a short drive from John O’Groats, the most northerly village on Scottish mainland. 

Dunnet Head

The northernmost point on mainland Scotland is Dunnet Head. Located near the town of Dunnet in the Caithness region, it is a great place to visit on the NC500 route. 

This wild and rugged part of the coastline is found by following sign posts along a narrow single track road from the town out towards the coast. 

The towering cliffs at Dunnet Head reach a height of over 100 meters tall. It is common to see a lot of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots and razor bills, as well as dolphins, seals and sometimes whales in the water below.

Dunnet Lighthouse is situated at the top of Dunnet Head which was built in 1831 and is still in operation today.

Balnakeil Beach

This picturesque white sand beach makes for a great stop on your North Coast 500 road trip. The beach is wide and includes some large sand dunes, located near Cape Wrath on the north of Scotland.

One of the more unique sights to see on the North Coast 500 is Smoo Cave, located in the village of Durness. 

This fascinating sea cave is formed of three chambers, one at the entrance, the second featuring a waterfall cascading from a hole in the ceiling and freshwater pool and the third chamber at the back of the cave. 

Smoo Cave is believed to be the deepest freshwater pool in Scotland reaching depths of 20 meters. Additionally, Smoo Cave dates back to the neolithic period and it is believed it used to be used as a shelter by the Vikings during their raids along the coast of Scotland.

Achmelvich Beach

One of the most well known beaches in Scotland is Achmelvich Beach. This is due to its white sand and remote location amongst the rugged coastline of this part of Scotland. 

Achmelvich Beach is located 3 miles north west of the small town of Lochinver. It is accessed by following a winding single track road around the bottom of the mountain, adding to the charm of how remote this area of Scotland is.

When you visit Achmelvich Beach, make sure to look out for Hermit’s Castle, Europe’s smallest castle that dates back to 1950. 

Waterfalls near the NC500 route

Due to the significant rainfall in Scotland there are numerous waterfalls located around the North Coast 500 route. Some of the best waterfalls to visit are Clashnessie Falls, Wailing Widow Falls, Fairy Glen Falls and Rogie Falls. 

Whaligoe Steps 

The Whaligoe Steps are one of the more unique sights to visit on the North Coast 500. The 365 steps lead you down to a small harbor surrounded by towering 250 feet cliffs. 

These steps have been in place for over 200 years and are restored regularly by locals.

Bealach Na Ba

The Bealach Na Ba is one of the most famous roads in Scotland due to its picturesque design winding through the mountains and overlooking Loch Kishorn. 

You can expect to have incredible views along this route and it’s actually widely considered one of the best places to visit in Scotland . 

Note: It is advised that large vehicles don’t drive this road, due to how steep and narrow it is.

John o’ Groats

A village on Scotland’s north coast, John o’Groats is also famous because it’s the northernmost point of mainland Britain. In fact, there is a well known route to travel the entire length of the UK, from Land’s End to John o’Groats .

A stop here isn’t complete without snapping a photo in front of the famous John o’Groats sign post.

Endless lochs on the NC500 route

Scotland is also home to some of the most scenic freshwater lakes called lochs. Along the NC500, the lochs are surrounded by mountainous backdrops and make for some pretty incredible scenery. 

Loch Assynt, Loch Maree, Loch Eriboll and Loch Torridon are some of the most beautiful lochs in Scotland and can be visited on the North Coast 500 route.

Corrieshalloch Gorge

Corrieshalloch Gorge is a National Trust Scotland site in the Wester Ross region of the NC500. A visit to the gorge includes a nice walk around the woodland trails, crossing the high suspension bridge that overlooks the Falls of Measach which tumbles 45 meters into the gorge below.

Ardvreck Castle 

Standing on a rocky outcrop in Loch Assynt are the ruins of Ardvreck Castle, which dates back to the 15th century. There are no facilities here however you will be able to see Ardvreck Castle as you are driving along the road.

Stac Pollaidh 

Stac Pollaidh is one of the most popular mountains in the Scottish Highlands. 

The Stac Pollaidh hike is a 4km (2.5-mile) circular trail located near Lochinver. The trail includes 612 meters (1,479 ft) of elevation gain and takes around 3 hours to complete. 

Be prepared for the weather to change quickly if you decide to hike Stac Pollaidh.

Kylesku Bridge

One of the most iconic sights on the North Coast 500 is the Kylesku Bridge. This curved metal bridge crosses Loch a’ Chàirn Bhàin in one of the most scenic and mountainous areas in the Sutherland region. 

There are large car parks on either side of the bridge where you can park to enjoy the views or take some photos.

Psst! If you have time to discover more of the country, don’t miss these epic places to visit in Scotland .

Due to how remote this part of Scotland is, it is advised to plan for your trip to the North Coast 500 before you leave to ensure you have a smooth trip.

Book hotels and accommodation in advance 

With the popularity of driving the NC500, it’s no surprise the restaurants and accommodations along the route can book up far in advance. 

We recommend booking your accommodation as soon as you decide on your North Coast 500 itinerary to make sure you have somewhere comfortable to rest your head. 

Campervan facilities on the NC500

If you are traveling the NC500 in a campervan or motorhome, we recommend using the app Park4night . This will help you to plan where to rest your head for the night and where to find freshwater and waste facilities along the route. 

Staying connected on the NC500

Being so remote, it is likely that you will struggle to have good cell signal along the North Coast 500. We always recommend having an offline map downloaded in case you need it. (You can do this one Google Maps – download the offline version of the map.) 

We recommend getting a SIM card through EE for the best connection around the route.

Reduced facilities

Being in a remote part of the country, you will come across fewer petrol stations and supermarkets along the North Coast 500. In some areas there aren’t any small shops either so make sure you are prepared before you go. 

We recommend planning out your fuel and food stops ahead of time, so you don’t find yourself running out of gas with no petrol stations in sight. 

Best time of year to drive the NC500

The North Coast 500 can be driven at any time of year. However the best chance for good weather would be during the spring or summer months.  

From April onwards, seasonal businesses begin to reopen and outdoor activities such as boat trips and tours will begin running again. 

The traffic around the North Coast 500 will be busy during school holidays therefore we would suggest avoiding these times if possible.

Psst! You’ll find our guide to the best time to visit Scotland helpful to get the full breakdown on what makes each season distinct and unique to help cater to your trip.

Tips for driving the NC500

Follow these tips to give yourself the best experience while driving the North Coast 500 route. 

• Plan your route ahead of time as many of the roads will be narrow and single track, driven on the left. Some roads are not entirely suitable for larger vehicles, especially when heavily trafficked, as some roads have drop off verges. 
• Do not pass cars unless in a passing lane. There are passing lanes situated along many of the single track roads. It is important to be aware that these are used for passing only and not as a parking space. 
• While admiring the scenery, look out for wildlife such as deer as it is common for them to be seen near the roads, especially at night.
• Petrol stations and supermarkets are scarce around the NC500 so it is important to plan your trip with this in mind. You will come across local shops in the villages around the route but for more unique products, you may only be able to purchase these in the supermarkets.

Psst! For more tips and advice, read up on our guide for driving in Scotland .

No matter what time of year you visit Scotland, it is always worth being prepared for the changing weather and remote areas you may be visiting. 

• You won’t need to worry about this if you are visiting in the winter months.
• Comfortable, waterproof shoes or boots: Even if you don’t experience rain, the ground may still be wet from past storms. 
• Waterproof jacket: just in case you experience wet weather on your trip. 
• Dress in layers: these will come in handy as you can dress for whatever weather you are faced with and remove layers should you need to. 

Insider Tip: It is advisable to have your itinerary written out alongside a physical map and download Google maps offline or use a SatNav for directions.

For more ideas on what to pack, download our FREE Scotland packing list .

Where to stay along the North Coast 500

There is a selection of great places to stay around the North Coast 500 route, offering a choice to a variety of budgets. These vary from cabins and glamping pods that offer self catering facilities to hotels and campsites. 

Due to the popularity of the NC500 the restaurants and accommodations can book up very quickly and far in advance. 

Once you’ve committed to the trip and if you have a good idea of a North Coast 500 itinerary , we recommend booking your accommodation to make sure you have somewhere comfortable to rest your head. 

Top lodging recommendations

Old Drynie House, Black Isle : A true B&B with stunning water views, spacious private rooms, and a traditional, formal Scottish breakfast served in a group setting. 

Natural Retreats, John O’Groats : Luxury, self-catering eco-cottages with spectacular views of the ocean and Orkney Islands. Locally-sourced, sustainable materials are used throughout each cottage, alongside modern amenities including large flat-screen TVs with PS3 video game consoles. Onsite bicycle rentals are available. 

Kyle of Tongue Hostel & Campsite : A former historic shooting lodge turned hostel, this is a fantastic affordable accommodation option with both private and shared rooms, plus a campsite. 

Camping on the NC500

Many people choose to drive the NC500 in a campervan or motorhome as there are many campsites around the route. 

If you plan to hire a campervan or motorhome for your NC500 road trip, it is advised to book this in advance as dates will book up fast. You can use the Park4night app to search for waste disposal facilities and fresh water taps around the route.

If you decide to take a tent and camp around the North Coast 500, check out The Scottish Outdoor Access Code which permits camping in a tent in remote areas of the country as long as no trace is left. 

If you plan to have a fire, it is important to raise this off the ground to avoid burning the ground. Any toilet waste should be completed and buried away from water sources. Read up on the 7 principles of Leave No Trace before you go!

Camping around the North Coast 500 is most efficient if you are arriving late in the day and leaving early in the morning.

Psst! This Scotland camping guide has everything you need to know about camping in Scotland, plus some of our top recommended campsites around the country.

NC 500 FAQs

The North Coast 500 road trip requires a lot of planning to make the most of your trip. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about the NC500.

How long does it take to do the North Coast 500?

Driving the North Coast 500 can take as long as you need it to. There are so many sights to see that you may not have time to see everything if you try to pack it all in a short amount of time.

We would recommend spending at least 7 days on the North Coast 500 , however, 14 days would allow you to drive the 516 mile route at a more enjoyable pace.

Is the North Coast 500 worth it?

The North Coast 500 has been named the best road trip in the UK on many occasions. So we’d say it is definitely worth a trip up to the Highlands of Scotland to see what all the fuss is about.

Where does the North Coast 500 start and finish?

The North Coast 500 route starts and finishes in Inverness , the capital city of the Scottish Highlands. 

It is up to you which direction you want to go – clockwise or counterclockwise along the route. Many travelers choose to go east to west to enjoy the incredible scenery on the west coast of Scotland at the end of their trip.

Is the North Coast 500 hard to drive?

The North Coast 500 is a popular tourist route, therefore the roads can be very busy with campervans, caravans and even lorries. 

It is important to take care on the narrow roads and use the passing lanes when necessary. However it is not a difficult drive, as long as you are comfortable driving on the left side of the road. 

Do you need a 4×4 vehicle to drive the NC500?

A 4×4 vehicle isn’t required to drive the NC500 route.

What is the best route for the North Coast 500?

The North Coast 500 route follows the scenic coastline around the north coast of Scotland. The direction that many people prefer driving is from east to west.

What is the most scenic part of the NC500?

Everyone will have a different opinion on where the most scenic part of the North Coast 500 is. However, we think driving through the Torridon Mountain range showcases some of the most incredible scenery in Scotland.

Why is the NC500 so popular?

The NC500 showcases some of the most remote and scenic areas in Scotland. There is an immense amount of history in the area as well as geographical diversity from towering mountains to white sandy beaches.

The NC500 has also been named the best road trip in the UK on many occasions adding to the popularity of the route.

About the author

Gemma Spence and her partner Campbell are the explorers behind Highlands2hammocks . We aim to inspire alternative living and can be found living in our home on wheels, Ellie, or traveling to destinations around the world. 

Are you planning a trip to Scotland?

We have lots of resources on travel in Scotland and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Scotland Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Unforgettable Things to Do in Scotland
• Scottish Foods to Try on Your Next Trip
• Land’s End to John o’Groats: How to Travel the Length of the UK
• How to Plan the Ultimate Scotland Road Trip

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Are you planning to travel the North Coast 500 route around northern Scotland? Which of the highlights are you most excited to see? Let us know if you have questions in the comments below!

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Guide to Scotland's North-West Highlands: where to stay, places to visit and great walks

With sparkling snowscapes, majestic peaks, epic views and warm hearths, the north-west Highlands is a truly thrilling experience – escape to this remote corner of Britain with our holiday guide.

Chris Townsend

The landscapes of the north-west Highlands are glorious all year. In this remote region, you’ll find the highest waterfalls, biggest sea cliffs and the most unusual and spectacular mountains in Britain, along with beautiful lochs (both sea and freshwater), golden-sand beaches and some of the oldest rocks in the world.

From Loch Duich and the familiar sight of Eilean Donan Castle all the way to Cape Wrath at the north-west corner of mainland Scotland, this is a land of wonders.

Our guide to the North-West Highlands of Scotland, including where to stay, wildlife highlights, places to visit and the best walking route.

Geology of the North-West Highlands

A geological curiosity in this region is a strip of limestone running across the landscape. This gives rise to the lush green fields around Elphin and results in some big caves – a rarity in the Highlands – in the Inchnadamph area.

A round trip of 2.75 miles (4.5km) leads to the Bone Caves, so called because, when excavated, the bones of animals that once lived here – including wolves, lynx, Arctic foxes, reindeer and polar bears – were found. When the area is snow-covered, it’s not hard to visualise these large predators roaming here in search of the next meal. Although short, this walk does cross a steep slope and the caves can be slippery inside, so explore with care.

Related articles

• Guide to Perthshire
• Guide to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs
• Guide to the Scottish Islands

Wildlife to see

There is a wealth of wildlife in the north-west Highlands. Red deer, the largest mammal in the Highlands, come down from snow-covered hills in search of food and may be seen in glens and even close to roads, often congregating in large herds.

Look out for otters in sea lochs. About the size of a small dog, these graceful, playful animals are active by day and can be seen swimming or foraging along the tide line.

If you’re lucky you may spot a white-tailed eagle flying slowly over the landscape. These magnificent eagles are the largest bird of prey in the UK.

Places to visit

Beinn eighe national nature reserve.

To the north-east is little Kinlochewe at the head of beautiful freshwater Loch Maree, which stretches 12.5 miles (20km) almost to the sea. Just along the loch from Kinlochewe are the ancient pinewoods of Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve, the first such reserve in Britain. Under snow, the forest is magical, shimmering and glistening – a white wonderland.

A path, the Mountain Trail, winds up through the trees to the big Conservation Cairn. It’s a wonderful walk but steep in places, so great care is needed when it’s icy. It ends well above the trees, too, where you’ll be exposed to the full blast of the winter weather. The views across the dark waters of Loch Maree far below to the rugged wedge of Slioch mountain are tremendous. visitscotland.com/beinn-eighe-national-nature-reserve

Coigach and Assynt

North of Ullapool are the mountains in the districts of Coigach and Assynt, the strangest and most distinctive peaks in Britain. Rising steeply out of a low undulating land of little lochs and knolls – known as a cnoc and lochan landscape – each mountain is separate and unique. When snow-covered, they look like great white monsters rearing into the sky – primeval beasts from another time. From Ben More Coigach over Stac Pollaidh and Suilven to Quinag and Foinaven, they are all marvellous, and steep – not for the inexperienced climber.

This is a geologically fascinating region, important in the discoveries of how the world was formed, and home to some of the oldest rocks in the world. In winter, with snow covering the ground, it’s easy to see how the melting of the glaciers at the end of the last Ice Age shaped this landscape, carving hollows that became lochs, ripping off the sides of the mountains, and dumping boulders – glacial erratics – and vast areas of sand and gravel. The whole area, from Ben More Coigach to Cape Wrath, makes up the North West Highlands Geopark.

There is a superb cross-country walk through the region, from the little hamlet of Elphin to the fishing port of Lochinver, where you can restore your strength with a marvellous pie from Lochinver Larder. This 12-mile (20km) walk passes below the peaks of Canisp and fantastic-looking Suilven, perhaps the most impressive peak in the region. While not a mountaineering route, it does cross rough remote country and should not be taken lightly in winter. ullapool.com

Falls of Kirkaig

Just along the coast from Lochinver is Inverkirkaig where you’ll find the wonderful Achins Book and Coffee Shop, perhaps the most remote bookshop on mainland Britain. From here, there’s a lovely walk up a wooded glen to the Falls of Kirkaig , where the river plunges 18 metres down a cleft in sheer cliffs between wooded buttresses into a deep pool. The path down to the falls is steep and rocky; avoid it if icy.

Another lower-level walk that doesn’t require mountaineering skills is the eight-mile (13km) circuit of Cam Loch just south of Elphin. ‘Cam’ means crooked, or distorted, and the loch has a shoreline that twists and turns round many bays and promontories, making for an interesting walk, especially as there are splendid views of the mountains rising all around.

Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve

To learn more about the fascinating geology of the area, visit Knockan Crag, a national nature reserve 12.5 miles (21km) north of Ullapool, where there’s a visitor centre and several trails with interpretive signs, poetry and sculpture. The Crag Top Trail is the longest; it takes about an hour and offers superb views of the surrounding landscape. A line of snow-capped hills rises out of a watery land replete with lochans as far as the eye can see. nature.scot/knockan-crag-national-nature-reserve

Eas a’ Chual Aluinn – Britain's highest waterfalls

Further north past the Inchnadamph Hotel (closed in winter) is Loch na Gainmhich; from here you can walk across rough ground for four miles (6.5km) to the top of the highest waterfall in Britain, Eas a’ Chual Aluinn – the Splendid Falls of Coul – that crash 200 metres into the glen below.

Only rarely does this impressive and powerful waterfall freeze but it’s still worth a visit in winter as the snow-covered surroundings enhance its dramatic setting. Ice climbers have ascended the waterfall on occasions when it has frozen, which must have been an amazing spectacle. The area at the top of the falls can be slippery in places so go carefully.

Sandwood Bay

Not far from the latter is the start of the four-mile (6.5km) walk to lovely Sandwood Bay – a curving sweep of pink-hued sand backed by big dunes and flanked by towering cliffs, owned and protected by the John Muir Trust. This is arguably the finest beach in Britain.

The whole coast north to Cape Wrath is remarkable, with huge cliffs, tottering sea stacks, wave-lashed skerries, hidden coves and pebble beaches. The screaming of seabirds is a constant accompaniment. In winter, watching the grey sea crashing on the rocks, it’s easy to imagine the Viking longboats coming around Cape Wrath. The name Wrath comes from the Norse hvarf , meaning headland; Cape Wrath was a major navigational feature for the Vikings.

The route from Sandwood Bay to Cape Wrath is a 12-mile (19km) walk. Awaiting you is Cape Wrath Lighthouse’s Ozone Café, which – remarkably – is open 24 hours aday, 365 days a year. You can stay at the lighthouse, where a bunkhouse sleeps eight. If you don’t fancy the walk, café owner John Ure says he will happily drop or collect customers from the nearby village of Durness, until the regular minibus service resumes at Easter (and continues until mid-October).

If you have other plans for the night, even a simple walk part-way to Cape Wrath from Sandwood Bay is very worthwhile. The lighthouse, built in 1828 by Robert Stevenson, grandfather of author Robert Louis Stevenson (of Treasure Island and Kidnapped fame ) , is visible from far down the coast, and makes a spectacular ending to your journey through this wildly beautiful, rugged landscape. capewrath.org.uk

Villages and towns

Further north, past sharp-fanged An Teallach (its alpine conditions in winter also require mountaineering skills to ascend), is Little Loch Broom, then Loch Broom itself and the town of Ullapool, the biggest settlement in the north-west Highlands and a lovely fishing port with all the facilities you’d need. ullapool.com

Gairloch and Poolewe

To the north-west of Loch Maree are the lovely coastal villages of Gairloch and Poolewe, both good bases for combining coastal and hill walks, and excellent for warming food and coastal strolls when the mountains are wrapped in blizzards.

Kylesku, Rhiconich and Kinlochbervie

There are few settlements north of Ullapool. Kylesku is the main village, situated at the junction of the sea lochs Glencoul and Gleann Dubh. A dramatic 276-metre bridge crosses the narrows between the two lochs. Further north on the coast are the hamlets of Rhiconich and Kinlochbervie.

Places to stay

Gerry’s hostel, strathcarron.

A long-established hillwalking hostel surrounded by mountains. There’s a dormitory as well as family rooms, and a wood fire keeps the common room warm after a cold day out. From £20 per person per night. 01520 766232, gerryshostel.com

Cape Wrath Bunkhouse

Cape Wrath Bunkhouse sleeps eight, beds are £5 a night; 01971 511314, visitscotland.com

Ferry Boat Inn, Ullapool

This small, comfortable and traditional hotel sits on the shores of Loch Broom. As well as wonderful views, it has a seafood restaurant and bar, and is just a few minutes’ walk from the centre of town. Double rooms from £65. 01854 612431, fbiullapool.com

The Torridon

Located on the shores of Loch Torridon, this sumptuous hotel has wonderful views across the loch to the mountains. The building, dating back to the 1860s, is magnificent and the personal service exemplary. Don’t miss its award-winning whisky bar with over 365 malts. Double rooms from £165. 01445 791242, thetorridon.com

Where to eat

After a bracing day in the cold, a bowl of hearty soup is a great way to warm up. Scotch broth and lentil soup are traditional Highland favourites. If you’re still not full, a rich clootie dumpling packed with oatmeal and dried fruit will take care of that.

Lochinver Larder, Lochinver

A marvellous place with absolutely amazing pies. 01571 844356, piesbypost.co.uk/lochlarder

The Ceilidh Place, Ullapool

An excellent spot in Ullapool for an evening meal. There’s often live music, and a great bookshop and art gallery to browse in as well. 01854 612103, theceilidhplace.com

The Mountain Coffee Company, Gairloch

An interesting, quirky café, with an independent bookstore stocking local maps and guides. Superb coffee and giant homemade scones make for a great breakfast. 01445 712316

The Elphin Tearooms, Elphin

Tearooms with homemade soups, cakes and scones, and stunning views of Suilven; it’s dog-friendly, too. elphintearooms.co.uk

Visiting in winter?

Winter journeys require careful preparation. If you venture far from the roads, particularly if going up the hills, experience of winter walking is necessary. Alternatively, go with a local guide. Keep an eye on the weather forecast, too. Winter storms are fierce and exhilarating – but you don’t want to be caught in one in the hills.

The village of Lochinver, on the shore beneath the west face of Quinag (808 metres), Scotland ©Alamy

To escape the winter weather and the long hours of darkness, there are warm, friendly bars and cafés and many comfortable places to stay. But be sure to call ahead and check they’re open, because some places close in winter or have restricted opening hours. Sitting before a blazing log fire with a dram and listening to local musicians play is a wonderful way to end a winter’s day.

Walking advice

These websites offer information about walking routes low and high, local geology and facilities.

• Find hundreds of walking routes across the Highlands; walkhighlands.co.uk

• Discover maps and tools to help you make the most of your geopark visit; nwhgeopark.com

• For a wealth of information on all aspects of visiting Scotland; visitscotland.com

Find good advice on the skills and equipment you need in the winter hills on Mountaineering Scotland ( mountaineering.scot/safety-and-skills ) and Walk Highlands ( walkhighlands.co.uk/safety/winter-skills.shtml ).

Guided walks

A safe way to venture out is with a local guide.

• Hamlet Mountaineering A full guided day is £160, plus £20 per additional person. 01854 622754, hamletmountaineering.com

• Kintail Mountain Activities £130 a day for one person, £150 for two. Four or more is £50 per person a day. kintailmountainactivities.co.uk

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

The Perfect 5 Day North Coast 500 Itinerary: The Ultimate Scottish Road Trip!

Last updated: June 30, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - 35 Comments

We’ve driven Scotland’s North Coast 500 road trip multiple times, in all seasons. We’ve taken trips lasting between five days and three weeks, and we’ve shared a number of planning guides, highlights, and itineraries on our blogs already.

Today we’re going to share our idea of the ideal 5 Day North Coast 500 itinerary, to help you plan your own 5 day Scottish road trip!

We would suggest that five days is a good amount of time in which to drive the North Coast 500. Five days will give you enough time for sightseeing and stops along the way, without feeling too rushed.

You can of course drive the NC500 more quickly, but we would strongly advise against this. There’s so much to see on the way, and the roads are not fast. As a minimum, we’d suggest at least four days to complete the route, and five to give yourself a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Of course, you can take longer. We’ve taken multiple trips on the NC500, some over two weeks in length. There’s always more to see, back roads to explore, and far flung beaches to hike to! If you have longer, check out our detailed 1 week NC500 itinerary .

This itinerary assumes you’ll be driving the North Coast 500 in a car or motorbike, and staying in hotels or guesthouses along the way, and we have recommended some of our favourite accommodation options along the route for each night.

The North Coast 500 is also a popular route to do as a camping trip, either with a motorhome or a more traditional tent.

If you are planning on hiring a motorhome for the trip, then we recommend comparing prices across a range of providers using a service like Motorhome Republic . You can see their UK listings here . We can also recommend checking out Spaceships for camper rental, you can check their prices here .

Another good option to consider if you’d like a more robust camper vehicle are the four wheel drive camper trucks from Wild Camper Trucks. See their Scotland options here .

If you decide to camp, we have a 7 day North Coast 500 camping itinerary , as well as a detailed guide to all the North Coast 500 campsites . If you wanted to camp on a five-day trip instead of seven, we’d suggest using this post for the itinerary, and our campsite guide for ideas on where to stay.

Now, let’s get started with this detailed 5-day North Coast 500 itinerary.

5 Day North Coast 500 Itinerary

5 days on the North Coast 500 will give you a good amount of time to see many of the sights along the way. However, as the going is slower in some parts than others, we’ve tried to balance this itinerary so you get fairly similar amounts of driving time each day.

The slower parts of the route, largely due to winding single track roads, are to be found in the north west section around Durness, and the south west section around Torridon. So whilst the distances on some of these days might be less than other days, the slow going nature of the roads means they’ll take longer.

Any detours you take, especially those on the west coast such as to the beautiful beaches of Achmelvich or Achiltibuie will also add time as these are slow roads.

We’d recommend reading this post in parallel with our North Coast 500 planning guide , to get all the information you need for your adventure.

• Day 1: Inverness to Wick

The North Coast 500 starts and finishes in Inverness , so that is where our itinerary also starts and finishes. This is a very logical place for your adventure to begin, as it is well served by an airport and a fast train line, which links to the rest of Scotland and also England. You can even get an overnight sleeper train from London to Inverness.

Inverness is also fairly easy to reach by car, with a good road running between Edinburgh and Inverness, with a driving time of just over three hours. Inverness makes for a great base for exploring nearby attractions, including Loch Ness .

If you have time, we can recommend spending a day or two here at the start or end of your NC500 road trip. We have a guide to things to do in Inverness , as well as some suggested day trips from Inverness .

Once you have yourself sorted out, and have your vehicle ready with road trip supplies (Inverness is a good place for both filling up on fuel and picking up road trip snacks!), it’s time to head north as we have a lot to see and do today.

The first area to explore is the Black Isle. This is a peninsula of land just north of Inverness which is home to its own brewery , a ruined cathedral and even some beautiful waterfalls . The Black Isle is also one of the best places in the UK to watch dolphins from the shore, which you can do at Chanonry Point if the tides are right.

For more ideas on the Black Isle, see our complete guide to things to do on the Black Isle .

Continuing north from the Black Isle, a short detour off the A9 road will bring you to Dornoch. This is home to a lovely cathedral, as well of one of Scotland’s most well-known golf courses, the Royal Dornoch . There’s also a stone in Dornoch which marks the spot where the last witch was burnt in Scotland, in 1727.

Dornoch is a good place for a coffee or chocolate stop at the wonderful Cocoa Mountain Cafe . This started in Balnakeil, although that location sadly closed in 2022, so now you have to get your chocolate and coffee mix a bit earlier on in your journey in Dornoch.

From Dornoch it’s another 20 minutes drive north to one of the highlights of the day, the spectacular Dunrobin Castle . This is a beautiful castle that looks like it has fallen straight out of a fairy tale, and we highly encourage you to stop and spend some time visiting.

As well as a guided tour of the castle, you can explore the grounds, watch the falconry displays (see the falconry displays section of the website to see when they are on) and visit the Victorian era museum.

A short drive north of Dunrobin Castle is Carn Liath, or the Grey Cairn. There’s a small parking area just before the Cairn ( here on Google Maps), and it’s a 2 minute walk from here to the Cairn via a footpath.

Carn Liath is a broch – an iron age structure that is around 2,000 years old. There are many of these all around Scotland, and this is one of the better preserved and more easily accessible brochs along the North Coast 500, which we think makes it worth stopping at.

From Carn Liath you are on the final hour of driving to your destination for the first night, the town of Wick. You’ll pass through the pretty fishing village of Helmsdale, home to the excellent Timespan Museum . If you have time, it makes a good stop for learning about the history of the area, including the people, landscape and traditional trades.

The last location you’ll pass on the first day of our itinerary is the Whaligoe steps , a series of steps carved out of the cliff face here which lead down to the sheltered Whaligoe Bay. This was once a popular harbour for local fishermen due to its natural protection, but when artificial harbours were built nearby, it fell into disuse.

No doubt the women who had to cart the baskets of fish up these steps weren’t too sad about that!

Finally you’re going to arrive at the town of Wick. This has a few attractions that we suggest you cover on your next day. For now, it’s time to head for dinner and a good night’s sleep.

Day 1 Highlights : Black Isle, Dunrobin Castle

Day 1 Driving Distance : ~ 130 miles

Day 1 Driving Time : ~ 3 hours

Day 1 Accommodation : Overnight at (or near) Wick. We recommend Thrumster House if you’re looking for a B&B. If you’re looking for somewhere in Wick, we recommend Mackays Hotel , which also serves lovely meals. Here are some other options to consider:

• Clachan B&B in Wick – This is a well-rated bed-and-breakfast offering comfortable rooms, free WiFi, and an included full breakfast. About a 10 minute walk from town center.
• Bower Wigwams in Bowermadden – A collection of camping pods offering good value glamping stays and each includes mattresses, television, towels, and basic amenities. Some pods have en-suite bathrooms. Located about 10 miles north of Wick.

For more options see our guide to our favourite B&B’s along the NC500 , as well as our overall guide to NC500 accommodation .

• Day 2: Wick to Tongue

Your second day on the North Coast 500 will have you actually driving along Scotland’s northern coastline, and visiting the most northerly point in mainland Britain.

First though, there are a few attractions in and around Wick that we recommend visiting. First of these is the fantastic Wick Heritage Museum . This is found in a warren of former houses near what was the herring harbour.

Inside, you’ll find displays on all sorts of things relating to life in and around Wick. Naturally, there’s a strong focus on fishing, and the history of herring fishing in particular – Wick was once known as the herring capital of Europe!

If you prefer to learn about a different traditionally Scottish craft, then you should drop in at the Old Pulteney Distillery . Founded in 1826, this was for a long time the oldest distillery on mainland Scotland. They produce an excellent single malt with a distinctive flavour that comes from the whisky being exposed to the salty air during the maturation process.

We also have a guide to whisky distilleries on the North Coast 500 if you’re interested in visiting more distilleries along the route.

Other highlights of the area include some castle ruins such as the ruins of Castle Sinclair Girnigoe , although you might want to be making tracks by now as you’ve still got a fair way to go.

From Wick, you’re going to continue north on the A99 until you get to John O’Groats. From here you get lovely views of Orkney, a group of islands off the north coast of Scotland. You can also take a picture at the famous John O’Groats sign – famous because John O’Groats is the most northerly town on the UK mainland.

If you wish, you can take a short detour from John O’Groats (around a five-minute drive) up to Duncansby Head lighthouse. The view from the cliff top here is quite wonderful, and at the right time of year you might be lucky enough to spot whales. You can also take a ten-minute walk across the field to the Duncansby sea stacks.

Continuing west along the coast you will come to the next stop on our route for the day, the Castle of Mey . This was owned for a time by the Queen Mother. It’s possible to tour the castle, as well as the grounds, and there is a good cafe on site for tea, coffee and light snacks and meals.

Further along the coast from the Castle of Mey you will come to the town of Dunnet. There’s a lovely beach here, as well as a fantastic gin distillery. If you a gin lover, it is very much worth stopping at the Dunnet Bay Distillery to take their tour and sample some of their gins (unless you are the driver of course!).

You can take a detour from Dunnet up to Dunnet Head . This is home to an RSPB wildlife reserve, and is also the most northerly point in mainland Britain.

Enjoy the drive along the north coast, and do enjoy the dual lane roads while you have them, as you get further west you are going to find yourself on single track roads! If you’ve never drive on one lane roads, see my guide to driving on single track roads for some tips.

The town of Bettyhill is worth a stop for the Strathnaver museum . This is a lovely little museum which tells the history of the Scottish highlands, including the clan systems and the tragic tale of the Highland clearances. There’s also a Pictish standing stone here.

The next major village you’ll come to is Tongue, where there’s a small shop and a gas station, as well as various accommodation options. This is where we suggest you spend the night. The next town along is Durness if you would prefer to keep going, but we often struggle to find availability in Durness.

In Tongue, if you want to do a nice 40 minute round trip hike with spectacular views, we can recommend the walk up to the ruins of Castle Varrich. It’s only a small two storey castle, but the views really are worth it.

Day 2 Highlights : Wick Heritage Museum, Castle of Mey, most northerly part of mainland UK

Day 2 Driving Distance : ~90 miles

Day 2 Driving Time : ~ 2 hours 30 minutes

Day 2 Accommodation :  In Tongue we recommend and have stayed at both the recently refurbished Tongue Hotel (also does good evening meals) and Tigh Nan Ubhal guesthouse in Tongue. We can also recommend the Ben Loyal hotel – we haven’t stayed here, but we had a lovely evening meal here once.

There are not a huge number of options in Tongue beyond these, and this area of the NC500 is quite remote so other options require a bit of a drive to get to. If you can’t find somewhere in Tongue you can try Durness where there are a few options, such as the Smoo Cave Hotel and Mackays Rooms . However in our experience Durness can book out even faster than Tongue!

• Day 3: Tongue to Ullapool

The first stretch of driving from Tongue to Durness today is really pretty. It’s also winding and largely a single-track road, so do take your time. You’ll pass some incredible white sand beaches and lovely views before arriving into the town with our first attraction of the day – Smoo Cave.

As the name suggests, Smoo Cave is a large cave which is a combination freshwater and seawater cave. It has a number of impressive features, most spectacular of which in our opinion is the waterfall inside the cave.

Getting down to the cave is via a series of steps, and it will likely take you around ten minutes from the car park. You can explore the cave mouth area and visit the waterfall via a wooden walkway (be careful as it can be slippery). If you want to explore further, you can do so via a guided cave tour, with information on that available here .

Other highlights in Durness include the lovely Sango Sands beach and, a short drive to the west, the Balnakeil Craft Village . This was an early warning station in the 1950s, built to detect and warn of nuclear attack during the height of the cold war. However, it was never actually used, and it was instead repurposed, becoming the craft village that you see today.

This has been a long process, but today the village, which is now largely owned by the residents, is home to a number of lovely craft shops and cafes. It’s definitely worth exploring the craft shops, as you may find the perfect souvenir to take home from your trip.

It’s time now to turn south, and drive down the west coast of the North Coast 500. As a landscape photographer, I will admit that the west stretch of the route down through the county of Sutherland is one my favourite photography locations on the North Coast 500 .

There are lovely views to be had on this stretch of the drive, with one of the more iconic North Coast 500 photos being Kylsesku bridge. There’s a parking area here just before the bridge with nice views of the surrounding landscape.

A short way after the bridge, on the left-hand side of the road as you drive south, is the Rock Stop Cafe and Exhibition Centre . This is an excellent place to come and learn about the geology of the area, which was in fact instrumental in shaping our understanding of geological processes in general.

After the Rock Stop Cafe and a bit more driving you will come to where the A894 road meets the A837. If you turn right you can head down to Lochinver, home to an excellent pie shop and the Highland Stoneware centre , which is worth visiting if you are keen on pottery.

The trip to Lochinver will be at least a 30 minute detour though, so keep that in mind. Otherwise, just after you turn left (east) onto the A837 you will come to the ruins of Ardvreck Castle and Calda House on the shores of Loch Assynt.

Dating from the 16th century, these castle ruins are free to visit, and there’s parking on site, with information panels detailing what you are seeing. The castle was originally built by Clan MacLeod in 1590, although it was captured by Clan MacKenzie in 1672.

They were responsible for constructing Calda House, a more formal manor house, in 1726, but this burnt down in 1737 and was never restored.

From Ardvreck Castle, continue south on the A835. If you’re interested in geology, a stop at Knockan Crag National Natural reserve is a good option

But there is also a trail here that takes you up onto the ridge above the car park, where you can get even better views. Along the trail, there are a series of art installations and informational exhibits about what you are seeing and how it formed.

You are nearly at the end of your third day on the North Coast 500, with your final destination of the day being Ullapool, which is the largest town you’ll be visiting on the west coast. This is a good place to refuel and get any additional supplies you might need. It also has the largest choice of hotels and B&Bs in the region, as well as some good restaurants to choose from.

If you’d prefer to be a bit further out, and see some more spectacular beaches and scenery, we can recommend the half hour detour to the village of Achiltibuie. The drive out here is truly incredible. There’s also a hotel out here you can stay at, the Summer Isles Hotel .

Day 3 Highlights : Smoo Cave, Ardvreck Castle, Knockan Crag

Day 3 Driving Distance : ~ 100 miles

Day 3 Driving Time : ~ 3 hours

Day 3 Accommodation : Ullapool has a good range of accommodation options. Some places to consider are:

• The Arch Inn – a popular loch-front option with a good restaurant we have dined at many times
• Harbour House – a few minute’s walk from the town with lovely loch views, a range of rooms and a good sized car park. We have stayed here a number of times and always had a good experience.
• Westlea B&B – family-run B&B offering five comfortable and stylish themed rooms.
• Royal Hotel Ullapool – a 3-star 19th century hotel which is one of the largest and oldest in central Ullapool. Offers more amenities than many of the others and popular with families and groups
• Croft 17 B&B – a lovely B&B run by Ullapool locals Jaimie and Martin, found just five minutes drive from Ullapool.
• Ullapool Youth Hostel – an excellent budget option offering a central location
• Day 4: Ullapool to Torridon

From Ullapool you head south a short way on the A835 before turning right onto the A832 and heading out to the coast. The first attraction you’ll come to is the Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve .

This is the home of a mile long box canyon, which you can see from a Victorian suspension bridge that crosses the gorge. This is reached via a short (if steep) walk, and there are also walking trails along both sides of the gorge.

Continue from Corrieshalloch on the A832 out around the coast. If you want to visit a beautiful and fairly deserted white sand beach, a detour to Mellon Udrigle beach is a great option, after which you’ll come to the village of Aultbea where there is a nice memorial to the wartime convoys. You’ll find this in a small park just north of the village.

Further on from Aultbea you will come to the Inverewe Garden and Estate . Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, this is lovely garden to explore which, thanks to a unique microclimate, is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species.

Most impressive perhaps are the huge California redwoods, but you might also be lucky enough to see red squirrels, red deer, otters, seals, and golden eagles.

If you have an interest in WW2 relics, a detour up to the Cove Light Anti-Aircraft battery from Poolewe is a good option. This is around 20 minutes drive each way. The coastal battery was built in 1941 to provide anti-air defences to the coastline here. Whilst it was manned throughout the war, it never saw action.

It was a fairly large installation though, and there’s still a lot left to see, although do take care as it is an old and unmaintained structure.

The A832 now loops back inland, and you will start to drive along the shore of lovely Loch Maree. This offers some lovely photo opportunities, especially as the loch has Siloch mountain providing an impressive backdrop.

There’s also a short walk to a waterfall here called Victoria falls . It’s a short walk to the viewing platform to see the falls, which are pretty, if not quite as impressive as their African counterpart!

After loch Maree you will get to the village of Kinlochewe, where you’ll turn on the A896. This is another stunning stretch of road that winds between mountains and lochs, and offers numerous excellent photography opportunities. Just be considerate of other drivers and only stop in parking areas, not passing places.

Finally, you arrive in Torridon, where we suggest you spend the night. You can also carry on to Locharron or Applecross, where there are further lodging options.

Day 4 Highlights : Corrieshalloch Gorge, Isle of Ewe Smokehouse, Loch Maree views

Day 4 Driving Distance : ~85 miles

Day 4 Driving Time : ~ 2 hours

Day 4 Accommodation : In Torridon if you want to spoil yourself we can highly recommend The Torridon , which is one of the few 5* hotels on the North Coast 500. We had a lovely nights stay, evening meal, and afternoon tea here. They also operate “ The Stables ” next door, a high end B&B style option.

Other nearby options to consider include:

• Torridon Youth Hostel – well-rated hostel offering both dormitory accommodation and private rooms with shared facilities.
• Old School House B&B  in Gairloch – This relatively new B&B is run by Sarah and Rob who have spent many years in the area.
• Kinlochewe Hotel in Kinlochewe. A 3-star hotel offering good value rooms and an on-site bar and restaurant.
• Day 5: Torridon to Inverness

Today you’ll be finishing the North Coast 500 and returning to Inverness. Of course, if you have more time and want to continue exploring, you could also head to the Isle of Skye at this point. If that sounds good, see our tips for visiting the Isle of Skye to help you plan.

Assuming you stayed in Torridon, the first thing we recommend you do is drive around the Applecross peninsula. This will take you on some seriously winding roads which will also offer you views across to the Isle of Skye.

The road is also well known as being home to the Bealach Na Ba, an alpine style road which is one of the highest roads in the UK. The view from the top of the pass is legendary – as are the curves and gradient on the way down! Just take your time and enjoy the views.

Note that this road is generally considered unsuitable for larger motorhomes and if you are towing a caravan. It can also close due to poor weather, especially in winter. So instead, you would want to take the A896 that goes between Sheildaig in the north and Ardarroch in the south, and thus skips the Applecross peninsula.

From the bottom of the Bealach Na Ba you will pass through the village of Locharron. If you want to see deer, a tour with Colin Murdoch of Reraig Forest is a must. Colin is a deer stalker who manages a herd of these beautiful animals, and you’ll get about as close as is possible. The tour lasts around 90 minutes, and is well worth it. Just make sure to book well in advance if this is of interest.

Also near Locharron is the ruined Strome Castle, and Locharron Weavers . If you are interested in learning about how tartan is made, or want to pick up some tartan of your own, Locharron Weavers is the place to come!

From Locharron you will head back up to Achnasheen. You could take a detour to the left here to visit the Glen Docherty viewpoint , which is another great photo opportunity. Otherwise, continue east on the A832 back towards Inverness. If you have time on your way back, you could also stop at Rogie Falls .

If you visit at the right time of year, this is a good spot to see salmon leaping as they journey up to their spawning grounds. Otherwise, it’s a lovely place to enjoy the waterfalls.

Another stop as you near Inverness is the Dingwall Museum , which has a lot of information and displays about the local area.

Finally, you’ll find yourself back in Inverness, where your North Coast 500 road trip adventure comes to an end! We hope you had a wonderful trip.

Day 5 Highlights : Bealach Na Ba, Locharron, Rogie Falls

Day 5 Driving Distance : ~115 miles

Day 5 Driving Time : ~ 3 hours

Day 5 Accommodation : If you are staying the night, there are lots of options in Inverness. We’ve stayed at and can recommend the Bunchrew House Hotel , Kingmills Hotel and Invernevis B&B . For a hostel, consider the well rated Bazpackers .

We also have a general guide to where to book holiday cottages in the UK which will give you  more options for accommodation along the route.

Map of North Coast 500 Itinerary

To help with your route planning we’ve put together a map of this 5 day North Coast 500 itinerary. You can also see this on Google Maps here .

If you’re looking for a physical map to take with you, the two main options are the Collins NC500 Pocket Map or the “Hit the Road 500 Route Around the Highlands by Yellow Road Maps”.

These can be purchased online in advance of your trip from Amazon or Waterstones . They are also sometimes available on eBay . They are also usually available at stores and tourist information offices around the route, including the Inverness iCentre.

There used to be an official printed map produced by the NC500 themselves which was freely available in tourism offices. However, this has now been discontinued in favour of a digital app.

North Coast 500 Itinerary Overview

Here’s a quick overview of the itinerary for reference.

Tips for Driving the North Coast 500

We have written a detailed planning guide for the North Coast 500 , which we recommend reading as it contains a great deal of useful information.

However, we also wanted to include some essential tips in this post to help you plan your trip.

Booking Accommodation on the North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 has become very popular in the last few years, even being labelled Scotland’s Route 66.

Whilst this is great news for the local economies in this otherwise fairly remote part of the UK, it has also meant that it can be tricky to find accommodation. This is particularly the case if travelling during the busier months from May through to September.

As such, we highly advise booking your accommodation in advance if you are travelling in the busier months. There are not a huge number of options, especially in the more remote sections of the route, and just turning up in a town without reservations might result in you having to drive significant distances to find the next available room.

For some options see our guide to our favourite B&B’s along the NC500 , as well as our overall guide to NC500 accommodation . These tend to be some of the more popular places along the route, so booking well in advance is required.

If you are struggling to find accommodation along the North Coast 500, then we suggest trying some alternative websites. Take a look at our guide to where to book holiday cottages in the UK which will give you lots of options for accommodation.

Car and Motorhome Hire for the North Coast 500

This being a road trip, you’re obviously going to need some kind of vehicle. Most people choose to either drive a car or a motorhome on the NC500. If you don’t have your own vehicle, we recommend the following for hire:

• For motorhomes, we recommend comparing prices across a range of providers using a service like Motorhome Republic . You can see their UK listings here . We can also recommend checking out Spaceships for camper rental, you can check their prices here .
• For car hire, there are a range of providers and it’s always worth shopping around to see what prices are on offer. The main car rental companies include   Avis ,  Budget , Europcar , and Enterprise Rent-A-Car , but there are of course many options out there.

