The North Coast 500 - the ultimate road trip!

There's nothing quite like the freedom of the long open road. Never-ending back roads, wide meandering country tracks and beautiful bends through some of Scotland's finest coastal scenery are just a few things you can expect along the North Coast 500. Strap yourself in for the road trip of a lifetime.

Please remember to plan your trip in advance. It is crucial for the wellbeing of Scotland's landscapes, as well as for local residents and businesses, that the areas around the route are respected and looked after properly. A few things to keep in mind:

Take all litter, waste and rubbish away with you to dispose of correctly
Book your accommodation in advance; don't park or stay outwith designated camping/caravan areas
Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code to ensure the landscape is left how you found it

Please remember to maintain physical distancing of 2 metres at all times, both indoors and outdoors, when required.

ROUTE OVERVIEW

The NC500 starts in the northern city of Inverness (and the Glenmoriston Townhouse is the perfect start & finish point), weaves along the west coast to Applecross and then northwards towards the towns of Torridon and Ullapool. From there, you'll venture to some of the most northerly coastal points in Scotland, passing by Caithness and John o' Groats before heading south again through Dingwall and finally back to Inverness.

FAST FACTS

Distance: 516 miles
Trip length: at least 5 - 7 days is recommended.
Accommodation: book well in advance - make sure you consider camping en route as an option. But if you're looking for 4-star accommodation, check availability here
Transport: You can drive, cycle, or even walk this route!

9 THINGS TO SEE AND DO

1. ARDVRECK CASTLE, SUTHERLAND

Explore the crumbling ruins of Ardvreck Castle on the edge of Loch Assynt, just north of Inchnadamph.

Another spectacular ruin not far off the NC500 route is Urquhart Castle, on the banks of Loch Ness.

2. DUNROBIN CASTLE, SUTHERLAND

Just south of Brora, you'll come across Dunrobin Castle, a French-style chateau. Inhabited since the 1300s, the castle was a war hospital during the First World War.

Take a look at the architectural guide to the North Coast 500 which features 48 inspiring structures, for more.

3. STAC POLLAIDH, WESTER ROSS

Climb this prominent ridge in Wester Ross for stunning views across Assynt on a clear day, and a massive sense of achievement, of course! Stac Pollaidh is just one of the mountains you can ascend along the NC500, with others including Ben Hope, An Teallach and Suilven.

4. BALNAKEIL BEACH, SUTHERLAND

Whether you're looking for secluded sands, epic surf or pure natural beauty, the beaches of the north Highlands have it all. Balnakeil Beach near Durness in Sutherland is renowned for its pristine white sands.

Other beaches worth stopping for are Achmelvich Bay and Gairloch Beach.

5. SMOO CAVE, SUTHERLAND

Your journey will take you through landscapes framed by ancient geology. At the northern tip of Scotland, Smoo Cave is a mystical limestone sea cave, with a staggering 50 ft entrance and impressive cascading waterfall which is especially mesmerising following wet weather.