WiFi / Cell coverage on the North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 is in one of the most remote and beautiful parts of the UK, which has a low population density. As such, cell coverage can be spotty.

The majority of hotels and guesthouses we’ve stayed in have had WiFi, but don’t expect this to be super fast. It will likely be fine for social media and checking e-mails, but might not suit streaming video or downloading large files.

In addition, some of the older properties on the route, especially the castle hotels, have very thick walls. As such, WiFi might not be available everywhere.

Road Conditions on the North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 has a variety of road types, which vary between normal two lane roads, and single track roads. The roads are, for the most part, in pretty good condition, although some stretches will have pot holes.

If you’ve never driven on single track roads before, we urge you to read our guide to driving on single track roads . This will explain how to properly use passing places, single track road etiquette (who goes first?), and other useful tips.

Please only use the passing places for passing – don’t pull off onto the verges of the road as this causes long term erosion and damage. They are also not for parking in – only use designated parking areas for stopping.

If you are driving in winter, do be aware that conditions can become icy, and the roads can become snow covered. There are gritters, but this is a long stretch of remote road. When we drive the route in winter, we carry snow chains for our car just in case. We’ve not had to use them as yet, but we think it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Eating Along the North Coast 500

You will notice a theme about these tips, as they largely revolve around the remoteness of this area! There are not huge numbers of restaurants along the route, so you will definitely want to plan where you are going to be eating that day, especially for dinner.

Many of the hotels along the route do offer evening meals and breakfasts, and some of the towns also have restaurants. However, do please check opening times, as many restaurants are not open year round. Reservations are often a good idea in the busier months.

If you are staying in a smaller guesthouse or B&B, it is likely that they will not offer an evening meal. If this is the case, make sure you eat before you arrive, or have a plan for a nearby location for a meal, as some spots can be fairly remote. You don’t want to arrive somewhere hungry and realise you have to drive another 40 minutes to find some food!

Responsible Travel on the North Coast 500

The rise in popularity of the North Coast 500 has not been without its issues, as the increase in the visitor numbers has put pressure on the local infrastructure.

This includes things like public toilets and waste disposal, as well as the roads.

This is a wonderful part of the world and we’d love for it to stay that way. If everyone does their bit, including things like being careful with litter, disposing of chemical toilets at official disposal points and driving carefully, it will hopefully remain wonderful for many generations to come.

Further Reading for the North Coast 500

Hopefully this post has given you lots of ideas for planning your own 5 day North Coast 500 itinerary.

As mentioned, we’ve driven the route many times, in all seasons and weathers. We’ve put together a number of articles to help you plan your own adventure. We also have some third party resources to recommend.

• We have a detailed planning guide for the North Coast 500 , as well as a detailed list of reasons to drive the NC500
• For accommodation, we have a guide to where to stay on the North Coast 500 , which covers everything from luxury castle hotels to smaller guesthouses. We also have a list of our favourite B&Bs on the North Coast 500 .
• If you’re looking for a longer trip or tips for camping along the route, we have a 7 day North Coast 500 camping itinerary
• If you are planning on camping or glamping, we have a comprehensive list of all the campsites and glampsites on the North Coast 500
• I’ve put together some of my favourite photography spots on the NC500 , as well as some of our highlights of the NC500 , to help make sure you see everything you want to see.
• This being a driving route, we also have some tips in the area. We have a guide to single track roads , as well tips for driving in the UK in general.
• If you want to extend the route, you could do so from Inverness with the North East 250 driving route – see our 3 day NE250 itinerary for ideas. You could also visit the Isle of Skye or the Isle of Raasay . Alternatively, why not base yourself in Inverness and do some day trips from Inverness ?
• For budget planning, see our guide to  how much it costs to travel in the UK
• The  official website  for the North Coast 500, which has maps, itineraries and advice to help you plan your route.
• If you’re driving the North Coast 500 as part of a longer visit to the UK, check out some of our other guides to both  Scotland , and  England . These include detailed tips on things to do in Edinburgh , things to do in Glasgow , and  things to do on Islay .
• Looking for more road trip inspiration? Check out our guide to the world’s  best road trips  for more ideas!
• If you would like a guide book for your trip, check out the  Rough Guide to the North Coast 500 , as well as  Rick Steves Scotland  book
• You can sometimes buy a copy of the NC500 route map online here .

And that’s it! We hope you’ve found this guide useful, and are now feeling ready to tackle the North Coast 500! As always, if you have any questions or feedback about this post, do let us know in the comments below. Happy driving!

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Lucy Elizabeth Andrew-Willis says

5th January 2024 at 1:00 pm

hi we are looking to do the trip on the 21st July but im scared of the midges ruining our trip but then in September i really dont want to do the rain. Has anyone had experience in mid July is it still classed as high peak if the schools are not broken up yet? thanks

Laurence Norah says

6th January 2024 at 1:22 pm

So we have done the trip at all times of year, even during the height of the midge season, and we’ve never really had major problems with midges. They are definitely more of a problem if you are camping and sitting outdoors and are of course more of an issue during summer, usually from mid-May through to September. It’s only during very still days that they are likely to bother you.

If you are planning on staying in hotels or guesthouses rather than camping, they shouldn’t bother you too much. They’re very slow, so you can outpace them by walking. We would just recommend bringing and using a midge specific repellent, the best one we’ve found is Smidge . One other pest to be wary of are ticks, especially if you are hiking. Just make sure to check yourself over after a hike.

Weather wise we have also done the route in September with no rain and in summer with rain! The Scottish weather is very fickle. Personally I’d probably go with September as it’s likely to be a bit quieter in general but July will also be nice.

Anyway, have a great trip!

Keith Cochrane says

12th July 2021 at 3:59 pm

The ‘ Bealach Na Ba’. You say it’s not suitable for larger motor homes, is that just an advisory or it’s a definite don’t go? We’ve a 7.3m Motorhome and I consider myself a good driver, if I take it slow and the weather is OK then could I go that route? Thanks.

12th July 2021 at 4:26 pm

So it’s an advisory. The wording of the sign on the road specifically says:

“The road rises to a height of 2,053 ft with gradients of 1 in 5 and hairpin bends. Not advised for learner drivers, very large vehicles or caravans after first mile”.

The issue is that the bends are 180 degree hairpins with a steep drop, and drivers in longer vehicles have gotten themselves stuck trying to get around the bends. Then the only option is to reverse, which is obviously quite a hair raising experience on a steep single-track road with traffic in both directions. Burnt out clutches and motorhomes being stuck for hours causing chaos is not uncommon!

Of course, it is possible and it can be done if you are confident in your driving. The only legal restriction I’m aware of is an 18 tonne weight limit.

I’d recommend taking a look at it on Google Maps streetview here and seeing what you think 🙂

Enjoy the trip!

Kathleen says

5th May 2021 at 1:55 pm

I am thinking of doing the 5 day tour, I will be driving alone and not good at map reading . I would depend on my Sat Nav. Is that practical giving reception etc. Are places well signed. I intend to follow your 5 day Itinerary which is brilliant. This will be a challenge as i don’t do long drives very often.

5th May 2021 at 2:23 pm

Hi Kathleen,

Great question! So if you are using the sat nav on your phone, specifically Google Maps, it should allow you to download specific map areas which will allow it to work without phone reception. That is what I usually do when driving the route. That said, for most of the route it is hard to get lost as there aren’t many options! From Inverness you follow the coast up to John O’Groats, then along the north coast to Dingwall, then down to Ullapool. Probably the only complicated area is the south west corner of the route from Ullapool around Torridon and Applecross to Inverness. However as long as you have the sat nav maps available you should be fine.

Have a great trip and let me know if you have any more questions!

Laura Kavanagh-Jones says

30th October 2020 at 1:30 pm

We have followed your itinerary and are now in Achmelvich Beach, it’s been perfect for us and our two children. And today we absolutely loved Smoo Cave and Sango Sands Beach, thank you.

30th October 2020 at 1:31 pm

It’s my pleasure Laura, thanks so much for letting me know! Achmelvich is absolutely gorgeous, have a wonderful time!

Callum McCabe says

10th October 2020 at 7:37 pm

Good Evening,

Looking for some help in planning our NC500 trip, we have hired a campervan for 5 days.

The main interest is beaches and caves, want to do it East to West.

As I have no idea of distances and drive times, I am struggling to work out stops and book campsites for campervans and arrange places to eat.

Do you offer a route planning service at all and recommendations of places to park the campervan? If so what would the cost of this be?

Any help much appreciated.

10th October 2020 at 9:48 pm

Thanks for your comment. So we do have a detailed 7 day camping itinerary for the NC500 which lists a lot of the campsites we recommend – you can see that here: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/7-day-north-coast-500-camping-itinerary/

My suggestion would be to adapt the 5 day itinerary on this page with the 7 day itinerary, and use the campsites suggested in the 7 day itinerary. On Day 2 I would probably switch Wick for Durness as there’s a good campsite in Durness, which is next to a pub.

Speaking of campsites and pubs, the time of year you are travelling will make an impact on which campsites and other services like restaurants are open. In addition, some of the more remote campsites like that at Achmelvich, don’t have an on-site food option. So that is something to consider when planning where to stay if you want places to eat in the evenings.

We don’t generally offer a route planning service as we already have so much content available for free online. However if you are struggling having gone through that, feel free to contact me from the contact page and we will see what we can come up with,

27th July 2020 at 2:23 pm

Hi My husband and I are planning a 7 day driving holiday to Scotland from London. We hope to do this in the second week of August. Could you please advice if we would be stretching ourselves to cover Isle of Skye and them embarking on the NC 500 route?

27th July 2020 at 4:34 pm

To be honest, unless you want to spend a huge amount of time in your car, I would say that this would be a stretch. We recommend a minimum of 5 days to really enjoy the NC500. Whilst you could do it in 2 or 3 days, this would be 2 or 3 days of almost non stop driving. It may only be 500 miles, but the roads are often single track, narrow and winding, with a lot of stopping required if there’s other traffic. Considering you are coming up from London, which is going to be a days drive minimum each way just to reach Skye, I would personally recommend against doing Skye and the NC500 in 7 days.

Instead, if you want to visit Skye, I would suggest spending time visiting the Glencoe area, as well as Loch Lomond, on your way up to Skye.

Alternatively, you could allocate a day of driving each way from London, and then five days on the NC500 as per our itinerary, but I wouldn’t try to do Skye as well.

I hope this helps with your planning 🙂

Have a great trip!

3rd August 2020 at 3:42 pm

Hi Laurence

Thank you for your reply. Could you please advise on my rough itinerary, and whether it will work? Drive from London to Lake District. Stay overnight. Drive to Isle of Skye. Overnight stay. 5 day drive along N500. Overall, 8-9 days

3rd August 2020 at 4:19 pm

This would work. Just be aware it’s around a 6.5 hour drive from the Lake District to the Isle of Skye, and then Skye itself is quite big (around 1.5 hours drive from bottom to top), so if you plan on seeing anything on the island you will want to plan carefully which sites those might be so you have time to actually see them. You will also drive through Glencoe and past Eilean Donan castle on your route, as well as through the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park, all of which are worth a stop and photos at least 🙂

21st July 2020 at 4:17 pm

Hi, I am looking at doing this route this year instead of the abroad holiday I had planned, but would be flying in to Inverness to do this. Where would be the best place to rent a car from and what kind of car is most suitable for this trip? Many thanks, Emma

21st July 2020 at 4:48 pm

This is a great question. There are plenty of car rental options, including a number at Inverness airport which will likely be the easiest option. The main car rental companies include   Avis ,  Budget , Thrifty, Arnold Clark, Europcar , Hertz, Enterprise Rent-A-Car , and Focus Vehicle Rental. Enterprise are usually our favourite for car hire. Just ensure you get unlimited mileage so you aren’t limited.

In terms of the type of car, all the roads are sealed. In our experience, a smaller car is easier because the roads are smaller and it makes navigating passing places easier. You don’t need a 4WD or anything unless you are visiting in deepest winter, but even then, we’ve driven it in winter in a small car (think Ford Fiesta sized) with no problems. So as long as you can fit your luggage and passengers, you don’t need a big vehicle.

Let me know if you have any more questions, and have a great trip!

21st July 2020 at 8:36 pm

Thank you for the quick reply. This was very informative especially for someone who likes a list and plan so really appreciate all the recommendations.

21st July 2020 at 8:37 pm

My pleasure Emma. I hope you have a great trip, let us know if you have any more questions 🙂

Ursula says

3rd April 2020 at 6:41 pm

Lovely photographs. Very informative. I had a trip planned for this May 2020. Hoping I can re-arrange for September. I was going to do Snow Road and NC500 plus Isle of Skye. Would this be too ambitious in September do you think? Best wishes and keep safe

3rd April 2020 at 6:54 pm

Thanks very much! Not that this helps, but we’re in exactly the same boat, we have a trip planned to this part of the world in May with all our accommodation booked too, which we also hope to postpone to later in the year. So we know what it is like.

In terms of your question, assuming travel is permitted again in September (fingers crossed!), September would be a lovely month for this trip. It’s up with with May as our favourite month to travel in Scotland. The days will be slightly shorter, and I can’t comment on whether this is too ambitious without knowing how long you are planning to travel for.

The route you have planned though certainly makes sense, and you should be fine with the weather unless something really weird happens with the climate. The only part of the route to check in advance would be the snow roads, but they should be clear in September. We’ve done the NC500 at all times of year with no trouble, it’s just a question of driving to the conditions and being sensible.

Have a lovely trip when you do get to go, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any more questions,

All the best,

Barbara says

6th February 2020 at 3:34 pm

Thank you guys for the tips! I’ll do this trip in June 2020 and didn’t know where to begin.

7th February 2020 at 10:36 am

Our pleasure Barbara – have a great trip, and let us know if we can help at all!

11th February 2020 at 9:35 pm

Mark Janes says

15th September 2019 at 2:10 pm

I live on the NC500 (Tain) and this is a very good guide for a sprint-trip. You’ve covered off the major sites very well. My only advice would be; slow it down. There is so much more to see! Or at least, use it as a window-shopping trip to identify areas you might like to come back to for a more extended stay.

15th September 2019 at 2:19 pm

Thanks for stopping by and your kind comment 🙂

We entirely agree with you about the speed. The times we’ve driven the NC500 we’ve always taken at least a week, and usually more, to complete the trip. Unfortunately, many folks have less time, so we put what we think is the absolute minimum time required to have a positive experience on the route in this guide, and hope that folks find a few more days to add 🙂

Anne hodgson says

26th August 2019 at 8:54 pm

Followed this guide when did the North Coast 500 last week. It was very helpful.

27th August 2019 at 7:55 pm

THanks very much Anne, we’re delighted you found it useful and had a great trip 😀

Lynne W Carlson says

8th May 2019 at 4:46 pm

I’ve actually been to a few of these places, it is so beautiful. Our kids were kids when we were there and loved Smoo Cave. I always regret not getting up to John O’Groats, my dad always told me about it being the most northerly part of Scotland. LOL. Funny the little things we get fixated on. Time to plan another trip. Thanks for your tips.

8th May 2019 at 5:10 pm

It is so beautiful! We’re actually right now staying up in Durness just a few minutes walk from Smoo Cave. It’s howling a gale and pouring with rain, but thankfully the hotel has a nice warm fire to cosy around 😉 I hope you get up here soon (and have slightly better weather too!)

8th May 2019 at 5:13 pm

Sounds like some nice storm pictures may be coming. Hope you are having a wee tipple by the fire.

8th May 2019 at 5:37 pm

I certainly am 🙂

Elaine McAteer says

23rd April 2019 at 3:05 pm

Hi Laurence and Jessica, I’m a Scot who has been wanting to do the North Coast 500 for a years. My partner and myself are hoping to drive it this summer and camp. I’m so glad I’ve found your site,think we will be following your route. I’m so excited to get started. I’ve also read your post on the Devils Pulpit, another place on my bucket list.

Thanks so much for the beautiful pictures and narrative.

23rd April 2019 at 7:24 pm

Hey Elaine!

We hope this is the year you get to do it, it’s one of our favourite parts of the world. We’re actually setting of in a few days to do it again, and also to visit Orkney, Lewis & Harris as well 🙂 Can’t wait!

Enjoy your trip when it happens, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions at all 🙂

Agness | the adventure traveler says

13th April 2019 at 6:44 am

When you mentioned perfect in your title, I got a little skeptical. But as soon as I read the article and marveled at how beautiful the photos you took are, I was stunned. Definitely my idea of a perfect Scottish road trip too! Thanks, Laurence and Jessica!

13th April 2019 at 9:56 am

Thanks Agness 😀

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Drive the North Coast 500 - The ultimate Scotland road trip

Day 1: inverness and around.

Miles: 74.5

Arrive in Inverness

As the unofficial capital of the Scottish Highlands, it makes sense that the North Coast 500 (NC500) road trip starts in Inverness.

Known as much for its pretty facade as it is for its close proximity to Scotland's most rugged landscapes, Inverness has gone from the site of many a historic battle to an industrial port-town, to a thriving hub for tourism and major student city, proving itself one of Scotland's most dynamic urban centres in the process.

Only actually made a city in 2000 to mark the dawn of the new millennium, it is now one of the fastest growing in Europe and, according to the UK's Office of National Statistics, one of the the happiest.

Catch the earliest flight possible - the more time you have here, the better.

Car hire for the North Coast 500

It's best to pre-book your car hire in advance and collect your vehicle at the airport, as you're going to need it from the very first day.

Inverness Airport currently has booths for Avis and Europcar, and although airport collection can often work out more expensive, a taxi to the city centre (9 miles away) costs approximately £20 anyway, so you may find that the difference isn't that huge.

Once you've collected your ride for the week, let's get going; head into town, check into your hotel, put down your bags and then get straight back in the car - there's exploring to be done.

Fort George and The Highlanders' Museum

First built as a response to the Jacobite Rising of 1745, the star-shaped Fort George has all the ingredients for an impregnable fortress: positioned on a patch of headland that juts out into the choppy waters of the Moray Firth, it is protected by steep sea walls on one side, lined with cannons, has underground bunkers for the safety of its troops and possesses a 1km rampart, enclosing an area the size of five football pitches.

Just a 25-minute drive northeast of Inverness, a trip to this mighty stronghold provides a fascinating insight into Scottish military life, past and present.

Although Fort George has never actually been attacked (you wouldn't win, let's be honest), don't be surprised if you see a soldier or two walking about the place - it's still used as a barracks today.

Nonetheless, much of the site is open to the public and visitors can learn about the history of the fort, step inside the garrison chapel and pay their respects at the dog cemetery, the final resting kennel of the regimental mascots.

The Highlanders' Museum, which is located on-site, contains an extensive collection of items relating to the regiment such as uniforms, weapons, medals including Victoria Crosses, items from World War I and over 10,000 documents and photographs.

Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle

Less than 25 minutes south of the city centre, and an hour or so away from Fort George, sits Loch Ness, the largest loch in the whole of the UK and reputed home of the legendary Loch Ness Monster - or Nessie, as the locals like to call her.

Rumours of a mythical beast living here stretch as far back as 600AD, but the creature was only really brought to public attention in 1933 with the publication of "photos" of Nessie, which were later proven to be a hoax; nonetheless, since then crowds have flocked here hoping catch a glimpse of her humps.

Will you be one of the lucky ones?

Along the banks of the loch sit the ruins of the much fought over Castle Urquhart, once one of Scotland's largest and grandest castles.

Spend a minute or two pretending to be a Scottish laird, wandering over the bridges, underneath the arches, and between the battlements and prison cells.

Head back into Inverness for the afternoon

Now you've (hopefully) spotted Nessie and got a feel for Scotland's military past, it's time to head back to Inverness, park up and explore the city itself.

Built around the River Ness, it's easily walkable, with pretty waterside paths, grand old buildings including St Andrews Cathedral and Inverness Castle, and plenty of cafes to stop off at along the way.

Although the castle is not open to the general public - it's still used as a Sheriff's Court - the north tower contains a viewing platform that offers a superb view over the city.

Don't miss the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, which will set you up with a useful understanding of the heritage and culture of the Scottish Highlands for the trip ahead.

Top tip: Many of the hotels in Inverness offer free parking for guests, but if you did need somewhere to leave the car then the Rose Street multi-story car park is affordable (£7 for 24 hours), secure and centrally located.

Where to eat in Inverness

In recent years Inverness has gained an increasingly strong reputation for its culinary scene and to say that it boasts more dining options than other towns on the North Coast 500 is quite the understatement, so all the more excuse to feast while you still can.

The Kitchen Brasserie often requires booking in advance thanks to its riverside location, fish dishes and delicious desserts, although if you're in the city on a Friday then make it the tiny River House Restaurant , where fresh oysters are just £1 a pop between 17.30-18.30.

Day 2: Drive Inverness to Thurso

While many roadtrippers choose to follow the North Coast 500 in a clockwise direction, we recommend doing the opposite, so that the hairiest lanes are at the end of the route, but more on that later.

Driven straight, the journey from Inverness up to Thurso would only take between two and three hours, but there's so much to see along the way that you should allow a whole day.

Bask in the beauty of the Black Isle

Dominated by lush, gently rolling farmland, and a haven for woodland wildlife, the Black Isle isn't necessarily what you picture when you think of the Scottish Highlands.

Just across from Inverness via the Kessock Bridge, it's not actually an island but a peninsula, and with so much to do it's worth veering off the A9 and taking a detour for; among the highlights is Chanonry Point, one of the most reliable places in the UK for dolphin spotting.

There are also numerous food and drink attractions on this strip of land, including the Black Isle Brewery and one of Scotland's oldest distilleries, Glen Ord.

Both of these establishments offer tours, but it will have to be the passenger(s) doing the taste tasting for now - at 0.5mg, Scotland has a lower driving alcohol limit than the rest of the UK, with strict penalties for offenders.

Climb the Whaligoe Steps

After exploring the Black Isle, follow the A9 north then continue on to the A99 to reach our next stop of the day, the Whaligoe Steps.

A set of 365 perilously steep stairs leading down to a craggy natural harbour that is sheltered between two steep cliffs, where fishing boats would once have landed their catches, they were carved by hand into the rock in the late 18th century.

Walk to the bottom and back up again, and (in between all of your wheezing) spare a thought for the Whaligoe fisherwoman, who would have trodden this same path carrying heavy wicker baskets full of herring unloaded from the boats.

Afterwards, reward yourself with some lunch and a cuppa in the cafe at the top.

Get the John O'Groats snap

Moving further north and passing through the town of Wick, taking a detour to visit the decrepit Castle Sinclair Girnigoe if you wish, the next stop on this Scotland road trip route is John O'Groats.

Famous for being at the northern end of the two furthest apart inhabited points of the UK, its iconic signpost attracts thousands of tourists every year, not to mention jubilant cyclists and hikers completing the trek from one to the other.

Unfortunately, the town itself is depressingly drab, so we'd suggest getting in, getting the obligatory snap and getting back on the road again.

Visit a Royal residence

The next stage of today's drive will, eventually, take you into Thurso, but first there's one more stop to make.

If you've ever watched The Crown, you'll have heard the story of how Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother purchased a ramshackle castle after the death of her husband, George VI. That castle is where we're aiming for: The Castle of Mey.

Initially built in 1572, it was purchased and restored by the Queen Mother in 1952, and functioned as a much-loved royal residence for over 40 years.

Today it still holds a place in royal life, closing to the public for a period of 10 days every July when Prince Charles and his wife Camilla come to stay.

See the Northern Lights

After you've checked into your accommodation in Thurso you'll no doubt be looking for something to do with your evening.

Unfortunately, in a town as quiet as Thurso there's not a lot going on after dark, but if you're visiting in autumn or winter then Mother Nature may well throw you a party instead.

On clear nights during these months, the north coast of Scotland is often treated to the Northern Lights, with colourful natural displays lighting up the night skies.

From Thurso, a great spot to watch is the beach at the tiny village of Castletown, about a 10-minute drive away.

Top tip: When going to see the Northern Lights, have your camera ready - they're sometimes actually clearer when seen through a screen.

Outside of these seasons, you're very unlikely to witness them, so instead treat yourself to a meal at Bydand , a restaurant that looks suspiciously like a hairdressers from the outside but actually serves traditional Scottish food with quirky twists.

Day 3: Thurso to Durness

After yesterday's many stops, today is going to seem considerably calmer as Scotland's north coast has fewer physical attractions, but a plentiful supply of beautiful, if blustery, beaches to enjoy and that starts right here in Thurso.

Nothing will shake you awake like a sea breeze, so enjoy an early morning run on the beach or, if you've got a board and a wetsuit with you, brave a very icy dip.

Over the last few years the town has become respected by surfers for its phenomenal right hand break and insane barrel, but do note that the locals are notoriously intolerant of snakers - provoke them at your peril.

When you're done, go into town to refuel with a leisurely breakfast, then start working your way eastward along the coast.

Before you leave, it may be a good idea to top up with fuel and car snacks; Thurso has a Tesco and a Lidl, but they're the last supermarkets you are going to see for a while.

Visit the Strathnaver Museum

Just under 30 miles from Thurso you will find Strathnaver Museum, which tells the story of the Highland Clearances - the forcible eviction of families from this area during the 18th and 19th centuries - from the former church in which those affected would have been told of their fates.

Shedding light on this turbulent period of Scottish history and the lives of the Mackay Clan, it's a "don't miss" as far as understanding the area is concerned.

The museum is really made, however, by the friendly and knowledgeable volunteers who bring such a human connection to the stories.

Afterwards, stretch your legs a little more with a stroll on the beach at the breathtaking Farr Bay, above which the museum is situated.

Strathnaver Museum is closed during the winter months, but visits can be made by prior arrangement so check their website for more information.

Coldbackie Beach and beyond

A little more driving should bring you along to Coldbackie Beach, a quiet, pristine stretch of sand that looks out over peacock blue waters towards the Rabbit Islands and the Orkneys.

Make this your next beach break or stop off at Weavers Cafe, just on the side of the main road, for a tasty lunch and a slice of cake.

Afterwards, take the A838 eastwards, crossing the Kyle of Tongue bridge and continuing on this road, which will take you around the hilly outskirts of Loch Eriboll.

There's not a lot surrounding this remote loch, other than the Ard Neakie lime kilns, a relic of 1840s industry and a wild terrain - but that's precisely the beauty of it.

Follow the Ceannabeinne Township Trail

Further along, the Ceannabeinne Township Trail takes visitors around the ruins of the town of Ceannabeinne, which was deeply affected by the Highland Clearances.

Starting from a gravel lay-by just off of the A838, a series of information boards chronicle how the population here fell from approximately 50 people in 1841 to precisely none the following year, and tells the story of the Riot of Durness, when the women of the village attempted to defy the order to leave.

Taking around 45 minutes to complete, it's a poignant trail with sensational views over Tràigh Allt Chàilgeag, although note that it may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Stop off at Smoo Cave

About a mile before you get into Durness, you'll come across Smoo Cave, believed to have been used as everything from a Stone Age dwelling to a smugglers' hideout, and now known for its roaring waterfall.

Formed by the gradual merging of two separate chambers - one caused by rainwater dissolving the stone, the other by erosion from the sea - it's geographically unique within the UK. Another chamber, beyond the waterfall, is accessible by boat in good weather.

From the car park at the top, descend the set of stairs that take you down to the mouth of the cave and step inside, but bring a poncho, because the spray will hit you!

Smoo Cave is open all year and free to enter, with tours taking place from April to September.

Arrive into Durness

When you arrive into Durness, check into your accommodation, park the car and get walking.

From Durness it's a pleasant 20-minute stroll (or 5-minute drive) along to Balnakeil Beach, a little slice of paradise that - if it weren't for the wind - could been ripped straight from the pages of a travel brochure.

Soak up its moon-shaped bay, turquoise waters, spotless white sands and rolling dunes, then wander over to the dilapidated Balnakeil Church, which has a graveyard with some intriguing memorials, some dating back to the 1600s.

If you're still feeling sprightly, we recommend taking the roughly two-mile walk along the coast to Faraid Head, a rocky headland overlooking Cape Wrath.

This whole area is a haven for wildlife, so keep your eyes open for nesting seabirds (including a small colony of puffins) as well as seals playing in the waters.

Warm up at Cocoa Mountain

As far as places to warm up after your walk go, there really is only one contender: Cocoa Mountain , in Balnakeil Craft Village.

We're not joking when we say that this small chocolatier serves the best, most gooey, frothy hot chocolate, and even does scrumptious truffles, chocolate-themed pastries and cakes to go with them. If there's one guilt-free gluttony stop you make during the NC500, make it this.

Be sure to stock up on sweet treats for the rest of your journey too. If you fancy a little souvenir shopping, the village also features a number of other shops selling products made by local artists, including artworks, crafty bits and ceramics.

Dinner in Durness

Not to be harsh, but to say that dinner options are lacking in Durness is probably being kind, as there are just a handful of restaurants - at the end of the day, while this is one of the bigger villages on the north coast, it's still only home to about 400 residents.

The Smoo Cave Hotel, located next to Smoo Cave, is the better choice and has pub grub staples including fish n' chips and pie.

Day 4: Durness to Ullapool

Miles: 87.7

While the east coast of the NC500 route has many of the landmarks, and the north coast has the beaches, it's fair to say that the west coast is where the landscape is most spectacular - just in case you haven't been impressed enough by Scotland's beauty so far.

More than likely, you've exhausted Durness' to-do list by now, so leave as early as possible, going southwards on the A838 and eventually joining the A894 just after you cross the stone-arched Laxford Bridge.

Coming up not long after is the Kylesku Bridge, a vast curved crossing above Loch a' Chàirn Bhàin that has become an attraction in itself and was even featured in a 2015 IKEA advert.

The brainchild of Ove Arup, the same engineer that came up with the Sydney Opera House, it is super modern and yet has been crafted to fit into its surroundings - unusually for a concrete bridge, it's a lot of fun to drive across!

Drinks in Drumbeg, lunch in Lochinver

Next, take the B869 across to Drumbeg, where tea, cake and scones await at The Secret Tea Garden, part of the Assynt Aromas candle shop.

Tuck in, but do try to resist the temptation to eat too much as the remaining stretch of the B869, down to the village of Lochinver, is a real stomach-churner.

Dubbed the "Wee Mad Road" by locals and blessed with views that will make you want to stare out the window but switchbacks so sharp you'll need eyes on the prize, it's a hairy single track route with a number of steep inclines.

If you do need to rest your nerves along the way then stop off for a walk on Achmelvich Beach, which could give Balnakeil a run for its money.

When you do get down to Lochinver, make a beeline for Peet's restaurant , whose venison stew will make the drive more than worthwhile.

Macleods and mermaids

We're now heading towards Stac Pollaidh mountain, but first stopping at Ardvreck Castle, a ruinous former residence of the mighty Macleod family, which is perched on a patch of land that sticks out into the mountain-framed Loch Assynt.

Legend has it that the loch is haunted by the Mermaid of Assynt, the lost daughter of one of the castle's former inhabitants, who for many years was blamed by locals for anything that changed in the area.

You could take a more direct route down to Stac Pollaidh by following the road that passes through Inverkirkaig and grazes the northern shore of Loch Bad a' Ghaill, but for the extra 20 minutes or so the beauty of Loch Assynt merits a detour.

Complete the Stac Pollaidh circuit

Flat-topped and standing proud amid a backdrop of small lochs and wide empty space, Stac Pollaidh is a 612-metre-tall mountain that seems purpose-made for a spot of impromptu climbing; a ramble to the top and back down again takes a manageable three hours or so, isn't too strenuous and follows a well-trodden path, although it's a short and slightly more challenging scramble to top of the ridge itself.

Offering glorious panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and of one of Scotland's most distinctive mountains, Suilven, it's a rewarding but realistic hiking option and it would be a real shame to miss it.

The journey to the Stac Pollaidh car park should take about 30 minutes from Ardvreck Castle - when you get there, park up and go through the gate across the road, which will take you upwards into open moorland and onto the main path.

Dinner in Ullapool

Another 15 minutes or so on the road will take you into the pretty waterside village of Ullapool for a much needed shower and sleep.

Before you do call it a day, seek out the Arch Inn restaurant for a thoroughly Scottish dinner of cullen skink, a chunky soup made from haddock, potato and onion.

Alternatively, opt for some old school soul food by heading over to Deli-Ca-Sea, a chippie where everything is made fresh to order, then sit on the sea wall and scoff it all down. Their pickled eggs are pretty special too!

Day 5: Ullapool to Applecross

Miles: 118.4

You've probably heard the old adage that dictates that life is about the journey, not the destination? Well, today is the embodiment of that.

Traversing through glens, past lochs, along the coast and eventually ending up in the remote town of Applecross, today's drive showcases the best of untamed Scotland - expect to see stalking deer and get held up by Highland cattle along the way.

Top tip: Do stock up again on those road trip essentials and fill up with fuel while you're in Ullapool, because the next part of the journey is even less well-served.

Go sea kayaking in Ullapool

Before you leave Ullapool, however, there's just one more thing to do and that is to get out on the water.

A totally different way to see the Scottish coastline or inland lochs, kayaking offers endless opportunities for wildlife spotting, with jellyfish, seals and seabirds all regularly spotted here.

During the summer months, Norwest Sea Kayaking offer full and half-day trips for everyone from total beginners to seasoned pros, and provide homemade cakes and hot drinks for when you get out the water!

Get back on the road

Start off by following the A835 south from Ullapool, taking a right turn onto A832 after roughly 12 miles, at the sign towards Dundonnell and Gairloch.

Here, you could choose to make a quick stop at Corrieshalloch Gorge, a nature reserve with a Victorian suspension bridge and plunging waterfalls, before continuing on around the coast.

When you get to Gairloch stop for lunch, as it offers the biggest selection you're going to find for miles, including pub grub at The Shieling Restaurant or steak sandwiches, falafel flatbreads and warming soup at Coast Coffee Company.

The section of the A832 from Gairloch to Kinlochewe is a scenic and for the most part relatively easy drive, running in part along the shore of Loch Maree and offering glimpses of the Slioch mountain through the trees.

Although it's not technically necessary, when you get to Kinlochewe do continue on this road for a few more minutes to visit the Glen Docherty viewpoint - the vista of the twisting road below is worthy of a 90s album cover.

Continue on to Torridon via the A896, enjoying the sights of the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve, before passing through Glen Torridon then winding through woodland near Annat.

Onward you go towards Shieldaig, shortly after which the road splits - take the unnamed single-track route to the right, which more or less hugs the water and gives life to the small coastal communities along the way.

Along the way, make a pitstop at the Applecross Smokehouse , where they produce smoked fish, cheeses, oatcakes and sauces, made using whisky-soaked oak shavings.

Arrive in Applecross

Rather than stopping in Applecross straight away, continue past it for 1.5 miles down to the Applecross Photographic Gallery, which is run by local photographer Jack Marris and exhibits photographs of magical mountain-top sunrises.

When you're back in the village, find its real heart inside the cosy Applecross Inn , having dinner and a pint with the locals before retiring for the night.

Sleep well - you're going to need to bring your A-game tomorrow.

Day 6: Applecross to Inverness

Miles: 80.4

Driving the Bealach na Ba

You've had almost a week of practice and now it's time for the ultimate Scottish road trip experience: the notorious Bealach na Ba.

If you thought the "Wee Mad Road" was a challenge, then this stretch between Applecross and Loch Kishorn is something else - a narrow single track loaded with steep climbs and hairpin bends that seem to stack on top of one another.

If you're of a nervous disposition, a new driver, have any hangups about your reversing skills or the weather is bad, then this route probably isn't the best choice; instead take the A896 north and along to Shieldaig, before cutting back down.

During winter, the Bealach na Ba is often closed for extended periods due to snowfall, so check online before you travel.

Although the driver will almost certainly be too busy concentrating to really take it all in, the landscape around Bealach na Ba is nothing short of spectacular, with jagged cliffs and calm lochs, and the weaving road below, as well as the chance to spot more Highland cows and wild deer.

At its highest point, 2053 feet above sea level, there is a viewpoint that comes complete with a plaque pointing out the local landmarks visible in the distance.

Walk to Rogie Falls

Along the side of the A835, which you will join at Garve, is the fearsome Rogie Falls, famous for leaping salmon and surrounded by lush forest with a number of waymarked trails.

Follow the Salmon Trail (20 mins) to a suspension bridge over the river which allows you to stare into the mouth of the beast, or take the Riverside Trail, a longer and more strenuous circuit (50 mins) starting from the viewing platform beside the falls and travelling along the banks before cutting through pinewoods, where you're likely to see deer and red squirrels.

Wellies are optional, but recommended!

Spend the afternoon in Inverness

After almost a week of hamlets and tiny villages, Inverness is going to seem like a giant playground, so go full-on hedonist with an afternoon of last minute gift shopping and making the most of Inverness' sterling food scene (if you haven't tried cranachan yet, do).

Return the car to Inverness Airport and catch a late afternoon flight home.

If you're continuing on the road, feel free to carry straight on to your next destination - the popular town of Aviemore is just 45 minutes south, Dundee is approximately 90 minutes away, and the "granite city" of Aberdeen, is less than three hours away.

We hope you've enjoyed your wee trip around Scotland!

When to do the North Coast 500

Generally, the best time to take a road trip in Scotland is between April and early October. Once the snow starts, those single track roads feel increasingly precarious and many routes, including the Bealach na Ba, are frequently closed.

Many of the NC500s attractions are also seasonal and do not open at all in the winter months. That said, with the increasing popularity of the NC500, it's also best to avoid the height of summer if you are able to, because reversing isn't so fun after the 100th time.

Scotland road trip glossary

• Loch: a lake or sea inlet
• Glen: a narrow valley
• Kyle: a narrow sea channel
• Munro: any mountain in Scotland that is over 3000 feet high

If you enjoyed this, you may like… Ireland road trip - A scenic 10 day round trip from Dublin

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The superb drive from glasgow to mallaig, west coast waters part i.

A West Coast of Scotland Road Trip to Remember

Most of September saw me on the road as I ducked and dived, weaved and charged over the length and breadth of our western Highlands and Islands. So begins a 4-part west coast of Scotland road trip blog series that will detail the highlights along the way and that will unearth the best activities on, in and overlooking our coastlines and lochs. That will pick out some of our finest seafood restaurants. That will alert you to our most promising up-and-coming distilleries. And that will paint a picture of a part of the world that lives long in the soul.

West Coast of Scotland Road Trip Day 1

Glasgow to fort william.

Several hundred journeys departing Glasgow on Great Western Road have not detracted from its appeal in the slightest. Like a dog that knows he’s off to the park, this is a route that brings up excitement and anticipation for this traveller every time. As I depart my city , the West Highland call begins.

Having passed the majesty of Loch Lomond and the barrenness of Rannoch Moor, interspersed with the odd sumptuous vantage point, the immediate, immersive appeal of the Highlands is clear. This is what you were promised in the guide books. This is Scotland with its soul laid bare.

The misty peaks announcing the approach to Glen Coe signal something else. Enter now the land of the warrior poets, where legends reign and tragedy lingers. Knowledge of the 1692 Massacre means Glen Coe will forever be a melancholic place, similar in atmosphere to a war grave. Listen hard, you may still hear the pipes. You may still feel the desperation.

The familiar roadside stops notwithstanding, the Glen remains a place of hidden alcoves, still lochans and deep calm. And where better to experience that calm than on those lochans, under the watchful gaze of its peaks and guarded on all sides by its knowing trees. Rugged Paddleboard are located near Glencoe village and offer multiple locations for boarding in the vicinity. Perfect for beginners and enthusiasts alike, the effortlessly graceful paddleboard may be the perfect middleman to make the introductions between you and this most powerful of glens.

Crannog Restaurant, Fort William

I’ve long been a fanatic about the excellent Loch Leven Seafood Café whenever road tripping through Lochaber and I can now safely add this little beauty into the mix for competition. Sat right on the water in Fort William, crannog-style, the quality of produce is magnificent. Expect the residents of the deepest depths of local waters to make their way onto the menu in what is an almost-too-convenient stop for travellers passing the urban town.

West Coast of Scotland Road Trip Day 2

The road to the isles.

Departing the Outdoor Capital of the UK, the road now leads west. A well-named road at that as the Isles start their own call. And it’s a call with a hint of Jacobite defiance as this is where Bonnie Prince Charlie’s doomed pursuit of the throne both started and ended. A 46-mile stretch densely packed with magnificent scenery, you’ll slowly observe yourself slipping from Highland to Island mindset.

The compulsory stop (chaotically mobbed during the summer season be advised) is of course Glenfinnan. Both Charlie’s Monument and the now-even-more-iconic Harry Potter viaduct overlook the effortless Loch Shiel. One of the most visually impactful spots in Scotland, it joins Glen Coe in pairing natural beauty with complex history leaving you staring down the barrel of this most Scottish of scenarios. Reach for the hip flask and take a moment.

Arisaig Area

Offering a delicious sweet spot between rugged, un-explored peaks and pristine sands, interspersed with machair and rocky islets, lies dainty little Arisaig. The Silver Sands of Morar dot the coastline between here and Mallaig further north. The call of a departing ferry may tempt you to pass through this stretch at pace, but it would be a dire mistake.

Camusdarach

My favourite mainland beach in Scotland, this one’s special. A short walk over dunes from the same-named campsite, Camusdarach is compact enough to feel intimate yet big enough to render you insignificant. Ben’s Beach in Local Hero , it retains a cult following in 80s movie circles and haunts and captivates today’s visitors just as much as it did the film’s besotted Texans.

A truly unforgettable sunset elevated the beach to another level. I rarely have the time or opportunity to enjoy sunsets doing what I do (who does?) so to find myself on the sand, speechless and entirely captured, I watched a spectacle of natural light that would silence Parliament. The distant silhouette of the Rum Cuillin, more on Rum and the Small Isles (minus Canna which I couldn’t squeeze in this time) later , bore the full intensity of the fiery sunset behind. The blacks, blues, turquoises, oranges, pinks, yellows and reds battle for supremacy in the last of the day’s light. The sand is soft, the water temperate. The breeze is kind and the waves gentle.

It’s just you and Scotland. Make this a memory.

Back on the Water

This stretch of coastline could hardly have been better suited to kayaking and the Arisaig Sea Kayaking Centre obliges. Various, weather-dependent, routes are possible that all aim to give you an alternative understanding of the terrain, the wildlife and the natural vibes. Half and full day trips, under excellent expert supervision, are available and they provide all the gear. An activity that tends to lull me off into a relaxed, contented slumber, you’ll want to try and keep your eyes peeled for seals, hidden inlets and caves, soaring eagles and maybe even the odd coastal rainbow.

Dinner at Arisaig House

Another of the Highlands’ most impressive dining options, the seafood here is up there with the best I have tasted. In ever. Fresh-off-the-boat langoustines and lobster, an excellent wine list and locally sourced ingredients rule. Set in a beautiful Country House Hotel, the leafy grounds and terraced gardens ease you into an evening of luxury. Enormously talented chef Colin, warmly welcoming owner Sarah and a friendly and efficient team guarantee a wonderful meal.

The Practicalities

This first chunk of my west coast circuit can be done in as little as 2-3 days but don’t let my pace influence you in the slightest. The Road to the Isles is big enough to absorb easily double that, particularly for hikers and water activity fans. I based myself at Fort William and Mallaig for logistical ease as much as anything but there are several more intimate options between the two. While the route makes for a fabulous Scottish road trip, there are trains running all the way between Glasgow and Mallaig, via Fort William, as an additional transport option.

Next up in this series

Stay tuned for more next week, same time, same channel, as I head to Knoydart and the Small Isles ……

This blog post is the result of a sponsored marketing campaign with West Coast Waters , promoting the endless highlights of Scotland’s west coast. The West Coast Waters 2020 Campaign is a partnership initiative and has received funding from the Visit Scotland Growth Fund – more information at https://www.westcoastwaters. co.uk/about .

All experiences had and any recommendations within are, though, based purely on passing the test of my considerable experience working in this industry and exploring my homeland. I’ll stick my neck out and say that you’ll not be disappointed with what awaits you. 

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Loch Tay Activities and Exploring Perthshire in October

Day trip ferries from mallaig to explore the west coast, you might also like.

2022 – An End and a Beginning

The Isles are Calling

A Quick Hello From Scotland

More incredibly helpful information, Neil! Notes taken, and these will undoubtedly factor into the planning of more adventures. You apparently had perfect weather as the sunsets forecast – “Red at night, sailors delight”! The food, the beaches and hauntingly beautiful Glen Coe, which I can explore again and again, along with the sweeping beauty of Rannoch Moor. Many thanks, and I look forward to the next installment.

Charlotte Merriam Cole

Thanks Charlotte and this stretch of the country is right up there – visually spectacular with bags of personality!

Beautiful. Especially the seafood. Thanks.

West coast seafood is out of this world…..

Gobsmacked & mesmerised by this vignette of the best of the West Coast ❤️

It does have that effect! 🙂

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Best Scotland road trip itinerary (10, 14 & 18 day options)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: September 9, 2023

Planning a Scottish road trip? Our detailed Scotland road trip itinerary includes many of the most popular destinations, scenic routes , landmarks and sights when touring Scotland . Over 18 days explore cities, Highlands, islands and part of the popular North Coast 500 route. Options to reduce to a 10 day or 14 day Scotland road trip itinerary are also included.

As road trips go one destination you are sure of an epic road trip is Scotland! In this article, we have shared our own epic Scotland road trip itinerary which includes some of our favourite destinations across the country.

The itinerary starts and ends in Edinburgh and includes our recommended route, highlights to see every day plus where to stay and travel tips along the way.

If you are planning to visit Scotland our ultimate Scottish road trip itinerary is an off-the-peg plan which means you can use as-is or if you prefer simply adapt it to suit your own interests and needs. Although planned for 18 days it is possible to shorten the itinerary to 10 days, 14 days or whatever length you require.

If you are planning to hire a car in the UK we recommend reading our practical guide to car rental (and driving in the UK) which has essential information, tips and points to consider.

Prefer to travel by train? Check out our best of Scotland by rail itinerary ! Everything you need to know to plan your Scotland rail adventure.

📝 What to see in Edinburgh

🏨 where to stay in edinburgh, 🚗 day 4 – edinburgh to callander (via the kelpies and stirling), 🏞 day 5 – day trip to killin & pitlochry, 🚗 day 6 – callandar to oban via the trossachs and loch lomond, ⛴ day 7 – tour to mull, iona and staffa (day trip), 🚙 alternative itinerary for those prone to seasickness, 🚗 day 8 – oban to fort william, 🚂 day 9 – the jacobite, ⛴ day 10 – fort william to skye via mallaig, 🏞 days 11/12/13 – exploring skye, day 13/14 – ullapool (1 night), day 14/15 – durness & tongue (1 night), day 15/16 – orkneys (1 night), 🚗 day 17 – inverness, day 18 – edinburgh, where to next, what is the best road trip in scotland, how long is a road trip around scotland, how many days do you need to tour scotland, plan your trip to scotland, scotland road trip map & itinerary – overview.

Click for our Scotland road trip map (Google maps)

SCOTLAND ITINERARY AND ROAD TRIP ROUTE

• Days 1/2/3/4 – Edinburgh
• Days 4/5/6- Callander
• Days 6/7/8 – Oban & Islands
• Days 8/9/10 – Fort William
• Days 10/11/12/13 – Isle of Skye
• Days 13/14 – Ullapool (North Coast 500)
• Days 14/15 – Durness/Tongue/Skail (North Coast 500)
• Days 15/16 – Orkney
• Days 16/17/18 – Inverness

Days 1, 2, 3 & 4 – Edinburgh 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 (3 nights)

On Day 1 arrive in the capital city of Scotland, Edinburgh, via train. If you are staying in London and plan to take a road trip around Scotland it is quick and easy to take the train between the two capitals. Read more about how to get from London to Edinburgh .

👍 Good to know – Journey time is around 4½ to 5 hours so if you leave London at 9 am you should get into Edinburgh at around 1 pm – 1.30 pm which is the perfect time to head to your accommodation to check-in.

Arriving in Edinburgh early afternoon leaves a decent amount of the day for sightseeing, particularly in summer. Day 2/3 days to explore Edinburgh. Below are the main highlights we recommend including in your itinerary.

Read our guide to things to do in Edinburgh which also includes suggested itinerary ideas.

✅ The Edinburgh hop-on hop-off bus stops at the main attractions and landmarks and is a great way to get around the city – book your tickets here .

✅ If your itinerary includes visiting Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Yacht Britannia and the Palace of Holyroodhouse we recommend purchasing a city card that includes entry to all 3 royal attractions plus the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour for 48 hours. (Note that Holyroodhouse is closed Tues/Wed).

• Edinburgh Castle – Tour and skip-the-line ticket
• Palace of Holyroodhouse (The Palace of Holyroodhouse is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays) – Buy your ticket here
• The Royal Mile – start at the Castle and walk down to Holyroodhouse
• Scott Monument
• The Real Mary King’s Close and Underground Vaults Tour – One of the most haunted places on earth apparently! 👻

• £ – Elder York Guest House – This is our choice of accommodation whenever we stay in Edinburgh – excellent breakfast, near the train station and nice rooms. * Note there are stairs to the accommodation so this is not suitable if you have any mobility issues.
• ££ – Ibis Syles Edinburgh St Andrews Square – With 24-hour reception, a bar and restaurant and free WiFi.
• £££ – The Balmoral Hotel – Edinburgh’s most famous luxury hotel offers guests a Michelin-starred restaurant, a pool and a gym.
• £££ – The Witchery – Lavishly furnished suites display gothic touches and 4-poster beds. Ideal location near Edinburgh Castle.

⭐️ Find more accommodation options in our guide to where to stay in Edinburgh

Days 4/5/6 – Callander (2 nights)

On day 4 travel from Edinburgh to Callandar. We recommend picking up your hire car at the point you are ready to leave the city to avoid any unnecessary parking expenses (or difficulties)

• Car hire options in Edinburgh include picking up at Waverley Train Station or Edinburgh Airport.
• The drive from the centre of Edinburgh to Callander takes just over 1 hour. Distance is 52 miles (83 km) via the M9. This route will take you past Falkirk and Stirling.
• The Kelpies
• The Falkirk Wheel
• Bannockburn
• National Wallace Monument
• Stirling Castle

🚗 Logistics

• Distance – 22 miles (35 km)
• Journey time – 35 mins
• Distance – 23 miles (36 km)
• Journey time – 38 mins (stop off to admire the views)
• Distance – 15 miles (24 km)
• Journey time – 25 mins
• Distance – 68 miles (109 km)
• Journey time – 1 hour 44 mins

⭐️ Highlights of the day

• Falls of Dochart
• Drive along the banks of Loch Tay
• The scenic beauty and picturesque views (don’t forget to charge your phone, pack memory cards for your cameras etc!)
• Blair Athol distillery
• Pitlochry Dam and Fish Ladder walk
• Afternoon tea at Crieff Hydro Hotel (Beautiful views)

Good to know – Highland cows can be seen in a field on the right-hand side of the road as you drive north out of Callendar .

🏨 Where to stay in Callander

• £ – Callander Hostel
• ££ – Highland Guest House
• £££ – Roman Camp Country House Hotel

🏞 Day 6/7/8 – Oban (2 nights)

Day 6 is a day spent exploring the Trossachs National Park, Loch Lomond National Park and Loch Katrine (Callander is located on the edge of the park) before heading for 2 nights in Oban.

Take a picnic and enjoy the views and scent of the forests. Head to the village of Balloch (a 45-minute drive from Callander) for a boat trip across Loch Lomond.

Oban is a 1 hour 45 mins drive from Balloch where you will check into your accommodation for the next 2 nights. If you wish to visit one of Scotland’s most beautiful castles at Inveraray it is possible to take a slightly different route via A83 and A819 which only adds around 10 minutes to the journey time.

• Mileage Callander to Balloch is 28 miles (45 km)
• Mileage from Balloch to Oban is 74 miles (119 km) on the A82
• The mileage from Balloch to Oban via Inverary Castle on the A83 is 77 miles (125 km).
• Loch Lomond (the Queen of Scottish lochs)
• Loch Katrine
• Scenic views
• Boat trip across Loch Lomond from Balloch ( Island Discovery 2-Hour Cruise )
• Inverary Castle

🏨 Where to stay in Oban

• £ – Oban Youth Hostel
• ££ – Greencourt Guest House
• ££ £ – No.26 By The Sea

Day 7 drive from your accommodation in Oban to join the 3 Isles tour of Mull, Iona and Staffa . This is an all-day tour departing from Oban at 9:55 and returning at 20:05.

Notes – If you are prone to seasickness this may not be for you as the trip from Mull to Staffa and then Staffa to Iona is in a small boat. There are no toilets on Staffa.

• Ferry to Mull and road trip of the island
• Duart Castle
• Iona and Iona Abbey
• Boat trip to the Isle of Staffa to see Fingal’s Cave

If one or more of your party decides they don’t want to do the day trip to the islands there is an alternative. As Doug gets seasick this is what he did when I was over exploring the islands.

Drive up the coast road A828 towards Ballachulish / Glencoe. This is an alternative route to the way you will drive to Glen Coe on day 8 but is an equally pretty drive.

Highlights along the way include

• Dunstaffnage Castle
• Castle Stalker
• Port Appin (tiny port)

Days 8/9/10 – Fort William (2 nights)

Today we drive from Oban to Fort William via Rannock Moor and Glen Coe on the A82. In our view, the drive through Glen Coe is one of the most spectacular drives in Scotland (if not the world) Rannock Moor is a barren and rugged landscape and is one of the most remote places in Britain.

Stop at the Rannock Moor viewpoint and enjoy the views over this incredible place.

Read – Fort William Travel Guide & Ultimate Guide to things to do in Fort William

• Distance – 83 miles (133 km)
• Journey time – 2 hours (but do plan to stop off and enjoy the views along the way)
• Rannock Moor Viewpoint at the Bridge or Orchy
• Glen Etive (James Bond Skyfall drive)
• Three sister’s car park
• Buachaille Etive Mòr car park
• Views of Ben Nevis (the UK’s highest peak)

Tip – Stop off at the Green Welly shop located between Tyndrum and Crianlarich.

🏨 Where to stay in Fort William

• £ – Garrison Cells
• ££ – The Garrison
• £££ – Victoria House B&B

Read – Area and accommodation guide for Fort William

🚂 Logistics

Riding the Harry Potter train (or the Jacobite to give it its muggle name) is every Harry Potter fan’s dream and is one of the most popular train journeys in the UK.

Read – How to ride the Harry Potter train in Scotland

⭐️ Highlights of the day 🪄

• Riding the train across the Glenfinnan Viaduct
• Observing the train from the Glenfinnan viewpoint crossing the viaduct later in the day
• Glenfinnan Church
• Neptune’s Staircase
• Read – Things to do in Fort William

Day 10/11/12/13 – Isle of Skye (3 nights)

Drive from Fort William to Mallaig which takes around 1 hour. Distance 43 miles (69 km) via A830. Cross over from Mallaig to Armadale on Skye via the CalMac ferry.

The ferry takes 30 mins. There are a number of departures per day. Book asap as this is a very popular route.

On arrival at Armadale, you will head to your accommodation. We recommend staying around Portree and exploring the island from there as your base.

Drive time from Armadale to Portree is around 1 hour via the A851 and A87. Distance is 42 miles (62 km)

• Scenic views on the drive from Fort William to Mallaig
• Ferry crossing
• Drive to Portree (depending on crossing time you can stop and enjoy the scenery along the way)

🏨 Where to stay in Skye

• £ – Sonas, Dundans
• ££ – Loch Eyre House
• £££ – Raasay House Hotel
• Guide to where to stay in Skye (areas and accommodation)

You have 2 full days to explore the Isle of Skye.

Drive the western driving loop on Day 10 and the northern driving loop on Day 11.

Many of the roads in Skye are narrow single-file lanes and you will need to pay attention to other road users (and animals!) as you drive.

Tip – Make reservations at restaurants prior to arrival as they can be busy and you may struggle especially during the summer months. We recommend the Edinbane Inn.

⭐️ Highlights of each day included

• Dunvegan Castle
• Neist Point Lighthouse
• Talisker Distillery
• The Fairy Pools
• Sligachan Old Bridge

• Old Man of Storr
• Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls
• The Fairy Glen

Read – One-day itinerary for the Isle of Skye

Read – How to get to the Isle of Skye from Edinburgh

Check out from accommodation today and drive across the Skye bridge to the mainland and the Kyle of Lochalsh. The distance from Portree to the Kyle of Lochalsh via A87 is 50 mins – 34 miles/55 km.

The destination for this evening is Ullapool but there are a couple of places worth exploring along the way.

1. Plockton – 14 minutes from Kyle of Lochalsh (6 miles/ 10 km)

2. Eilean Donan Castle – Drive from Plockton to Eilean Donan Castle is around 20 minutes via A87. (11 miles/18 km)

Tip – Manuela’s Wee Bakery is only a few minutes drive from Eilean Donan and is a must-visit for a tasty snack!

The last leg of the journey today is from Eilean Donan Castle to Ullapool. This takes around 3 hours via Poolewe on the A890 and A832.

Distance is 120 miles (193 km) You are now driving the famous North Coast Scotland route.

• Plockton – Beautiful village famously featured in the Hamish Macbeth TV series
• Eilean Donan Castle – £10 admission charge for adults
• Manuela’s Wee Bakery
• Driving over the famous Bealach Na Ba road from Kishorn to Applecross!

🏨 Where to stay in Ullapool

• £ – Dacama House
• ££ – Broomview Cottage B&B

• First leg – Ullapool to Durness via Scourie on the A835, A894 and A838. Distance – 67 miles/109 km. Time – 1 hour 45 mins.
• Second leg – Durness to Tongue on the A838 Distance – 29 miles/47 kms. Time – 1 hour

Accommodation for the night is in Skail (23 miles from Tongue) which adds another 30 mins to the day’s driving time but accommodation is available in Tongue too.

Plan longer for each leg due to stopping to enjoy scenic views, unscheduled delays such as traffic/wildlife/sheep and rest stops.

• Clachtoll Beach
• Clashnessie Beach
• Golden Eagle Zipline

🏨 Where to stay in Durness or Tongue

• £ – Wee Hoose Glamping Pod
• ££ – Farr Bay Inn
• £££ – Altnaharra Hotel

Drive from your accommodation to catch the ferry from Gills Bay to Mainland Orkney. The journey takes around an hour and arrives at St Margaret’s Hope.

There is enough time to explore some of the main highlights of the island. Make sure to book tickets for popular places such as Skara Brae and Maeshowe.

• Dunnet Head Lighthouse (the most northerly point of mainland Britain)
• Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar
• Maeshowe Chambered Cairn

Read – What to do and see on Mainland Orkney

Day 16/17/18 – Orkney to Inverness (2 nights) via John O’Groats

Catch the ferry from Orkney back to Gill’s Bay. Head south via John O’Groats to the last stop in the Scottish Highlands – the city of Inverness.

• Journey time from John O’Groats is 2 hours 40 mins via A99 and A9
• Distance from John O’Groats is 119 miles (192 km)

🏨 Where to stay in Inverness

• £ – Alba B&B
• ££ – Heathmount Hotel
• £££ – Bunchrew House Hotel

Read – Where to stay in Inverness (Area and accommodation guide)

Logistics of the day

Today is spent exploring the main sights and landmarks in and around Inverness. The itinerary for today includes visiting Culloden, the Clava Cairns, Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness.

Read – Day trips from Inverness

• Culloden Battlefield
• Loch Ness and cruise – there are a few companies that offer boat trips on Loch Ness or you can take a day tour from Inverness if you prefer
• Castle Urquart

Today drive back to Edinburgh from Inverness to return the rental car. The drive time is dependent on the option you choose. The 3 options are

• A9 3 hours – 156 miles (250 km)
• A9/M9 3 hours 30 mins – 179 miles (288 km) This goes via Stirling
• A93 4 hours – 171 miles (275 km) through the Cairngorms National Park and down via Perth to Edinburgh

If you have time we recommend option 3 through the Cairngorms as this is a beautifully scenic route.

Once back in Edinburgh you can connect with onward travel via the train station or airport.

For example, you could take the Caledonian Sleeper back to London which is a great way to get back to the UK capital and save time (as it is an overnight service) or you could take the train to York !

Frequently asked questions about planning a road trip in Scotland

The most famous road trip in Scotland is the North Coast 500 but there are many fantastic road trips in Scotland to choose from.

These include

• South West Coast 300 – Through Dumfries & Galloway and southern Ayrshire.
• North East 250 – Includes the Malt Whisky Trail, the Cairngorms National Park Aberdeen and the Moray Firth Coast
• The Borders Historic Route

As you can see from the above road trips they can vary. Some of Scotland’s road trips can be as little as 90 miles (the Snow Roads Scenic Route in the Cairngorms) to 500 kms for the North Coast 500.

We recommend planning at least a week for your road trip – longer if you can! There is so much to see from historic castles to stunning coastlines, fishing villages, lochs and Munros, to islands and more!

Take your time – stop and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way!

Read more in our extensive guides to Scotland

• Scotland Travel Guide
• UK road trip planner
• 7 UK road trip itineraries
• Guide to the different regions of Scotland
• 19 beautiful places to visit in Scotland
• Guide to Scottish Islands
• Books to read about Scotland (or best movies set in Scotland )
• Best Outlander Tours in Scotland 2022

Savvy Travel Advice

Detailed 7 Day North Coast 500 Road Trip Itinerary

Last updated: March 27, 2024 - Written by Jessica Norah 136 Comments

The North Coast 500 is the most popular road trip in Scotland and we’ve put together a comprehensive 1 week North Coast 500 itinerary to help drivers navigate this driving route. This detailed day-by-day North Coast 500 itinerary covers all the basic details (mileage, general route) and sightseeing highlights along the approximately 500 mile route.

We’ve driven the NC500 route several times ourselves so we’ve been to all the highlights and many of the lesser known spots. In this guide, we cover scenic viewpoints, beaches, castles, museums, golf courses, natural wonders, whisky distilleries, historical sites, suggested detours, and so much more. We also provide suggestions for where to eat and where to stay each day along the drive with options for almost any budget.

Use this 7 day North Coast 500 itinerary to plan your travels around this beautiful part of the northern Scottish Highlands and get the most out of your NC500 road trip!

Table of Contents:

Preparing for your North Coast 500 Road Trip

First, before you take off on your epic North Coast 500 road trip, we recommend reading our North Coast 500 planning guide to get you oriented with all the basic things you need to know to plan your trip.

Our planning guide covers background information about the North Coast 500 route, advice on when to go, an overview of the highlights, car and campervan rental options, tips for traveling with your dog, camping tips, guided tours, safety and driving tips, a suggested packing list, and a list of helpful resources.

But below is some basic information about how to get to the North Coast 500 starting point, where to rent a car for the drive, and how to determine how many days you need to drive the NC500.

Getting to and from the NC500 Starting Point?

The North Coast 500 is a circular route that begins and ends in the city of Inverness. Inverness is the largest city in the Scottish Highlands, and it has an airport, train station and bus station, making it easy to get here using a variety of transportation options.

Inverness is about a 150 mile drive from Edinburgh (~ 3 hour drive), 170 mile drive from Glasgow (~ 3.5 hours drive), 300 miles from Belfast (~ 8 hours with short ferry ride), 370 miles from Manchester (7.5 to 8 hours), and 570 miles from London (~ 10 hours).

You can check the latest road conditions and traffic in Scotland online at Traffic Scotland .

Inverness Airport has flights to and from a number of locations in the UK, Ireland, and continental Europe. If you are arriving from outside the UK, your flight is likely to have a layover in a larger UK airport like London, Glasgow, or Edinburgh.

It is about a 20 minute drive from Inverness airport to downtown Inverness, or you can take a bus (check local bus schedules here ), or it’s a 20 minute taxi ride (can book and compare fares on minicabit ).

Train connections to Inverness are good from most areas of the UK. You can get to Inverness from Edinburgh or Glasgow in about 4 hours and from London in 8 to 10 hours.

There is no single national train service in the UK, but Trainline  and  ScotRail are good websites to check for schedules and to purchase train tickets. We recommend purchasing train tickets in advance to ensure a seat and for the best prices. 

There is also the option to travel overnight on the overnight sleeper train the Caledonian Sleeper from London or elsewhere in Scotland. You can see schedules and fares here , and you can read our sleeper train review here .

Inverness is well-connected to the rest of the UK by public bus. You can check  National Express for coach connections and prices.

We recommend using the Traveline website for helping to plan longer journeys in the UK via public transportation. The site is especially helpful if you are having trouble figuring out which bus to take or how to do a multi-leg journey.

If you are coming from Ireland, ferries regularly run between Belfast in Northern Ireland and Cairnryan in Scotland. It is about a 5 hour drive from Cairnryan to Inverness. You can check out the local ferry routes and schedules here .

Note that if you plan to rent a car outside Scotland and take a ferry, be sure to check your rental car agreement. Bringing a car to Scotland may be against your car’s rental terms (particularly any ferry crossings).

North Coast 500 Car Rentals

If you are not driving your own car, you can easily rent one in Scotland or elsewhere in the UK. For those driving the NC500, Inverness is a natural place to pick up a rental, but you can also do it in any of the other main cities such as Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Aberdeen.

Car Rentals

In Inverness, you can rent a car from a number of rental car agencies in Inverness Airport or downtown Inverness. Just be sure your rental is fully insured. Enterprise is usually our go-to company for car hire.

Each rental car agency has its own rental policies. But generally, to rent a car in Scotland (or elsewhere in the UK), you must be at least 21 to 30 years old (many have 23 as an age limit) depending on the vehicle category and car rental agency. There is often a surcharge for drivers age 25 or under.

To rent a car in Scotland, you also normally need to have held a valid driving license for at least a year (some require up to 3 years) and the driver’s license must be in English or use the Latin alphabet (or you’ll need to obtain an International Driving Permit from your home country).

Motorcycle Rentals

If you want to rent a motorcycle for your NC500 road trip, you can check out the North Coast 500 Moto Experience  in Inverness and the  Highland Motorcycle Hire in Muir of Ord (20 km west of Inverness).

If you are arriving elsewhere in Scotland or the UK, you’ll have additional options such as  Rent a Motorcycle  in Edinburgh.

Campervan, RV, & Motor Home Rentals

There are several places to rent campervans in and around Inverness, including Highland Campervans , Loch Ness Motorhomes , and  Rover Rentals . For peer-to-peer campervan and motorhome rentals, you can also look at options available on  GoBoony and Outdoorsy .

If you are arriving elsewhere in Scotland or the UK, you’ll also find plenty of options around any of the large cities in the UK. For example, if you are starting in Edinburgh or London, Spaceship Rentals is another place to check for campervans and motorhomes.

We also recommend using Motorhome Republic for campervan rental – they compare prices across the major rental firms in the UK to find the best price for you. You can book your RV for the UK through them here .

If you’d like a more robust camper vehicle, check out the four-wheel-drive camper trucks from Wild Camper Trucks. See their Scotland options here .

I’d recommend renting the smallest size campervan or motorhome/RV that you need as the narrow roads of the Highlands are not designed for large vehicles and larger vehicles are prohibited on some roads.

To be able to safely drive the NC500, you must be able to safely reverse the vehicle on small roads and it must fit into passing places. It is recommended that you don’t drive or rent any vehicle that has a total length of more than 18 feet.

If you are planning to do the NC500 by campervan or motorhome, we recommend checking out our NC500 camping itinerary , and our guide to campsites on the North Coast 500 .

Should I plan my North Coast 500 road trip in advance?

Yes, we would recommend booking your lodging in advance and to have a general idea of the main things you want to do. It is also wise to book ahead any guided activities such as kayaking, fishing, clay pigeon shooting, guided mountaineering, etc. in advance as many of the small operators tell us they can be booked up weeks in advance.

The North Coast 500 has become increasingly busy and there are a limited number of lodging and service options along the route. Waiting until the last minute to book lodging can leave you with few options, particularly if you are traveling between mid-May to early September.

If you are traveling off-season, there will be fewer travelers, but many of the businesses are seasonal so there are fewer lodging options and attractions open between October and April. So again it is wise to plan ahead.

How do you decide how long to drive the North Coast 500?

If you are not sure how long to spend along the North Coast 500, we recommend 7 to 10 days as the most ideal amount of time. This gives you plenty of time to see all the highlights, visit attractions, do some hiking, do some outdoor activities, and really see the area without feeling rushed.

Although it is possible to race around the North Coast 500 in 3 days, this is not recommended as you’ll see little and spend a lot of time driving in your car. You’ll want to take time to stop and explore and appreciate the scenery. We recommend at least 5 days to drive the full NC500.

This is not a route to drive quickly. The roads are mostly narrow and single-track and parts of the route can be congested in the summer months with tourists. Seeing deer and sheep on the road is common. Don’t plan a trip that will require you to rush around at top speeds; be a safe and responsible driver.

If you have more time, you’ll have a chance to see even more. The more time people take, the more they tend to enjoy the trip. We’ve driven the North Coast 500 route now several times and have spent between 7 day to 3 weeks at a time along the route. You won’t run out of things to do if you enjoy outdoor activities!

What if I have less than 1 week to drive the North Coast 500?

You can easily adjust this itinerary if you have a bit less than 7 days to drive the North Coast 500. We recommend a minimum of 5 days to drive the NC500 route, and you can see our suggested itinerary for 5 days around the NC500 .

If you have less than 5 days, we recommend driving only a portion of the route or considering joining a guided tour. If you are considering a guided tour, we can recommend this 3 day tour from Rabbies , an Edinburgh-based tour company we have used several times. They will take care of the planning, ensure you see all the main highlights, and keep you safe on the road.

What if I have more than 7 days to drive the NC500?

It is great if you have more than 1 week to drive the NC500! We can easily spend a few weeks in the area ourselves and you’ll have plenty to do and see if you enjoy outdoor activities.

If you have a few extra days, I’d turn a couple of the 1-night stays into 2-night or 3-night stays so you can better explore areas that are of most interest to you. It is always nice to not have to pack up and change lodging every night.

You also have a chance to explore some of the secondary routes and explore off the NC500. We provide lots of suggestions for things to do and detours in our itinerary.

If you have several extra days, we’d recommend adding on a visit to one of the islands that can be reached from along or near the route such as Orkney, the Outer Hebrides (e.g., Lewis & Harris), the Isle of Skye, or Shetland. We’d recommend at least 2 full days on any of the above islands to make the most of a visit.

Additional Resources?

If you have further questions, we recommend checking out the rest of our content on the North Coast 500 , including our North Coast 500 planning guide (start here), North Coast 500 highlights , North Coast 500 photography locations guide , North Coast 500 hotel guide , NC500 camping itinerary , and North Coast 500 B&B guide for more information.

If you have additional questions not answered here, feel free to leave us your question at the end of this article in the Comments section. We’ll do our best to answer your questions about the NC500 and provide our advice based on our experiences.

How to Use this NC500 Itinerary?

We recommend that you use our North Coast 500 itinerary as a suggested guide rather than an inflexible itinerary.

There is no way you can visit all the listed attractions or eat in all the restaurants in one road trip with only 1 week so choose the ones of most interest to you. Modify the road trip itinerary to best suit the time you have available for your trip, your preferred pace of travel, and your interests. It is your trip!

We designed this North Coast 500 itinerary with the idea that you would leave Inverness the first day with little time to explore the city. But we highly recommend taking at least one full day to explore Inverness before (or after) your road trip. If you have more time, there is A LOT to do around Inverness and there are lots of great potential day trips from Inverness to places like Loch Ness and the Cairngorms National Park . Add extra days if you want to spend more time exploring Inverness and the surrounding area.

Below is a brief guide to each of the sections within our North Coast 500 itinerary to help you understand and make the most of it:

Starting & Ending Point: This provides our suggested starting and ending point for each day. For a couple of the days, we provide alternative stopping points depending on how far you want to drive and where you book your accommodation.

Route : This section provides a general idea of the route for that day if you are following the NC500 official route. The route is pretty easy to follow and we recommend picking up the official North Coast 500 route from the visitor center in Inverness before your trip to help keep you on track.

Mileage: We list the approximate mileage that would be driven that day if you follow the NC500 route. Of course, if you make any detours or deviations from the route, this will add to your overall mileage. We found that we almost always drove a bit more (and sometimes a lot more) than anticipated.

North Coast 500 Main Attractions: In this section, we highlight many of the main attractions along that day’s suggested route such as scenic viewpoints, museums, castles, golf courses, gardens, distilleries, beaches, visitor centers, interesting shops, and historical sites.

We recommend reading over the itinerary before your trip and note down any must-see attractions. For these, I would recommend checking on opening dates and hours to make sure you can fit them into your schedule. Many places are closed on certain days and a few require advanced bookings. Most attractions along the route are open seasonally so if traveling outside of the summer months, some will be closed.

Note that if you would like to do any activities along the route (e.g., wildlife watching boat tours, fishing, golfing, clay pigeon shooting, guided hikes, surfing lessons, cooking classes, geology walks, etc.) I would be sure to book these before your trip. Many of these require advanced reservations and some book up well in advance.

Notable Detours:  If there are any notable detours off the driving route that day, such as the Black Isle, trip to Orkney, or Coigach Peninsula loop, we list them in this section. Just note if you plan to make a lot of detours (or do long ones such as out to the islands) you will likely want to add more days to your trip.

North Coast 500 Dinner Recommendations: In this section, we’ll tell you about your options for dinner in and around the town where we recommend staying for the night. Breakfast is offered at most B&B’s and hotels and lunch is fairly easy to find in most towns along the route, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding a place to eat during the day. But there are fewer places serving dinner.

In some places you’ll have many choices of where to have dinner (e.g., Inverness or Ullapool), but in other towns you’ll have more limited choices. In all the places we recommend overnighting, you should have at least 2 or more choices for dinner, especially if traveling between May and September. If you are traveling in the off season, choices may be more limited, especially in the less populated areas.

We list everything from sandwich shops to pubs to fine dining for each location. We’ve eaten at about 70% of the restaurants we list, so feel free to give us a shout if you have any questions or want a recommendation for a certain type of food or for a certain budget. Also let us know if you find that one of the restaurants on our list has closed, or find a great one that has recently opened.

Most restaurants along the North Coast 500 route stop serving dinner between 8:00pm and 9:00pm (20:00 and 21:00). If you plan to arrive after 8:00pm or so, I’d be prepared and pick up sandwiches or something along the way so you aren’t in the situation where you have nothing to eat for the evening.

For those planning to cook their own meals, most towns of any size have a small grocery or general store that sells basic groceries, snacks, prepared sandwiches, etc. Note that in many of the smaller towns, these stores close between 5:00pm and 6:00pm (17:00 and 18:00).

SPAR is the most common store for groceries (as well as other necessities) along the route (many small towns have one), and SPAR also often doubles as the town post office and general store. Some of the larger campsites and caravan parks also stock basic groceries and camping necessities that campers can purchase.

Larger grocery stores along the NC500 can be found in Inverness (several large supermarkets including Tesco, Lidl, Asda, and Morrisons), Thurso (Tesco, Lidl, and Co-op), and Ullapool (Tesco Superstore). These are good places to stock up on groceries if you are staying in self-catering lodging or camping.

North Coast 500 Lodging Recommendations: In this section, we list recommended hotels across a number of budgets and types. We list hotels, inns, B&B’s, hostels, and other types of accommodation. We also note campsites and campervan parks near each recommended overnight location for those wanting to do tent camping or plan to travel by campervan, RV, or motorhome.

We have attempted to provide options that will suit all kinds of travelers from budget travelers to luxury travelers; however, know that many towns along the route do not have any 4- or 5-star hotels and many towns don’t have any hostels. If you are looking for 5-star luxury at every stop, you may be disappointed, but there are good mid-range options all around the route.

We only list accommodation recommendations for suggested overnight stops within the 7 day itinerary, but if you are looking for other lodging options in other spots, take a look at our guide to where to stay along the North Coat 500 .

Parking is available for free at (either a dedicated car park or free on-street parking) almost all lodging options around the route. The only place where you might want to check on parking is Inverness as not all hotels and B&B’s have their own parking area, but there is almost always free street parking around or low-cost car parks.

** Important Note :  We’ve driven the route several times over the past few years and have seen a large number of openings, closings, and changes of ownership of hotels, B&B’s, restaurants, museums, shops, and other businesses. We strive to keep this information as updated as possible, but be sure to check ahead for latest information.

If you know of an attraction that has disappeared or a business that has closed (or a great place that has opened or re-opened) please feel free to leave us a Comment and we will look into it and update our information. We appreciate your help in keeping our information updated for future readers! **

1 Week North Coast 500 Itinerary Map

Below is a quick outline of our suggested North Coast 500 itinerary route and the starting and ending points for each day are shown in the map below. This is just a quick reference North Coast 500 map to show the route and itinerary so you can visualize it!

You can click this link or double click on the map image below to explore or save the map.

1 Week North Coast 500 Itinerary Summary

Here’s an overview of the route for quick reference.

• Day 1:  Inverness to Dornoch
• Day 2:  Dornoch to Wick
• Day 3 : Wick to Tongue
• Day 4 : Tongue to Lochinver
• Day 5 : Lochinver to Ullapool
• Day 6 : Ullapool to Kinlochewe
• Day 7 : Kinlochewe to Inverness

7 Day North Coast 500 Itinerary

Here is our suggested 1 week North Coast 500 itinerary. The itinerary begins and ends in the city of Inverness.

We recommend driving the NC500 route counterclockwise (starting along the east coast) so the itinerary follows this direction going northeast and then west. However, you can easily reverse this route and start your trip by exploring the west coast first. You just need to start reading from the end.

As noted earlier, we suggest that you use our itinerary as a guide for planning your trip and that you modify it as needed.

To make the most of your trip and time, you might consider picking up a map of the route.  If you will be driving beyond the NC500, we also recommend getting a good driving map of Scotland or a road atlas like this one .

There used to be a physical copy of the official North Coast 500 map available, however this has been discontinued. You can sometimes find it on eBay, with this search . There is also this map of the route available on Waterstones.

You might also want to get a guidebook written for the North Coast 500. There are a few of them now, and you can see them here . Personally, we have not used them and have heard mixed reviews from readers, so read reviews to decide if one of these might be helpful for your trip.

For those planning to do a lot of hiking, cycling, or climbing along the North Coast 500 (or elsewhere in Scotland), we highly recommend using Ordnance Survey maps . These are the best and most detailed maps for the UK.

There are OS 1: 50,000 scale Landranger maps (good for cyclists, drivers, and hikers planning to stick to well-established paths) as well as the OS 1:25,000 scale Explorer Maps for those hiking and wanting to get off the paths. For example, this is the Landranger Map  for Assynt & Lochinver and this is the  Explorer Map for that same area.

OS ships globally, but some of the maps are also available on Amazon. If you have a question about which map you need for certain hikes or areas, feel free to ask.

We have driven the route many times now and we have visited almost every listed attraction along the North Coast 500 and done almost all the listed detours. So if you have a question about something after reading over the itinerary, feel free to ask us in the Comments section at the end of this article.

OK, let’s get this road trip started!

Day 1 of North Coast 500 Itinerary: Inverness to Dornoch

Welcome to the North Coast 500—today your great Scottish road trip begins! Today you head up the east coast with opportunities for beaches, golfing, wildlife spotting, cultural attractions, whisky distillery tours, and hiking. The biggest decision today is whether you want to detour to explore the Black Isle or not.

Let’s get started!

Starting & Ending Point: Inverness to Dornoch

The official beginning is Inverness Castle, but feel free to begin wherever you wish. You’ll start by heading west out of Inverness along the A862 towards the small town of Beauly.

Route:  Inverness –> Beauly –> Dingwall –> Tain –> Dornoch Mileage: ~ 53 miles / 85 km (~ 93 miles / 150 km if do Black Isle detour) Areas of Scottish Highlands: Inverness-shire, Easter Ross (a.k.a. Ross-shire and Ross & Cromarty), and Sutherland

Main Attractions Along Route

• You’ll be leaving Inverness today. Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands, has a number of attractions in the city itself such as Inverness Castle (only the viewpoint is open to the public), Inverness Museum & Art Gallery , Ness Island Walk, and Inverness Botanical Garden . And offers a number of great attractions within a short drive such as Fort George , Culloden Battlefield , Cawdor Castle , and Loch Ness. You can see our guide to day trips from Inverness . We highly recommend spending a full day exploring Inverness before or after your NC500 road trip if you haven’t visited before.
• Note for those interested in the Picts , an early group of people who inhabited Scotland, there is a Pictish Trail that ties together over a dozen sites between Inverness and Dunrobin Castle. Most sites are Pictish carved stones and you can add any of interest to your itinerary. A few require you to phone ahead to ensure access.
• The area of the Moray Forth and Beauly Firth around Inverness and North Kessock is well known for wildlife and people often spot birds, otters, and dolphins here.
• Beauly is the first village you’ll come to and is best known for Beauly Priory, or the Priory Church of the Blessed Virgin and John the Baptist, which was founded in 1230 by Valliscaulian monks. The Reformation in 1560 brought an end to its religious use and it is in ruins now, but it’s maintained by Historic Scotland and worth a visit (free to visit). John Keats visited here and wrote a poem about the ruined abbey . Beauly also has its own Pipe Band that performs traditional music every Thursday evening in the town square during summer.
• Just north of Beauly , you’ll pass by Robertson’s Farm Shop , this is an excellent place to grab picnic supplies. They also have a small family petting zoo (small fee) here where the kids can get up close to sheep, goats, Highland cattle, chickens, pigs, alpaca, etc.
• Next village is Muir of Ord which offers a golf course and a nearby whisky distillery. The Glen Ord Distilery , which produces a popular single malt whisky, has a visitor center and you can take distillery tours and/or do tastings here. For those interested in archaeological sites, the golf course is also the site of the Castle Hill Henge (previously known as the Muir of Ord Fort) which may be a Neolithic or Bronze Age henge and there are also standing stones within a mile of the henge. If you want to see it, just stop in at the golf course and ask about it.
• If you are wanting to detour to visit the Black Isle (recommended if you have time), you’ll probably want to do that now. See Possible Detours section below for more information about the Black Isle.
• Dingwall is a very pleasant town to stroll around so we recommend parking and taking a stroll along the main street (High Street), here you’ll find a number of local shops, a few casual dining spots, and the Dingwall Museum (entry by donation, seasonal). The small museum covers the local town history and is worth a stop. There is a heritage walk you can do that takes about 1.5 hours (ask about it in the museum) and covers local monuments and historical buildings. The tower you’ll likely notice on the hill is a memorial to local hero Major General Hector MacDonald and you can do a hike up to the tower which offers a nice view back over the town and Black Isle.
• Outside the town center of Dingwall is Tulloch Castle which is believed to date back to the 12th century and is today a hotel. GlenWyvis is a community-owned distillery, started in 2015, that produces both gin and whisky. You can’t visit the distillery (as of last check) but you can purchase and try it locally in Dingwall.
• Evanton isn’t a large village but if offers several woodland hiking trails in and around the community-owned Evanton Woods . One 2.5 mile hike goes past the Black Rock Gorge, which was a Harry Potter filming location . There is also a very nice woodland playground located here (about a 10 minute walk from town center parking area) if you are traveling with kids.
• The little village of Alness has a golf course and two whisky distilleries, Dalmore Distillery (open to visitors, seasonal) and Teaninich Distillery (not open to public). You might also consider a hike up to the nearby Fyrish Monument ; there are nice views of Ben Wyvis and the rest of the local area from the monument on a clear day.
• A brief detour can take you to Invergordon which is home to another golf course and the Invergordon Museum (entry by donation, seasonal) which covers local history of the town and area.
• Another brief detour can take you to the Nigg Bay reserve which is an extensive area of mudflats, saltmarsh, and wet grassland on the Cromarty Firth, much of which is part of a The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) reserve. It is a good place to see wading birds and wildfowl, especially at high tide. The reserve operates a hide and small car park here. Those interesting in birdwatching here should check out the reserve website . A bit further south is the parish church in Nigg that contains the Nigg Stone, an important carved Pictish stone.
• Tain has a long history and was Scotland’s first royal burgh back in 1066, and its town center is worth a short stroll. Some notable buildings are the Tain Tolbooth & Clock Tower (across the road from the Royal Hotel) and the medieval St Duthac Collegiate church. If you have time we recommend a visit to Tain Through Time (small admission fee), which includes 3 buildings set within the church grounds which include a visitor center focused on the story of medieval pilgrimage to Tain, the medieval church itself dedicated to Saint Duthac , and the Tain & District Museum which covers the local history. The Clan Ross Centre is also located within this museum.
• Tain also has a golf course and a whisky distillery. Glenmorangie Distillery dates back to 1843 and produces a single malt whisky and is one of the best selling single malts in Scotland each year. The distillery offers guided tours and tasting classes to the public.
• Just outside of Dornoch (but not open to the public) sits Skibo Castle , which was the home of Scottish-American industrialist Andrew Carnegie . It can’t be seen from the road and doesn’t allow public visits as it is an exclusive members-only residential club. It has its own golf course, stables, and tennis courts. This is where Madonna married Guy Ritchie in December 2000. You can learn more about the castle in the HistoryLinks museum in Dornoch.
• Dornoch is a lovely little town best known for its famous championship golf course at Royal Dornoch Golf Club (book tee time well in advance) and is a major draw for golfers. In the center of town you’ll find Dornoch Cathedral (grand parish church which has seen the likes of Madonna and Elon Musk), Dornoch Castle (15th century castle, now a hotel), and the old 19th century jailhouse (now a shop). Dornoch also has a beach which is a pleasant place for a seaside stroll. For local history, we recommend a stop at HistoryLinks (small admission fee) which covers all the local history and you can also pick up a heritage trail map that will guide you to places like the old mercat cross and The Witch’s Stone (commemorates last legal witch burning in British Isles in 1727). There’s also the popular Cocoa Mountain which sells handmade chocolates and serves hot chocolate

Possible Detours

Today’s drive to Dornoch isn’t that long so depending on what time you leave Inverness and how many stops you plan to make, you may have time for a detour. If you have time we’d definitely recommend the Black Isle detour.

If you have even more time (ideally another day) you might consider more exploration of the Tarbat Peninsula and doing the Lairg Loop.

• The Black Isle is a large peninsula located just northwest of Inverness. The area has a number of interesting small towns, attractions, and scenic spots that are worth a stop if you have time. These include Hugh Miller’s Birthplace Museum & Cottage, Black Isle Brewery, Fortrose Cathedral, wildlife watching boat tours (book in advance), Pictish stones, and Fairy Glen waterfall. Chanonry Point is one of the best places to see dolphins in Scotland. See our guide to things to do on the Black Isle to plan your visit. You can turn off the NC500 route to visit the Black Isle in a few different spots between Inverness and Dingwall. It is about a 1.5 hour detour to drive around the peninsula and return, but I’d allow at least 3 hours if you want to make stops and explore.
• If you like Pictish stones and lighthouses, you might want to make the detour to explore the Tarbat Peninsula . Here you can visit the interesting Tarbat Discovery Centre (small admission fee) which is located in an old parish church and is focused on Pictish history and artifacts. There are also more Pictish stones and historical sites in area (ask at Discovery Centre). You can also follow the coastal Tarbat Ness walk from Portmahomack to the local lighthouse which was designed by Robert Stevenson. You can detour to this area from Tain, it is about a 20 minute drive from Tain to Portmahomack.
• Lairg Loop – If you have extra time, you might consider driving the Lairg Loop which includes the chance to drive through Bonar Bridge, see the Falls of Shin (visitor center, walking & cycling paths, restaurant, waterfall with chance to see salmon jumping), and visit Lairg. In Lairg, you’ll find the Ferrycroft Visitor Centre which is a good place to get local information and to do two short walks, the Ord Lairg Archaeology Trail and Ferrywood Trail. This is a popular fishing area, especially for trout in local lochs, and you can purchase bank permits and boats here . The Lairg Loop without stops adds a little over 1 hour of driving.
• If you are doing the Lairg Loop, you may also want to make a detour to see Croick Church (about 10 miles west of Ardgay) in the parish of Croick . It is a Church of Scotland 19th century parish church of Thomas Telford design that figured prominently in the Clearance of Glencalvie in 1845. It is about a 25 minute drive from Ardgay to reach the church. So add an extra hour to the Lairg Loop drive if you want to visit the church.

Dinner Recommendations

You have several options when it comes to finding dinner in Dornoch. Reservations are recommended at many of the restaurants so I’d recommend calling ahead to book if there is one you really want to eat at during your stay.

I’d also check with your B&B or hotel, as many offer evening meals in Dornoch for guests.

Here are some options:

• Coach House Bar & Restaurant – If you are looking for inexpensive pub grub or a drink at a local place, this is a good bet. The service here is friendly; however, the food we’ve had here was only so-so. Full bar; pub is dog friendly.
• Luigi – This is a casual cafe that serves tasty lunches during the day, and they also serve evening meals on some nights. Serves contemporary European food with a focus on fresh and local seafood. Serve wine and beer. Reservations recommended.
• Sutherland House Restaurant & Bar – Traditional Scottish food, British pub food, and steaks. Full bar. Located in central Dornoch. Popular spot; reservations recommended in summer.
• Conservatory Restaurant – Located at the Royal Golf Hotel, the bistro-style conservatory restaurant offers nice views over the Royal Dornoch Golf Club and Dornoch Firth. Offers à la carte menu with traditional Scottish and European dishes. Full bar. Reservations recommended.
• Castle Restaurant – Although the Dornoch Castle Hotel is best known for its award-winning whisky bar, it also has a good hotel restaurant. Serving contemporary Scottish and European meals. Wine list. We’ve had very good meals here. Reservations recommended.
• Links House – French inspired food using local produce. Offer both an à la carte menu and a set tasting menu. Extensive wine list. Excellent option if you are looking for a fine dining experience; reservations essential.
• Late Night Option – If you are arriving into the town late, Highland Spice, an Indian restaurant and takeaway, usually offers takeaway until 11pm.

Lodging Recommendations

We recommend lodging options in Inverness for those staying overnight there before starting the North Coast 500, and accommodation in Dornoch, where we recommend spending your first night along the NC500.

Accommodation in Inverness

If you are looking for a place to stay in Inverness before (or after) your NC500 trip, here are some suggestions, many of which we have stayed in:

• Bazpackers – A well-rated hostel offering 4-bed and 6-bed dorms rooms as well as private rooms, and a lounge and kitchen. Central location, 2 minute walk from Inverness Castle and 15 minute walk to train and bus stations.
• No. 29 B&B is a good value bed-and-breakfast offering ensuite rooms, a continental or cooked breakfast, and friendly hosts. It’s about a 1 minute walk from Inverness Castle and to the train and bus stations.
• Ardentorrie House – directly opposite Inverness Castle and offering lovely views of the castle and Inverness skyline, this B&B offers spacious en-suite rooms and free on-site parking, as well as a highly rated full Scottish breakfast.
• Best Western Palace Hotel & Spa – This centrally-located 3-star hotel is set in a large Victorian building, and offers spacious rooms, a swimming pool , spa, beauty services, 24-hour front desk, modern gym, spa, and two on-site restaurants. Many rooms offer fine views overlooking River Ness and Inverness Castle. It is about a 10 minute walk to Inverness Castle and to the train and bus stations.
• Invernevis B&B – This lovely 4-star B&B is set in a Victorian-era villa and offers several rooms (most en-suite, 2 with shared bathroom), a welcome dram of whisky, lovely decor, and a cooked breakfast. It is about a 20 minute walk from Inverness Castle.
• Jury’s Inn – This 4-star hotel offers comfortable modern rooms at a good value, and also offers a 24-hour front desk, swimming pool, leisure center, free parking, and an on-site bar and restaurant. It is about a 5 minute drive or 30 minute walk into central Inverness.
• Kingsmills Hotel   –  This 4-star luxury hotel offers comfortable rooms across two buildings, a whisky bar, a leisure club (gym and pool), a spa, two restaurants, and free parking. We found the rooms very comfortable here. Hotel is located next door to the Inverness Golf Club. Offers a variety of rooms categories and types from modern to historically decorated. It is a 5 minute drive or 20 minute walk to central Inverness.
• Rocpool Reserve Hotel – This 5-star chic boutique hotel offers 11 rooms in a renovated Georgian mansion house. The hotels offers a guest lounge, on-site stylish cocktail bar, and a popular on-site restaurant where we had a lovely meal. Centrally located and a 7 minute walk from Inverness Castle.
• Ness Walk – This 5-star luxury hotel just opened in summer 2019 and features a modern interior, spacious guest rooms, an opulent lounge, and an on-site fine dining restaurant. A 12 minute walk to Inverness Castle.
• Bunchrew House Hotel -This 4-star luxury hotel offers 16 guest rooms in a 17th century baronial country home just outside Inverness in a woodland setting. Hotel offers a large guest lounge, on-site bar, on-site restaurant, and garden area. A great place for couples looking for a romantic break, and we enjoyed our stay here. About a 15 minute drive from Inverness Castle.
• Campsites – The nearest campsites and caravan parks are Torvean Caravan Park and Bught Park Caravan Park & Campsite . Also nearby are Ardtower Caravan Park and Bunchrew Caravan Park .

Accommodation in Dornoch

Here are suggestions for lodging in and around Dornoch across a variety of budgets:

• Strathview Lodge B&B – Located about a 10 minute drive from Dornoch, this lovely B&B offers good-sized comfortable en-suite rooms and a tasty cooked breakfast. We’ve stayed here. Great location for birdwatchers as very close to the Loch Fleet Nature Reserve.
• Heartseed House B&B – This B&B is located just outside Dornoch and offers 3 comfortable rooms with nice views over rural land and Dornoch Firth. Offers cooked-to-order breakfast, and pets are allowed on request.
• Albatross B&B – This centrally located B&B offers two en-suite guest rooms as well as free on-site parking, free WiFi and a full cooked breakfast.
• Dornoch Castle Hotel – If you are looking for a Scottish castle to stay in while in Dornoch, then the 3-star castle hotel may suit the bill. Its history dates back to the 15th century and it offers 22 comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and an award-winning whisky bar and lounge. Central location across from Dornoch Cathedral.
• Links House – A 5-star luxury boutique hotel with 14 rooms across three adjacent buildings. Beautiful decor, excellent on-site restaurant, and luxury amenities. Located next to the Royal Dornoch Golf Club. If you are looking for the nicest place to stay in Dornoch, this is it!
• Campsites – Dornoch Caravan and Camping Park – offers both serviced and unserviced pitches for tents, caravans, and motorhomes. Located near beach and golf courses.

Day 2 of North Coast 500 Itinerary: Dornoch to Wick

Hopefully, you enjoyed your first taste of the North Coast 500 yesterday and are ready for Day 2. Today you have lots of things you can do, including birdwatching and wildlife spotting at Loch Fleet, learning more about the Highland Clearances and local history of the region, touring the impressive Dunrobin Castle and its gardens, and visiting dozens of archeological sites. There are also many hiking opportunities as well as several whisky distilleries and golf courses along today’s NC500 route.

Although today’s drive is again not that far, there are lots of stops you can make along the way. We recommend looking ahead before setting out and noting the must-see stops for yourself along the route today and then plan your day accordingly.

Starting & Ending Point: Dornoch to Wick (or John O’ Groats) Route:  Dornoch –> Brora –> Helmsdale –> Dunbeath –> Wick Mileage: ~ 62 miles / 100 km (~ 78 miles / 125 km if end in John O’Groats) Areas of Scottish Highlands: Sutherland and Caithness

• Say goodbye to Dornoch and head north towards Golspie.
• You might want to make a short detour to visit Embo as it has a lovely beach (you can actually walk from Dornoch Beach to Embo Beach as well).
• For those who enjoy wildlife and birdwatching, you should make a stop at Loch Fleet, a national nature reserve. Loch Fleet is a sea loch surrounded by sand dunes, mudflats, coastal heath, and pinewoods. It is a popular place for birdwatchers and also good for spotting local plants, otters, and seals. The ruins of the 14th century Skelbo Castle are also here. Lots of trails here, coastal and woodland, from short easy ones to longer hikes. The Skelbo Forest walk is an ideal one for families as it has lots of shade and has a number of woodcarved animal sculptures along the path.
• The town of Golspie has another golf course (can’t have enough of them!) and a nice little shop selling stones and fossils called the Golspie Stone Shop . You’ll likely notice a statue above the town, this is a 100-foot tall statue of the 1st Duke of Sutherland which was erected in 1837. The Duke and his wife (as is the Sutherland name) are controversial figures because of their role in the Highland Clearances . The statue, known locally as The Mannie, marks the top of Ben Bhraggie and you can hike up to the statue from Golspie, and there are lovely views from the top on a clear day. You can continue that hike onto the Big Burn or Dunrobin Castle estate as well.
• If you are looking for more hiking opportunities today, just outside Golspie is the lovely Big Burn hike which is a lovely wooded area and stream with a series of small waterfalls.
• Now you’ll arrive at the fairytale castle of the Scottish Highlands, Dunrobin Castle . Of all the castles in Scotland, this is the one that looks most like a Disney Castle. Although it dates back to the medieval period, most of what you see today dates only to the mid-nineteenth century and was designed by English architect Charles Barry. Dunrobin Castle is the family seat of the Earl of Sutherland and the Clan Sutherland, and is still owned and used by the Sutherland family. The castle is open to the public seasonally to visit (admission fee for entry). Here you can tour the castle rooms, visit the beautiful formal French gardens, and explore the museum (warning: lots of stuffed animals inside the museum!). There are also regular falconry shows in the garden in the summer. You can easily spend a couple of hours here, and we always enjoy visiting.
• After leaving Dunrobin Castle, you will soon see a sign for Càrn Liath which is an Iron Age broch . You can see it from the road, but there is a small car park on the opposite side of the road where you can park and walk over to the broch if you wish. The site is maintained by Historic Scotland. More brochs (or well broch remains) can be found in Caithness than in any other part of Scotland. When visiting, just be sure not to walk on top of or disturb any of these archaeological structures. Learn more about local brochs on the Caithness Broch Project website .
• In Brora you’ll find a popular golf course, a small beach, and the small Brora Heritage Centre (free, donation only). If looking for a coastal hike, consider doing part of the John o’ Groats Trail from Brora to Golspie or from Brora to Helmsdale .
• Just outside of the village of Brora is the Clynelish Distillery which includes both a modern distillery and a 19th century one (this one was renamed Brora Distillery ; currently closed with plans to reopen it in 2020). Tours and tastings are available to the public.
• Helmsdale – Helmsdale’s harbor was once home to one of the largest herring fishing fleets in Europe. The town has an interesting history with links to the Highland Clearances, herring industry, gold rush, and castle poisonings, which you can learn all about at the museum (small entry fee) at the Timespan Heritage and Art Centre . Timespan also has a cafe if you are hungry or need a cup of coffee. The other thing to see in Helmsdale is a bronze statue on a hill called The Emigrants which is a touching memorial to those who left Scotland during the Highland Clearances .
• About 5 miles north of Helmsdale is the former clearance village of Badbea , which was one of the villages in the area where evicted people settled during the Highland Clearances. There is a small car park here and a path to the former village. There are some signs here telling about the history of the village and a monument by David Sutherland, and you can see some of the remaining stone walls of buildings and such.
• In Dunbeath , you’ll find the Dunbeath Heritage Centre . Writer Neil Miller Gunn was born in Dunbeath and you can find a memorial statue Kenn and the Salmon (based on two of his characters) located near the harbor. Also nearby are a number of archaeological sites like Dunbeath Broch (this nice walk includes the broch, a carin, and standing stone) and the Dunbeath Castle Gardens (fee, private gardens open by appointment only). Garden lovers should be sure to schedule a time to visit in advance.
• Just outside Dunbeath along the route is the Laidhay Croft Museum (small fee to enter, pay in tea shop if no one around) which includes a 250-year-old rush thatched Caithness Long House which you can explore which is cluttered full of antique furnishings as well as a byre (barn) and shed with tools. There is also a tea room next door and it’s a place we like to stop to support the little museum.
• Near Latheron , is the Clan Gunn Museum & Heritage Centre which is a museum dedicated to the history of the Clan Gunn which is located within the Latheron Old Parish Church.
• There is also a large standing stone (over 12 feet high) in a field in Latheron called the Buldoo stone or Latheron stone, you can see it from the A9 but we could not find an easy way to access it on foot. Further along towards Lybster sit the ruins of Forse Castle , you can’t see it from the road but it can be seen from the coastal hiking path between Dunbeath and Lybster.
• In between Dunbeath and Wick are a number of archaeological sites of burial cairns, standing stones, brochs, etc. There are probably hundreds of sites and you can easily spend a couple of days just exploring them. If you don’t have a lot of time, maybe pick one or two to visit and add those to your itinerary today. Most of these require small detours from the North Coast 500 route to visit. The most popular (and best signposted) are the Achavanich Standing Stones (36 smaller stones part of a stone circle), Grey Cairns of Camster (Neolithic burial chambers, note have been restored by Historic Scotland but very impressive), Yarrows Archaeological Trail (hiking path with several sites), Cairn o’ Get (remains of a tomb, it’s about a 3/4 mile hike to reach, not recommended if muddy), and Hill o’ Many Stanes (rows and rows of small standing stones). Laurence and I have visited all of these so if you have a question, let us know.
• In Lybster is the Waterlines Heritage Museum located next to the Lybster fishing harbor, which focuses on local history and its former importance as a fishing station. The village also has a golf course.
• A bit further along is the Whaligoe Steps which is a man-made stairway of 330 steps that were handcut to lead down to a scenic harbor between two sea cliffs which was once a landing place for fishing boats. The steps are steep so keep that in mind before heading down and make sure to keep a close eye on children. There is also a very good cafe here that serves lunch and drinks, as well as dinner on certain evenings (make dinner reservations in advance).
• Near Thrumster is the previously mentioned Yarrows Archeological Trail which is a hiking path along which are the remains of a Mesolithic site, Neolithic chambered tombs, Bronze Age hut circles, and a broch. It starts near the southwest part of the Loch of Yarrows and there is a parking area here and signage. The full walk takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, you can see more details of the walk here . If you are really interested in this trail, consider spending the night at nearby Thrumster House as there are archeological sites on the private grounds and the owners have been involved in making and promoting the local trail.
• Our recommended final destination for the day is the town of Wick . Wick has an interesting history and we recommend learning about it in the excellent Wick Heritage Centre if you have time. Also in Wick, you’ll find the Old Pulteney Distillery (open for public tours and tastings), a golf course, three harbors, and a Carnegie library. You can also hike up to Old Wick Castle , which is a 12th century ruin along a cliff.
• Looking for activities? Scenic boat trips along the coast are possible from Wick harbor with Caithness Seacoast (recommend booking in advance).
• The Lairg Loop (described in Day 1’s Possible Detours section) is a possibility again today. Note that this route takes at least 1 hour to drive without taking into account stops.
• The Forsinard Flows , a large blanket peat bog reserve that is protected by the RSPB and an important natural area, is a possible detour from Helmsdale today. However, we recommend if you want to visit here that you wait until Day 3 as it is quicker to access from the north. But if you do decide to go today it is about 25 miles to the Visitor Center and it takes about 45 minutes to get there from Helmsdale. So a detour there and back will take at least 2 hours, but longer if you want to spent much time exploring the reserve.

There are a few dinner options in Wick, and you can also check with your lodging in advance if they do evening meals.

• No 1 Bistro – This restaurant located at the Mackays Hotel serves both lunch and dinner and focuses on modern Scottish food using lots of local produce. Great place with high quality food. Full bar, and they even have a cocktail menu. Reservations strongly recommended for dinner.
• Bord de l’Eau – A relaxed French restaurant serving classic French dishes and French inspired dishes. The chef was born in France and the restaurant gets good reviews. Located along the river. Wine menu. Reservations recommended for dinner.
• Harbour Chip Shop – If you are looking for reasonably priced fish and chips (and other deep fried goodies), you might want to head down to the harbor to the local chippy for some takeaway.
• DeVita’s – This is a family-run pizzeria and Italian cafe serving salads, pizza, pasta, paninis, and burgers. DeVita’s serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• The Alexander Bain – This is a large Wetherspoon’s pub named after a local inventor, serving the usual British pub fare, pizzas, and has a full bar. Note this pub has recently been put up for sale (as of March 2019) so its future is currently uncertain but still open at last check.
• Late Night Options – If you are arriving into the town late, you have a few options of places to check including Bombay Spice (Indian takeaway & delivery, usually open until midnight), The Great Wall (Chinese, cash only, usually open until at least 10pm), and Tandoori Spice (Indian restaurant and takeaway, usually open until 11pm).

We recommend staying overnight in Wick tonight but if you can’t find something in Wick, or want to drive a little further, you might consider spending the night a little further north in John o’ Groats.

Here are suggestions for lodging in Wick and John o’ Groats across a variety of budgets:

• Mackays Hotel in Wick – This 3-star hotel is famous for being on the world’s shortest street. Built in the 19th century, the hotel offers a mix of traditional and modern decor with comfortable rooms and apartments offering modern conveniences. Hotel has an on-site bar and popular restaurant, and a cooked Scottish breakfast is included in hotel room rates.
• Clachan B&B in Wick -The Clachan B&B is a well-rated bed-and-breakfast offering comfortable rooms, free WiFi, and an included full breakfast. About a 10 minute walk from town center.
• Bay View B&B in Wick – Located near the harbor, this B&B offers comfortable rooms with traditional decor at good value prices. Breakfast included. Some rooms have sea views.
• Thrumster House in nearby Thrumster – A B&B situated in a Victorian mansion with lots of antiques and family heirlooms. Friendly owners, dog-friendly (must like dogs), and included breakfast. Lovely garden with walking paths and even Bronze Age ruins. A great place for both dog lovers and archaeological lovers. Located 4 miles south of Wick.
• Bower Wigwams in Bowermadden – A collection of camping pods offering good value glamping stays and each includes mattresses, television, towels, and basic amenities. Some pods have en-suite bathrooms. There is a shared kitchen facility, fire pit, and toilet and shower area. Campsite is family friendly and situated on a farm. Be sure to bring your own food and cooking stuff if you plan to make meals. Located about 10 miles north of Wick.
• John O’Groats Inn & Lodges in John o’ Groats – If you are looking for self-catering lodging options you might want to head up to little John o’ Groats. The restored Victorian era Inn at John O’Groats offers studios to 4-bedroom apartments, and the Lodges at John O’Groats offers newly-built self-catering 3-bedroom villas. Many offer sea views. All options are self-catering with cooking facilities, but also come with a complimentary welcome hamper with local goodies and a concierge service. Expect modern decor, locally sourced furniture, and modern technology. The hotel owns and maintains the famous signpost showing how far John o’ Groats is from different locations.
• Seaview Hotel in John o’ Groats – A 3-star family-run hotel offering comfortable en-suite rooms, free parking, flat-screen TVs, and on-site dining. Hotel has an on-site bar and restaurant. Some rooms have sea views.
• Northern Sands Hotel in Dunnet – This is a great 3-star 12-room hotel near Dunnet Head and within walking distance of Dunnet Bay Distillery and the beach. Offers comfortable spacious en-suite rooms, free parking, and an on-site bar and restaurant. Just note that Dunnet is about a 30 minute drive from John o’Groats.
• There are no hostels that we know of in Wick, but if you venture a bit further along the route you can stay in Sandra’s Backpackers Hostel in Thurso. However this adds quite a bit of extra driving for today, so do plan accordingly if you plan to stay in Thurso.
• Campsites : Wick Caravan and Camping Site (closure announced in 2022, hoping new owners will reopen for 2022 or 2023 season). Also near Wick is Bower Wigwams which offers popular camping pods. If you’d rather stay in John O’Groats there is John O’Groats Caravan & Camping Site and Stroma View Caravan & Camping Site .

Day 3 of North Coast 500 Itinerary: Wick to Tongue

Today you finish your exploration of the western section of the NC500 and begin your exploration of the far north of Scotland. In fact, you can stop to see the northernmost spot on mainland Britain and visit the most northerly town.

Today there are plenty of chances for stops to see dramatic scenery, local wildlife, and sandy deserted beaches. There is the famous former home of the Queen Mother that you can visit, great little museums where you can learn local history, the most northerly 18-hole golf course on the British mainland, and a popular gin distillery. There are also loads of historical and archeological sites from Pictish stones to medieval churches. Hiking opportunities abound from dramatic coastal hikes to easy forest hikes.

Note that if you have not yet encountered single track roads (one lane roads) then you will definitely be driving on long stretches of single track road today. If you are new to driving on single track roads in Scotland, please be sure to read our single track road driving guide before you set out. Know the road laws and how to use (and not use) passing places, be sure you know how to reverse your vehicle, and please pull over into passing places to allow faster traffic to pass you. If you have any questions, feel free to ask us.

Although today’s drive is again not that far, the single track roads slow down traffic here and inexperienced drivers on the route can really slow things down. Expect it to take a little longer than anticipated to get to places. Loads of stops you can make again today, so plan your day accordingly.

Starting & Ending Point: Wick to Tongue (or Durness) Route:  Wick –> John o’ Groats –> Thurso –> Bettyhill –> Tongue Mileage: ~ 79 miles / 127 km (107 miles / 172 km if drive on to Durness) Areas of Scottish Highlands: Caithness and Sutherland

• Say goodbye to Wick and continue your drive north.
• Just north of Wick is Noss Head , where you can park and walk up around the lighthouse here. There is a small parking area before you arrive at the private drive to the lighthouse, which is still actively used. Also from here, you can walk to the dramatically situated ruins of the 15th-century Castle Girnigoe and the 17th-century Castle Sinclair (although new theories suggest it may have been one large fortress Castle Sinclair Girnigoe ), built for the Sinclair Earls of Caithness. The Clan Sinclair also built the nearby 16th century Ackergill Tower which was for a long time a 5-star castle hotel along the route but which closed in December 2018 and is now a private residence. Ackergill Tower is not open to the public.
• Around Keiss , there is yet another Clan Sinclair ruined castle, known as Old Keiss Castle. It is on private land and not publicly accessible, but you can get a good view of it from this coastal path , which also leads to Nybster Broch. Nybster Broch is an Iron Age broch along the coast worth seeing and there is also the Mervyn Tower here, which is a monument to Sir Francis Barry , an English businessman who excavated the Nybster broch in 1900.
• Just north of Nybster Broch in Auckengill , there is the Caithness Broch Centre (formerly the Northlands Viking Centre) which is worth a short stop if open to learn more about brochs and other archaeology sites. However, it has been closed every single time we have driven by in recent years.
• Now onto John o’ Groats , a place famous for being at one end of the 876-mile “End to End” route that connects it to Land’s End in Cornwall. It is often mistakenly referred to as the northernmost point in mainland Britain (but this is actually nearby Dunnet Head), but it does have a famous signpost that replaces the original “Journey’s End” signpost which was a customizable sign that people could pay to have their photos professionally taken next to. Today, the sign is no longer the original customizable one, but it is free to take your own photo here. There are nice sea views out to Orkney here on a clear day and you can take a ferry to the islands from here. In summer you can take wildlife sightseeing ferries and boats from here with John o’ Groats Ferries . There is a cafe serving hot meals and a couple of gift shops here.
• Just northwest of John o’ Groats you can make a short drive to Duncansby Head . There is a lighthouse you can see here built by David Alan Stevenson (active, not open to the public), sea cliffs, and sea stacks (known as the Stacks of Duncansby). It is a very scenic area and you can often see seabirds nesting on the cliffs and stacks, and you may also see seals. Whale spotting is also popular along here. Bring your binoculars if you have them. You can just take a short walk out to the viewing area or it is about a 1 hour walk out past the sea stacks along the cliff.
• In Mey , you’ll find the Castle of Mey, another former Sinclair castle, which is best known as the former home of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother who used it as a holiday home from the 1950s until her death in 2002. It is open to the public seasonally for visits (fee for entry) and you can tour the castle, the gardens, and visit the family farm animal center. The interior of the castle has been left much as it was when the Queen Mother lived here. There is also a large tea room serving hot food and drinks and a gift shop. There is even a new luxury B&B on the grounds. You can find out more about the castle and its attractions here .
• Around Dunnet , you can head out to Dunnet Head, the most northerly point in mainland Britain. There is a stone marker here next to the parking area and a well-marked short path to a viewpoint. Or you can explore further by taking a coastal walk of the area which is part of the Dunnet Bay Nature Reserve, and home to lots of flora and fauna, including important plants and seabirds.
• Also around Dunnet you’ll find Mary Ann’s Cottage , a well-preserved croft home dating back to 1850 and last lived in by Mary-Ann Calder, allows visitors to see what crofting life was like in the 19th and early 20th centuries here. It is normally open for a few hours each afternoon during the Spring and Summer seasons. Also you’ll find Dunnet Bay Distillery famous for Rock Rose gin and their iconic ceramic bottles. They offer tours to visitors and there is also a gift shop here. Also, the Seadrift Centre is located right next to the Dunnet Bay Caravan Club site, and is a visitor center and has free exhibits about the local geology and wildlife. A short stroll from the parking area takes you to dunes and a beach which is a pleasant place for a stroll.
• Castletown  is best known as the “Flagstone Village” as it used to be a major source of flagstone. Here you can visit the Castletown Heritage Centre to learn more about the town history and the parish of Olrig. Also just outside of the heritage centre are two short walking trails you can follow, we followed one of them and it was well signposted, taking us on a self-guided tour around former buildings used related to the flagstone industry.
• Thurso is the largest town along the northern section of the North Coast 500 and the most northernmost town on the UK mainland. It has a compact center that is a pleasant place for a stroll. Some notable places of interest in town include the ruins of St. Peter’s Kirk (one of the oldest churches in Scotland), the “new” 19th century St Peter’s and St Andrew’s Church, Sir John’s Square (in front of church with a statue of Sir John Sinclair and a war memorial), and the ruins of Thurso Castle (can be viewed from across river from Riverside Drive). For railway enthusiasts, you’ll find the most northerly railway station in the UK located here. Thurso is also a good place to pick up food, supplies, and get fuel. It also has a golf course.
• One of our favorite museums along the NC500 located in downtown Thurso is North Coast Visitor Centre (formerly Caithness Horizons Museum & Art Gallery). This reopened in 2021 following a period of closure due to funding issues . The museum, located in the former Town Hall building, covers the history of the local area and is notable for its collection of Pictish stones and artifacts from the Dounreay Nuclear Power Plant .
• You might be surprised to learn that northern Scotland, particularly Thurso, is a popular place for surfing and national championships have been held in Thurso. Big waves are regular features along the northern beaches in the winter, attracting big wave surfers. In the summer months, when the waves are not so large or dangerous, some locals (look up Scot Surf in Durness for example) will take tourists for surfing lessons. You’ll want a wetsuit or drysuit for any prolonged water activities as the water is never warm up here!
• At Scrabster , there are ferries to the Orkney islands from the harbor and you can also do a scenic coastal walk around Holburn Head here.
• At the remote hamlet of Crosskirk , you can do a hike to visit the ruins of St Mary’s Chapel which is believed to have been built around 1100. There is a small signed parking area and the hike is across sheep fields and a little bridge, and can be muddy. It took us about 45 minutes round trip.
• Those interested in birdwatching may want to make a short detour to visit Broubster Leans which is another RSPB reserve which includes grassland, heathland, moorland, wetland, and marshland habitats.
• Little Reay has a golf course ( Reay Golf Club is the most northerly 18-hole course on the British mainland) and a sandy beach at Sandside Bay. The wee village also contains the remains of a medieval church and graveyard and the 18th century Reay Parish Church.
• The sea cliffs and grounds around Melvich Bay is a popular place for seabirds to nest in the spring and summer months.
• Strathy has a nice large sandy beach just off the route and nearby Strathy Point is another scenic point you can choose to explore. You can follow the single track road to Totegan and then park where indicated at the end of the public road. You can then follow the private road on foot out to the lighthouse (private, not open to public) and Strathy Point which is a 10 to 15 minute walk. You can then wander along the cliff edge for nice views and chances to spot wildlife.
• In little Bettyhill is the Strathnaver Museum , located in the former Parish Church of Columba, which covers local history and has a whole room dedicated to Clan Mackay (this area of Scotland is part of “Mackay Country”) with a large collection of memorabilia belonging to the Clan Mackay Society . Don’t forget to see the 8th century Farr Stone here.
• The Strathnaver Museum is also a good place to get information about the Strathnaver Trail (which starts here), a walking/driving trail which currently connects a couple dozen historical sites that include Pictish carved stones, burial cairns, war memorials, Highland Clearance village remains, and stone circles. Each site includes an interpretive sign, some require hikes to reach from the car parks. There is also the local Rob Donn Mackay Trail , where you can visit places connected to the Scottish Gaelic 18th century poet and his work.
• Also near Bettyhill is the sandy and pretty Farr Beach, another place you may see surfers, and the scenic Torrisdale Bay. You can take a hike down into Torrisdale Bay where you can reach a sandy beach and see the remains of a broch. Just be careful with the tides here. Further along the route is Coldbackie Beach, another pretty sandy beach.
• Near Borgie , Borgie Forest is a good place for a fairly short forest walk near the River Borgie. We enjoyed searching for The Unknown statue by Kenny Hunter.
• We recommend overnighting tonight in Tongue or you might carry on a bit further west to the village of Durness. Tongue is a small village with a small shop, post office, fuel station, and a few lodging and dining options. We recommend the pleasant hike to the ruins of Castle Varrich (Gaelic: Caisteal Bharraich), a 14th century castle built by Clan Mackay, if the weather is decent. It’s about a 1 hour hike round trip from the village to the castle. A few years ago a metal staircase and viewpoint was built at the castle ruins that allows for a nice view over the Kyle of Tongue and the nearby mountains. Just outside Tongue, you can find a memorial to local Gaelic poet Ewen Robertson who wrote a lot about the Highland Clearances.
• From the area around Tongue you can get great views of Ben Hope and Ben Loyal (you might consider a drive and hike around nearby Loch Loyal), and it is great place to base if you are planning to climb either Ben Loyal or Ben Hope.

You have a few detour possibilities today to explore Orkney (this will require at least a full day), see the Forsinard Flows, or explore the Strathnaver Trail.

• Orkney is an archipelago off the northeastern coast of Scotland. The islands are most famous for their Neolithic sites, Viking heritage, their role in the World Wars, and local wildlife (seabirds and seals). You can reach Orkney by taking ferries from John O’Groats, Gills Bay, or Scrabster. You can easily spend a week exploring the island but you will need at least a full day to see some of the highlights of the main island. If you only have a day, I’d recommend booking a day tour of the island either with ferry tickets or without ferry tickets (book your own) so that you can see as much as possible with limited time. We recommend adding extra time to your NC500 trip if you plan to visit Orkney.
• Forsinard Flows , a large blanket peat bog reserve that is protected by the RSPB and an important natural area, is another detour possibility today. The Flow Country is the largest area of blanket bog in the world, and the blanket bog is important as it holds a huge amount of carbon and is also an important habitat for a number of birds and other wildlife. Much of it is protected by the RSPB and other local organizations and it is a popular place for birdwatchers. You can detour by taking the A897 south in between Reay and Melvich, and it is about a 14 mile drive (about 25 minutes) to reach the small Visitor Centre which is located in an old railway station building.
• The mentioned Strathnaver Trail starts at the Strathnaver Museum in Bettyhill and a few of the trail sites are within a short walking distance of the museum whereas others are a few miles away off the NC500 route. You need to do a mix of driving and walking. The detour to follow the trail is not very long but many sites require hiking to go see, so it depends on how much time you have as you can spend a couple of hours or most of day exploring the trail and doing the hikes. The folks at the Strathnaver Museum can help you choose some sites to visit if interested.

Dinner Options

You only have a few options for dinner in Tongue or Durness so it is good to plan ahead, especially if traveling off-season, so that you know your options as some restaurants are seasonal and/or are not open 7 days a week. But there is usually at least one dinner option (usually 2) open in both Tongue and Durness.

Note that there are no super late night dining options in Tongue or Durness and most places stop serving by 9:00pm (21:00). So if you are planning to arrive around 9pm or later, we’d recommend picking up something to eat before you arrive.

• Ben Loyal Hotel in Tongue – The hotel offers evening meals in their casual bar or in their hotel restaurant (open seasonally). They offer a variety of Scottish and European dishes with a focus on locally caught seafood. We had a really great meal here, and we can definitely recommend the seafood dishes (the meat dishes were good too though). Friendly staff; full bar. Reservations recommended for the restaurant.
• Tongue Hotel in Tongue – Tongue Hotel offers evening meals in either the more casual bar or in the nicer hotel dining room. Menu includes a wide selection of Scottish and European dishes as well as burgers. Has a children’s menu. We’ve eaten here a couple of times and found the food to be good at decent prices. Friendly staff and full bar with large whisky selection. Reservations recommended for the restaurant.
• Smoo Cave Hotel near Durness – The hotel has a bar and restaurant that serves quality pub food. Wide selection of traditional pub dishes with lots of rave reviews of their fish and chips. Full bar. Sometimes have live music.
• Sango Sands Oasis in Durness – This large casual restaurant and bar sits right next to the Sango Sands beach and campsite. It offers a wide selection of pub style dishes. We’ve eaten here a couple of times and they serve decent pub food and we’ve been impressed by their friendly staff and quick service even on busy evenings. We’d recommend choosing one of the homemade options on the menu (just ask) as these are usually the best. They also do takeaway.
• Meet and Eat Cafe near Durness – This is a newly opened (in April 2019) cafe and restaurant located within the Balnakeil Craft Village which has replaced The Whale Tale (which moved to Scourie). It has modern decor and serves homemade soups and baked goods and uses local meat and seafood in its dishes. Reservations needed for evening meals.

Tonight we recommend staying the night in Tongue, or driving a bit further west to Durness. Note that the northwest corner of Scotland has few lodging options and these can book up well in advance, even the hostel rooms. So we definitely recommend booking in advance.

• Tongue Hotel in Tongue – A country hotel offering 19 ensuite rooms in a former nineteenth-century hunting lodge built for the Duke of Sutherland. Rooms are traditionally decorated and many include original Victorian fittings and furnishings. A decanter of sherry awaits guests in their rooms, and there is a cozy lounge where guests can relax with drinks, read, or choose one of the many board games on selection. The hotel has a full-service restaurant and bar.
• Ben Loyal Hotel in Tongue – This small Highland hotel offers comfortable en-suite rooms and flat-screen TVs, and a cooked to order breakfast. Hotel has an on-site pub and an on-site restaurant. Friendly staff; good food.
• Tigh Nan Ubhal Guesthouse in Tongue – Located in the center of the village, the B&B offers small but comfortable rooms with modern decor. Stay includes a cooked Scottish breakfast.
• Tongue Hostel in Tongue – This hostel located in a former hunting and fishing lodge sits outside the village on the shores of the Kyle of Tongue. Offers both dorm beds and private rooms, and shared kitchen and bathroom facilities.
• Mackays Rooms in Durness – A lovely boutique B&B offering 7 cozy en-suite bedrooms, each with “modern highland chic” decor. There is also a cozy guest lounge with fireplace. Stay includes a wonderful cooked breakfast.
• Durness Youth Hostel near Durness – This well-rated hostel is located near Smoo Cave and offers both dorm beds and private family rooms. Also offers a shared lounge, kitchen, and bathroom facilities.
• Campsites – The closest campsite to Tongue is Bayview Caravan Site . Campsites near Durness include Sango Sands Caravan & Camping and Altnaharra Caravan Club Site .

Day 4 of North Coast 500 Itinerary: Tongue to Lochinver

Today you enter the North West Highlands Geopark, an area of special geological interest and dramatic beauty. You have a chance to explore a large cave, visit a craft village, stroll along white sandy beaches, learn why the local geology is so important, and admire the dramatic scenery of this northwestern tip of Scotland.

There are also many opportunities today for long hikes, climbs, water activities, and sightseeing detours so be sure to plan accordingly as many of our suggested activities and detours require 3 to 5 hours to do.

Again today is not a long drive but the single track roads can make for slow going in places and there are some steep sections so drive cautiously. There is a choice to make after Kylesku about the route to take to Lochinver. Although the routes seem similar in terms of length, the coastal route takes much longer (at least twice as long) as it is slower, steeper route (not suitable for large vehicles). So keep this in mind when planning your route today.

Starting & Ending Point: Tongue to Lochinver Route:  Tongue –> Durness –> Scourie –> Drumbeg –> Lochinver Alternative route (for motorhome users & those with limited time): Tongue –> Durness –> Scourie –> Skiag Bridge –> Lochinver Mileage:  ~ 89 miles / 143 km (82 miles / 132 km if avoiding B869 road) Area of Scottish Highlands: Sutherland

• This morning you’ll say goodbye to Tongue and head west, continuing to enjoy scenic views of the Kyle of Tongue, Ben Loyal, and Ben Hope along the route.
• Just before reaching Loch Hope, you enter into the North West Highlands GeoPark . This is a UNESCO designated GeoPark that has amazing geology and outstanding landscapes. It is a remarkable place of world-class discoveries in the geology world, but even if you have no interest in rocks, you’ll enjoy the beautiful scenery. The park encompasses about 770 square miles (2,000 square km) of land. For the purposes of the North Coast 500 route, basically everything you’ll see between Tongue and Ullapool is part of the large geopark. We’ll point out all the major attractions and stops, but if you have an interest in geology, you might want to plan extra time in this area.
• The area around Loch Eriboll is a bit steep and windy but very scenic. If you are driving a motorhome be cautious along this stretch of road from here to Kinlochbervie. In the 19th century, a local estate here quarried lime from the island of Eilean ChoraidhI , and you can still find the remains of the lime kilns (known as the Ard Neake Lime Kilns) on the east side of Loch Eriboll.
• If you are looking for a bit of a thrilling rush today, you might want to try out the most northernly zipline in the United Kingdom. It is called Golden Eagle Zip Line and is located just before you reach Ceannabeinne Beach. Note zip line operations are seasonal and weather dependent.
• The first major attraction along today’s route is Smoo Cave which is an impressively large sea cave (and freshwater cave). Parts of the cave were occupied in prehistoric times, perhaps as early as 10,000 years ago. You can explore the outer chamber on foot for free. In the spring and summer months, you can take a guided tour (fee) further into the cave which includes a tour on foot (need suitable footwear) plus a raft ride to access the inner chambers and see the waterfalls and sinkholes. Very much worth a stop and visit.
• In the little village of Durness you’ll find beautiful sandy beaches (Sango Sands and Balnakeil Beach), a 9-hole golf course (the most northerly 9-hole course!), and general village amenities (shops, fuel, pub, etc.). Also nearby is the Balnakeil Craft Village which is a “craft village” occupying a number of former military buildings built in the 1950s during the Cold War that were never used. In the 1960s it started to become occupied by artists, craftspeople, and recluses. Today, you’ll find an eclectic mix of craft shops, as well as a cafe/restaurant. There is also Deep Time , which is a geology exhibition (free, entry by donation) by geologist Dr. Bjorn Hardarson from Iceland, and he also leads guided geology tours in the area (book tours in advance). Whether you want a short introduction to the geology in the area or a more in-depth one, consider booking one of these expert-guided walks! Note that many shops at the craft village do not conform to regular opening hours and what you’ll find open is always a bit of a guess and the shops seem to change every time we visit.
• There are a few lovely shorter walks you can do around Durness to Faraid Head . In this area, you can walk to the ruins of the 17th century Balnakeil Church, the sandy beach of Balnakeil Bay, and a 1950’s radar station. You can often see seabirds and seals around Faraid Head.
• Just outside of Durness, near Keoldale is the ferry point if you choose to visit Cape Wrath . Cape Wrath is a special wildlife area, has a lighthouse designed by Robert Stevenson, and is an active military training area for the Ministry of Defense. See Detours section for more information if interested in visiting Cape Wrath (takes 3 to 4 hours).
• A short detour can bring you to Kinlochbervie , note the road is steep, which has a little harbor and Oldshoremore Beach. If you continue down the single track road B801, you come to the car park for the trailhead for the hiking trail to Sandwood Bay , a beautiful windswept beach with an iconic sea stack (Am Buchaille) that is often a contender for best beach in Britain and one of the more difficult to reach. This is not a difficult hike but it is a long hike (~ 4.5 miles each way) and there are no services at the beach so make sure you are prepared if you decide to do this hike. The path is maintained by the John Muir Trust and there are basic toilets and facilities at the car park as well as a donation box. You’ll need to allow at least 4 to 5 hours for the hike and short visit.
• The most notable structure in Laxford is Laxford Bridge which is a stone arch bridge along the A838 spanning the River Laxford, a popular river for salmon fishing. Geologically, the area is important because you can clearly see a shear (deformed rocks) from the Moine Thrust here. There is a roadside lay-by for a few cars to park with an interpretive sign about 2.5 miles north of Laxford Bridge along the A838 which is one of the best places to see this. You can see three main rock types of different ages swirled together (grey gneisses, black amphibolite, pink granite) that were exposed by road works here.
• A 3 mile detour to Tarbet brings you to a small fishing hamlet that has two main attractions, a seafood restaurant called the Shorehouse and the small passenger ferry to Handa Island. See Detours section for more information about visiting Handa Island (takes about 4 hours).
• Scourie is a small crofting village with a small harbor, and is known for its “palm trees”. Scourie Bay is an important geological area as there are many places here where you can see and touch Lewisian gneiss, the oldest rock in Europe which is estimated to be about 3 billion years old! The area is a popular place for brown trout fishing. If you are interested in fishing in this part of the world, we recommend considering booking a fishing trip (from boat, river, or shore) with local angler Stewart Yates of Assynt Fly Fishing .
• In little Kylesku you have the striking Kylesku bridge and a nice roadside scenic viewpoint (there is a large car park). You can also take seasonal wildlife sightseeing boat trips (can book here ) from here and the restaurant at Kylesku Hotel serves tasty seafood meals.
• At Unapool, you see the Rock Stop just off the road in the former Unapool School Building. Keep an eye out as it is easy to miss the turn off. Inside, you’ll find an exhibition room that includes a video about the North West Highland GeoPark, visitor information, a café that serves light lunches and coffee, and a small gift shop. Great place to stop to learn about the GeoPark and get ideas of places you might want to stop within it. We always stop here when its open to get coffee, food, or something from the gift shop to help support the GeoPark.
• Just after the Rock Stop, you have the choice to head off onto the more narrow B869 along the coast or continue along the A894 . If your vehicle is 16 feet or longer in length, it is recommended that you follow the A894 south and then the A837 west to reach Lochinver which is less steep and more able to handle larger vehicles.
• For those driving along the B869 , there is lots of nice scenery along this route to enjoy. Take it slow as the road is single track and steep and narrow in places. Some places you may want to stop are in little Drumbeg to visit Drumbeg Stores (great place for picnic supplies and snacks) and Assynt Aromas (candle shop and tea garden), Clashnessie (beach, mill ruins, and from the beach you can take the short hike to nearby Clashnessie Waterfall if you want), Clachtoll (pretty beach and this hike also takes you past memorial to Reverand Norman Macleod and Clachtoll broch ruins), and Achmelvich Bay for its beautiful white sandy beach. At Achmelvich, there are also short hikes you can do from the campsite here, including out to the little concrete “hermit’s castle” built by David Scott in the 1950s.
• If you have more time, you can make a brief detour (~ 15 minutes) along the twisty narrow road between Clashnessie and Stoer which takes you out to the Stoer Head lighthouse. It is another Stevenson lighthouse (private, not open to public, part is used as a holiday let) but some nice scenic views. This is also the starting point for those doing the hike out   (~ 3 hours round trip, track is often very muddy) to the Point of Stoer and the Old Man of Stoer seastack. There are no permanent services here other than a parking area, although sometimes there is a compost toilet open or a local snack van in the summer.
• For those continuing along the A894 , the turn onto the A837 to Lochinver winds around Loch Assynt and offers some lovely scenery. We often see red deer in this area, especially in the early morning and evening. If looking for an easier hike in this area, consider this one which starts near Little Assynt Estate and along which you’ll have views of nearby mountains, Quinag and Suliven. Also nearby is an all-abilities path suitable for those in wheelchairs and those with strollers; it starts from the Leitir Easaidh car park and goes around two lochs.
• Either route (B869 or A894) will lead you to the village of Lochinver . Lochinver is the largest village in Assynt and is an important fishing port. Highland Stoneware is based here and you can see how the pottery is made and purchase it at their store here; it is used by many of the B&B’s, hotels, coffee shops, and restaurants along the NC500 route. The local pie shop, Lochinver Larder is a well-known place to get both savory and sweet pies. The village has all the basic amenities (a few shops, post office, a couple of restaurants) and a range of lodging options.
• Lochinver is a popular base for anglers, hikers, cyclists, and people looking for outdoor pursuits. If you are looking for a guided hike or climb in the Assynt area, whether a half day hike or a challenging multi-day climbing trip, we can recommend Tim Hamlet at Hamlet Mountaineering . If you are new to fishing in this part of Scotland, we recommend considering booking a guided fishing trip (from boat, river, or shore) with friendly local angler Stewart Yates of Assynt Fly Fishing . He knows all the best places as well as all the laws and regulations regarding fishing in the area. Families welcome. Book activities well in advance if you can.
• Dun Dornaigil broch – This is an impressive Iron Age broch ruin; however, it is about a 1 hour detour to drive here off the main NC500 route to see the broch and return. So I would not recommend this one unless you have extra time in this area or really love brochs. The broch is signed from the main road, and you turn south off A838 near the hamlet of Hope. It is about 10 miles or so down the road but it is a single track road so takes about 25 minutes to reach the broch. Nice views of Loch Hope and Ben Hope along the way. Allow about 1 hour for this detour.
• Cape Wrath has a lighthouse built by Robert Stevenson in 1828 that you can see (not open to public), is a special wildlife area, and is an active military training area for the Ministry of Defense. To reach it you need to take a small seasonal passenger ferry and then a bus (or do a long hike) to reach the lighthouse and a small cafe. Bring cash to pay for ferry, bus, and cafe. The bus ride here includes commentary and is interesting but it is bumpy. The ferry is seasonal and dependent on tides, weather, and MOD firing schedule and is first-come, first-serve. You can check service times and dates here , although we found these don’t always match what is posted at the ferry departure point so best to check there. You will need at least 3 hours to visit Cape Wrath, and this includes minimal time for hiking/walking. Note intrepid hikers can hike here from Sandwood Bay (tide and firing range dependent, check before setting out) and can camp or stay in a mountain bothy overnight. Allow 3.5 to 4 hours for this detour.
• Handa Island is a protected nature reserve owned by the Scourie Estate and currently managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust. Each Spring and Summer, up to 100,000 seabirds nest here and it also is home to important maritime plants. There are a particularly large number of guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes, and great skuas, but you also have a decent chance to see a number of other birds (e..g, Arctic terns, puffins, fulmars) and marine mammals (e.g., seals, otters). There is a seasonal small passenger ferry from Tarbet that carries people to and from the island. Tickets were £15 each on last check and must be paid in cash. First come, first serve. The boat ride takes about 10 minutes each way (note you are likely to get a little wet from the spray and arrival on the beach), then there is a short talk by the ranger, and then you explore on your own. You can rent binoculars from the ranger hut which are a good idea if you don’t have a pair as many of the birds are off on the cliffs and sea stacks. It takes about 3 hours to walk the visitor path on the island. Stay on the marked path/boardwalk to avoid environmental damage and disturbance of bird nesting areas. See ferry times and more about visiting here . Allow about 4 hours for this detour.
• Falls of Kirkaig – If you like waterfalls and are looking for a local hike, you might want to make a detour heading south of Lochinver to hike to the Falls of Kirkaig (a.k.a. Lochinver Waterfalls). It is about a 21 minute drive along a track road to Inverkirkaig to small car park and then a 2.5 hour hike to the falls and back. Allow about 3.5 hours for this detour.

Booking is recommended for dinner in Lochinver, especially in summer. Places often book out in the evenings during the busy season. Note there are currently no late night food options in Lochinver or surrounds, so plan ahead if you plan to arrive into the village at 9pm or later.

• Peet’s Restaurant – Popular local restaurant focusing on seafood and pub favorites. Well-cooked food at reasonable prices, known for its seafood chowder. Recommend trying the local seafood or asking what else is fresh and local. Recommend booking ahead, especially in summer.
• Inver Lodge Restaurant – If you are looking for a more upscale dining option, you might want to try the restaurant at Inver Lodge. Menu focuses on local seafood, steaks, and game. Full bar and wine menu. Reservations needed. Note : As of April 2019 this restaurant is no longer associated with the Roux brothers (previously called Chez Roux) and hotel has returned to local ownership.
• The Wayfarers Bar – The pub at the Culag Hotel is a local hangout for beer and they also sometimes serve evening meals. We’ve never eaten here and the food has mixed reviews, but worth checking to see if they are serving if you are looking for a place to eat.
• Lochinver Larder – The famous local pie shop, offering both savory and sweet pies, as well as other cafe meals and snacks. Offers eat-in meals, takeaway, or pies to heat later options. Note: It normally closes by 6:00pm so this might be a good option for those looking for an early dinner or those doing self-catering wanting to get pies to heat up later for dinner.
• An Cala Cafe – A modern and casual cafe restaurant located at the An Cala Bunkhouse serving daily specials with a focus on what is fresh and local. Note usually close at 7:30pm, so best for those looking for an early dinner. Recommend that you call ahead for evening meals.
• Kylesku Hotel Restaurant  in Kylesku – This restaurant is well-known for its local seafood dishes, most of which are caught in the waters around Kylesku. Full bar. Reservations strongly recommended for evening meals.  Note : This restaurant is about a 30 minute drive north of Lochinver so if you want to eat here, you may want to grab an early dinner on your way to Lochinver or consider overnighting in Kylesku.

**Note that until recently, there were a few more good dining options in Lochinver, but The Caberfeidh pub and The Albannach (fine dining as part of B&B) are currently both closed. Also the nearby Glencansip Lodge which used to serve evening meals has stopped doing so this year. Many businesses are up for sale in Lochinver at the moment so things are likely to continue to change. If you have any local updates, please let us know!**

Lochinver has a number of lodging options but most are bed-and-breakfasts which have only a handful of rooms. So it is best to be sure to book in advance to get the type of lodging you want.

• Daver Guesthouse – This 4-star B&B offers four well-appointed rooms with modern amenities. Each room is individually decorated and three of the rooms have views over the bay and one has a view onto the garden. The B&B also has a small lounge area with TV and games. Delicious cooked to order breakfast included.
• Inver Lodge – This 21-room luxury hotel perched atop of a hill overlooking the Lochinver and its loch. Although the hotel is not attractive from the outside, it offers some great views, with all rooms and the restaurant having bay views. The hotel strives for understated luxury and rooms are spacious and comfortable with traditional Highland decor. There is a guest foyer and library area as well as an on-site bar and good restaurant. The restaurant offers nice views over the harbor.
• Tigh Na Sith – This well-rated small B&B offers 3 comfortable en-suite rooms, free WiFi, flat screen TVs, and all the basic amenities. Cooked to order breakfast served at a communal breakfast table. No children; age 16+ only.
•   An Cala Bunkhouse – This small modern hostel in Lochinver offers 12 beds across 3 dorms rooms. Shared kitchen, lounge, and bathroom facilities. Also has an on-site cafe. A great place for budget travelers.
• The Hideaway – A popular self-catering cabin cottage that offers a kitchenette, hot tub, washing machine, and terrace with great views. Great self-catering option for 1 or 2 people. Located a few minutes drive outside of Lochinver.
•   Kirkaig Lodge in Inverkirkaig – This B&B offers 3 spacious en-suite rooms with modern decor and amenities. Shared lounge and there is also a sauna on site. Continental breakfast on tray provided in mornings. One room has a sea view over Inverkirkaig Bay. No children under age 15 allowed. This B&B is located in Inverkirkaig near the Falls of Kirkaig hike, about a 10 minute drive from Lochinver along track road.
• Glencanisp Lodge near Lochinver – This historic Victorian Highland lodge has been turned into a 10 room B&B (some en-suite, many share a bathroom) and is owned by the community Assynt Foundation. It is run by a great local group, staff are friendly, and the lounge is cozy, but we have found the place to be a bit disorganized, the room furnishings outdated, and some rooms in need of repair. The hotel booking photos did not match our room. However, this is an ideal place to stay for those planning to hike Suliven as it sits along the trail, and offers great views in a pretty setting. Breakfast included; no evening meals. It is located about a 10 minute drive west of Lochinver along a track road; the road is not suitable for motorhomes and had a number of potholes when we last drove it.
• Campsites : The closest campsite and caravan site to Lochinver is Shore Caravan Site . Also in the area is the Clachtoll Beach Campsite and the Birchbank Site (open to Caravan Club members only).

Day 5 of North Coast 500 Itinerary: Lochinver to Ullapool

Today you’ll drive through the rest of the North West Highlands Geopark so it is a good day for stops to learn more about the local geology. There is also lots of stunning scenery along today’s route and several popular spots to stop and park for scenic views and photos. For those in regular sized vehicles, we recommend taking a detour to explore the Coigach peninsula for even more great coastal scenery. You’ll end today in the largest village along the western section of the NC500.

Today’s route goes past some of the most popular and iconic hills and munros (Scottish mountains over 3,000 ft) along the NC500 so hill walkers and hikers may want to plan a hike today. It is also a great area for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, boat rides, and other outdoor activities.

The route is again intentionally short to give you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, hiking, and outdoor activity opportunities that this area has to offer.

Starting & Ending Point: Lochinver to Ullapool Route:  Lochinver –> Inchnadamph –> Elphin –> Ullapool Mileage: ~ 36 miles / 58 km (~ 46 miles / 74 km if add in full Achiltibuie route) Areas of Scottish Highlands: Sutherland and Wester Ross (a.k.a. Ross-shire and Ross & Cromarty)

• This morning you’ll leave Lochinver and head south. This morning might be a good time to do a local hike and there are many around Lochinver and Loch Assynt to consider from easy to challenging. We mentioned some easier hikes on yesterday’s itinerary, but if you are looking for some more serious hill walking or climbing, there are loads of nearby mountains and hills including Suilven, Stac Pollaidh, Canisp, Cul Baeg, Quinag, Creag Liath, and Ben More Assynt.
• Just along the road along Loch Assynt you’ll see the ruins of Ardvreck Castle and Calda House sitting next to the loch. Ardvreck Castle is believed to have been constructed by the Clan MacLeod in the late 15th century and was later captured by the Clan MacKenzie in 1672. Calda House was built for a couple from Clan Mackenzie and was one of the grandest houses in the Highlands in the early 18th century. We recommend stopping at the parking area and getting a closer look; there are good information panels here.
• Inchnadamph is a small hamlet that is strongly associated with the geological findings of the 19th century, including the discovery of the Moine Thrust which runs through the area and the findings at the nearby Bone Caves. Ben Peach and John Horne , the British geologists who helped map the Moine Thrust and also made discoveries in the bone caves, stayed in the Inchnadamph Hotel and there is a stone monument to them on a hill nearby in a field. Horne and Peach’s writings about their findings in the North West Highlands remains an important book in geology as they helped answer the question of why older rocks were sometimes found on top of younger rocks. Today Inchnadamph is still an important stop for geologists.
• Just south of Inchnadamph is the hiking path to the Bones Caves. The caves were excavated in 1889 by the geologists Peach and Horne, where they (and later others) found the remains of a number of animals, many now extinct in the UK including lynx, bears, wolves, and lemmings. You won’t see any remains today in the shallow caves but it is a pleasant hike and we often see deer near the trailhead. Just note that some areas near the caves are pretty steep and can be slippery. It takes about 1.5 hours to do the round trip hike .
• There are a few scenic viewpoints with parking areas where you can stop between Inchnadamph and Drumrunie for scenic views and photos.
• There are a number of limestone caves in the area and those with a strong interest in spelunking may want to arrange a stop in the small crofting village of Elphin. Located here is the Elphin Caving Centre run by the Grampian Speleological Group as well as a club hut with self-catering accommodation. You’ll want to contact the group in advance.
• If you only stop for one geology focused hike during your NC500 trip, Knockan Crag is a good one. It is educational, interesting, and you get great views from the trail. The small open air Rock Room is an informational visitor center where you learn about the geology of the area and the importance of the discovery of the Moine Thrust. You can see and touch rocks that are millions and billions of years old. Then there are three trails that you can take of varying lengths that go up the hill and there are signs, sculptures, viewing points, and small exhibits along the way. The longest trail provides the best views and takes about 1 hour to hike. There is a well-marked parking area here off the road as well as toilets and picnic tables.
• Just past the estate of Drumrunie , you have the option to continue south or make a detour to take a route west to explore the Coigach peninsula towards the small village of Achiltibuie. If you are in a normal sized vehicle and have the time, we recommend taking this detour. The road is narrow (not for large motorhomes or trailers), but offers some lovely scenery and small villages. It takes about 1 hour to drive to the end of this route. See Detours section below for more information.
• After you past the tiny village of Ardmair and its holiday park and campsite, there will be a road that leads to the Rhue lighthouse. This is a short detour where you can park and take a short walk to the Rhue lighthouse (not open to public). From this area, on a clear day, you have nice views of the Summer Isles and Loch Broom. It is about a 10 minute or so walk to the lighthouse.
• Ullapool is the largest village along the western part of the route. The village’s most distinguishing feature is its large harbor and it also has a ferry terminal where you can take ferries to Lewis and Harris. Ullapool has a small museum housed in a former Parliamentary church designed by Scottish engineer Thomas Telford , a golf course, and a Highland Stoneware pottery store and workshop (if you didn’t stop in Lochinver). It has a large grocery store and a number of small shops, and is a good place to get groceries, fuel, and any needed supplies. It is home to the annual Loopallu music festival each September. You can often find live music, especially on weekends, at one of Ullapool’s many pubs and restaurants.
• If you are looking for a stroll in Ullapool, there are nice places to walk around the harbor area and around Loch Broom. For a longer walk we can recommend heading up to the summit of Meall Mor, where you can get great views over Ullapool, Loch Broom, and Loch Achall.
• Coigach Peninsula – A route leads from Drumrunie west along the coast of the Coigach Peninsula towards the little village of Achiltibuie. Along the route there are a few crofting hamlets and fishing villages, the largest of which is Achiltibuie. There are no must-see places here but lots of nice scenery and it is a popular place for diving, sailing, kayaking, climbers (especially Reiff), and walking. You get great views of the Summer Isles from along the route. If you are looking for kayaking options around here, this company (book in advance) offers both guided sea kayaking and loch canoeing. This detour takes about 1 hour if you drive to the end, so I’d allow at least 2 hours for this detour.
• The Summer Isles – The Summer Isles are a group of about 20 islands and large rocks that sit below the Coigach Peninsula. Many of the islands are home to seals, otters, seabirds, and other wildlife and only one of the islands, Tanera Mòr , is currently inhabited (luxury holiday village planned here by investor Ian Morse) although others are used for sheep grazing and one is a RSPB reserve. You can take seasonal boat trips around the islands and Coigach peninsula from Ullapool, or you can kayak over to the isles (and even camp there) with Kayak Summer Isles .
• Lewis & Harris – Lewis and Harris is the largest island in Scotland and the main island of the Outer Hebrides. You can take a ferry (takes about 2 hours 45 minutes) from Ullapool to the town of Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis. There is a number of things to do on the island which include visiting archaeological and historical sites (standing stones, Lewis Castle, Blackhouse), learning about Harris Tweed (all of which is handmade on the island), enjoying the sandy beaches, outdoor activities (hiking, hunting, fishing, cycling), and spotting local wildlife (Harris is a good place to see eagles). You’ll want at least one full day on the island to explore. If you want to do a day trip, we’d recommend taking the ferry over and then joining a small group tour or private tour so you can see some of the main highlights of the island with limited time.

Restaurant Options

Many dining options in Ullapool are clustered around the harbor. Booking is recommended for dinner at most places in Ullapool, especially in summer. Restaurants often book out in the evenings during the busy season, although you can always find some place to get food in the evenings. Many hotels and inns serve meals in Ullapool.

• The Arch Inn – This waterside restaurant and bar serves all day meals including burgers, seafood, steaks, and chicken dishes. It sits in a historical building originally built by the British Fishing Society. There is often live music in the evenings here and they also offer accommodation. Often one of the most lively places in Ullapool.
• The Ceilidh Place – The menu at this popular Ullapool restaurant is focused on seafood with daily specials. Full bar. Sometimes offers live music, and also have a bookshop and rooms. Our favorite place to eat in Ullapool. Reservations recommended.
• The Royal Hotel – This is one of the largest hotels in Ullapool and the hotel restaurant serves primarily Italian inspired dishes including pizza and pasta. Full bar.
• Seafood Shack – If you are looking for takeaway, this seafood food truck is a good option and it offers tasty high-quality local seafood. This was the first place we ever ate in Ullapool.
• The Seaforth Bar & Restaurant – This bar and restaurant focuses on local sourced and good quality Scottish pub favorites such as fish and chips, steak pie, haggis, burgers, and mussels. Full bar. Often have live music. Also offer takeaway chippy for those looking for fish and chips to eat elsewhere.
• Ferry Boat Inn Restaurant – A seafood restaurant and traditional bar. Primarily serve local seafood dishes but also offer a few meat and vegetarian dishes. Wine list. Also offers rooms.
• The Frigate – A casual shoreside cafe and restaurant serving all day meals. Focused on local produce, seafood, salads, burgers, and homebaked breads and desserts.
• Late Night Options – There are a couple of late night options usually open in Ullapool until 10:30pm or 11pm, including Lucky House (Chinese) and Essence of India (cash only).

Ullapool offers two larger hotels (over 50 rooms) and a number of small inns and bed-and-breakfasts. If you decide to stay outside of Ullapool, just note that the main dining options in the area are located in central Ullapool.

• The Royal Hotel – This 3-star 19th century hotel is one of the largest and oldest in central Ullapool, offering more amenities than many of the others. The traditional hotel offers 54 rooms across a number of categories, which include family rooms. The hotel has an on-site full-service restaurant and a bar.
• Harbour House   – This well-rated harborside guest house offers comfortable rooms and a cooked to order breakfast. Great location, nice views from the property.
• Croft 17 B&B – This lovely B&B is run by Ullapool locals Jaimie and Martin, and offers impressive views across the loch and down to the town of Ullapool. Rooms are clean and comfortable, and the rate includes a continental breakfast, with free parking and WiFi also included. Located a 5 minute drive north of Ullapool.
• Westlea House – This family-run B&B offers five comfortable and stylish themed rooms. The eclectically stylish common areas include a dining area and guest lounge that contains a large collection of books, guides, and LPs. An interesting feature of the B&B is little listening nooks with turntables where you can listen to vinyl records.
• The Arch Inn – This local restaurant and bar also offers several guest rooms. Note can be a bit noisy during dinner service and check in is at the pub, but it is very conveniently located along the waterfront. Some rooms have sea views.
• Ullapool Youth Hostel – This well-rated hostel with views over Loch Broom offers dormitory rooms, family rooms, and private rooms. Offers a large communal kitchen and lounge area.
• Campsites : Broomfield Holiday Park is centrally located in Ullapool next to Loch Broom and walking distance to most town attractions, shops, the ferry terminal, and restaurants. Not far from Lochinver is also Ardmair Point Caravan & Camping Park .

Day 6 of North Coast 500 Itinerary: Ullapool to Kinlochewe

Today you follow the North Coast 500 south past more wonderful scenery in the area of Wester Ross. You have the option to visit a lovely garden, walk across a gorge, walk along sandy beaches, see waterfalls, learn about the Arctic Convoy, and visit a local heritage museum. As usual there are lots of opportunities for hiking and all sorts of outdoor activities. 

Starting & Ending Point: Ullapool to Kinlochewe Route: Ullapool –> Aultbea –> Gairloch –> Kinlochewe Mileage: ~ 76 miles / 122 km Area of Scottish Highlands: Wester Ross (a.k.a. Ross-shire and Ross & Cromarty)

• Today you say goodbye to Ullapool and head southwest along the coast towards Gairloch. We recommend getting fuel and any food and supplies you need before you head south as there aren’t many grocery stores or fuel stations along the route for the next day or so.
• Just after leaving Ullapool in Leckmelm , there is the Leckmelm Shrubbery & Arboretum. A nice place to stop to wander around in a pretty garden and see some interesting trees. Lots of rhododendrons when they are in bloom. Small donation requested (£3 at last check) for visiting. Often quiet here.
• Near Braemore is the Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve which is best known for its suspension bridge designed in 1867 by John Fowler , the chief engineer of the famous Forth Rail Bridge, that stretches across the box canyon and Droma River. You can walk over the pedestrian footbridge, although it is not for those with a fear of heights. A series of waterfalls, Falls of Measach, make for beautiful scenery. It is about a 10 minute walk from the car park to the viewing area but you can also follow a couple of hiking trails. Good place for short hikes and birdwatching. The site is maintained by the National Trust for Scotland and there is no fee to enter, but donations of £2 per person suggested for parking and maintenance. There are no toilet facilities here, although there is often a food truck serving food in the parking area.
• There are several small waterfalls off the A832 around Dundonnell that you may want to stop to see, Dundonnell River Falls, Ardessie Falls, and Eas Dubn Falls. None are huge waterfalls or must-sees, but can make for a nice break if you are looking for a stop or short hike. There are several hiking opportunities in the area, including the start of the popular hike to the An Teallach ridge . Just note this is a long and difficult hike. Two hikers have died so far in 2019 on this hike so do be careful when choosing hikes in the Scottish Highlands!
• There are nice views from and around Gruinard Bay . There are also a few small sandy beaches here. If you detour north of Laide about 10 minutes you can also stop at Mellon Udrigle beach which is a white sandy beach with scenic views over the Coigach peninsula.
• Aultbea was used as a strategic place for boats to harbor at Loch Ewe during World War II because it was well protected. Convoys from here followed a perilous route across Arctic waters to provide supplies to the Soviet Union during the war; it was a dangerous mission and many boats were sunk in the freezing waters with hundreds of casualties. Although the convoys were mainly made up of Royal Navy troops and ships, they also included American and Canadian naval forces. There are a few places in Aultbea where you can learn more about these events and the strong impact it had on this little village during WW2. These include a small roadside stop signed as “War Time Memories” next to MacLennan Park that has informational panels and the Russian Arctic Convoy Museum which has a lot of information and a large collection of artifacts from the period (small fee for entry). The Russian Arctic Convoy Museum has been a long-term project for the local community and is a great place to support as it relies on entry fees, donations, and volunteers to stay open. We also recommend a visit to Rubha nan Sasan, Cove Battery (see Detours section).
• Also in Aultbea is a combined cafe and perfumery shop called Aroma Cafe which is a nice place to stop for a coffee and snack with a nice view over Loch Ewe. Note that the popular Isle of Ewe Smokehouse (popular for its smoked salmon) has recently closed (in 2019) and is now being converted into a holiday let. The Aultbea Hotel (which also had a previously recommended restaurant) closed suddenly in April 2019 with no date set for reopening.
• Just north of the village of Poolewe , you’ll find the Interewe Gardens which is a large garden that includes a lovely collection of trees, flowers, and other plants along the loch. Because of the Gulf Stream, even some tropical plants thrive here and it is a lovely garden to explore with lots of meandering trails. There is also a seasonal cafe, shop, Inverewe House (former home of Mairi Sawyer that you can tour), and Sawyer Gallery (seasonal contemporary art gallery) within the garden. Wildlife boat trips are also often offered here in the summer. The garden is run by the National Trust for Scotland and there is an entry fee to visit (free for members).
• Poolewe is a pretty little village on the shores of Loch Ewe. There are some hiking opportunities, such as this circular hike around Poolewe that circles Loch Kernsay.
• In Gairloch , you’ll find the Gairloch Museum which is the local heritage museum which just got a new building and has been recently redeveloped, definitely worth a stop for those interested in the local history. The small fishing village also has has a 9-hole golf course, a small harbor, whale cruises , and several small shops and cafes. There is smaller beach next to the golf club (Gairloch Beach), and if you drive 4 miles north of Gairloch along the B8021 there is the Big Sand Beach which is a large sandy beach which is a popular beach and a great spot for sunset. There is also a marked archaeological trail here called the Sands Archaeological Trail which leads to some local archaeological ruins and you can learn more about it at the museum.
• If you are looking for activities like fishing, deer stalking, falconry, guided hikes, or archery, you may want to make a short detour towards Badachro . Here you’ll find the 26,000 acre estate surrounding Sheildaig Lodge which offers a number of activities you can book (note that some are for hotel guests only). One of the more unique is a chance to go out on a boat with a local creel fisherman and then enjoy your catch as part of a 5-course seafood feast at the hotel restaurant. You can also book shorter boat trips directly with Shellfish Safaris . There are several hikes around Badachro include one through Flowerdale Glen (ends at Flowerdale waterfall) and up to the “Fairy Lochs” which takes you past the memorial of an American WW2 Liberator crash bomber (a touching memorial).
• Between Slattadale  and Kinlochewe are some lovely views of Loch Maree and its many small islands. The loch became famous for trout fishing after it was visited by Queen Victoria and her ghillies in 1877 during her stay at the Loch Maree Hotel (still an operating hotel). She visited the Isle of Maree as well by rowboat; the island has the ruined remains of a chapel, graveyard, well, and oak tree that are believed to have been the 8th century hermitage of Irish Saint Maelrubha (who founded a monastery in Applecross).
• Just off the road near Talladale is Victoria Falls , a small but pretty waterfall named after Queen Victoria, which is a short walk from a marked car park. Not a must-see but nice if you want to stretch your legs. If you continue up the trail further you can also get a nice view of Loch Maree from the top of the trail.
• Kinlochewe is a small village located just south of Loch Maree. This is a great place to explore the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve which was the UK’s first National Nature Reserve. It offers mountains and pinewoods. There are trails you can explore, including a woodlands trail and a  mountain trail, and lots of birdwatching opportunities. There is a seasonal visitor center open in Kinlochewe which is a good place to learn more and get trail maps.

There are no major recommended detours today, but you do have a few options to take short routes off the NC500 if you want to do so. Note that all are along narrow single track roads. You can also of course head off to Lewis & Harris or the Summer Isles today (as described under Day 5’s potential detours).

• Rubha nan Sasan, Cove Battery – If you are interested in World War 2 history, we’d definitely recommend a detour out to visit the coastal battery and war memorial to all those who lost their lives in the Arctic Convoys. You’ll find the remains of an emergency coastal battery built in 1941 (manned from 1942 to 1944) which include ruined gun houses, an observation post, gun-emplacements, and other buildings. You’ll also find a memorial cairn to the American sailors who lost their lives when the Liberty ship SS William H. Welch wrecked nearby in 1944 (most died, but several men survived thanks to local crofters). There are some signs here and a trail you can follow, just note that parts of the path are steep and watch out for scrap metal. A great follow-up visit to the Russian Arctic Convoy Museum. The battery is about a 20 minute drive from Poolewe along the B8057 so I’d allow about 1.5 hours for this detour.
• Rubha Reidh – If you are looking for a secluded coastal hike, you might want to head out towards Rubha Reidh. You can drive as far as Melvaig and park in the small car park as it becomes a rough private access only road after that. It is about a 1 hour walk to the Rua Reidh Lighthouse which was built by David Alan Stevenson (private, now a B&B, holiday let and private home). Great views from near the lighthouse on a clear day across the Minch to the Isle of Skye, the Shiant Isles, and the Outer Hebrides. You can continue your hike out for more coastal scenery at Rubha Reidh and there are sea stacks and a natural arch along the way as you make your way to the isolated Camus Mor beach. It is about a 20 minute drive from Gairloch to Melvaig, a little over a 1 hour hike out to the lighthouse, and another 1.5 hours or so out to Camus Mor. If you only want to go to the lighthouse I’d recommend at least 3 hours for this detour and if you want to do the full hike I’d allow at least 5 hours for this detour.
• Red Point – Red Point has two beaches and a  pony trekking center . You need to book horseback rides in advance. Note that although called the Gairloch Trekking Centre, the family-friendly stable is actually a good 30 minute drive from the village of Gairloch, so take this into account when making any reservations. There are also two pretty sandy beaches here with reddish sand, the one closest to the car park you can reach via a short (but somewhat steep) hike through sand dunes, but the other requires about a 30 minute hike to reach. It is about a 20 minute detour from the NC500 (leave NC500 near Kerrysdale) along the B8056 (single track road) to reach Red Point.

There are limited evening dining options in the villages in this area so it’s a good idea to plan ahead and see what is open near your lodging. Reservations recommended for most restaurants in this area, especially if you are looking for a sit down meal. Don’t expect any late night food options here, so do plan accordingly!

• The Beachcomber in Gairloch – A casual family-run fish and chips eatery. Family friendly. Can eat in or takeaway.
• Shieldaig Lodge Hotel near Badachro – A fine dining restaurant serving set price 3-course meals focused on local produce, much of it coming from the large hotel estate and garden. Typical main dishes include venison, beef, lamb, salmon, pheasant, and trout. Always at least one vegetarian dish offered. Reservations needed. Full bar with large number of gins and whiskies on offer.
• Badachro Inn – The cafe serves informal evening meals with a focus on fresh locally caught seafood. Full bar. Family friendly. Reservations recommended, but there are also bar seats available first come, first serve.
• Benn Eighe Bar & Restaurant in Kinlochewe – Restaurant and bar located at the Kinlochewe Hotel focused on locally sourced home cooked foods. Serves high quality pub food. Full bar.
• Ledgowan Lodge Hotel Restaurant – Restaurant serves Scottish favorites and locally sourced options. Offers an à la carte bar menu as well as a 2- or 3-course menu in the restaurant. Full bar. Reservations recommended.
• 1887 Restaurant – This fine dining restaurant is located within The Torridon Hotel and it offers both a tasting menu and a seasonal fixed price menu. Most dishes highlight local produce, especially venison, salmon, beef, and shellfish. Full bar. No children under age 10 allowed in dining room for dinner (those with kids or teens will find a more family-friendly environment next door at the Torridon Inn). Great food and service; extensive wine and whisky lists. Reservations needed.
• Bo & Muc in Torridon – This gastropub serves tasty pub favorites like burgers, fish & chips, steaks, pies, and sharing platters. They also offer a kids menu. Full bar. We’ve had really good food here; friendly staff. Reservations recommended.
• Gille Brighde – Local restaurant focused on seafood but also serve soups, burgers, steaks, venison, and other dishes. Menu changes regularly. Seasonal; normally open for dinner and Sunday lunch. This restaurant has a pretty remote location (about a 30 minute drive from The Torridon hotel) so I’d call in advance before heading here to confirm opening hours and availability.
• Late Night Options – The only (somewhat) late night option usually open in the area is Hai Yang, a fast food Chinese takeaway place in Gairloch. It is usually open until 10pm.

Tonight we recommend staying around Kinlochewe. There is not a huge number of lodging option in Kinlochewe or nearby villages so we’d recommend looking for lodging anywhere between Gairloch and Torridon. Definitely recommend booking in advance!

• Old School House B&B in Gairloch – This relatively new B&B is run by Sarah and Rob who have spent many years in the area. They currently have two spacious and comfortable rooms available (soon will have a third). Rooms offer nice views and your stay includes a cooked to order breakfast brought to the table in your room. Free parking and walking distance to most places in Gairloch.
• Shieldaig Lodge Hotel near Badachro – This former Victorian hunting lodge is set in a 26,000 acre estate next to Shieldaig Bay in a lovely location. It offers 12 guest rooms, guest lounges with fireplaces, and an on-site bar and restaurant. Offers lots of activities on and near the estate including falconry, archery, hiking, fishing, stalking, etc. If you are looking for a traditional Highlands hunting lodge sort of place to stay, check this one out.
• Loch Maree Hotel in Talladale – This 3-star Victorian hotel offers comfortable guest rooms, several of which offer scenic views of Loch Maree, and an on-site bar and restaurant. Queen Victoria stayed here in 1877. Good base for those looking to do outdoor activities nearby.
• Kinlochewe Hotel in Kinlochewe – A 3-star hotel offering good value rooms and an on-site bar and restaurant. Some rooms share bathrooms. Popular with hikers and hill walkers.
• Kinlochewe Mountain Chalets in Kinlochewe – Here you’ll find four 2-bedrooms chalets for up to 4 persons each. All units contain a TV, a living room with a sofa, a well-equipped kitchen with a dining area, and a private bathroom with shower. Peaceful location with great views of Beinn Eighe and a perfect base for hikers. Pets allowed with prior notice.
• Ledgowan Lodge in Achnasheen – This hotel is located in a former Victorian country house with comfortable guest rooms, well-decorated public rooms, and an on-site bar and restaurant.
• The Torridon in Torridon -The Torridon is a 5-star 18-room country house hotel with castle-like turrets. It is the former hunting lodge of the Earl of Lovelace and is one of the best known hotels along the North Coast 500. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a mix of traditional and contemporary decor, a large on-site bar, a fine dining restaurant, and a number of luxury amenities and services. Activities on the estate can be booked including fishing, clay pigeon shooting, guided hikes, kayaking, etc.  If you are looking for a luxury hotel in the area, this would definitely be our recommendation, and we very much enjoyed our stay here.
• The Stables   in Torridon – A cozy inn next to The Torridon Hotel that offers large rooms with all the basic amenities and a nice pub-style restaurant. Rooms would be particularly suited to families or small groups, as they have options for 2, 4, or even 6 person family rooms.
• Torridon Youth Hostel in Torridon – This is a well-rated hostel offering both dorm rooms and private rooms with shared facilities. A great option in this area for those traveling on a small budget.
• Campsites : Kinlochewe Caravan Club Site (Kinlochewe) and Torridon Camp Site (tents only, limited facilities). In Gairloch you’ll also find the Sands Caravan and Camping Park and Gairloch Caravan Park

Day 7 of North Coast 500 Itinerary: Kinlochewe to Inverness

Today you’ll drive the final section of the North Coast 500 route as you make your way back to Inverness. This route today provides lots of scenery of lochs, mountains, and coast as you take in the rugged vistas around Torridon and then head along the Applecross peninsula for coastal views. There are opportunities for hiking, tasting local seafood, visiting gardens and waterfalls, learning about local history, and much more today!

A special thrill of today is the steep and windy (but scenic) drive between Applecross and Tornapress as you go across the Bealach na Bà. However, note this route is not for all drivers or vehicles so be sure to decide if you want to take this route today or not as you have some options.

The route today is the longest on our 7 day itinerary, although you can shorten it if you need to as you can take shortcuts if you need to get to Inverness sooner. But we recommend taking your time today to enjoy the scenery and your last day on your route if you can. If you have an extra day, you could break up the drive by spending the night in Lochcarron and/or enjoy extra time enjoying the attractions in and around Inverness. 

Starting & Ending Point: Kinlochewe to Inverness Route:  Kinlochewe –> Applecross –> Lochcarron –> Strathpeffer –> Inverness

You have some choices today regarding how you get to Inverness. The official NC500 route follows the single track minor road along the coast to Applecross. We recommend driving this route if the weather is decent and you have the time, are not afraid of curvy steep roads, and you are not driving a large motorhome or towing a caravan (oversized vehicles are prohibited on the Bealach na Bà section of the route). The coastal route takes about 1.5 hours or so to get from Shieldaig to Ardarroch.

If you want to bypass the coastal route and the Bealach na Ba section you can take the A896 past Shieldaig towards Kishorn and Ardarroch. This bypass takes about 25 minutes to drive from Shieldaig to Ardarroch.

Note that if you are really short on time today, you can skip part of the route today and drive straight from Kinlochewe along the A832 towards Achnasheen to Inverness. It only takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to get from Kinlochewe to Inverness using this route.

Mileage: 122 miles / 196 km  (~ 95 miles / 153 km if do the A896 shortcut) Area of Scottish Highlands: Wester Ross, Easter Ross, and Inverness-shire

• Say goodbye to Kinlochewe (or wherever you spent the night) and head southwest towards Torridon. If you are following a shortened route today, you’ll need to modify the itinerary to fit your route as this itinerary will follow the “official NC500 route” along the coast via Applecross.
• Glen Docherty is a scenic glen located between Loch Maree and Kinlochewe. There is a great viewpoint here located on a small hill that is a short detour from Kinlochewe along the A832 towards Achnasheen. Just drive up and park in a parking spot and you get a great view of Glen Docherty and Loch Maree in the far distance. Queen Victoria stopped here in her coach on her way to Loch Maree and wrote that the loch was “grand and romantic” in her journal. Her visits and love of the Scottish Highlands would lead to a large increase of tourism to Scotland during the Victorian era.
• Now head to Torridon. All around the small village of Torridon, you’ll have views of a number of mountain and hills including Beinn Eighe, Liathach, Beinn Alligin, and Sgurr Dubh. Torridonian sandstone makes up a lot of the local landscape and the name of the stone came from Torridon. This is a very popular area for its scenic beauty and it attractions a lot of hikers, climbers, and hillwalkers. Alongside Loch Torridon is the popular 5-star turreted country house hotel The Torridon. Loads of lovely walks from and around Torridon ranging from easy and flat to difficult mountain hikes, see some options here .
• As you drive along to Sheildaig , scenic views continue and there are some steep sections of the road so please drive carefully. Shieldaig offers more great views and we’d recommend a walk around the little peninsula here if the weather is good.
• At Sheildaig, you will need to decide if you plan to drive the coastal route around the Applecross Peninsula towards Fearnmore and Applecross (recommended if you have the time and don’t mind curvy roads) or want to skip it and head south along the A896 towards Kishorn and Ardarroch.
• If you are following the coastal route, it is a slow single track minor road so be prepared for a slow drive around the Applecross Peninsula but it provides lovely views of the Isle of Skye, Isle of Raasay , and Rona along the coast. There are some villages here but few businesses as you make your way to Applecross. Drive slowly and enjoy the views.
• At Applecross you’ll find red sandy beaches and the Applecross Heritage Centre where you can learn about local history and heritage. Applecross is believed to be one of the earliest places of settlement in Scotland but was very isolated (accessible only by sea) until the early 20th century. History lovers may also want to stop to see the Clachan Church (near the heritage centre), the current church was built in 1817 but the graveyard is much older and a monastery was founded here around the 7th century by the Irish saint, Maelrubha . We normally stop at the Applecross Garden , part of the large Applecross Estate, for something to eat which includes a walled garden, restaurant, plant shop, and gift store. If you have some time to explore, there are a few paths you can take from the walled garden towards the river, coast, or around the estate such as this one .
• The Bealach na Ba, which means Pass of the Cattle in Scottish Gaelic, was originally built in 1822 as a way to allow people to move livestock to and from this area. It is one of the highest roads in Scotland and offers some scenic views along its many twists and turns. This single track road is several miles long and has a steep gradient and sharp curves; it is not recommended for timid drivers, inexperienced drivers, or those in larger vehicles. Note this route is often impassable and closed in the winter months. Be sure to drive carefully, heeding all warning signs as accidents here are very common. It offers great scenery as you make your way along it and there are a couple of scenic viewpoint parking areas where you can stop and park safely (don’t stop anywhere else!).
• Soon after the Bealach na Ba (or if you skipped it by taking the A896), you will pass through the tiny village of Kishorn . If you are hungry for seafood, we can recommend the Kishorn Seafood Bar if it is open (seasonal).
• You’ll soon arrive into the village of Lochcarron which not surprisingly sits on the edge of a lake called Loch Carron. The village is home to the Lochcarron Weavers where you can learn more about tartan, the weaving process, and shop for some Scottish tartan (you can get made to order items here as well). If you drive or walk south along the loch, you’ll come across the ruins of the 14th century Strome Castle (very ruined). If you want to see a number of red deer (and sheep) up close consider booking a guided tour to see deer with gamekeeper Colin at  Reraig Forest near Lochcarron. The tours include an Argo (an ATV) ride up into the forest and are a lot of fun!
• Strathcarron is the next village along. It is home to a small craft brewery ( Strathcarron Brewery ), not sure if it is open for any public tours but you can buy the beer locally. If you enjoy gardens, we can recommend a small detour (10 minute drive south) to Attadale Gardens . Here you’ll find paths through lots of lovely flower beds, gardens, and trees. Gardens are open seasonally to the public; be sure to check dates and hours. There is a fee to visit.
• As you drive east between Lochcarron and Garve, this stretch of road is a popular place to see deer; we regularly see them in this area. Along the way, you’ll drive through Achnasheen situated along the River Bran. The main business in the village is the Ledgowan Lodge Hotel, a country house hotel.
• The village of Garve is quiet and sits along the Black Water river, offering nice views of Ben Wyvis. There are several walks and hikes you can do in this area, including this easy one along the Black Water or the more challenging monro hike of Ben Wyvis . Those with kids may want to make a stop at the Ben Wyvis Natural Play Park , a children’s play park in the woods.
• Between Garve and Contin, is the well-marked parking lot where you can stop to visit Rogie Falls , a series of small waterfalls on the Black Water. There is a small suspension bridge here where you can walk across. It is a 10 to 15 minute easy walk from the car park to reach the falls, although you can also do a longer hike here. Several hiking paths go through the Torrachilty Forest .
• The small village of Contin has a parish church dedicated to St. Maelrubha located on Contin Island that dates back to medieval times although most of the current structure dates to the 18th century. The church is associated with a particularly savage act of violence against the local Mackenzies in the 15th century by the Macdonalds who set fire to the local church after barring in hundreds of local villagers who had sought sanctuary there.
• If you take a short detour northeast of Contin, Strathpeffer is a former Victorian spa town and today it is a lovely village for a stroll. We recommend a stop at the Highland Museum of Childhood which is located in the old railway station (entry by donation), and it houses local history information, visitor info, a doll and toy collection, and some other exhibits. Staff here are friendly volunteers who can give you more information about the area and direct you to the local heritage walking route . Notable things to see around the village are the town square, former Upper Pump Room (exhibitions here about spa history), and the Pictish Eagle Rock (Clach an Tiompain). Nearby is also Castle Leod which was built for Clan Mackenzie and is still the home of the clan chief, Earle of Cromartie. It is a private home but parts of the castle are open to the public on a limited number of days each year.
• If you enjoy birdwatching and nature, you might want to head up to the RSPB Tollie Red Kites Natural Reserve just south of Loch Ussie. The main bird to spot here is the red kite, but you also have the chance to see a number of other birds including ravens, finches, tits, woodpeckers, and osprey. There is a visitor center and outdoor viewing area here as well as toilets, a picnic area, and nature trails. Free for members; entry by donation.
• Now you head back through Beauly and the Muir of Ord, which you likely drove through the first day of your road trip, to the starting point of Inverness.
• You have now completed your NC500 road trip and are now back in the Capital of the Highlands, the city of Inverness !
• As noted in Day 1 there are plenty of things to do in and near Inverness. We’d also highly recommend doing some day trips from Inverness if you have the extra time. If you are tired of driving, we can recommend day tours by local Rabbies which offers small group tours from downtown Inverness to places such as Loch Ness (great tour, we’ve done this one), the Isle of Skye & Eilean Donan Castle , the Black Isle (if you missed it on your NC500 trip), and whisky tasting tours .
• If you are looking to extend your road trip consider heading south into the Cairngorms National Park and heading along the east coast along the scenic North East 250 . You can see our suggested 3 day North East 250 itinerary for suggestions of what to do, see, eat, and where to stay along the driving route.
• If you are looking for more places to visit in Scotland we have a lot of guides to places to visit in Scotland including things to do in Edinburgh , things to do in Aberdeen , things to do in Glasgow , things to do in Loch Lomond National Park , visiting Cairngorms National Park , summer festivals in Edinburgh , skiing in Scotland , day trips from Edinburgh , Harry Potter sites in Scotland , and much more across our two blogs.

There are no major detours recommended today since you have a longer day of driving today. But if you are planning to head along the west coast and/or visit the Isle of Skye, you may want to head south at Strathcarron. You can end your NC500 journey early here or add some days to your itinerary to visit places along the west coast before heading back to Inverness.

• Plockton is a pretty village located on the shores of Loch Carron that is worth a stop if you are headed southwest. It is located about 30 to 40 minutes drive south of Strathcarron. Here you have nice views of the bay including some palm trees that are able to grow with help from the warm Gulf Stream. The village is worth a stroll around with several shops, restaurant, and art galleries. You can also get out on the bay by renting a kayak or boat here, or take the popular seal tours offered by Calum’s Seal Trips .
• Near the small village of Dornie is Eilean Donan Castle , which is one of the most recognizable castles in Scotland. It was originally built in the 13th century by the Clan Mackenzie and was a stronghold for the Mackenzies of Kintail. Although the castle history dates back to the 13th century, the current building is primarily a 20th century restoration of the medieval castle as the castle was largely destroyed in the 18th century by the Royal Navy. You’ll likely recognize the exterior of Eilean Donan Castle as it is one of the most photographed castles in Scotland. The castle is open for tours to the public and you can buy tickets at the visitor center which also contains a coffee shop and gift shop. It is about a 30 minute drive from Strathcarron.
• The Isle of Skye in Scotland is a popular large Scottish island known for its scenic and rugged landscapes. Popular stops include Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, the Quiraing, the Fairy Pools, Dunvegan Castle, and Neist Point. The Isle of Skye is very popular, particularly in the summer, and you can see our tips for avoiding the crowds on the Isle of Skye . It is about a 1.5 hour drive from Strathcarron to Portree (capital town on Skye). You’ll want at least one full day to explore the island.

Inverness offers everything from humble cafes and McDonald’s to fine dining, so you should be able to find something that appeals. Also lots of places to get drinks in Inverness whether you have a desire for a Scottish lager, craft beer, whisky, or a fruity cocktail.

There are dozens of dining options in Inverness, but here are a selection of recommendations to get you started:

• Fig & Thistle – A cozy bistro offering European dishes with an emphasis on fresh ingredients. Good selection of vegetarian options. Offers wine list and cocktails.
• The Mustard Seed Restaurant – Modern restaurant situated in a former church serving modern European dishes with a focus on local and seasonal produce. Full bar; good wine list. Lunch and early dinner specials. Very popular; reservations strongly recommended.
• The Kitchen Brasserie – A contemporary Scottish restaurant serving many modern British favorites using local and seasonal produce. Top floor offers nice views over Ness River. Very good value lunch and early evening dinner specials here; we’ve had good experiences here. Good wine list. Owned by the same folks who run The Mustard Seed. Reservations recommended.
• Number 27 Bar & Kitchen – An upscale pub restaurant offering upscale contemporary British and European dishes. Full bar.
• Scotch & Rye – Bar and restaurant with a menu and decor inspired by the American speakeasies of NYC and Chicago with nachos, hot dogs, burgers, etc., but also has some Scottish and Mexican inspired dishes. Full bar. Some tables are dog friendly.
• Hootananny – A popular local pub offering good value pub favorites. Regularly has live Scottish folk music and ceilidhs. Check schedule to see what’s happening during your visit.
• Rocpool – This popular upscale brasserie offers modern Scottish dishes including seafood, beef, and game. Focus on local and seasonal ingredients. Reservations strongly recommended.
• River House – Upscale restaurant next to the river focused on fresh Scottish seafood and shellfish, but also offers a selection of meat, game, and veggie options. Oyster menu and full bar. Reservations strongly recommended.
• Chez Roux Restaurant – The restaurant located at Rocpool Reserve Hotel offers French inspired fine dining with Scottish ingredients. Menu designed by Albert Roux. Full bar. The R Bar (also located in the hotel) is also a good place for pre or after-dinner drinks. Reservations necessary.
• Late Night Options – There are usually food options in Inverness open until at least midnight; I’d ask your lodging for nearby recs. Some places to check include Aspendos (Turkish), The Castle Tavern (traditional pub menu in a historical building), McDonald’s (located on High Street; fast food), Scotch & Rye (American inspired bar food), Millburn Takeaway (Chinese takeaway or delivery), and Domino’s (pizza takeaway or delivery).

Since you’ve reached the end of the North Coast 500, you might want to celebrate by choosing a nicer hotel in Inverness to stay in. Or if you don’t mind staying a bit outside of Inverness, you might also consider a castle hotel stay, such as at  Tulloch Castle Hotel or Kincraig Castle Hotel .

You can see our full Inverness hotel recommendations under Day 1 of the itinerary, but we’ll briefly repeat them here:

• Bazpackers – Centrally located hostel
• No. 29 B&B is a nice good value bed-and-breakfast option. If looking for something a little nicer, check out Ardentorrie House or Invernevis B&B
• Best Western Palace Hotel & Spa – Centrally located 3-star hotel with spa and restaurant, offers nice views over River Ness and castle.
• Jury’s Inn – Modern hotel offering good value, swimming pool, bar, and on-site restaurant, located outside of central Inverness.
• Kingsmills Hotel ,   Rocpool Reserve Hotel , Bunchrew House Hotel , and Boath House (in Nairn) – These are our recommended 4- and 5-star hotels in and near Inverness for those looking for a more luxurious stay.
• Campsites – Torvean Caravan Park , Bught Park Caravan Park & Campsite , Ardtower Caravan Park and Bunchrew Caravan Park .

So that is the end of our North Coast 500 itinerary! We hope that you have found this itinerary helpful in planning your own NC500 road trip.

If you are planning an upcoming trip, be sure to check out all our other articles on the North Coast 500 .

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If you are planning your own North Coast 500 road trip and have questions about the route or traveling within Scotland, we’re happy to try to help. Just leave any questions or comments in the Comments section below!

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Terry Tench Post author

April 17, 2024 at 10:59 am

We are using your 7 day nc500 itinerary on our tour this year but want to see Isle of skye for I day/ night then to fort William 1 night whilst heading back home to cheshire England should we go from Ullapool to skye then fort William

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

April 19, 2024 at 2:39 am

For a detour to Skye (or to just skip the last day), I’d leave the North Coast 500 and itinerary at Strathcarron. If you wanted to save time you could also skip Torridon, Applecross peninsula, and Bealach na Bà and just head from Ullapool down to Strathcarron and then over the bridge to Skye. But I would recommend including that section if you have time but it would definitley save you time if you need to skip some things on that day.

From Strathcarron, it is about a 30 minute or so drive to Skye Bridge that you cross to reach the island. I’d consider maybe staying in Portree if you are only there a night as its the largest town and relatively central. I would allow about 3 hours to drive from Portree (on Skye) to Fort William with some short stops for views/mountains and such.

If you are planning to visit Eilean Donan Castle, you could do that on your way to or from Skye. Just be sure to check the opening dates/hours if you want to actually tour the castle.

Hope that helps and wishing you a great trip to Scotland! Just let us know if you have any further questions.

Best, Jessica

Deanna Post author

March 20, 2024 at 8:17 am

I am flying in and out of glasgow, only have five full days. I’d like to drive the nc500, but also see other areas. What do you suggest as an efficient route?

Will fly into glasgow 11/16 for five full days. Does it snow in the nc500 area during that time ? Trying to figure out most efficient route.

March 21, 2024 at 10:47 am

So the best place to start would probably still be Inverness. From Glasgow, it takes about 3-4 hours to get to Inverness by car or train. You could pick up a hire car in either Glasgow or take the train or bus up to Inverness and pick up the car there. Or if prefer not to drive given your limited time, you also have the option to join a 3 day tour .

The North Coast 500 route is a set route so you can drive it counterclockwise or clockwise, it doesn’t make much difference although we generally recommend counterclockwise (starting on east coast and then heading north and west) for first time. But 5 days is really the minimum we’d recommend for really enjoying the NC500 if you are driving yourself as otherwise you’ll spend most of your time driving and getting from place to place. If you do plan to see other parts of Scotland and only have 2-3 days, then I would consider just visiting an area of the North Coast 500 or joining the tour so you at least get a sense of the highlights.

If you haven’t checked out our planning guide , I’d start there. Also Laurence has put together a 5 day itinerary that is less detailed and more rushed, but might suit you better. However, again, it would mean using all 5 days for the NC500 and also allowing time to get to and from Glasgow. So I’d really consider how many days you have and what you really want to see.

It can snow along the North Coast 500 in November but it is not super common until a bit later in the winter. But we’ve definitely had our trip delayed by snow covered roads during winters before and snow and ice can make some of the hikes dangerous. The more minor roads can also close due to snow/ice/flooding. So something to keep in mind but not likely a huge worry in mid November (and not really something you can plan around until you know the weather forecast much more closer to the time).

But of course because November is off season for northern Scotland, some places will be closed in November, this includes smaller attractions, outdoor activities, many campsites, and some hotels and restaurants. So you’ll want to be sure to plan ahead, especially with any must-see indoor attractions, accommodation, and evening meals.

Marco Semprevivo Post author

February 22, 2024 at 5:41 am

Hi Jessica & Laurence, First, my compliments this blog is fantastic and useful. We want to go to Scotland in June 2024 and we wonder if we start from Edinburgh and stay there for two days is it possible to do the NC500, and Loch Ness in about 15 days? Best regards, Marco

February 23, 2024 at 9:34 am

You’re very welcome and yes, you can definitely explore Edinburgh, see Loch Ness, and do the North Coast 500 in 15 days. I’d probably recommend 3 nights in Edinburgh, then 3 nights in Inverness (Loch Ness is near Inverness), and then 7 nights along the North Coast 500. Then with the extra days you can add them where you like in Edinburgh, Loch Ness/Inverness, or along the North Coast 500. Or maybe an overnight stop in the Cairnogrms on the way up to Inverness if you are driving.

In Edinburgh you don’t need a car, so I’d pick up one either once you are ready to leave Edinburgh to drive to Inverness or take the train to Inverness (easy connection) and pick up a car once in Inverness. I’d probably leave a day to explore Inverness, and then a second full day to see Loch Ness and that area.

For seeing Loch Ness, you can drive there from Inverness as a day trip, go stay overnight near the lake, or just join a day tour from Inverness (we recommend the one from Rabbie’s). You can see our guide to Loch Ness to plan that out.

Then you can start the NC500 road trip from Inverness and follow the above 7 day itinerary. Since it sounds like you may have a couple extra days, you can use them along the route to book a few 2-night stays rather than moving along each night. That will make it more relaxing and give you more time to explore the different areas and do more activities/tours/attractions. Or if you prefer, you can spend that extra time in Edinburgh as there are lots to do there and also many good days trips that can be done from there.

Hope that helps and just let us know if you have any more questions as you plan your trip to Scotland!

Sami Tamim Post author

November 30, 2023 at 11:54 pm

Hi Jessica, Are there sufficient Electric Vehicle charging points along the routes to avoid “charge anxiety” if driving an electric only vehicle?

Regards Sami

December 1, 2023 at 10:18 am

So, yes, since about 2016, there have been enough electrical charging points around the North Coast 500 route for those with fully electric cars to drive the route safely. There are electrical charging points throughout the route, including rapid charge points.

You can find charging points using this interactive map or an app like ZapMap . Just note however, that there are often just a couple of charging stations at each place so you will need to factor potential waits into your shcedule as well as out of service charging points.

So if you have an electric car you plan to drive, you should be fine. I would just keep your range and charging needs in mind when planning your route itinerary, and perhaps consider staying each night in a town with an electric charge point so you could do that each night after your day of driving.

If you are renting a car, a hybrid might be a better option as it will give you more piece of mind and flexibility and you won’t hae any “range anxiety”.

We cover this and lots of other NC500 planning information in our planning guide . That article might be helpful if you are planning your first drive along the North Coast 500.

Hope that helps and just let us know if you have further questions as you plan your trip!

Jean (Jeannette) Porter Post author

September 26, 2023 at 7:35 pm

Greetings….. We are planning on heading over to Scotland towards end of April/May next year from New Zealand. I have just come across your amazing and very well written iitinerary on The North Coast 500 Route and it was such an exciting read. We plan on picking up a rental car in Inverness to start our trip. Can hardly wait. Friends of ours did this trip years ago and said how amazing it was. Some questions: Would two days on the Orkney Islands give us plenty of time to see and do a lot of the activities while there? Also how much would the ferry cost to take the rental car over and back again if that is what people do? Is April/May a good time to travel to Scotland? We are thinking of spending about 10 days to do the 500 Route as we want to do and see as much as possible in that time without racing all the time? Would we get accomodation at that time of year or would it be a bit of a struggle? I cant wait to read your intinerary again and again. Thank you so much for any help. 🙂 My paternal grandfather was born in Inverkip. We came over to England/Scotland for the first time 10 years ago and it was love at first sight 🙂

September 27, 2023 at 6:37 pm

That sounds like a very exciting trip and so glad you are visiting Scotland and planning to drive the North Coast 500. Glad our articles and itinerary have been helpful!

Yes, Inverness is an ideal place to start and end your trip so a good place to pick up and drop off your rental car.

So 2 days should give you plenty of time to explore the biggest island of Orkney (the “Mainland”, also known as Hrossey and Pomona) but you’d need more time to really explore Orkney as there are about 70 islands I think and several are worth visiting for attractions, wildlife, history, etc. If you had 2 full days/nights you could take a ferry to see one extra island. But if you are looking to see the main attractions (there are several, happy to give some recs) on the Mainland, you’ll find lots to do on the main island which also includes the two biggest towns, Kirkwall and Stromness. So you can easily spend 2 days exploring it. Yes, you can either take your car over or join a day tour (with a bus or a private driver) that shows you around the island. Regular ferries call into both Stromness and Kirkwall (from John O’Groats, Scrabster, and Gills Bay).

It depends on the specific ferry and time of year, but the cost of a ferry is pretty reasonable for those on foot or bike (about 18 pounds I think each way) but it costs a lot more if you want to take a car. I think for example it would be about £100 each way (£200 total) for 2 people and a car return with Northlink from Scrabster to Stromness. I don’t think rates are out for that far in advance but I’d check at the end of the year. But I’d estimate around £200.

Yes, mid April through end of May can be a good time to visit Scotland. We’ve been lucky at that time of the year in terms of weather, but you can never predict weather and it is wise to basically always be prepared for rain and wind, and be happy when you get the nice sunny days! It used to be pretty quiet that time of year, but it does tend to start picking up around Easter now, but you will miss the high time with all the summer visitors. Most seasonal business open in April around Easter. May is safer if worried about any attractions not being open.

For accommodation, we recommend booking at least 3 months in advance (6 months is better if there are specific places you want to stay as some of the most popular start getting bookings 1 year in advance). But if you have your flights and car booked well before then, I’d do it 6 months out if you are booking hotels and B&Bs. If you book on a website like Booking.com you often have option to cancel it so long in advance for free (or worth it to pay a little extra for this option in our opinion) if your plans have to change.

Yes, 10 days ia great amount of time, we say at least 7 days ideally and 10 is even better!

I don’t think we have ever been to Inverkip, but we have been very close when we traveled from Glasgow over to Aran. Will you be visiting on this trip?

Hope that helps, and just let me know if you have further questions as you continue to plan your trip!

John van Stipriaan Post author

August 15, 2023 at 2:23 am

I will be starting from Edinburgh in a camper. Taking the coastal road to Inverness then a shortened NC500 around to glascow. This is going to be in mid November. Main question is the availability of camp grounds or freedom camping along the way. Any advice gratefully received, thank you.

August 15, 2023 at 8:46 am

Glad to hear that you are planning to drive at least part of the North Coast 500 and happy to try to answer your questions and give you some advice for your trip!

So mid-November tends to be fairly cold and is not a popular time to camp or drive the NC500, so some of the campsites and caravan parks will definitely be closed during that period as many are seasonal from Spring to end of summer/beginning of autumn. But some are open year round or most of the year. If you plan ahead you should be able to still find places to go, you can check out the North Coast 500 campsite and caravan park directory for what is available. Some places recommend/require reservations, others don’t. You can contact them directly to find out more. If there are any sections where you want to stay that don’t have campsites open, you can also check out the glamping pods, cabins, etc. as many of these are open year round and are interesting places to stay without needing to camp for the night.

So that directory should help you in determining availability, this camping itinerary for the NC500 might also be helpful in planning your time, depending on how much time you have. We’d generally recommend at least 5 days (7 days+ ideal).

In terms of “freedom camping”, if you are talking about wild camping, that is for people doing tent camping away from vehicles and houses. And that is covered in the above North Coast 500 camping itinerary under wild camping. But if you are planning to stay in a camper that wouldn’t be wild camping. And also during that time of the year it can get pretty cold so you’ll want access to heat.

If you are driving from Edinburgh up to Inverness, you might consider doing part of the North East 250 as part of the route goes up along the coast and rest through the lovely Cairngorms. You probably wouldn’t want to do the full loop but could do part.

Anyway, hoping that this helps and just let us know if you have further questions as you plan your trip around Scotland!

Allan Post author

July 5, 2023 at 2:07 pm

hi there, i am scrolling through this on my iphone and it feels like i would scroll 30 miles worth of scrolling lol is this info available in a small book kind of thing many thanks allan

July 6, 2023 at 4:42 am

So glad that you are finding our North Coast 500 itinerary useful. It is indeed long and pretty in-depth in its coverage.

We don’t offer any NC500 guides for sale, but you can use our articles for free online. Or you can print or download articles as a clickable PDF file – this is a free option for our newsletter subscribers. If you are not a subscriber, it is free and easy to join and you can learn more and sign up here .

The printable versions of the articles have the images, photos, and ads removed and are formatted for printing. You can also use this function to save them as clickable PDF files as well if you’d rather not print them. The PDF files allow you to still use the links.

Once you are a newsletter subscriber, to print (or save as PDF), all you need to do is go to the article you want to print and click on the Printer icon button. This will be on the left hand side of the article (for those on desktop) or at the very end of the article (for desktop and mobile users). Once you click the icon a box will pop up that will be asked to enter your first name and email address. Please use the email address that you use to receive our newsletter.

If you have any further questions as you plan your NC500 trip, just ask!

yadi jayran-nejad Post author

June 4, 2023 at 2:25 am

Dear Jessica and Laurence Thank you so much for writing such a great detailed description of the highland famous NC500 route. It has become my companion since I first read it a week ago. I read it several times a day! Next to my Navigator Scotland road Atlas. It is amazing. Well done and thank you again. I am a follower now! Regards Yadi

June 14, 2023 at 6:53 am

Thanks so much for taking the time to let us know that our North Coast 500 route itinerary has been so helpful for your trip. It is also nice to have a road atlas and driving, especially if looking for some interesting detours and other places you might want to explore as you are driving in Scotland.

Thanks for following, and just let us know if you have any questions about future travels!

James Murray Post author

March 27, 2023 at 3:05 am

do you supply a map and list of places to stay thank you james

March 27, 2023 at 8:05 am

Glad you are finding our travel guides and North Coast 500 itinerary helpful. So yes, within this post above, you can see there is a rough map for Google maps you can see. There is also suggested lodging options under each day. For more lodging options, you can see our NC500 hotels and NC500 B&B guide posts. Both of those posts have the lodging options marked on a Google map that you can click on and look at.

If you are looking for paper maps, you can try online via ebay or Waterstones if you are in the UK as noted. Otherwise, you can buy them once you are in Scotland in a bookstore or tourist shop in Inverness or along the route.

Hope that helps, and just let us know if you have further questions as you plan your trip along the North Coast 500.

Pi Post author

January 23, 2023 at 8:51 pm

Hi Jessica & Laurence Thank you so much for providing such a detailed route, especially for winter time. I and my boyfriend will follow your plan during this February. We booked the regular car already but, as we are from tropical country, we wonder if the 4wheel drive is necessary for winter in this area. We will go any off road though. And we try get snow chain as your suggestion but the car rental company don’t have it for rent. Is there any shop that we can buy snow chain around NC500 or before we go to Cairngorms?

Best wishes,

February 1, 2023 at 2:25 am

Glad you have found our NC500 guides helpful.

So you may or may not encounter snow during February in Scotland but it is a good idea to be prepared if you do. We used a regular 2WD car when you did our visits so you should be OK with a 2WD. But there was one day we had to stay put as the snow made the roads very slick and they were icy. But otherwise, we were OK. If you encoutner really bad weather, you’ll probably want to just be flexible and stay put until it passes. Roads are normally cleared fairly quickly and snowstorms tend not to last more than a day or towo.

It can be a good idea to have snow chains in your car even if you aren’t super likely to need them. However, it is not a legal requirment as it is in some parts of the world do you don’t need to have them. Yes, you should be able to buy a set of snow chains in Scotland during the winter at any big automotive shop (such as in Inverness) or you can buy a set online on Amazon. But since you are just there for a short time, you might see if there is someone locally you can just borrow (or rent) them. Or just be prepared to be flexible and don’t drive until any storms have passed and roads are cleared (this is what most people in Scotland do to be honest as most don’t have snow chains).

Just a remind if you use snow chains, you need to remove them as soon as you are on cleared roads as they can cause damage if you drive with them on without snow/ice.

Anyway, hope that helps and wishing you a wonderful trip!

Ian Nelson Post author

October 8, 2022 at 2:03 am

Hi Guys, We completed the NC500 last month following the major parts of your itinerary. To be honest it made our experience much more enjoyable because of the limited planning involved. We used Hotels and B&Bs for accommodation over seven days. We were fortunate with the weather, only had one day of torrential rain. Thank you for your time and work compiling the detailed itinerary. I have already told people to look at your site first before they go anywhere else. Best Regards Ian

October 12, 2022 at 2:45 pm

Thanks so much for taking the time to comment after your NC500 trip! We love to hear that our North Coast 500 road trip information was helpful to other travelers.

And so happy that you had such a great experience and that the weather was good to you on most of the days of your trip!!!

Trudi Post author

September 26, 2022 at 2:00 am

Dear Jessica and Laurence, Your blog has been such a fantastic way of helping us plan our N500 trip. We are heading up to Scotland tomorrow (currently en route in North Yorkshire). The information and detail you have provided means that it is a lot less daunting and we are now so excited to see everything along the way. We have at least 7- 9 days to explore so thank you so much. I will let you know how we get on.

Kindest regards,

Trudi and Kev

September 26, 2022 at 1:53 pm

Hi Trudi & Kev,

So glad that our information on the NC500 has been helpful in planning your trip up to Scotland. Wishing you a wonderful trip up from North Yorshire and around the NC500. I hope you have a wonderful trip and our fingers crossed for some nice weather.

And yes, we’d love to hear how your trip goes once you are back. Feel free to let us know your favorite sections, tips, etc.

Best, Jessica & Laurence

Chandra Prathaban Post author

August 11, 2022 at 6:49 am

Hi, At the outset let me thank you for a very informative and well structured NC500 blog. We are planning to do the NC 500 in October last week. We have 5 1/2 days and we plan to cut short our travel at Lochinver and return to Inverness airport via Ullapool on the last day. Is it a good time to do that? Secondly, we are doing it with as family along with our grand daughter who is 5 1/2 years old. Will it be bit too much for a a kid?

Thanks again.. Chandra

August 12, 2022 at 3:31 am

Hi Chandra,

I think 5.5 days to do the route to Lochinver would work. From Lochinver to Inverness airport, is about a 2.5 hour drive (without any stops). I’d allow 3 hours to account for traffic and any road work. You’ll also need to of course factor in time for car rental return and check-in. So I’d leave at least 5 to 5.5 hours before you need to board your flight.

October is a good month to drive the route as the temperature should be pretty good and crowds should be thinning out along the route. But just note some of the smaller seasonal business may be closed by the end of October.

I’d see our planning guide for some tips on traveling the North Coast 500 and preparing for the drive. There are also some attractions and locations listed in that guide that are more kid and family friendly (see section “Best Stops for Families with Children along the North Coast 500”). Many people travel with children, you just have to be extra cautious and keep her near when outdoors as people can drive fast on the route, livestock is often unfenced, and there are often no barriers to cliffside areas. Most towns have little playgrounds or parks which can be a good place to take a break. Most attractions allow children. It is also fairly easy to find casual dining options along the route that are suitable for kids.

If you haven’t already done so, I would book your accommodation along the route once you have your dates set. This is especially important if needing family rooms or booking multiple rooms (often needed if traveling with more than 2 adults). Most hotels only have 1, if any family rooms, and if you are needing multiple rooms, you will want to ensure they are available. Also note there are some B&Bs and hotels that don’t accept younger children so be sure to check rules before booking.

Hope that helps, and wishing you a great trip along the NC500!

Chandra Prathapan Post author

August 15, 2022 at 2:26 am

Thanks Jessica.. Your reply is quite detailed and helpful.

August 15, 2022 at 6:09 am

You’re very welcome, wishing you and your family a great trip around Scotland.

Caitlin Post author

August 6, 2022 at 2:23 am

Hey, we’re just back from our nc500 trip and just wanted to thank you guys for this blog – it was super helpful and we loved so many of your recommendations! Thanks so much for doing so much of the planning and prep for us. ☺️

August 7, 2022 at 12:18 am

Hi Caitlin,

So happy to hear that our North Coast 500 articles were helpful in your travel planning. I hope that you had a wonderful trip along the NC500!

Chris Post author

June 23, 2022 at 1:59 pm

Hello! My wife and I plan a week long road trip through Scottish Highlands. However, we will be starting from Edinburgh. We are wondering how best to modify the trip so we see some great spots but not feel too rushed. Any suggestions how to best modify or truncate the 500 trip would be much appreciated! -Chris and Maggie

June 24, 2022 at 5:30 am

Hi Chris & Maggie,

Sure, happy to help. So if you spend a leisurely day driving up to Inverness and a day driving back to Edinburgh (or you can take a train, plane, or bus), that would give you 5 full days along the route. So you can modify it accordingly (you’ll just have time to make fewer stops). For where to stop overnight, you can check out this 5-day itinerary for ideas.

Now if you have less than 5 days, we wouldn’t recommend driving the NC500 as you’ll likely just feel rushed. If you have less time we’d recommend considering joining a tour such as this one led by a local guide which will take you to the highlights and you don’t need to worry about driving, parking, booking things, etc.

But I would also ask if you are trying to see an overview of attractions in the Scottish Highlands or just want to drive the North Coast 500? The North Coast 500 route takes in the very northern part of the Highlands but many of the most popular visitor sights and attractions are elsewhere. So I guess it depends on what you want to see and do with your time and if you have visited the Highlands before.

Hope that helps and just let us know if you have further questions as you plan your trip to Scotland. Happy to give more suggestions once you have drafted an itinerary.

June 25, 2022 at 7:39 am

Jessica, Thank you for such aa thoughtful response. We have a full seven days to experience Scotland! My thought is that we take a day to ride up to Inverness, do your 5 day 500 route, but instead of connecting back to inverness, we pick a route back to Edinburgh! Does that sound like a good plan for Scotland first timers? Your website is an amazing resource! Thank you so much!

-Chris and Maggie

June 26, 2022 at 5:54 am

Hi Chris and Maggie,

Yes, that can definitely work. Going back to Inverness is the quickest route back down to Edinburgh as it connects you to the main motorway (A9). However, you can certainly take a different route back if there are other places off that route that you want to visit. There are certainly more scenic routes but just be sure to check the driving times.

But just note if you only have 7 days total in Scotland, you will probably want to spend at least a couple of days in Edinburgh? There is a lot to see and do in the city. So if you spend 2 full days in Edinburgh, then that means you only have 5 days elsewhere, which means you would probably only have about 3-4 full days for NC500. So I would just make sure you are not too rushed with your plans.

chris Post author

June 26, 2022 at 6:32 am

Fantastic! Some great advise! Thank you so much.

Marion Rogers Post author

May 2, 2022 at 5:47 am

We are planning our first overseas trip post Covid and border closures from Australia. I found your blog extremely helpful. Now to work out exactly what we would like to do during our time in Scotland.

May 2, 2022 at 5:55 am

That is very exciting to be able to travel again! And happy to hear our travel blog has been helpful in planning your trip to Scotland. Happy to try to help and provide advice once you have a good idea of how many days you have, how you want to get around, and what specifically you are interested in doing/seeing while in Scotland.

christine Post author

April 19, 2022 at 3:00 pm

We are planning on doing this trip as part of our 50th wedding anniversary celebration we have several trips planned but very excited to finally be doing the 500, your itinerary has been so helpful really enjoyed reading it.

We are planning on doing the trip over a three week period to enable us to do all the detours and spend more time in places. We can make the trip anytime and would welcome your advice on when is the best time to visit ,we were thinking May or September but would prefer not to visit during school holidays, we are very flexible with our time.

April 20, 2022 at 5:26 am

Hi Christine,

So glad you are finding our North Coast 500 itinerary and blogs helpful in planning your anniversary trip! 3 weeks along the route will give you plenty of time to do most of what we have listed in our itinerary as well as have time for detours such as visiting some of the islands.

Both May and September are great months to do the North Coast 500 and are generally our two favorite times of year for traveling around Scotland in general. In terms of weather you can of course not predict but we have had lovely weather during those months but always be prepared for rain and cool weather 😉

Yes, no matter when you travel I’d avoid any school holidays (unless traveling with kids) – check the term times for both England and Scotland. It is also good to avoid bank holiday weekends.

I don’t really have a preference for May versus September – if you are planning it for this year, then I’d maybe recommend September if you are planning for staying in B&Bs/hotels just as you will have a better chance of booking your first choice accommodation for September as I know some of the hotels and B&Bs we recommend are pretty booked up for May/June already. But if camping then it doesn’t make too much difference as although more campsites are taking prebookings, they don’t tend to book up too far in advance.

Hope that helps, and just let us know if you have any further questions as you plan your trip!

Sarann Post author

April 10, 2022 at 1:46 pm

This blog is brilliant and full of information on campsites, hotels, restaurants and activities – it’s all been covered! Me, my husband, son and dog will be doing the NC500 this summer and can’t wait. Using your itinerary I’ve just sat and planned the campsites to use and this has saved so much time. We’re travelling from North Ayrshire so not that far but will be stopping off at Aviemore first to get used to the campervan. We’ve probably done a lot of the north west coast of Scotland, as we’ve got family that stay that way and we just love it! But we haven’t seen any of the east coast so that will be a first for us. I’ve saved this page for our travels for reference – I’m sure I’ll need it!

April 10, 2022 at 3:42 pm

Sounds like you have a great NC500 holiday to look forward to this summer with your family! So happy that you are finding our North Coast 500 guide and other blog posts helpful in planning your trip. Laurence has a couple of posts specifically on camping along the North Coast 500 over on Finding the Universe which you may have already seen, but if not those posts have a lot of camping and campsite tips.

The Cairngorms (Aviemore) is a great place to stop on your way up from Ayrshire before heading to Inverness and starting the route.

Just let us know if you have any questions as you continue to plan your trip!

Dan and Beck Post author

December 18, 2021 at 3:12 am

Hi Jessica,

Thanks for sharing such a fantastic NC500 itinerary.

We used this article to help plan our NC500 hiking adventure. Your tips on campsites were very helpful!

We really like your website, and have followed you on IG!

Cheers, Dan & Beck from Travel Made Me Do It

December 18, 2021 at 7:24 am

Hi Dan & Beck,

Glad you enjoyed our NC500 itinerary and other articles. There are certainly lots of walking, hiking, and climbing opportunities in and around the NC500 😉 We note many of our favorites in our guides but there are many to discover in each region.

Phil scott Post author

October 25, 2021 at 8:45 pm

My wife and I are from Australia. We are planning to be in the UK in early April. Not an ideal time to be so far up north doing the North Coast 500 but it has to fit in with our other plans in Europe. Accommodation wise, will establishments be open at that time of the year to enable us to see as much of the area as we possibly can?

October 26, 2021 at 7:34 am

Yes, April probably isn’t the best time to explore the NC500 but a number of the seasonal businesses do re-open in April. Although it will depend on your dates as I think many of the smaller seasonal spots and museums may not be open yet. We generally recommend after Easter as the best time as that is when most of the seasonal businesses are re-eopening but also because of weather.

In terms of accommodation along the North Coast 500, as long as you book in advance, you should be fine as although not every place will be open, you should still be able to find at least a few places open in each area of the route. Many hotels, particularly in Inverness, Dornoch, Wick, Thurso, and Ullapool are open year-round or may just close for a short period, whereas in other spots, particularly the north you do get a lot of B&Bs and small hotels closing for the winter season. Some places will base their opening and closing dates based on advance bookings but many should be re-opening by April, especially since a busy season is expected after a couple of seasons where businesses had to close part of the season due to COVID-19.

Hope that helps, and just let us know if you have further questions as you plan your trip!

Phil Post author

October 26, 2021 at 9:44 pm

Many thanks Jessica. I will take your advice and be booking well ahead as it is a journey we want to make.

Wendy B Post author

October 12, 2021 at 9:59 am

Thank you for producing such a detailed and informative website. I planned the whole route using your superb suggestions and recommendations. I also bought a book to cross reference but it was nowhere as useful. You really could turn this into a very good guide book. Thank you for the time and effort you have put into this. I will be recommending it to friends who want to do this next year.

October 12, 2021 at 10:43 am

So glad that you enjoyed your North Coast 500 trip, and that our NC500 itinerary and planning guides were so useful in planning your trip! We have not personally used any of the guidebooks, but we have also heard this about the existing guidebooks. We are lucky to have done the route many times and visited so many of the attractions, hotels, B&Bs, campsites, restaurants, shops, etc. and done so many of the walks and hikes in this beautiful area of Scotland. Our articles can be printed as PDFs, but we do recommend just using them online to be able to click links and to prevent the need to print them as they are very long 😉

Thanks for recommending it to friends who may want to drive this route next year. We certainly appreciate it and for taking the time to let us know that our NC500 articles were helpful to you!

Lyn Post author

September 13, 2021 at 8:50 pm

I came across your blog and wow! I am learning a lot, it is a bit overwhelming. My husband and I are planning this trip in mid october, I am not sure if it would be a good time? We plan roughly 7 days, and just wondering if it would be best to stay in say 4 hotels/bnb in a week around the coast and what area to focus in? ANy suggestions would be helpful 😀 thank you, and I will continue browsing thru your blog. Thank you so much.

September 14, 2021 at 7:45 am

October can be a great time to travel in Scotland, but just note it may be a bit wet and cool. A number of attractions, restaurants, and lodging options are also seasonal and some will close at the end of September or October, so just be aware of that as well. Some places, like the smaller museums and private gardens, will open only by pre-arrangement. But other than those, it can definitely be a quieter time to travel although we expect it to still be fairly busy along the North Coast 500 this year as there is still a lot of pent-up travel demand.

I think that you can definitely do 2 night stays at a few places instead of moving along each night. It will likely mean a bit of backtracking along the route, but means you don’t need to pack up each night which is great. Then you can just use each base to explore the area rather than driving it as a set route which will give you a bit more flexibility. For instance, if you have 7 days/8 nights, you might consider 2 nights each in the four corners of the route, so say around Inverness for the first 2 nights, around Wick/John O’Groats/Thurso for day 3 and 4, around Tongue/Durness/Lochinver for day 5 and 6 and then a last stop around Gairloch/Kinlochewe/Torridon for your final two nights.

But I would also take a look over the itinerary to see if there are any specific attractions, activities, tours, hikes, etc. that you are really interested in (and make sure they are possible during your dates). That may encourage you to pick one town or area over another for your overnight stops. For example, if there is a morning boat tour or a full-day hike you want to do, then staying nearby for that would probably be a good idea.

Once you have your dates and where you want to overnight, I would definitely book your accommodation ASAP to ensure you get a room you like and within your budget in each location. We list some suggestions in our itineary as well as in our North Coast 500 hotels and North Coast 500 B&B guides .

Hope that helps, and just let us know if you have more questions after reading over our NC500 guide and itinerary. Wishing you and your husband a great trip.

lyn Post author

September 21, 2021 at 9:12 pm

Hello Jessica,

Thank you for replying. I do appreciate the advise and browsing your blog had certainly help. Thank You Lots!

September 22, 2021 at 3:47 am

You’re very welcome. Just let us know if you have any further questions and wishing you a wonderful trip!

michelle dudman Post author

September 13, 2021 at 1:03 pm

I have just subscribed to your monthly newsletter. Please can you advise how I can print your guides. Ive been reading through them for months now but ready to print them out and take them with us next week!

September 14, 2021 at 6:02 am

Hi Michelle,

Glad that our North Coast 500 guide has been helpful to you! Yes, I can see that you are now an active subscriber to our free monthly newsleter.

To print an article, just open up the article and then click on the Printer icon (on the side or at the end of the article) for the article of interest. You’ll be asked to be in your name and the emailed you used to subscribe. Then a printer-friendly document should open without all the ads, images, formatting, etc. If you have any issues or questions, just let us know.

If you have any questions as you plan your NC500 trip, just let us know. Wishing you a great trip next week.

Steve Hardy Post author

August 27, 2021 at 6:16 am

Hi do you have a book/guide on the 500 ? Where can I get one Having just seen it on the news I would love to do it next year & would prefer a guide to follow instead of being reliant on WiFi/internet

August 29, 2021 at 3:36 am

Glad you are finding our North Coast 500 itinerary and other NC500 articles and advice helpful.

All our advice and information is available only on our websites. You can also print them off yourself if you are a subscriber to our monthly newsletter . To print the article in a printer-friendly format (with all ads and images removed) or save them as a clickable PDF, you just need to subscribe to be subscribed to our monthly travel newsletter (it is free and easy to subscribe).

I’d start with our North Coast 500 planning guide to get started and then use the itinerary for planning day-to-day things to do and accommodation.

If you want a printed guidebook you can order one from Amazon, there are a few of them available that have been written by others, one by Rough Guides for example, but we have never used them ourselves. You can see them here .

Christine Brewer Post author

August 21, 2021 at 10:58 am

I will be travelling on my own and don’t want to be planning as I want the option to have the freedom. Being single, I am concerned about only staying the one night then off to a new destination the following day. Reading above, it seems a one nighter is not that easy. Should I be thinking of a different trip around Scotland altogether. Thanks for any help you can offer. You have done an amazing job giving all this information to everyone that wants to travel the NC500. Scotland needs to be giving you the key to the city. Christine

August 21, 2021 at 12:47 pm

Glad you are enjoying our North Coast 500 travel guides and itinerary.

For traveling right now, planning is a good idea as with COVID-19 restrictions and a lot of places requiring pre-booking (even places that normally do not), it is hard to travel without some planning beforehand if you want to visit attractions and be assured of hotel stays and hot evening meals. The NC500 is a particularly busy route with limited accommodation and places to eat along certain sections.

But you can always just choose a couple places you want to stay and then spend say 3 nights in each and explore each day from the particular town. For instance, perhaps you want to stay 3 nights in Inverness and 3 nights in Ullapool and just explore as you wish each day from there. So the only thing you would really need to plan in advance is your lodging and how you plan to get there. Planning evening restaurant meals in advance (just that same day or a day in advance is generally enough). So instead of driving the NC500 as a route, you just choose a couple of places in the north that you really want to explore.

But there are other places in Scotland that may be more suited to staying longer periods of time. Tell me a little bit more about what kind of trip you want to have and the kinds of things you enjoy doing. Have you been to Scotland before? If so, what parts have you visited before?

Kerry Post author

July 4, 2021 at 1:20 pm

Hi guys! Just wanted to say a massive thank you for publishing this blog and all your super tips and advice. I’ve just returned from a 9 day trip and followed many of your suggestions- especially the hikes and things to stop and see! I also read your guide to single track roads which was such good prep for a first timer like me. I enjoyed every minute of my trip and credit you guys for helping me prepare!! Thanks again! Kerry

July 5, 2021 at 12:28 pm

Wonderful to hear that you had such a great 9 day North Coast 500 trip! And so glad that our tips and advice were helpful for preparing for and planning your trip. Thanks for letting us know, we love to know that our travel blog has helped others!

Nathan Post author

June 15, 2021 at 9:18 am

I have 1 extra day, where would be best to use this?

Reading the blog I am torn between an extra night in Wick to visit Orkney via a day trip or an extra night in Ullapool to do a summer isles day trip. Is this toss up right or have I missed something else!

June 16, 2021 at 4:38 am

There are lots of options and if you have 8 days, you could really spend the extra night at any of the recommended stops and find plenty to do, depending on your interests. If you plan to do any longer hikes, you could use the day for this as well since many hikes require several hours or more to complete.

It sounds like you are most interested in visiting an island or doing a boating trip? For the Summer Isles, you have the option to do sea kayaking tours (see article above for link) or to just book a regular boat tour. I would first check on booking the kind of Summer Isles trip you are interested in to see if you would be able to get a trip for the date you would be there or not as this is something you’d need to book in advance as they are often not daily.

The passenger ferries to Orkney are regular and frequent. Although I’d still recommending getting your ticket in advance if you are planning to take your car. Orkney is great but you’ll be rushed to see all the major sights as a day trip and some of the popular attractions need to be pre-booked, so I’d definitely check on the attractions you want to visit if you decide to do that. Or you could join a guided day tour which often includes your ticket entry and will take you to the main highlights.

If you like birds, another island you might consider is Handa Island (described in article) which is a nature reserve maintained by the Scottish Wildlife Trust and is open to the public during the summer. You take a small boat from Tarbet to reach the island.

Hope that helps, and just let us know if you have further questions. Good luck planning your North Coast 500 trip!

Peter Jacob Post author

June 5, 2021 at 9:22 am

A humungous thank you from my wife and me. We spent an awesome 2 weeks in May, pretty much following your route and suggestions for accommodation and meals. Luckily everything worked well and your tips for things to see and side trips were invaluable. Forsinard Flows, for example were a highlight. The holiday was a delight and the planning easy, thanks to you.

Because of Covid rules we had two last minute changes to our accommodation but were able to find a good alternative very quickly using your list.

We highly recommend your site for those planning a NC 500 or similar trip. Oh, by the way, we stayed in Perth on our way to Inverness and had breakfast at Effies Cafe. Wonderful way to start – so much so that we made a point of stopping there for lunch and carrot cake on our way back.

You don’t by any chance do a similar thing for the Western Isles? !!

We usually try to go abroad but are already thinking of going back to the North/West of Scotland – and not just because of Covid.

June 7, 2021 at 5:07 am

So glad to hear that your had such a great North Coast 500 trip and that our itinerary post was so helpful in planning your trip. Sounds like you had an amazing time. Forsinard Flows is a great place, especially for those interested in birds or geology and often overlooked despite its environmental importance.

Which of the Western Isles are you planning to visit? We’ve been to a number of Scottish islands, but the main one of the Western Isles we’ve visited are Lewis and Harris. So those we know fairly well and could definitely give tips and travel information for those but not so much for the smaller ones (Uists, Barra, etc). But in general, along the west coast of Scotland, we’ve been to a number of others like Skye, Jura, Raasay, Islay, Arran, etc.

If you enjoyed our content, I recommend joining our free monthly newsletter as we will have more Scotland content coming out in the future. We send it out once a month and talk about new content on the blogs, what we are up to, and also include travel tips, reader discounts, and giveaway prizes each month.

Pete Post author

June 4, 2021 at 8:59 am

Hi Jessica & Laurence

Thanks for your guide, which was a huge help in planning the itinerary for a trip we completed last week. We saw some wonderful scenery, but sadly not much wildlife, bit DID hear a Cuckoo somewhere along the way. We recommend the Aigiliean B&B in Inverness – about 15 mins walk from the centre, run by a delightful couple, Kath & David. They were very helpful & nothing was too much trouble. On the day we were taking the ferry from Scrabster to the Orkneys, we visited Culloden. That meant we had to rather dash up the coast (having seen Black Isle the previous day), to be on time for the ferry, so missed a couple of things on the way up, but that was more than compensated for by the couple of days we had in the Orkneys. Managed to get the ”obligatory” JoG snap tho’!

What a gorgeous spot is the Orkneys. If anyone else detours there from the NC500, they could do worse than stay in the Lindisfarne B&B, Stromness run by Deborah & her young family. Lovely people. Fine location. Plenty of fascinating stuff on the main island (pre-pyramids era!) – we didn’t venture further as we did the North one day, & the South the next, before returning to Thurso for an overnight.

On via Smoo caves to Ullapool. Beautiful run. Cave well worth the effort. Such atrocious weather, we didn’t venture from the car too much. Ullapool was everything we hoped for after reading your guide. We dined at the Ceilidh Place – very good meal, pleasant staff, reasonably priced.

The run from Ullapool via Inverness to overnight in Aviemore was spectacular. We went over Bealach an bha in the clouds. That was hairier than some of those Coos. Visibilty down to about 5 yds on that road – imagine! I loved it. The boss wasn’t so enamoured tho’. On the way through, we stopped at the Torridon Hotel for our standard Scone & cuppa lunch – very swish – a proper hotel in a beautiful spot.

Amongst many delightful memories, one that I must mention is the amount of gorse on the hillsides. That wasn’t expected, & was a delight to see. I have a photo of a ”lone” gorse bush to juxtapose with your lone pine.

Thanks again for the guide. Best wishes, Pete from Essex

Thanks again for the guide

June 5, 2021 at 6:04 am

Hello Pete!

So glad that you had such a great trip around the NC500! Also happy to hear that our North Coast 500 guides and itinerary was helpful to you in planning your trip.

Thanks for taking the time to share some of your own North Coast 500 trip highlights with us. Yes, we would not recommend driving from Culloden to John O’Groats in a single day, and it sounds like you missed many things along the east side, but that is just a reason to return again when you have more time! So glad you had so many memorable moments along your trip, from the gorse to the Orkneys detour to Smoo Cave to tea at The Torridon 😉

Wishing you a wonderful rest of the summer, Jessica & Laurence

Asit Vithlani Post author

April 23, 2021 at 2:30 am

I am planning Ben Nevis and NC500 from 22nd Sept. I have 14 days with me and driving from London. First of all you guys have done a Fantastic Job with the info on this website, HATS OFF to you.

Is it ok after finishing Ben Nevis at Fort William I start clockwise and go straight to Applecross instead of Inverness which we will be ending off anyways??/

April 23, 2021 at 11:04 am

Sounds like you have a fantastic 14 day trip to Scotland coming up. Glad our blog posts are helping in planning your NC500 trip!

Yes, of course, you can start the North Coast 500 route where you wish and go either direction. As you have read, we do recommend generally starting in Inverness and going counter-clockwise for the reasons given in our planning guide, but you can certainly head from Fort William to Lochcarron and then head up to Applecross from there and go north up the western coast towards Ullapool.

Just note if you join there and leave in Inverness you’ll miss a bit of the southern stretch of the route (you can see the main sites as listed on the last day of itinerary in case any of those places were of interest). You could also catch them once back in Inverness as none of them are too far from the city.

Hope that helps and wishing you safe and happy travels! Jessica

April 24, 2021 at 4:25 pm

Thank you for replying. I have been reading through your website for a few days now and can almost feel that I am on the NC500,

Can you advise, I was looking at the route and its a one night stay on every stop. I would like to do 2-3 night stay reason is cant get 1 night bookings and would also enjoy the local area. Can you suggest how would I go about.

For example Combine Ullapool and Lochinver???

April 27, 2021 at 2:50 am

So glad that you are finding our North Coast 500 resources helpful in planning your trip 😉

Yes, I think a lot of lodging is getting booked up for the summer already along the NC500 and it looks like it is going to be a busy year. So I would book your accommodation soon. We do still see people booking 1 night stays, but more places are only offering 2 or 3 nights stays, especially with the advanced cleaning procedures due to COVID-19 this year.

Yes, definitely. We always recommend staying more than 1 night in places when you have the extra time. Any of the suggested places to stay overnight will work for 2-3 nights. I guess it depends on how many nights total you have for the route itself, what things you plan to do along the route, and how much time you want in each area. But certainly, you could stay in a place like Lochinver for 3 nights and just do more driving around the larger area to include Ullapool. From Kinlochewe, for example, you could see a lot of the southwest corner of the route like Applecross, Torridon, Lochcarron, Gairloch, etc. Wick is a good place from which to explore the northwest corner. Inverness can be a good base for lots of places in the southern part and the Black Isle. Etc.

Hope that helps! Jessica

Lynne Bunney Post author

March 27, 2021 at 10:16 am

Hi we are first timers have just booked a motorhome for July and are mind boggled with nc500 . Never been to Scotland. We have 8 nights travelling from Newcastle. Is it best to stay every night on a campsite or can you get away with 2 nights on one campsite and travel a bit, we would maybe like to go to Skye, Applecross. John o groats, Lochness as they are the ones we’ve heard of and supposed to be nice. Apart from that, we havn’t a clue. Also is it best clockwise or anti? We have a camping club membership included so any suggested itinerary and campsites would be a great help. Thankyou

March 27, 2021 at 11:35 am

Happy to try to help with your first trip to Scotland and first drive along the North Coast 500!

First thing I would recommend is familiarizing yourself with the Nc500 route and where it runs and things you can do along the route, you can do that with our North Coast 500 planning guide . So I’d start there.

For general camping information, I’d read this North Coast 500 camping guide which also includes a 7-day recommended camping itinerary with some campsite recommendations for each suggested stop.

So you can see there are several campsites in Scotland that are part of the Camping and Caravanning Club here .

Of those, 3 are along the route or really close to it: the ones in Dingwall, Rosemarkie (on Black Isle), and Interewe Gardens Poolewe. So those could certainly work as stops on your route but you’d probably not want to just stay in those as there are large sections not easily covered from these. So I’d definitely recommend staying in some non-club campsites as well to have more time to see these sections of the route.

You can certainly spend 2 nights at some stops and explore from there. But I’d start with figuring out what you want to do/see most and how many dates you have to figure out what might work best. Our itineraries give you an idea of what there is to do/see and the distances for each area to help you decide.

If you have 8 nights total and are starting and ending in Newcastle, then the first day and last day will probably be taken up driving up to Inverness and then back to Newcastle. It will take about 5.5 hours each way and I’m sure you’ll probably want to make some stops. So I’d say you will have 6 nights along the North Coast 500 if that is correct?

Loch Ness is not along the North Coast 500 but is near Inverness so would be an easy place to stop on your first day and maybe stay your first night at the campsite there (Loch Ness Shores). Then you can head to Inverness and start your drive along the NC500 on Day 2 of your trip. We recommend driving the route east to west, and you can read why in our planning guide. Then I’d spend 6 nights along the North Coast 500 and then perhaps return to Loch Ness to spend Night 8. Then spend the next day driving back to Newcastle, maybe making a stop or two along the way south if you have time.

Similarly, the Isle of Skye is a detour and I’d probably recommend not trying to fit it into this trip as you’d have limited time and it will be really busy in July. So I’d probably save it for another trip as I’d recommend at least 2 nights there to see the highlights.

We are expecting the NC500 to be very busy once it opens up to tourism again, so I’d recommend booking a trip where you can take the route at a slow and relaxed pace. You’ll be able to see more and take your time to enjoy it and not be rushed to get from place to place.

Hope that helps, and let me know if you have more questions after reading the recommend guides!

Wishing you safe and happy travels to Scotland! Jessica

Reba Post author

March 25, 2021 at 10:44 pm

This is an amazing and so detailed North Coast 500 itinerary for this part of Scotland. I did this in 2019 with my husband and I am hoping (fingers crossed) we will be allowed to return to Scotland to give it another go and spend a bit more time in summer or autumn of this year. Thoughts on the likelihood of this being possible?

Thanks again for your awesome travel blog!

March 26, 2021 at 9:19 am

Thanks so much, so glad that our North Coast 500 travel blog posts were helpful to you when you did out past trip, and I hope they will be again.

I do think that it is likely Scotland will open up to tourism by summer 2021 and that the lodging, restaurants, and attractions along the NC500 will be open then. That is sort of where we have been told things are heading. Although, of course, you should expect the normal COVID-19 restrictions that you’d expect regarding limited capacity, more places requiring reservations, face mask requirements, less shared facilities, etc.

However, it is of course impossible to predict travel conditions in the current environment, so if you plan ahead I would certainly recommend only making plans and bookings where you can get a refund or re-book as needed. If you are traveling from outside the UK, I’d also be sure to check the current travel conditions for visitors from your countries as there are quarantines in place for some international visitors.

Hope that helps, and wishing you safe and happy travels! Jessica

Nancy Post author

March 24, 2021 at 1:57 pm

hi there can you tell me if the route 500 is suitable for a 7.5 mtr motor home kind regards Nancy

March 25, 2021 at 8:55 am

We generally recommend choosing the smallest vehicle for the trip you need as the roads are single track in many sections and can be narrow and parking for larger vehicles is limited in many places. The official NC500 folks have recommended vehicles that are 18 feet or less in length or about 5.5 meters in length. So if you have the option for a shorter motorhome, I’d probably choose that option as it will make for a more pleasant trip for you and for fellow drivers sharing the road with you.

If you decide to do it in the larger motorhome, I would avoid the narrower roads such as the B869 from Lochinver to Kylesku and the Bealach na Ba road. You’ll see vehicle size limits posted on a few of the minor roads leading off the NC500.

You can see more information for planning your trip in our NC500 planning guide and our North Coast 500 camping guide .

Adam Clarke Post author

January 29, 2021 at 9:19 am

Hi Guys, Amazing guide. We have found this so useful and all I’ve done so far is booked accommodation (that’s taken me a few days!) I would like your advice on the final couple of days of our NC500 tour. We’re thinking of travelling to and staying in Fort William after leaving Torridon, rather than going back to Inverness? Where we are staying for our first night. We have two teenagers (13/15) and wondered which route/location would be the most interesting. From there we are travelling back to Bristol, stopping at Carlisle or somewhere like that. What would you advise. Many thanks in advance The Clarkes

January 30, 2021 at 5:57 am

So glad to hear our North Coast 500 travel guide and itinerary has been helpful in planning your trip! Sounds like you have a lot of your time already planned.

I think if you are already going to explore and stay in Inverness at the beginning of your NC500 trip, then the night after you stay at Torridon, you could make your way to Fort William. You’ll probably want to leave the NC500 route at Strathcarron and then head south. Some places you might want to stop on the way to Fort William might be Plockton (nice little village, can take short boat trips to see seals) and Eilean Donan Castle at Dornie. Fort William is a nice town and there are a number of things you could do in town and in that area. If you haven’t been, I’d recommend heading out to Glencoe for the views, hikes, and folk museum either before or after your stay in Fort Wiliam.

If you have time on the next day, some ideas would be to make some stops in Loch Lomond National Park , visit Doune Castle, and maybe stop to explore in Glasgow. Glasgow has some great free museums, gardens, and sites, you can see our guide to things to do in Glasgow for more.

Hope that helps, and let me know if you have more questions as you plan your trip! Jessica

Shawnee Post author

December 30, 2020 at 1:22 pm

Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a detailed blog! Its taken my husband and I two evenings to go through it and take in and take note of all of your knowledge. This has been a great help to plan our family NC500 trip in readiness for May. Id imagine this will be our bible for our adventure. Thank you so much, hope you’re all well. Love the Harries’

December 31, 2020 at 6:04 am

Hi Shawnee,

So glad that our North Coast 500 blog posts have been helpful in planning your May trip. Hopefully things will be open and restrictions will be lifted in Scotland by then!

As you plan your NC500 trip, just let us know if you have any questions, we are happy to try to help.

Wishing you and you family happy and safe future travels and a wonderful 2021! Jessica

Han Post author

November 8, 2020 at 1:24 pm

This was so detailed and helpful for our trip. We used it everyday and we had a great time!

Thank you! Han

November 9, 2020 at 5:53 am

Glad to hear you had a great time and that our North Coast 500 itinerary was so helpful during your trip!

Wishing you safe & happy future travels, Jessica

Clive Proctor Post author

October 3, 2020 at 12:46 pm

Thankyou so much, we have just had the best week with glorious weather on our nc500 trip, using your itinerary as a guide. It’s an amazing place! We were in a motor home so missed out applecross but did a Monroe instead😬😬😬😬. Now back thinking about doing it again in reverse as could spend weeks exploring the amazing highlands. Clive.

October 4, 2020 at 7:24 am

So glad that you had such a great North Coast 500 trip and were blessed with some good weather 😉 Also happy to hear that our itinerary was helpful and that you got to do some monro bagging. Yes, definitely more to explore and I hope you have a chance to return in the future!

Wishing you safe & happy travels!

Alan Scott Post author

September 16, 2020 at 4:29 am

Very informative and easy to follow/read have just returned from Clachtoll having been driven out by the weather, we have a 7.5m motorhome and in places it was definitely tight, all been well I would like to return sometime next year (current circumstances allowing) many thanks again for taking the time to write such an informative article/guide Alan Scott

September 17, 2020 at 8:24 am

Glad that you enjoyed your time on the North Coast 500 and found our guides useful. Thanks for sharing your experience. Sorry to hear that you encountered bad weather, but hopefully you can finish it next year.

Yes, motorhomes of that size or larger are going to struggle on the narrow side roads and curvy parts of the route. When people are renting or leasing a motorhome or caravan in Scotland, we definitely recommend choosing the smallest option you need for the route as it gives you more flexibility.

Wishing you a great rest of the year, and hope you can return to the route next year!

Maxine Post author

August 29, 2020 at 10:29 am

Hi, Thanks for a very informative guide to the route and kit to take. You have inspired us to go in September. We have booked allour accommodation, following your route, but everywhere is fully booked in Lochinver, can you suggest other locations that we could easily substitute without taking us far off route?

Many thanks, Maxine

August 29, 2020 at 11:33 am

Glad that our NC500 guide has inspired your upcoming road trip! Yes, unfortunately, a lot of places are booked out a month or so in advance as it is a popular time and place to travel right now.

If everything is booked in and around Lochinver, I’d check nearby towns like Inchnadamph (20 minutes drive away) and Kylesku (30 minutes away) if you haven’t already as those both have a small hotel and a couple of B&Bs. There is also the Summer Isles Hotel in Achiltibuie, which is located along one of the recommended detours (about 1 hour drive from Lochinver), and is a hotel we have stayed and can recommend.

But if you have already checked those, or nothing is available, I’d consider just adding an extra night to your stay in or around Ullapool in the same place you are already staying there. The two towns are only about a 1 hour drive apart along the NC500. So anything you miss coming further south that first night, you can spend the following day seeing and you won’t have to backtrack too much. It is a lovely area of the North Coast 500 so there is plenty to do in that area.

Hope that helps and just let us know if you have any further questions!

August 29, 2020 at 12:55 pm

Thanks Jessica, I didn’t expect such a quick response, your suggestions are really helpful.

Ruth Post author

August 14, 2020 at 7:12 am

Hi, epic blog! I’ve noted down lots of information but I did want to ask whether you’ve ever done the NC500 in winter? I turn 30 in Feb and we plan on doing it then and hopefully catching the northern lights but I wondered if you’d ever done it and had any extra tips? We do plan on renting a motorhome so I’ve noted down where we can’t go from your guide which I can’t express enough how amazing it is but I just wanted to pick your brain. Thanks in advance!

August 14, 2020 at 9:39 am

Glad you are finding our North Coast 500 guide so helpful in planning your trip!

Yes, we have indeed driven the North Coast 500 in winter, including in February, but haven’t written a specific post about it yet. Winter has its pros in that there are fewer visitors and less people on the road. But it also has a lot more challenges namely weather, availability, and the closure of all the seasonal businesses.

I think the biggest downside is that so much is closed. Lots of places along the route are seasonal and close for the winter months (many close from October to April) and this includes many major attractions, tour operators, hotels, restaurants, campsites, museums, and tourist-related shops. So it is likely some places you want to visit won’t be open and you’ll have limited options for food (especially evening meals) and lodging (many of our recommended hotels and B&Bs closes for parts of the winter). But if you are staying in a motorhome, some of this will matter less to you. Many of the campsites are also seasonal so you’ll want to plan ahead to ensure you have places to stop and get services along the trip.

The other major factor is weather. The main factor is that it is often cold and windy during that time of year. We had snow during part of our trip which closed the local roads for part of a day and made them quite unsafe to drive until they were plowed several hours later. So being flexible is definitely good as we had to change around our schedule a bit and stayed extra days in one area because of the bad weather. The snow also meant that some of the walking and hiking trails weren’t really possible so it can also limit outdoor activities as well.

But we had a lot of time and flexibility when we did it in February and we booked our stays in advance (we stayed at hotels and B&Bs, and had a regular car) but kept them flexible (with free cancellation) so could alter as needed based on weather and everything.

– Plan in advance but keep plans flexible if you can. Good to have extra time and not have to rush back at a certain time/date. This way bad weather, road closures, or wanting to extend your trip a bit won’t matter too much. – Since you are thinking about doing the NC500 with a motorhome, you’ll want to check in advance where campgrounds/services will be available for you. Many shared services (toilets/laundry/showers/waste disposal) have closed or are more limited due to the coronavirus, and many campsites are taking only people who book in advance. – For any places you are keen to visit, I’d check their operating dates/hours in advance. Some attractions in winter are open by appointment only. So, for instance, some of the museums will allow people to visit but they need to arrange a volunteer to be there. So you will want to try to contact and give them plenty of notice (several days to a week) to have a good chance of visiting. – For meals, especially evening meals out, you’ll want to check to see what will be available near you. In some places along the North Coast 500 (particularly the northern section), there are very few options during winter at night. Checking in advance can help you plan meals you’ll want to have in the motorhome versus going out to eat. Many restaurants require reservations right now for evening meals. – Bring plenty of warm clothing and gear, and boots that can handle both water and snow. Be prepared for gusty winds, rain, and snow. If you are well-outfitted then it will allow you to really explore more no matter what the weather throws at you. Same with your motorhome as you want to prepare it for winter and bring your winter supplies (or make sure the rental comes that way). – If there are any tours you are keen to take, I’d check ahead to see if they will do a tour in February. A lot of the outdoor tours generally don’t take place in winter for obvious reasons, but the operators may offer alternative tour suggestions for winter. For instance, instead of sea kayaking we did loch canoeing in winter. We’ve also done clay pigeon shooting in winter. – For hiking and climbing, be sure to check trail conditions if considering a longer or more difficult one. Many of the long-distance hikes and climbing is not recommended during winter as the conditions can be dangerous, especially at higher elevations and for those not familiar with the terrain. So just use good judgment and check with locals about suggestions. Or consider getting a local hiking guide. We stuck to the shorter, flatter, and easier trails in winter. – If you like spotting deer, winter is the best time to spot them along the route, particularly along the western and southern parts of the route. Best times are near dusk and dawn, but you can often see them all day long in some places in winter as they come down from the hills for food. You’ll likely see both red deer and roe deer. – Winter often means a lot of bad weather, but when the sun does come out photography during the winter light can be really beautiful. It can be a magical time to take in the scenery.

For the Northern Lights, your best chance to see them is along the far northern coast so if that is something you are really keen to try to spot, I’d maybe focus more of your time along that part of the North Coast 500 route. For a better chance, you may consider taking a detour off the route and heading further north for part of your trip to the Orkney or Shetland Islands. Shetland, because it is so far north, has been the best place for us. Scotland is not a particularly great place to see the Northern Lights because of the weather, but if you have time and patience you may well see them in winter! We have seen lots of great photos from those who live along the northern part of the NC500, although we’ve only seen them once ourselves there.

If you haven’t seen the Northern Lights before, Laurence has written a guide to seeing and photographing the Northern Lights which may be useful in helping you find them. There are some good phone apps out there that can help predict your chances of seeing them from a certain location each day.

OK, well I hope that helps. Feel free to reach of if you have further questions as you plan your trip and wishing you a great birthday trip around the North Coast 500!

Ken Charlton Post author

July 29, 2020 at 12:19 pm

Hi Jessica, Thank you so much for your fab guide to Route 500. My wife and I are planning the route for May 2021. Have booked in to all our chosen accomodation except for the night at Kinlochewe. Thinking of the Kinlochewe Hotel but wanted to ask if you might recommend somewhere further west to reduce the long journey back to Inverness. On other hand I was thinking that the route from Ullapool, although relatively short, seems to have many viewpoints and not to be rushed – maybe that’s why you suggest stopping at Kinlochewe? Once we leave the peninsular on the last of our 7 days the road is an A road so presumably we can pick up speed to reduce the journey time to Inverness. So stopping at Kinlochewe or further west towards Applecross? Any thoughts?

ken charlton Post author

July 29, 2020 at 12:21 pm

Yea meant to subscribe. Will do now! Thanks again, Ken

July 29, 2020 at 5:13 pm

I think the choice may just depend on how much you plan to do on Day 6 and Day 7. The driving distances are not that far on either day in terms of total miles but there is plenty you can do on each day. Day 6 we recommend more stops and things you can do (museums, activities, hikes, villages), whereas on Day 7 there is more scenery and enjoying the drive with some recommended stops. So it really depends on what you want to see and do each day and how much time you want to spend doing them. I’d take a look at what is listed under Day 6 and 7 of the itinerary, see what sounds appealing, and then estimate the time each day you think you’d need.

I’d just be sure to always allow in a bit of extra time each day for flexibility in case you decide to make extra stops or things take longer than planned. Sometimes also traffic or road works can slow you down.

The coastal road around the Applecross peninsula is a slow-going minor road and the Bealach na Bà pass is obviously a section of the route you need to take slowly (and tourist traffic can make it even slower). But once you get back to Ardarroch and Strathcarron, you are indeed back on an A road and it should take about 1 hour and 30 minutes or so to get back to Inverness without making any stops. You can easily do the full peninsula drive from Kinlochewe and return to Inverness in a day.

We haven’t personally stayed at the Kinlochewe Hotel, but it has really good reviews and ratings and seems to be a very solid 3-star hotel. But if you decide you want to stay further west to spend more time on the peninsula or get back to Inverness earlier in the day, that can work too. You can check out accommodation in Torridon, Shieldaig, or Applecross to save some time for Day 7.

Hope that helps, and just let us know if you have any further questions! Jessica

August 2, 2020 at 9:07 am

Thanks Jessica for your prompt reply. You really are a star! I’m sticking to your origian 7 day journey travelling anti clockwise. I’ve added an extra day in John o’ Groats to have a 1 day trip to Orkney and an extra day at Kinlochewe to spend the day in the Beinn Eighe Nature Reserve. Sadly the Kinlochewe Hotel was fully booked with a large party so instead I’m spending 2 nights at the Ledgowan Lodge Hotel which apparently is only 10 miles from Kinlochewe. At all other places I’ve been able to book my chosen accomodation. Thanks again for your help and hugely helpful website

August 2, 2020 at 10:24 am

Glad that my reply and our NC 500 articles have helped. It sounds like you now have most of your NC500 road trip all planned out. Having more than 1 night in a couple of locations is definitely nice 😉

You can see several highlights on a day trip to Orkney by ferry. The Orkney “mainland” (the largest and main island of Orkney) has a number of important historical attractions – just note that some attractions will require you to book in advance to be able to visit them. So I’d check ahead to see and book as needed. There is a discount card, the Orkney Explorer Pass, but this may not be of value to you since you will just be there for a day but you may want to check it out anyway.

Wishing you a wonderful trip! Jessica

Jayne Ellis Post author

July 22, 2020 at 2:28 am

Hello both,

We are hoping to do the Brora to Golspie walk on our trip; I know it says you can see Dunrobin Castle, but can you advise if you can get access to it when completing this walk, or if it is only accessible via road? Jayne and Graeme

July 22, 2020 at 4:23 am

That is a lovely walk, especially in nice weather with some really nice views, a walk along the beach, and often chances to see seabirds and seals. You do see Dunrobin Castle, both from the approach and in front of the gates. However, you can’t access the castle directly from the public path, but I think you may be able to follow a path up and around to the car park from there. The entrance and ticket area for the castle and gardens is at the top of the hill inside the castle.

If you are interested in visiting the castle and gardens, I’d probably call Dunrobin Castle and ask how you can approach and which path you can take to get up to the ticketing area from the coastline. The staff should be able to advise you the best approach. I know they have had to change some things due to the coronavirus but I believe both the castle and garden are now open.

For the walk, I’d check the tide tables for the area first to plan the best time for your walk, as it is best around low tide. At high tide it can be more difficult alongside the coast to follow the path.

Jayne Post author

July 22, 2020 at 7:48 am

Thank you !

Marianne Post author

July 21, 2020 at 2:43 am

Thank you so much for such a useful blog! My friends and I are planning on doing the north coast 500 In a campervan and wondered what your thoughts/ general rules are around wild camping? Thank you

July 21, 2020 at 6:35 am

Hi Marianne,

Glad you are finding our North Coast 500 travel tips useful! It is a great route and it is a great route to do in a small campervan.

Now, wild camping is camping away from the road and not in a motorized vehicle. Wild camping is meant to be for those sleeping in a tent and doing so well away from houses, livestock, businesses, and roads.

If you are planning to sleep in your campervan, we’d recommend booking campsites so you have a safe place to stay, have access to running water, showers, electric, WiFi, and other amenities as needed. The campsites are also usually located in scenic places and are a great place to meet other travelers. It also helps prevent environmental damage and helps contribute to the local economy. If sharing with friends, the cost of camping would be very little when split amongst you.

There have been a lot of issue with people parking alongside the North Coast 500 route and the issue that go with that (blocking traffic, parking illegally, litter, irresponsible waste disposal, leaving ruts, etc).

Note that we’d recommend booking campsites in advance to guarantee a spot. Some campsites along the route have decided not to open in 2020 or are limiting spaces to ensure social distancing, which means that there is going to be less camping spaces along the route than usual and it is expected to be busy along the route. Also some may not have the shared toilets/showers/laundry facilities open so something to check on when booking.

For more on wild camping, campsites, and such, I’d check out this camping itinerary .

Hope that helps and just let us know if you have further questions as you plan your trip! Jessica

Tim Post author

July 12, 2020 at 11:41 am

Hi. If possible,can you supply a list of dog friendly places to stay. I haven’t read all the information as yet. We would like to do 7 day tour this year. Many thanks in advance.

July 13, 2020 at 11:46 am

We do keep a file on dog-friendly hotels along the North Coast 500. I’d start with our list of recommended hotels and B&Bs. If you are following our suggested 7 day NC500 itinerary, you can check to see which hotels at each place you want to overnight are dog friendly.

We include a section on whether the accommodation accepts dogs in both our North Coast 500 hotels and B&B’s articles, which you can find here:

NC500 Hotels (and a few B&Bs): https://independenttravelcats.com/north-coast-500-hotels-where-to-stay-nc500/ NC500 B&Bs: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/bed-and-breakfast-accommodation-north-coast-500/

The above pet policy information was correct as of earlier this year, but of course, be sure to double-check their latest pet policy before making your booking. Also note that some of the hotels and B&Bs we list are almost full for 2020 and a couple of them have decided not to open this year, so finding accommodation in some areas can be tricky (especially in northwestern part of route) depending on when you plan to go.

If you have questions about any specific places or have trouble finding a place to stay in a certain area, let us know and we can try to help. Also happy to answer any other North Coast 500 questions as you plan your trip.

Gavin Walker Post author

July 5, 2020 at 9:03 am

Hi, i’m in the early stages of planning a trip. I’m in a wheelchair an wondered if you had any information on accessible accommodation along the route.

Thank you Gavin

July 6, 2020 at 11:17 am

Traveling the NC500 in a wheelchair definitely requires more planning as a lot of lodging and attractions along the route are not wheelchair accessible. But there are a number of hotels and some B&Bs that do have at least 1 wheelchair accessible room. There are lots of options in Inverness but your options become more limited in the smaller towns along the route.

Now, what is labeled as wheelchair accessible does seem to vary though – for instance some have roll-in showers and some have a lip or small step that has to be navigated to access the shower.

We’ve been asked this question before and have some notes on some of the different hotels and motels along the route. Let us know if you have any specific requirements (e.g., roll-in shower or wet room), the type of lodging you are looking for (e.g., luxury hotel, B&B, mid-range hotel), when you are planning to travel, and anything else that might be helpful, etc. Then we’re happy to put together a list of some of the places we’d recommend checking out that may be a good fit.

Gavin Post author

July 6, 2020 at 1:05 pm

Thank you for your reply. I don’t have a specific date in mind yet because as you say it needs a bit more planning. Although i’m a full time chair user i’ll be traveling with my partner and together there isn’t much that stops us.I think initially looking for places to stop along the route. Ideally a roll in shower but what is essential is the access for my chair. Single steps are ok but no first floor rooms for example.Probably low budget hotel or B and B. Somewhere to just sleep before we set off again.

After that we would be looking for any walks with relatively even surfaces and things to do. Obviously I’m not expecting tarmac paths but ideal places to stop or views i’ll get the benefit of. Sometimes it’s just as important knowing the places to avoid.

July 7, 2020 at 7:02 am

We have found that the more expensive lodging providers and the larger hotels are the most likely to have fully wheelchair accessible rooms, so it is a bit more challenging for those looking for budget and mid-range places. But here is a list (in counterclockwise order starting in Inverness) that will hopefully get you started with places that have at least one accessible room that we believe have step free/single step/can add ramp on request and also has a roll-in shower. You’ll want to of course verifiy that before booking.

– Loch Ness Inn in Drumnadrochit (about 25 minutes southwest of Inverness) – Holiday Inn Express in Inverness – Muir Bank in Muir of Ord (about 15 miles from Inverness) – Evelix Pods in Dornoch (1 of the pods is noted as being wheelchair accessible) – Royal Marine Hotel in Brora – Bayview House in Brora – Castle Arms Hotel in Mey – The Hawthorns B&B in Mey – Bank House in Thurso – Kylesku Hotel in Kylesku – Summer Isles Hotel in Achiltibuie – The Arch Inn in Ullapool

Here are several more hotels which we think also have at least one wheelchair accessible room, but are on the more pricey end of accommodation along the route:

– Kingsmill Hotel in Inverness (have several accessible rooms) – Rocpool Reserve Hotel in Inverness – Dornoch Castle Hotel in Dornoch – John O’Groats Inn & Lodges in John O’Groats – The Torridon in Torridon – Coul House in Contin

Some of the above have the rooms easily denoted on their website or a third-party website, but others will require you to call and inquire.

Most of the scenic viewpoints are just off the road as are views of many of the prehistoric monuments and attractions so most of those should be accessible for you. For walking trails, a lot are not very accessible for wheelchairs as many require going up or down steps or going through a kissing gate or have rugged terrain, but a great example of one that is is the Leitir Easaidh All Abilities Path near (it is included in our NC500 7 day itinerary) near Lochinver. Also, some of the RSPB paths and trails are wheelchair accessible at the RSPB reserves such as Nigg Bay and Forsinard Flows. The RSPB actually provides a lot of accessibility information on their website and you may want to contact them for a list of reserves in the Highlands with wheelchair accessible trails.

Hope the above helps in planning your North Coast 500 trip. We’d love if you would let us know what you find out in booking your accommodation and planning your trip (and later once you return) as we’d love to update our resources for future travelers in wheelchairs wanting to do the route. Feel free to email us !

July 7, 2020 at 7:42 am

Thank you for your great response.

July 7, 2020 at 10:53 am

You’re very welcome and interested to know what you find out!

Also here are a couple more hotels that are budget-oriented in Inverness that may be of interest and have wheelchair-accessible rooms/facilities:

– Inverness Youth Hostel – some of the private rooms are wheelchair accessible and there is a communal accessible toilet and wet room – Travelodge City Centre in Inverness

Tonie Post author

January 30, 2020 at 10:41 am

Thank you for such an informative website- it’s a pleasure to read, and so helpful with our route planning!

I’d just like to ask for your opinion on where you would sneak in one extra night, if you could, please? We have an 8-night journey planned. Would you make it 2 nights somewhere, or add one more stop? Maybe Black Isle? John O’Groats? Orkney?

Having great fun and building up excitement for this road trip, and really appreciate your passion for the region!

Many thanks, Tonie & Steve

January 31, 2020 at 7:33 am

So happy you are finding our North Coast 500 guides helpful in planning your upcoming journey.

Orkney is a great place to visit and you could stay on the main island like in Kirkwall (main town) or stay an extra night in John O’Groats and just do a day trip by ferry, leaving on a morning ferry and returning on an evening one. The only thing is that if you think you may be in the area again, we’d recommend at least a couple of nights on Orkney to really explore the mainland and then more days if you want to visit any of the other islands. You could easily spend a full week exploring the islands. But you can certainly see some of the highlights of the main island with just one full day. I’d just research ahead of time what you want to do to make the most of your day. For example, if you want to visit Maeshowe, we’d strongly recommend booking ahead as numbers are limited and reservations are often sold out in advance for time slots, especially if traveling in the summer months. There are also tours you can join that go to all the highlights in one day as well.

The Black Isle can be a great place to spend a night. It just depends if you are interested in the attractions there or not. But you could certainly visit the churches, the waterfall, the well, the museums in Cromarty & Fortrose, visit a brewery, do a dolphin watching boat tour, etc. So plenty to fill up a full day. We normally stay in Cromarty and within walking distance of some place to eat so we can just walk to dinner and back.

Another recommendation would be to stay an extra night in Lochinver as there is lots of driving detour options and hiking/outdoor/scenery opportunities in that area. So that could be a good place to add an extra night. But it really depends on what is most of interest to you.

Tonie & Steve Post author

February 2, 2020 at 3:29 pm

Thanks very much Jessica! So much choice. Very much appreciated

Karithikeyan Post author

January 18, 2020 at 3:24 am

For anyone planning to take the NC500 road trip, you are reading the right article. Thank you Laurence and Jessica Norah for covering almost all important nuances required to successfully complete the North cost 500 road trip in a week, in a smooth way. Me and my friends are waiting to relish the experience soon. The most alluring about the whole article is your eye for detailing.

January 18, 2020 at 7:39 am

Hi there, Thanks so much for letting us know that our North Coast 500 itinerary has been so helpful. Yes, we do indeed like to go into detail – but it helps we’ve driven this route so many times now. Hope you enjoy your upcoming road trip and feel free to report back! Best, Jessica & Laurence

Stewart Crowe Post author

January 12, 2020 at 8:17 am

What an informative blog, well done. Used to live in Elgin back in the 70’s. Wife and I are both in our mid 70’s now and planning to do this in 2021 but taking 10 – 12 days. Could you suggest changes we should make to your itinerary.

Many thanks Stewart

January 12, 2020 at 8:42 am

Hi Stewart,

We were in Elgin last year – stopped at the cathedral, town museum, and had a wander around, had a nice visit 😉

If you have an extra 3 to 5 days for the NC500, I have two thoughts. One is to just add to overnight stops, so instead of all 1 nights stops, I’d stay two nights in the places along the route that are of most interest. This will allow you to explore those towns and areas more in depth, explore more of the things off the route, and be able to go along at a slower pace without feeling rushed.

In terms of where to add those nights? I think there are enough things to do anywhere in the route to justify a 2 night stay as we’ve driven the route several times and still always come up with more to do. But it depends on your interests so I’d look along the itinerary to see where you might want more time. If you want some more specific suggestions, feel free to let us know what you enjoy doing most and what areas/towns look most interesting to you and happy to suggest some places.

If you want to hire a guide or do some tours, like going out for a day of fly fishing, hiking, canoeing, learning about geology, or wildlife sightseeing, etc., those are definitely good places along the route to have extra time so you don’t feel rushed. These are also good things to book well in advance as many of the tour operators we recommend are small (sometimes just a single person) and they are often booked full once summer comes around. Although since you are planning for 2021, you have plenty of time 😉

The other thing I would consider, especially if you have 4 or 5 extra days, is a trip out to one of the islands. As noted from the itinerary there are a few different places in the northwestern part of the route where you can get a ferry to Orkney around John o’Groats. Lots to do and see on Orkney, especially if you like historical and archaeological sites, and the birdlife is great in the spring and summer months. Another island trip idea is to head over to the Isles of Lewis and Harris from Ullapool – again lots of historical and archaeological stuff, wildlife, beaches, places to buy tweed, etc. Both Orkney and Lewis and Harris are great for at least 2 days of exploration and you could certainly spend much longer on either.

So those would be my suggestions. So I would not so much change the route as just add more time into what is there and consider adding 2 to 3 days popping over to either Orkney or Lewis and Harris.

Hope that helps and let us know if you have any further questions as you plan your NC500 trip!

August 9, 2020 at 3:35 am

Hi Jessica, 2nd time of trying to reply to this, if you got a part reply please ignore!! Further to your response to me back in January of this year have now put together an outline plan for 2021. Would very much welcome your comments/suggestions. Our main interests are Driving, Wildlife, History, Walking, Stately Homes/Gardens and similar – so very wide ranging. The hardest thing I am finding is not to try to have too many stops!!

Drive to Edinburgh 3 Nights Other stops will be: Inverness – 1 night as we lived near Inverness and have seen all the sights near to hear Dornoch -1 night Dunnet – 1 Night Durness – 2 nights Ullapool -2 nights Gairloch – 1 night Strathcarron – 3 nights. Whilst here will have a day trip to Skye, Drive the Bealach Na Ba and go feed the Red Deer. Return home via Edinburgh, Durham, Whitby and York.

Kind Regards Stewart

August 9, 2020 at 4:09 am

Sorry you were having trouble with the message. I didn’t get the first partial reply, just this one 😉

I think your itinerary looks great, and it will give you plenty of time around the North Coast 500 route, especially along the western part of the route. Since you used to live in Inverness, I am guessing you have already seen many of that attractions around the eastern and southern parts of this route so this looks perfect in that case.

The only thing I will say is that I don’t really recommend day tripping to Skye, as there is so much to see. But if you have already been here or are only trying to see a handful of highlights, that can work.

For anything you want to do that requires a tour (fishing, guided hikes, Argo tour to see the deer), I’d be sure to book ahead once you have your dates set and lodging all booked. Many of the companies are just run by one or two people so they can only run one or two tours each day. Just be sure to ask about the cancellation policies.

And next year closer to your trip, I’d also check the websites for any of the attractions that require tickets (gardens, Dunrobin Castle, museums) for their opening hours and if you need to reserve in advance as many now require you to book in advance due to the coronavirus. It is hard to say what things will look like during the 2021 season.

Hope that helps, and just let us know if you have further questions as you plan your trip.

Don Post author

January 9, 2020 at 5:09 am

I am just beginning to think about planning a trip round the NC500 and am finding your guides extremely comprehensive, a lot to try to take in looking at a screen. Have you considered having these printed, especially the 5 day and 7 day itineraries, for people to buy from you?

January 9, 2020 at 5:34 am

Glad you are finding all our North Coast 500 articles helpful!

Yes, we have looked into offering a printed guide and get asked for printed guidebook versions of our posts fairly regularly, but we have not found an easy or economical way to do this (and keep that content updated) for people to purchase.

But several months ago we introduced an easy way for people to print them from home (or from a copy shop/print store/library). If you are one of our monthly newsletter subscribers, you can print or download most of our articles (including this one) as a clickable PDF file. If you are not a subscriber, it is free and easy to join and you can learn more and join here .

The printable versions of the articles have the images, photos, and ads removed and are formatted for printing. You can also use this function to save them as clickable PDF files as well if you’d rather not print them. The PDF files allow you to still use the links.

To print, once you are a newsletter subscriber, to print (or save as PDF), all you need to do is go to the article you want to print and click on the Printer icon button. This will be on the left hand side of the article (for those on desktop) or at the very end of the article (for both desktop and mobile users). Once you click the icon a box will pop up that will be asked to enter your first name and email address. Please use the email address that you use to receive our newsletter.

If you want a printed guidebook for the NC500, you can try Amazon as there are a few of them out there now, although we have never used them. We have heard mixed reviews of them.

Hope that helps, and just let us know if you have any questions as you plan your trip!

Liz Lawrence Post author

January 8, 2020 at 3:44 am

Fabulous website We want to do the route 500 with a dog Any advice re either B&Bs/camping??

January 9, 2020 at 11:01 am

You can see our NC500 hotels guide and NC500 B&Bs guide as both note if each hotel or B&B is dog-friendly or not at last check. Although do of course always double check before booking as policies do change. A few accept pets with no extra charge, but the majority do charge a small pet fee per dog per stay.

More of the hotels accept dogs than the smaller B&B’s and guesthouses based on our experience. But you can certainly do the route staying at B&B’s, they are just a bit harder to find. Many holiday rental homes also accept pets, but that is going to generally be a more pricey option if than B&Bs or camping.

Just for a quick idea if you wanted to generally follow our suggested 7 day North Coast 500 itinerary and stay in dog-friendly B&Bs on the NC500:

-Day 1 Dog friendly B&B in Dornoch – Heartseed House B&B -Day 2 Dog friendly B&B near Wick – Thrumster House -Day 3 Dog friendly B&B near Tongue – Farr Bay Inn (in Bettyhill) and MacKays Rooms (in Durness) -Day 4 Dog friendly B&B near Lochinver – The Green Cruachan (in Stoer) or Suliven View Pods -Day 5 Dog friendly B&B in Ullapool – Ferry Boat Inn -Day 6 Dog friendly B&B in Torridon – The Torridon Inn (inn not hotel) -Day 7 Dog friendly B&B in Inverness – Furan Guest House

Most campsites along the North Coast 500 allow pets so camping is a pretty popular for pet owners who want to drive the NC500. You can see individual campsites mentioned throughout the itinerary and you can also see our NC500 camping guide .

Just note that many of the indoor attractions along the route do not allow pets so if you want to visit those kinds of places (museums, castles, guided tours) you may want to take turns spending time with your dog and one going inside. Same with restaurants, but several have outdoor areas that allow dogs and some bars also allow dogs. There are also takeaway places in many of the towns.

For trails, beaches, and parks, many allow dogs but some do not, but this is usually clearly posted. And almost all ask that dogs be kept on lead/leash at all times and of course all require that dogs are cleaned up after (many have disposal areas on site, but not all).

If you are planning to travel in Spring or early summer, you want to be particularly careful as dogs can spook and do harm to young livestock (there are lambs everywhere!) and can harm nesting birds. Bird and wildlife reserve areas often do not allow dogs for obvious reasons.

Hope that helps, Jessica

Sarah Good Post author

November 20, 2019 at 7:35 am

I absolutely loved your 7 Day Rd. trip. We are planning on doing the north coast 500 next September not sure yet whether we’re doing seven or five days.

Your blog is amazing and I feel like I have already done the trip. Thank you

November 21, 2019 at 9:31 am

So glad you are finding our North Coast 500 itinerary helpful! If you have 7 days, I don’t think you’ll regret it, but you can do the route in 5 days if you have less time.

Our 7 day itinerary lists most things you might want to do, but then you’ll just have to pick and choose the ones of most interest to you each day. But as you can see there’s lots to do, especially if you enjoy the outdoors!

Just let us know if you have any questions as you plan your 2020 trip.

Geoff and Joyce Tomlinson Post author

November 15, 2019 at 7:47 am

We would like to join others to thank you for your fantastic guide. I have now booked accommodation for our planned trip in June as I expect many places will be full at that time, perhaps more full because of folks encouraged by reading your guide. We are looking forward to our experience. Thank you

November 15, 2019 at 8:31 pm

Thank you Geoff & Joyce for taking the time to let us know that you have found it helpful in planning your June trip. Yes, many of the hotels & B&Bs we recommend do get booked full in June so definitely good to book ahead. If you have any questions as you continue your planning, just let us know! Best, Jessica

Rob Post author

November 2, 2019 at 8:27 am

We are planning a trip in July 2020 and this site really helps a lot !!! It’s very detailed, provides excellent information and makes our planning much easier or maybe not as there is so much to choose from. The idea is to do the same 7 day trip and for me as a whisky lover, I’m planning to visit some distilleries down the road (Wolfburn, Aberfeldy, Clynlish)

November 3, 2019 at 3:09 am

Sounds like a great trip. Yes, there are several whisky distilleries you can visit along or near the route, especially along the eastern part of the route.

Wishing you a wonderful trip, and just let us know if you have any questions as you continue your planning!

Frankie Fenton Post author

October 1, 2019 at 6:06 pm

Hi guys – I just wanted to send you a big heartfelt “thank you”! We are planning a Northcoast 500 tour next Sept. 2020. I’ve been trolling a number of sites, videos and blogs and it is so wonderful to come across your guide. Heads above the rest. It’s so well organized, is an exceptionally complete overview of all there is to see along the trip, it is just fantastic. It’s truly the only thing we need! This is wonderful. Thank you so much for investing what I’m sure was a great deal of time in putting this guide together.

October 4, 2019 at 10:24 am

Hello Frankie, That is so great to hear that you have found our North Coast 500 itinerary and other articles helpful in planning your road trip. Just let us know if you have any questions as you continue to plan your trip! Best, Jessica

Rene Benjamin Post author

October 13, 2019 at 8:01 am

I very much agree, I am planning a trip as well, the information you provide is excellent!

October 14, 2019 at 2:13 am

Glad to hear that you are finding our North Coast 500 itinerary and other planning guides helpful Just let us know if you have any questions as you plan your road trip!

Koos van Riet Post author

August 19, 2019 at 5:20 am

Great the way you make my heart beats faster after reading and seeing the 500 again! We made the trip in 2018 ourselves and I do miss one item:

I do know free camping is allowed (according the rules), but that is not an option for us.

So please tell me about the campgrounds on the NC500.

August 19, 2019 at 6:35 am

So glad that our North Coast 500 itinerary and photos are bringing up good memories from your last trip and getting you excited to drive it again!

Wild camping is allowed, but only for tent campers who follow the Outdoor Access Code rules and regulations. But we actually recommend that all those who plan to camp along the route stay on established campsites for both environmental protection reasons and to help support the local campsites and communities along the route.

There are lots of campsites. Campgrounds along the route vary a bit in terms of size, amenities, prices, etc. but they pretty much all offer the basics of water and electrical hookups, toilets, showers, picnic areas, waste disposal points, etc.

As you probably saw in our itinerary, we list the closest campsites to each recommended overnight stop for each night of the 1 week itinerary in the article. So you can use to help find the best campsite for each night. Almost all take advanced bookings.

You can read more about camping along the route in Laurence’s NC500 camping guide .

Sean & Gemma Post author

August 18, 2019 at 10:56 am

Wow, your blog provides the best information I’ve ever seen about the North Coast 500! It has been so helpful to us. My wife and I are planning on travelling by car in late September (we are just driving up from the Borders) and we will have about 9 days around the route and are not sure if we will do 2 days on Orkney or maybe just extra nights along the route you describe. Trying to book all our hotels now.

We would like to do some water activities (kayaking, canoeing, rafting) and maybe a wildlife sightseeing tour to try to see dolphins, whales, etc. Where would you recommend along the route?

We would be very thankful for any advice! Sean & Gemma

August 18, 2019 at 11:47 am

Hi Sean & Gemma,

So happy to hear that you are finding our North Coast 500 blogs helpful in planning our upcoming road trip! That is great that you have 9 days as that will give you plenty of time. Orkney could be a great option and there are three towns where you can catch ferries over to Orkney along the route in or near John O’Groats.

If you decide to stay those extra two nights along the route, I might suggest adding a night on the Black Isle . The area around Cromarty is one of the best places to see dolphins in Scotland. There are at least two companies that offer wildlife tours from there (we did ours with EcoVentures) with a good chance of seeing dolphins, seals, and seabirds. Although many of the seabirds may be gone by Sept., the dolphins can usually be found year round in the area. If you don’t see them during a boat tour, you can also try seeing them from the shore at Chanory Point.

We haven’t seen whales along the route ourselves, but they are a possibility from any of the wildlife boat tours and people with telescopes have told us they’ve seen them from various spots along the coastline. I think the boat tour that focuses most on whales are the ones in Garloch so that would be my recommendation, you can check them out here .

For kayaking and/or canoeing, we can highly recommend this company which offers both sea kayaking and loch canoeing. The trips are private so be sure to contact Tim (the owner) in advance to book if you are interested. Most of his tours are in the Assynt area so a good base would be Lochinver or Achiltibuie.

So I guess if I had two extra nights with a priority on water activities and a wildlife cruise, maybe one night in Cromarty on the Black Isle (wildlife cruise, good chance for dolphins) and an extra night in Lochinver (or Achilitbuie) if you decide to do kayaking or canoeing there. I’d also check out the Gairloch whale cruises but you could book and do that within the Day 6 itinerary (as noted on our itinerary) between Ullapool and Kinlochewe as that day only has a short amount of driving.

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North Coast 500

• Fully customisable itinerary
• Prices from: £1370 per person
• Best time to go: April - October
• Transport: Rental car included (optional)

Situated at the edge of the Great Glen, Inverness is known as the Capital of the Highlands. Nearby you will find Culloden Battlefield, site of the last battle of the Jacobite Rising, and mysterious Loch Ness.

Mountains of Assynt

Admire the majestic splendour of mountains that Assynt has to offer. The spectacular mountainous backdrop is made up of distinctively shaped mountains including the remarkable Suilven.

Bealach na Bà

Experience a thrilling journey over the Bealach na Bà with spectacular views and hairpin bends. Bealach na Bà, meaning pass of the cattle, has become well known and is a must if you’re passing through the Applecross Mountains.

Inverewe Gardens

Explore the world-famous Inverewe Gardens – an oasis of exotic plants and vibrant colour. Many rare species of plants are thriving in this part of Scotland due to the effects of the Gulf Stream. Enjoy the lush setting and varying scents around every corner.

Dunrobin Castle

Visit the magnificent ancestral home of the Dukes of Sutherland, Dunrobin Castle, resembling a French chateâu with magnificent gardens and falconry displays. Dunrobin is the most northerly of Scotland’s great houses and with 189 rooms, is also the largest in the Northern Highlands.

Achmelvich Bay

Hidden away on the West Coast is Achmelvich Bay, a beautiful white sandy beach and is known to be one of Scotland’s most beautiful beaches. Relish in this little corner of paradise, and enjoy the pristine water and rugged backdrop.

A Spectacular Route around Scotland’s North Coast

Experience Scotland’s answer to Route 66 on this self-guided road trip holiday. The North Coast 500 offers an unforgettable journey through some of Europe’s most exhilarating scenery.

From Inverness, the cosmopolitan capital of the Highlands, journey into north-west Scotland to explore one of Europe’s last great wildernesses where majestic mountains and sparkling lochs await.

Travel to the rugged North Coast of Scotland, where sweeping sea views and isolated beaches combined with the warmest of Highland hospitality is everything you can expect from your time on the North Coast 500, and much more!

Head over to the West Coast as you bask in some of the most beautiful mountainous scenery that Scotland has to offer. Enjoy some of the best walking in the ancient mountains of Torridon whilst discovering hidden white sandy bays.

Visit the most northerly point of mainland Britain, at Dunnet Head with its spectacular sea cliffs and views over to the Orkney Isles. Admire the stunning sea stacks at Duncansby Head or take a photo at the iconic John O’Groats signpost. Travel south into Caithness to explore a region full of historic towns and endless miles of sandy beaches. 

Return to Inverness through the picturesque Black Isle where your unforgettable journey on the North Coast 500 comes to an end.

Suggested Itinerary

The holiday ideas on our website are just examples of the amazing trips we offer. Think of this itinerary as a starting point which can be tailored into something completely unique to you by our award-winning specialists.

We love the opportunity to use our first-hand knowledge and experience to design and deliver the perfect, bespoke holiday experience for you.

Day 1: Arrive in Inverness

Arrive in Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands, where you can wander along the picturesque banks of the River Ness, see Pictish carvings at Inverness Museum & Art Gallery, or go in search of ‘Nessie’ at nearby Loch Ness. Overnight – Inverness

Day 2: Inverness to Wester Ross

Your journey on the NC500 begins today. Travel west to the tranquil Applecross Peninsula and enjoy one of the most spectacular road trips in the British Isles, with jaw-dropping views across to the Cuillin Mountains on the Isle of Skye. Picturesque fishing villages and crofting townships are scattered all along the coast. Overnight – Wester Ross

Day 3: Wester Ross Sightseeing

One of Europe’s last great wildernesses is yours to explore today. Visit famous Inverewe Gardens, go dolphin spotting on a boat trip from Gairloch, walk along miles of deserted white sandy beaches, or enjoy some of the best walking in the country in the ancient mountains of Torridon. Overnight – Wester Ross

Day 4: Wester Ross to Ullapool

Your next destination in the north of Scotland is Ullapool – an idyllic, whitewashed fishing village sitting on the banks of Loch Broom. More great beaches await you, so take your time, relax and settle into a slower pace of life. Overnight – Ullapool

Day 5: Ullapool Sightseeing

Discover the magical Summer Isles, enjoy an exhilarating walk to the summit of Stac Pollaidh for stunning views of the islands, or a bracing cliff top walk to the Old Man of Stoer. Overnight – Ullapool

Day 6: Ullapool to Durness

A wonderfully scenic and winding road passes secluded beaches, secret bays and hidden coves to your destination in the Far North, the spectacularly located village of Durness. Overnight – Durness area

Day 7: Durness Sightseeing

Tucked away behind several gorgeous white sandy beaches, Durness is a magical spot and a great base for relaxing beachfront strolls. Explore dramatic Smoo Cave, visit Balnakeil Craft Village, or walk 4 miles to Sandwood Bay – one of Britain’s most beautiful and secluded beaches. Overnight – Durness area

Day 8: Durness to Thurso

Travel the old road across the very top of Scotland past the remote mountains of Ben Loyal and Ben Hope following the cliffs and stunning golden beaches of our northern coast.

The bustling town of Thurso awaits – a perfect base to explore the wild and rugged Far North. Overnight – Thurso area

Day 9: Far North Sightseeing

Visit the most northerly point in mainland Britain, Dunnet Head, with its stunning sea cliffs and views across to the Orkney Isles, or the opulent Castle and Gardens of Mey – the Queen Mother’s holiday home. Take a photo at the iconic John O’Groats signpost, or visit Duncansby Head with its awe-inspiring sea stacks. Overnight – Thurso area

Day 10: Thurso to Dornoch

Travel south through the unspoilt region of Caithness – a former Viking stronghold – to Dunrobin Castle. The ancestral home of the Dukes of Sutherland resembles a French chateâu with magnificent gardens and falconry displays.  

The picturesque Royal Burgh of Dornoch is your home for the night. The town has miles of golden sandy beaches to explore, as well as a 13th century Cathedral. Overnight – Dornoch

Day 11: Return to Inverness

Travel south through a wild and vastly uninhabited area and take a short walk up to visit the impressive Fyrish Monument, built on Fyrish Hill in 1782.

Continue south to Inverness, where your unforgettable journey on the North Coast 500 will come to an end.

What's Included?

Your holiday includes:

• Carefully selected en-suite accommodation for 10 nights including traditional Scottish breakfast
• Comprehensive information pack
• Personalised itinerary with our recommendations for the best places to eat and drink and sightseeing suggestions
• Map of Scotland with our recommended driving route
• 10 days rental of an Economy car (other vehicle categories available) including comprehensive insurance
• 24-hour emergency contact number
• Full financial protection

Your holiday doesn't include:

• Travel insurance
• Lunches and evening meals

Accommodation & Prices

We know that after a busy day of sightseeing an exceptional place to stay makes all the difference. That’s why all of the accommodation we select is hand-picked using our first-hand knowledge of the best places to stay.

Our discerning team has a wealth of experience, and we extensively research and regularly review all of the accommodation we select for our clients.

Please choose from one of our accommodation categories below. If you wish to combine these categories or perhaps upgrade for a special occasion let us know in your enquiry.

A collection of quality 4* Guest Houses and 3* Hotels often located in beautiful locations which provide an excellent standard of accommodation.

Tastefully decorated and furnished, these properties are generally owned and operated by locals who have a genuine passion for their region which they are keen to share with you. Their warm hospitality is sure to be a highlight of your Scottish experience.

Our Premium category includes a unique collection of luxurious and stylish boutique Guest Houses and small 4* Hotels. These are wonderfully charming and intimate and run with great flair by their owners.

It also comprises larger 4* Hotels selected for their high standard of accommodation, exceptional service, and great location. These range from traditional luxury to contemporary Hotels.

From award-winning luxury Hotels to unique country retreats, all of which offer exceptional accommodation with superb facilities and outstanding service.

These are truly magical places and amongst the best Scotland has to offer. The perfect choice when you would like somewhere really special which can be a treat for the night or for your entire holiday.

Our packages include car rental and comprehensive insurance for the duration of your holiday. Absolute Escapes has an excellent relationship with a number of car hire operators and we are able to offer quality vehicles and great value for money.

If you plan to bring your own vehicle, we are also able to offer this itinerary without a rental car.

All our packages include:

• Collision Damage Waiver
• Super Damage Excess Waiver
• Third Party Insurance
• Theft Waiver
• Good for 2 people
• Maximum of 4 passengers
• 2 large suitcases
• Manual or automatic transmission
• Good for 2 – 4 people
• Maximum of 5 passengers

Intermediate

• Good for up to 4 people
• 3 large suitcases
• Good for 5 people
• Maximum of 7 passengers
• 3 – 4 large suitcases

Related blog posts

How do our self-drive holidays work.

Since 2004, we've led the way in planning remarkable road trips in the UK. Like a perfectly tailored suit, each itinerary is crafted around you. Learn more about us and our self-drive holidays in our new guide. Read more

North Coast 500: The World’s Best Road Trip?

Voted one of the best road trips in the world, the spectacular North Coast 500 ventures through the wild and beautiful north coast of Scotland. A journey of a lifetime! Sine from the Absolute Escapes team set off to discover Scotland's answer to Route 66. Read more

7 of the Best Places to Stay on the North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 is a spectacular driving route through some of the best and most untouched coastal and countryside scenery in Europe. If you'd like to experience the North Coast 500 with a touch of luxury, discover some of the best hotels and B&Bs along the way ... Read more

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VisitScotland

Scotland's road trips.

Nothing beats the freedom of exploring a new place on your own personalised road trip. Stop off where you like, see what you like and enjoy the route at your own pace – the perfect holiday!

These spectacular driving routes are all scenic alternatives to the main roads, with a range of great attractions en route. Check out our suggestions for what to see and do on each of the routes and plan your ultimate Scottish road trip.

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VisitScotland have produced this information in good faith and have taken reasonable steps to confirm the accuracy. We recommend that all information is checked with the businesses prior to visiting/booking. These 13 suggested routes are intended as a guide to help you plan your Scottish road trip. Please check exact directions and traffic conditions before you begin your journey. You can find more information and advice on driving in Scotland . 

17 Best Places to Visit on the West Coast of Scotland

Posted by Francesca Brooking | Scotland | 0

From volcanic peaks and long sea lochs to ancient landslides and mystical castles, West Scotland offers a landscape filled with drama. 

If you’re looking for the best places to visit on the west coast of Scotland, you’re truly spoiled for choice. 

On the southwest coast, you’ll find one of Europe’s stargazing locations. Further north are the West Highlands which are characterized by rugged mountains and wild glens. 

Lively port towns brim with whisky and fresh seafood while scenic railways traverse the landscape. 

Across the sea, Scotland’s Inner and Outer Hebrides have some of the best beaches, wildlife and scenery in the country. 

Read on to discover 17 of the best and most beautiful places to visit in West Scotland and some of my favourite spots you won’t want to miss. 

Map of Scotland’s west coast

Mainland scotland .

Wondering how to get around? If you don’t drive, the West Highland Line will be your best friend when touring the west coast of Scotland, alongside long-distance coaches and buses.

1. Glen Coe 

One of the most famous places in Scotland, Glen Coe is a valley ringed by steep mountains. It’s located in the West Scottish Highlands close to the shores of Loch Leven. 

Its dramatic landscape is characterised by ancient volcanic lava floes and glaciers that shaped the land thousands of years ago. Don’t worry, all volcanoes are long extinct! 

Glen Coe is a popular place to go hiking with famous peaks including, Buachaille Etive Mor and Bidean nam Bian.

You can also stop for a coffee at Glencoe Village. There’s a Glencoe Folk Museum with traditional, 18th-century thatched cottages and a Visitor Centre where you can learn about the brutal massacre of Clan McDonald in 1692. 

• Climb up Buachaille Etive Mor and Bidean nam Bian
• Visit the Glencoe Folk Museum and Visitor Centre 

2. Fort William 

Fort William is a town located on the shores of Loch Linnhe, a sea loch which sits partway along the Great Glen Fault. Its most famous neighbour is Ben Nevis, aka the highest mountain in the UK. 

The town is referred to as the Outdoor Capital of Scotland thanks to having iconic landmarks such as Ben Nevis, Glen Nevis Valley and Glen Coe nearby. 

Fort William is one of the best places to stay on the west coast of Scotland for exploring the West Highlands and islands. Visitors often make the town their base on their way to the Isle of Skye – I did! 

You can also ride the Jacobite Steam Train (the Hogwarts Express for some). It starts from Fort William and travels to Mallaig via the Glenfinnan Viaduct.   

• Ride the famous Jacobite steam train (aka the Hogwarts Express in Harry Potter). It’s one of the most popular things to do in West Scotland!

3. Ben Nevis 

Standing at 1,345 metres above sea level, Ben Nevis is the tallest mountain in the UK. It belongs to the Grampian Mountains, one of the three main mountain ranges in Scotland. 

Ben Nevis is located on the western end of the Grampians and towers over Fort William. It’s a popular hike and it takes about 7-8 hours to reach the summit and climb back down again. 

It’s not a trail to take lightly though. Always bring the right equipment and do a group tour if you’re not confident on your own. 

If you would prefer a more relaxed walk, ride the Nevis Range Mountain Gondola nearby. It takes you up Aonach Mòr Mountain (the 8th tallest mountain) and offers spectacular views of Ben Nevis and the Great Glen. 

Highlights 

• Hike up the tallest mountain in Britain (safely and weather conditions permitting)
• Ride the Nevis Range Mountain Gondola for an easy way to get great views 

4. Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park 

Loch Lomond & the Trossachs is a national park which spans 720 sq miles across its four main areas. It features high mountains in the highlands to the north and rolling hills in the lowlands of the south. It’s a must-stop on your West Scotland itinerary. 

Loch Lomond is the largest lake in Great Britain by surface area and the second largest by volume after Loch Ness. It resides in the shadow of Ben Lomond mountain which is popular with hikers. 

An easier walk is the smaller Conic Hill. It’s fairly steep but it rewards you with gorgeous panoramic views of the loch and surrounding mountains. 

The national park is situated about an hour north of Glasgow and is connected by the West Highland Line. 

• Do a one-hour boat trip on Loch Lomond 
• Climb Ben Lomond for panoramic views of the Trossachs National Park (moderate difficulty) 

5. Glenfinnan 

Glenfinnan is a small hamlet in Lochaber on the edge of Loch Shiel. 

It’s famous for the Glenfinnan Viaduct, a railway viaduct on the West Highland Line which the Jacobite train trundles over depending on the season. The best place to watch it is at Glenfinnan Viewpoint. 

The area is also home to the Glenfinnan Monument which was erected to remember the Jacobite Rising in 1745 and the Highlanders who lost their lives in the Battle of Culloden. 

Glenfinnan has a visitor centre where you can grab a bite and some beautiful walking trails around the local area. 

• Photograph the Jacobite train going over Glenfinnan Viaduct. The viaduct is still pretty cool too!
• Visit the Lone Highlander at the top of Glenfinnan Monument 
• Take a stroll along Loch Sheil for serious Harry Potter vibes 

Editor’s tip: This group tour from Edinburgh takes you to Glenfinnan, Fort William and Glencoe on a full-day tour. It’s handy if you’re short on time and want to see the best of the West Highlands.

6. Oban 

Tucked on the Firth of Lorn, Oban is a resort town which is often referred to as the ‘Gateway to the Isles.’ You can catch a ferry from here to the Isle of Mull and the Outer Hebrides. 

Oban is still a destination in its own right. Scotland’s Seafood Capital is packed with award-winning seafood restaurants, making it one of my favourite places to see on the west coast of Scotland. 

There’s also a whisky distillery, McCaig’s Tower, Dunollie Castle, Dunstaffnage Castle and more to explore. 

• Eat seafood! Fuss-free Oban Seafood Hut absolutely knocks it out of the park (or sea?) with the best fresh catch of the day
• Have a wee dram at Oban Distillery 
• Take a ferry to the Inner Hebrides 

7. Eilean Donan Castle 

On the road to the Isle of Skye on a small islet where three sea lochs collide is Eilean Donan Castle. The 13th century castle is a strategic fortress and photographing it has become one of the best things to do on the west coast of Scotland. 

It’s joined to the mainland by a bridge (the fourth version) and is set against a stunning backdrop of the forest-covered Kintail Mountains. 

The site was first established in 634 CE by Bishop Donan as a monastic cell. It was later turned into a fortress in the 13th century by Alexander II to ward off Viking invasions. 

It was used in a Jacobite revolt in 1719 and its ruins were restored between 1912 and 1932. You can buy a ticket and have a look inside but many people say it’s not worth it. I can’t comment as I’ve only seen it from the road!

• Take a photo of the famous castle 

8. Mallaig 

Mallaig is a small port town on the west coast of the Scottish Highlands. It’s the last stop on the West Highland Line and the only stop for the Jacobite Steam Train. 

You can catch a ferry from Mallaig to Armadale on the Isle of Skye which is a short distance across the Sound of Sleat. 

There are some excellent seafood restaurants, a bakery and a heritage centre here. The Mallaig Circular Walk is a pretty stroll or you can walk up to the Morar Cross. 

• Eat fresh seafood. The Cornerstone is popular for its scrumptious fish and chips 
• Go beach hopping in the local area. The closest one is Camusdarach Beach 

9. Ullapool 

Tucked on a sheltered sea loch on the west coast of Northern Scotland is Ullapool. The port village only has about 1500 inhabitants but it’s still one of the largest settlements for miles around. 

Ullapool is one of the stops on the famous North Coast 500 (NC500), a scenic 516-mile road trip around the North Coast of Scotland starting and ending in Inverness. You can also get a ferry here to Stornaway on Lewis and Harris. 

Things to do in Ullapool include mountain biking, wildlife boat trips, golfing, kayaking, hiking and taking art lessons at Bridgehouse Art. 

• Use this pretty fishing village as a base from which to explore the Northern Highlands 
• Ullapool is also a stop on the famous North Coast 500 road trip in Scotland 

10. Glasgow 

Glasgow is a port city on the River Clyde in the western lowlands of Scotland. If you’re thinking “Hmm but is it REALLY on the west coast?”

I’ve included it here because I consider it a gateway to Scotland’s west coast – particularly for non-drivers like me! 

It’s also a great place to start your Scotland west coast road trip. 

The city is the start of the West Highland Line, a scenic railway line which runs to Oban or further north to Mallaig. It links up many of the places in this guide. 

As for Glasgow itself, the Cultural Capital of Scotland is home to the Scottish Ballet, the National Theatre of Scotland and a lively music scene. It’s also known for its Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture. 

• Explore Glasgow’s West End, one of the ‘coolest districts in the world’ according to Time Out
• Take a walking tour of Glasgow City Centre with top sites like the Botanical Gardens, Glasgow Necropolis, Glasgow Cathedral and Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

11. Dumfries & Galloway 

Dumfries & Galloway is one of the top places to visit in South West Scotland. The council area extends from the Scottish Borders and juts out into the Irish Sea, extending to the Mull of Galloway.  

It’s a bit of an underrated gem. It might not have the dramatic highlands of the north but if you love castles, stargazing, history and hiking, you’ll want to stop at Dumfries & Galloway. 

The area is home to Galloway Forest Park, the UK’s only Dark Sky Park and one of over 100 designated dark sky places worldwide. On a clear night, you can see over 700 stars and planets with the naked eye! 

Another must-see is the ruins of Caerlaverock Castle on the Solway coast. The 13th-century castle is surrounded by a moat. 

The Mull of Galloway is Scotland’s most southerly point and it’s a beautiful spot for beaches and walking. For Robert Burns enthusiasts, the Burns House Museum in Mauchline is dedicated to the poet. 

• Go stargazing! Galloway Forest Park is one of over 100 Dark Sky Places in the world and it’s one of the best places in the UK to enjoy the night sky
• Go castle hopping! There are around 100 castles here with the top ones including Drumlanrig Castle, Cruggleton Castle, Dunskey Castle, Threave Castle and Caerlaverock Castle 

Scotland’s West Islands 

Island-hopping is one of the top things to do on the west coast of Scotland. Most of the main islands are accessible via the Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) ferries. Visit the website to book tickets and find the most up-to-date information on timetables. 

Some like Skye are reachable by road and others like Lewis and Harris have tiny airports. 

12. Isle of Skye 

The Isle of Skye is probably the most famous of all Scotland’s islands. It’s the largest island in the Inne Hebrides and it’s joined to the mainland by the Skye Bridge at Kyle of Lochalsh. 

Skye’s rugged landscape attracts millions of visitors every year and it’s a must-do on your west coast of Scotland itinerary. 

Some of its most beautiful scenery is on the Trotternish Peninsula , where you’ll find the Old Man of Storr, Fairy Glen, Kilt Rock and an ancient landslide known as the Quiraing. 

Other popular landmarks here include Neist Point Lighthouse, Fairy Pools, Dunvegan Castle, Talisker Distillery, Skye Museum of Island Life and Sligachan Old Bridge. 

The main town on Skye is Portree at the base of Trotternish. 

• Explore the Trotternish Peninsula including Fairy Glen, the Quiraing and the Storr 
• Visit Fairy Pools and Dunvegan Castle 

Editor’s tip: You will need some form of wheeled transport (bike or car!) to see the best of Skye. If you don’t have either, I recommend getting to Portree by bus and then doing a full-day tour of Skye from there.

13. Isle of Mull 

The Isle of Mull is the second-largest island in the Inner Hebrides. It lies just off the west coast of Scotland with Kilchoan to the northwest of it and Oban to the south. 

Mull is characterised by hills and lochs, and its lone mountain Ben More. It also has some beautiful white sand beaches and turquoise waters that look almost tropical. The not-so-tropical breeze gives it away though… 

The main town on Mull is Tobermory with its colourful houses, award-winning fish ‘n’ chips and pretty coastal walks. Don’t miss out on Isle of Mull Cheese Glass Barn, a cafe with a living vine growing inside it. 

From Mull, you can also take a boat to Staffa and the Treshnish Isles or to Iona just off its coast. 

• Visit Tobermory, the capital of Mull (and the inspiration for Balamory if you watched that children’s TV programme way back when)
• Eat at Isle of Mull Cheese Glass Barn, this beautiful cafe is one of the best places to visit on the west coast of Scotland for foodies 

14. Iona 

The tiny island of Iona located just off the Ross of Mull is best known for being the site of one of the oldest known Christian religious centres in Western Europe – aka Iona Abbey. 

In 563 CE, St. Columba and his companions came to Iona from Ireland and founded the monastery. It became one of the most influential religious sites in the British Isles. It’s still a place of pilgrimage today.

Iona also has a community with restaurants, art galleries, sandy beaches and a graveyard which is the final resting place of about 48 medieval kings from Scotland, Norway and Ireland. 

Even Shakespeare’s notorious King Macbeth is buried here!

• See Iona Abbey, one of the oldest Christian religious centres in Western Europe 

15. Treshnish Isles 

Are you a puffin fan? Get yourself to the Treshnish Isles. The archipelago of small, uninhabited islands and skerries is located to the west of the Isle of Mull. 

They’re a haven for marine life and seabirds including puffins which make a home on Staffa from April to July. 

Staffa is also famous for its intriguing Fingal’s Cave made out of hexagonal basalt rock. The cave has surprisingly good acoustics and it was the inspiration for the composer Mendelssohn’s Hebrides overture. 

You can do a tour of the Treshnish Isles from Tobermory on Mull or Oban on the mainland. You’ll see minke whales, dolphins, cormorants, seals and more!

• Walk inside Fingal’s Cave on Staffa. It’s known for its incredible natural acoustics
• See the puffins of Staffa (seasonal) and the sea life of the Treshnish Isles including whales and dolphins. It’s one of the top places to visit on the west coast of Scotland for wildlife lovers

16. Outer Hebrides 

Endless white sand beaches, turquoise waters and ancient Neolithic history are key features of the Outer Hebrides. 

The chain of interconnected islands on the outer edge of the west of Scotland includes Barra, Uist, Lewis and Harris. The islands are inhabited and the biggest town is Stornaway on Lewis and Harris. 

Some of the best things to do in the Outer Hebrides include the Bronze Age Callanish Standing Stones , Luskentyre Sands, Gearrannan Blackhouse Village as well as hillwalking, wildlife spotting and boat tours. 

Another archipelago in the Outer Hebrides is St. Kilda. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is situated 40 miles west-northwest of North Uist. If you can make the distance, it’s one of the most rewarding things to do on the west coast of Scotland. 

It’s been uninhabited by humans since 1930 but over a million seabirds have made it their home instead. 

• Visit Luskentyre Sands in Harris. Enjoy soft white sands and crystal-clear waters. It’s rated as one of the best beaches in the UK 
• See the Callanish Standing Stones and other Neolithic sites in Lewis

Editor’s tip: Confusingly, Lewis and Harris is one big island but you might come across ‘Isle of Lewis’ and ‘Isle of Harris.’ The Harris part is to the north while the Lewis part is to the south. 

17. Islay and Jura 

Enjoy your whiskies? Islay and Jura offer the perfect conditions for whisky production. Currently, there are nine working distilleries on Islay and one on Jura. 

The two southernmost islands in the Inner Hebrides are separated by the Sound of Islay, a channel which is less than a mile wide. They’ve both been inhabited since 10,000 BCE!

Islay has rolling hills, a rugged coastline and more people than Jura. Jura is less populated but features mountains and red deer. 

• Go distillery-hopping on Islay, one of the best places in Scotland for Scotch whisky
• Go hiking on Jura and see Barnhill, the house where George Orwell finished his most famous novel, 1984 

The best places to visit on the west coast of Scotland: Final thoughts

If you’re still wondering, “Where should I go on the west coast of Scotland?” You can’t go wrong with starting from Glasgow and following the West Highland Line north to Mallaig. From there, it’s up to you. 

The west of Scotland is home to some of the country’s most spectacular landscapes. From ancient landslides and volcanic peaks to white-sand beaches and glass-like lochs, it’s got it all. 

Add historic castles, skies free of light pollution and remote islands inhabited for millennia and you’ll have no trouble falling in love with Scotland’s west coast. 

I hope this guide has inspired you to visit some of these places on the west coast of Scotland and see this beautiful corner of the world for yourself.

Looking for more Scotland travel tips? Check out these posts!

• 10 Days in the Scottish Highlands: The Ultimate Itinerary
• 13 Awesome Day Trips From Edinburgh By Train Or Bus
• Complete Scotland Packing List: What To Wear For Every Season
• A Complete Guide to Scotland: Everything You Need to Know
• Caledonian Sleeper Review: Is This Train Worth The Hype?
• The Best Time To Visit The Isle Of Skye For The Perfect Trip

This post may contain affiliate / compensated links. As an Amazon Associate, I also earn from qualifying purchases. For full information, please see my disclaimer here .

About The Author

Francesca brooking.

Francesca Brooking is the Founder of Little Lost Travel. A travel expert with a passion for the planet, Francesca is on a mission to help you travel well. From Costa Rica to Jordan, she's travelled all over the world. When she's not off on an adventure, she's reviewing sustainable travel products and writing travel guides.

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Hello, I’m Francesca

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Last Updated on 08/12/2023

7 Day Scotland Road Trip Route & Itinerary (2023)

Some links in this post contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission if you use the links at no extra cost to you! Happy reading 😀

Looking for a 7-day Scotland road trip route and itinerary? I’ve got you covered! Our Scotland road trip was one of the best trips we’ve ever taken – so much so we are currently planning out next!

Finding a simple route to travel around Scotland is tough. If you’re someone who needs it mapped out for you, this blog post has it all.

Whatever happens on your Scotland road trip, I dare you not to fall in love with this country. With its culture, tradition, history, and beauty, it has everything a travel lover could ever need!

In the following post, I’ve highlighted the best things to do on a Scotland road trip, as well as the perfect stops to make your trip extra special. From the mountains of the Cairngorm National Park , to the famous NC500 , the mystery of Loch Ness and chasing fairies on the Isle of Skye, this Scotland road trip itinerary has it all.

Travelling around Scotland? You might also like…

• 13 BEST Things to do in Aviemore (+ Travel Guide!)
• Where to Find Highland Cows in Scotland: Highland Cattle
• Fairy Pools Skye Walk: Everything You Need to Know
• Old Man of Storr Walk Guide: Isle of Skye, Scotland

Want to see epic photos and videos from these experiences?

Follow me on Instagram! As we travel, I post everything live on Instagram, so check out my recent highlights and posts. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, drop me a DM!

7-Day Scotland Road Trip : A Summary

A good thing to know about driving in Scotland is there are very few roads the more north you travel.  There aren’t many routes you can take, and if you’ve got the plan of seeing the highlands or the NC500, it’s impossible to get lost.

This makes it easy to get around, and we found so many unplanned viewpoints, detours, and surprises en route.

🍖 Good news – you can have a BBQ anywhere in Scotland, as long as it isn’t a forest area or exceptionally dry. Your best bet is a beach or roadside.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 The visitor centres in Scotland are brilliant – they’re full of information about the area, with 3D sculptures of the mountains and forests, cute cafes and most importantly, clean toilets! A welcome relief when living the van life, trust me!

🦟 The midges and mosquitoes are in abundance during the summer months in Scotland, especially in the highlands. Be prepared!

Related post: Want to take your pet on your 7-day Scotland road trip? Check out this complete guide to taking your pet on holiday here!

7-day Scotland Road Trip: Route

⏰ Duration:  7 days

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Locations in Scotland: Glasgow > Loch Lomond > Glencoe > Traigh Beach > Isle of Skye > Applecross > Inverness > Aviemore > Glasgow

🗺️ NOTE: This is roughly 500 miles and 11 hours of driving time (part of the map below is a ferry to the Isle of Skye).

Here is the 7-day Scotland road trip route, map and itinerary, with a clear breakdown of the best one-week Scotland road trip for first-timers:

• Day 1  – Glasgow + Loch Lomond
• Day 2  – Glencoe + Traigh Beach
• Day 3  – Isle of Skye
• Day 4  – Isle of Skye + Applecross
• Day 5  – Inverness + Loch Ness
• Day 6  – Cairngorms (Aviemore)
• Day 7  – Cairngorms > Glasgow or Edinburgh

7-day Scotland road trip map:

This entire trip will take you up past Loch Lomond, along the Harry Potter trail, and through scenic mountain ranges. Not forgetting the West Coast beaches and to the magical myths of the Isle of Skye.

You’ll then drive along part of the iconic NC500 (the UK’s version of Route 66) , down to Applecross coastal town, across to Inverness and Loch Ness and finally, into Cairngorms National Park. It’s a lot, but it’s worth it!

However, if this is too much driving for you, cut out one or two of the locations. Do as you wish with the route, but if you follow it exactly, it will take you around 7 days.

This route is to be completed by car/van . We rent our cars in the UK from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world!

Scotland Road Trip: Itinerary

Day 1: glasgow & loch lomond.

If you’re starting your Scotland road trip in Glasgow, but sure to set aside some time to explore. Glasgow is known as the ‘world’s friendliest city’, so be sure to check it out!

As you leave Glasgow, you’ll head north on the A82 for around an hour to reach Loch Lomond. I’d recommend spending as long as you can at Loch Lomond. 

As the loch is the largest in Scotland,  there is so much to see, walks to go on, hikes to be experienced, numerous viewpoints, and of course, lots of water activities (although the water is freezing, so be prepared!)

That evening, if you have a van or a tent, you can find a spot to camp around Loch Lomond, or follow in our footsteps and continue driving to knock off a few more miles. Continue north on the A82, past the loch, and head to the Bridge of Orchy for some amazing wild camping spots.

⛺️ Wild camp at: the Bridge of Orchy

🛌 Or book a night at: Queen of the Loch

Day 2: Glencoe & Traigh Beach

Glencoe and glenfinnan viaduct.

After sleeping at the Bridge of Orchy or in a hotel at Loch Lomond, begin your day by driving further along the A82 towards Glencoe.

Glencoe is one of the most well-known mountainous areas in Scotland. Its landscape has been used in films such as Harry Potter and James Bond.

Depending on what type of Scotland road trip you’re looking for, you could spend days in Glencoe. If you’re short on time, I recommend doing a short walk such as the Invercoe Loop, and the Glencoe visitors centre.

If you’re a Harry Potter fan,  your next stop is going to be the Glenfinnan Viaduct. This famous Jacobite steam train is the iconic Hogwarts Express train and track.

Unfortunately, the famous Jacobite steam train only runs a couple of times a day, but it’s still cool to see the viaduct alone!

🦉 TOP TIP:   Ignore the main Glenfinnan car park  and head around 100m further uphill. Here you will reach a church, with a small 5/6 car park outside. It’s completely free to park here, and as most people have rushed into the first one, usually pretty empty.

Continue along the A82 for quite some time, but be sure to pull over at the northern tip of Loch Eilt,  where Dumbledore’s final resting place is. You will see it situated right in the middle of the loch.

Traigh Beach

That evening, depending on how tired you are of driving, you could find a wild camping spot around Loch Eilt or head to one of my favourite places – Traigh beach. Traigh is such a hidden gem in Scotland, and not many routes include it.

It’s a stretch of white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water, surrounded by green fields. It’s the perfect spot to wild camp and have a BBQ!

As Traigh Beach is situated directly on the west coast, the sun setting over the ocean is just incredible. Honestly, you wouldn’t believe it’s Scotland!

⛺️ Wild camp at: Traigh Beach

🛌 Or book a night at: The Arisaig Pods (Shepherd’s Huts)

Day 3: Isle of Skye

After you’ve enjoyed a morning on the beach,  head to Mallaig to catch the ferry to the Isle of Skye . If you don’t want to visit the Isle of Skye, skip Day 4 and go straight onto Day 5.

Pre-book your £15 ferry to the Isle of Skye a few days previous to wanting to visit. If it’s fully booked, there is a bridge you can drive over to reach the island.

There are so many things to do on the Isle of Skye. Swim in the fairy pools and hike the Old Man of Storr , or visit the small town of Portree and eat fish and chips. Walk around the famous Fairy Glen, or spot highland cows all over the island!

I recommend staying at least 1 night on the Isle of Skye to explore it properly.

⛺️ Wild camp on: the Isle of Skye

🛌 Or book a night at: Rasaay House Hotel

Related posts: The magic of the fairy pools on the Isle of Skye | Hiking the Old Man of Storr Guide

Day 4: Isle of Skye & Applecross

A big day of driving today, including the legendary drive along Bealach na Ba into Applecross. After a busy day of exploring Skye, today you’ll head further north of Scotland and join the iconic NC500!

Begin your drive on the A890 heading towards Applecross,  a small coastal town known for its locally-caught fish and traditional pubs.

During your journey to Applecross, you will drive on one of the highest and best-known roads in Scotland. Bealach na Ba isn’t for unsteady drivers!  It’s full of twists, turns and winding corners.

It’s a single track with a few passing places en route for oncoming cars. As you reach the top of the road, there’s a small layby to stop off and admire the view, 2054ft above sea level.

Applecross is then the next town. As you would have spent a few hours driving, it’s a great place to stop for a seafood lunch. Later in the afternoon, or the following morning, you’ll be back behind the wheel to drive through the Torridon Mountains.

⛺️ Wild camp at: the Torridon Mountains (anywhere along the route)

🛌 Or book a night at: Hartford House Hotel

Day 6: Inverness & Aviemore

Another incredible location en route for all nature and mountain lovers is the historic nature reserve of Beinn Eighe.  It’s a cluster of mountains, wildlife, and ancient pinewoods, it’s no wonder that it was chosen as Britain’s first nature reserve spot!

Spend your morning doing the mountain trail loop, or a simple woodland walk, before jumping back in the van to your next destination on your 7-day Scotland road trip.

Have lunch either in your van, in the trees of Bein Eigh or in a nearby pub, before you make the sad move of heading off the NC500.

You can stop in Inverness en route to the Cairngorms. We went straight to the legendary Loch Ness to find the iconic monster that lives here (but had no luck, unfortunately).

Sadly the Ness is too cold to swim in, and if you jump in, the only thing you’ll be catching is hypothermia! Only a quick visit is needed before you can jump back in the van to your final (in my opinion, best) location.

Aviemore (The Cairngorms National Park)

Around 50 minutes down the A9,  you’ll reach the small town of  Aviemore , known as the heart of the Cairngorm National Park .

The Cairngorms is the largest national park in the UK, and is twice the size of the  Lake District ! It’s by far one of the prettiest places on your Scotland road trip.

Aviemore is a small town in the Cairngorms, known for its ancient woodlands, large lochs and ski resorts. Set up with a Tesco, Starbucks, tons of mountain and ski shops to top up on supplies, and other outdoor-type stores, it just has a real ‘adventure’ vibe to it.

I recommend staying in the  Rothiemurchus campsite  on your first night in the Cairngorms to recharge your electricity.

We parked up in the middle of the forest, hooked up our electricity, and just soaked up every little bit of the forest atmosphere. It’s beautiful.

The camp has small wood cabins for their toilets which are cleaned regularly, with individual showers and toilet cubicles for complete privacy.

At only £30 a night for a van, you get everything you need from a campsite, plus the experience of staying in the middle of an ancient forest, away from the real world. I highly recommend adding it to your Scotland 7 day itinerary!

⛺️ Wild camp at: the Rothiemurchus campsite

🛌 Or book a night at: Macdonald Highlands Hotel

Related posts: The best things to do in Aviemore, the Cairngorms

Day 7: The Cairngorms

Whether you head deeper into the park, or hike up the surrounding mountains, a day in the Cairngorms is for every nature lover.

If you stayed at the campsite, you would have been given a small map to show you the different areas of the park.

This will outline various hikes and walks and their difficulties, and show you some of the best areas to visit during your time there.

I’d recommend a morning at Loch Eilen, then an afternoon/evening at Loch Morlich. Loch Eilen is around a 5-minute drive from Aviemore town centre and is in the forest area further in the park. You’ll pay a small fee on arrival which counts as parking and entrance.

Loch Eilen has a historical castle situated on a little island right in the middle, and if you’re a competent swimmer, it’s a great place to swim out to and explore!

Spend your morning here, then head onto Loch Morlich in the afternoon. This loch has a large stretch of ‘beach’ and sand to sit on, with a few cafes and watersport shops if you’re feeling adventurous.

You can also take some hiking and walking routes around the loch.

Loch Morlich was one of the highlights of our trip, and I highly recommend visiting whilst you’re in the Cairngorms!

If you have time, a little further north of Loch Morlich is the only  reindeer reserve   in the whole of the UK. Just remember to book a ticket in advance !

Driving in Scotland Tips

• Drivers from non-EU countries  need a valid International Driving permit.  and you must have at least  3rd-party insurance on your vehicle.
• Scotland drives on the  left-hand side. 
• The speed limit on single-track roads is 60mph, and on dual carriageways, it’s 70mph.
• If you’re not familiar with driving in the UK,  be sure to check out some general road rules before you set off.
• Stay safe whilst following GPS by using a  phone holder  for your car. The phone holder will ensure you can follow directions hands-free.
• Your signal may dip in and out in the Scottish countryside, especially in the Highlands.  I recommend getting an  eSIM  (if you’re from overseas) to get mobile data across the country.
• Most drivers in the UK are sensible and follow the rules.  Seatbelts are mandatory  and you will be stopped and fined for not using one. Traffic lights are followed religiously.
• Lost or need directions? Scotland is home to some of the most friendly, genuine people in the world, so don’t be afraid to stop and ask for directions . We did this and it was a great way to meet some of the locals.
• Remember that Scotland is a rural country, and you can go from being in a busy town centre to a remote area in minutes. Make sure you have plenty of petrol and food with you before embarking on your journey!
• Petrol is more expensive the more remote you go (plus major city centres). If you see a petrol station in a cheaper area, be sure to top up then rather than leaving it until you’re half empty – especially if you have a van with a large fuel tank.

➡  Need to hire a car in Scotland?   We rent our cars in the UK from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world! 🚗  LOOK AT CAR HIRE PRICES IN THE UK NOW!

Things to do on your Scotland Road Trip

Things to do in glasgow.

Scotland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and Glasgow is its largest city. There’s plenty to see and do in Glasgow, from exploring its history and architecture to enjoying its food and nightlife. Scotland is also a great place for a road trip, with plenty of scenic routes to take in all of its natural beauty.

Here are some of the things you can do in Glasgow:

• Visit Glasgow Cathedral: This Gothic cathedral is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Dating back to the 12th century, it’s well worth a visit for its historical significance and cool architecture.
• Take a walk along the River Clyde: The River Clyde runs through the heart of Glasgow, and there are many scenic walking routes along its banks. stop and enjoy the views, or go for a swim if it’s summertime!
• Explore Glasgow’s museums and art galleries: With over 20 museums and 40 art galleries, Glasgow has one of the best collections of cultural attractions in Scotland.
• Go on a shopping spree: Glasgow is home to some of Scotland’s best shopping!

🛌 Where to stay in Glasgow: Maldron Hotel Glasgow City (City Centre)

Where to eat in Glasgow

Glasgow is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of restaurants to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or a casual bite, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Glasgow! For a truly Scottish experience, be sure to try haggis, Glasgow’s national dish.

Other Glasgow specialities include Cullen skink (a hearty soup made with smoked haddock), seafood chowder, and tattie scones (potato flatbreads). For dessert, why not try Glasgow’s famous deep-fried Mars bars?

Since this road trip, we have returned to Glasgow and found these were our favourite restaurants:

• Ranjit’s Kitchen (Indian)
• Two Fat Ladies in the City
• The Red Onion
• Ox and Finch

Things to do in Glencoe

Hopefully, Glencoe doesn’t get skipped on your road trip, as it is simply stunning. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, and here are just a few of the things you can do in Glencoe:

• Explore the ruins of Castle Ewen, a 16th-century stronghold that was destroyed in a clan battle.
• Hike to the top of Buchaille Etive Mor, one of the most popular trails in Scotland. The views from the summit are simply incredible.
• Visit Glencoe Folk Museum to learn about the area’s rich history and culture.
• Take a scenic drive along the Road to the Isles, which winds its way through some of the most beautiful parts of Scotland!

Things to do on the Isle of Skye

This small island off the west coast of Scotland is home to some of the most stunning scenery you’ll ever see . From towering sea cliffs and rugged coastline to misty valleys and rolling hills, there’s something for everyone on Skye.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at Scotland’s notorious ‘ single tracks ’ – narrow roads with sheer drops that are not for the faint-hearted!

There are also plenty of walks and hikes to enjoy on Skye. Quiraing is a popular choice, a 2-hour hike that takes you through an otherworldly landscape of jagged peaks and atmospheric mist. For something shorter, take a stroll around Loch Coruisk. It’s a must-do when you visit Scotland!

Where to eat on the Isle of Skye

Skye is famous for its food. The Isle of Skye has some of the best seafood in Scotland and is also home to many restaurants that serve traditional Scottish food. When visiting, be sure to check out:

• The Three Chimneys is one of the most popular Isle of Skye restaurants. It is located in the village of Dunvegan on the Isle of Skye, and serves traditional Scottish food. The menu includes dishes such as haggis, neeps, and tatties (yes, you have to try haggis!), plus lots of seafood.
• The Old Inn is a popular Isle of Skye restaurant . Located in the village of Carbost on the Isle of Skye, it again serves traditional Scottish food and is known for its whisky menu, sourcing it from all over Scotland.
• The Skeabost Country House Hotel is located in the village of Portree on the Isle Of Skye, and is another popular place to eat.

Things to do in Inverness

Inverness is located in the heart of the Highlands, and it offers a wide variety of things to see and do. From visiting medieval castles to exploring world-famous whisky distilleries, there is something for everyone in Inverness!

🦕 Don’t forget it’s the home of the famous Loch Ness, so make sure you stop off to look for Nessie! Loch Ness is freezing but beautiful and is definitely worth a stop on your 7-day Scotland road trip.

Additional locations to visit on your Scotland Road Trip

If you have a few extra days to spare, make a stop in Edinburgh! This charming city is full of historical landmarks, great restaurants, and fun activities. Make sure in Edinburgh you visit Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Holyrood Palace. You can also take a stroll through one of the many green spaces or go shopping in trendy boutiques.

And no visit to Edinburgh would be complete without sampling some of the local whisky!

🦉 TOP TIP: The sunset from Edinburgh Castle is stunning!

🛌 Where to stay in Edinburgh: Market Street Hotel (Old Town)

Fort William

Although we drove through Fort William, we didn’t have a chance to spend any time here. Nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles, Fort William is a small town with lots to do.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are so many opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and climbing. William Wordsworth even penned a poem about the area’s beauty!

🛌 Where to stay in Fort William: Victoria House Bed and Breakfast

What to Pack for a Scotland Road Trip

Whether you’re planning to camp under the stars or stay in your van, here are a few things you’ll need to pack for your 7-day Scotland road trip.

• Layers! Scotland can have four seasons in one day, so it’s important to be prepared for anything. Pack a mix of light and heavy clothing, including rain gear and sturdy shoes.
• A lightweight  waterproof jacket
• Hiking boots  (that won’t slip) – these are my favourites for any kind of weather
• An  umbrella
• A  waterproof day bag
• A  waterproof phone case  (which can also be used for  wild swimming  when it’s sunnier)
• A  portable charger
• Lots of layers
• A GoPro  for waterproof camera footage
• A  waterproof backpack cover
• A chilly bottle  to keep your water at a drinkable temperature
• A  Dry Robe , as it helps to keep you warm when entering and leaving the water (even if it’s raining!)
• As well as using bug  spray , we have midge  repellent wristbands .

Check out my travel shop here!

Where to stay on your Scotland road trip

If you are not hiring a van or camping , you need to pre-book accommodation for your Scotland road trip in advance. Stays in the UK sell out fast, and prices will increase nearer to the time of your trip.

Here are some of my recommendations, or check the button at the end of the paragraph for more exciting Scotland stays.

Glasgow: Maldron Hotel Glasgow City

Loch Lomond: Queen of the Loch

Traigh Beach: The Arisaig Pods

Isle of Skye: Rasaay House Hotel

Applecross: Hartford House Hotel

Aviemore: Macdonald Highlands Hotel

Fort William: Victoria House Bed and Breakfast

Getting around Scotland

This 7-day Scotland road trip has been planned with a rental car in mind. Public transport in the highlands is non-existent, and I wouldn’t recommend relying on it for your Scotland itinerary (even if you have to do some public transport in the city centre or for a day trip).

The roads in Scotland are easy to follow and for most of the year, the roads are quiet.

Renting a car for a Scotland road trip

If you can, take a car to get around Scotland. If you only have a short amount of time, you don’t want to be spending hours waiting for public transport.  Don’t have a car? We rent our cars in the UK from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world.  Be sure to pre-book your car rental before arriving in the country to avoid disappointment!

➡  LOOK AT CAR HIRE PRICES IN THE UK NOW!

Wild camping in Scotland

When it comes to wild camping, you can park your van anywhere in Scotland . This is apart from the obvious, like someone’s property, a layby, on a corner and so on; just use common sense.

There are a lot of hidden gems and remote areas around, but it just takes a while to find them!

Best time to take a Scotland Road Trip

Scotland is a 365-day-year-round holiday destination, and knowing when to visit depends on your personal preferences.

☀️ If you want sunshine and blue skies , visit during the summer months of June-August. These are generally Scotland’s hottest months, but there’s no guarantee. Temperatures in these months can still drop and of course, we will still have some rain (it is the UK!) It can also get crowded and busy during the summer peak time. Make sure you pre-book any accommodation.

❄️ If you’d like to experience Scotland for its moody weather and clouds, head there for the colder months, like November and January. You’re also likely to see snow at this time in Scotland.

🌸  Spring in Scotland usually begins in late March and is until May.  Temperatures are beginning to rise and there is less rain than in the winter months. Pink blossom trees are blooming and the fields are coated in daffodils. 

🍂  Autumn temperatures in Scotland fall between September-early November.  If you’re looking for those aesthetic autumnal colours, your best bet is to take a Scotland road trip during these months. 

🎶 Don’t forget to check out local events when planning your trip, such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Highland Games.

Scotland Road Trip: FAQs

1) how many days do i need for a scotland road trip.

Whether you have a week, a fortnight, or even just a few days, you can tailor your entire Scottish road trip to suit your needs!

If you’re coming from further away, I would recommend at least 7 days for a Scotland road trip. But you can add or remove certain places to shorten or lengthen your trip.

2) Is 7 days in Scotland enough?

Seven days in Scotland is a great amount of time to get a real feel for the country. Of course, if you have longer, you can visit more places and explore new areas.

But if you only have seven days, this is a great amount of time to experience some of the things Scotland has to offer!

3) What is the best of Scotland in 1 week?

If you only have one week to visit Scotland, I recommend visiting at least one of the major cities (Glasgow or Edinburgh), heading to at least one or two of the lochs (Loch Lomond, Loch Morlich) and experiencing some of the Scottish Highlands.

Hiring a car and driving into the countryside is a great option for experiencing Scotland in just one week.

4) What is the prettiest part of Scotland to visit?

There are so many locations in Scotland that are beyond beautiful. When you first visit, there will be a number of moments when the scenery leaves you speechless.

The ‘prettiest’ part of Scotland will always be a personal choice, but some of the best views include: Loch Morlich (Cairngorms), Glencoe and the Isle of Skye.

5) What month is best for Scotland?

If you want warmer weather and long, dry days, head to Scotland in the summer months (June-August). For misty mountains and dramatic landscapes, visit Scotland in the winter (November-February).

6) What is the best time to go to Scotland to avoid midges?

Midges in Scotland are at their worst during the warmer months. If you want to avoid the midges, plan your Scotland road trip between the months of late September and May, when the weather is considerably cooler.

When we visited Scotland in August, we unknowingly pulled up to a loch at dusk for a bit of a walk.

As soon as I stepped out of the van, we were swamped by thousands, if not millions, of midges. I have never seen anything like it in my life! But, when we were away from the water, the midges were not as bad – we just had to use a lot of bug spray!

7) What is the cheapest time of year to visit Scotland?

The best times to visit Scotland on a budget will be during shoulder seasons (spring and autumn).

Straight after Christmas (January and Feburary time) are some of the cheapest and quietest months in Scotland – however, expect freezing cold temperatures, thick snow and a lot of rain!

8) What are the rainiest months in Scotland?

You can expect rain all year round in Scotland. However, the wettest months are from November to January.

9)  Do I need a car to visit  Scotland?

If you’re visiting Scotland and are short on time, I strongly recommend hiring a car.  If you’re looking to hire a car in Scotland, we rent our cars from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world!  ➡  You can check out the  prices for car hire  in the UK now!

8)  Do I need a SIM card to visit Scotland? 

If you’re not from the UK, it’s worth  downloading an eSIM  on your phone to ensure you can use it for directions and avoid roaming charges as soon as you arrive. 

ESIMs  are easy to download and ready to use within a few minutes of purchasing! Plus, there are  eSIMs  available for the entire continent of Europe, so there’s no longer a need to hunt down free Wifi! ➡  You can check out the prices and packages for  eSIMs here!

A 7-Day Scotland Road Trip: In a Nutshell

If you’re looking for an epic road trip adventure, I highly recommend a 7 day Scotland road trip.

The scenery is stunning and there’s so much to see and do. Just make sure you give yourself enough time – it would be a shame to rush through this beautiful country!

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Have you been on a road trip in Scotland? What was your favourite part? Let me know on Instagram – I’d love to hear from you!

Happy travelling!

Other Scotland posts:

• 13 BEST Things to do in Aviemore (Updated Guide!)

MEET THE AUTHOR!

Hi! I'm Jennie! As a part-time travel blogger based in London, I'm using my 10+ years of travel expertise to encourage & inspire you to step out of your comfort zone through sustainable, mindful and purposeful travel.

If I'm not writing, I'm either reading, drinking coffee or taking a wild swim (all at the same time if I'm feeling impressive).

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THE ULTIMATE ROAD TRIP TO THE HEART OF SCOTLAND

Experience a journey of stunning scenic contrasts and explore the rich heritage and culture of the heart of scotland –  all in one amazing route..

The North East 250 explores everything for which Scotland is famous in a unique Scottish road trip taking you through the whisky distilleries of Speyside, the spectacular mountain passes of the Cairngorms National Park, the famous castles of Royal Deeside, the Granite City of Aberdeen, the rugged North Sea coastline to the east, and the picturesque seaside villages of the Moray Firth Coast..

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Royal Deeside

The North East 250 explores everything for which Scotland is famous in a unique Scottish road trip taking you through the whisky distilleries of Speyside, the spectacular mountain passes of the Cairngorms National Park, the famous castles of Royal Deeside, the Granite City of Aberdeen, the rugged North Sea coastline to the east, and the picturesque seaside villages of the Moray Firth Coast. Explore the route here

SO MANY THINGS TO SEE AND DO

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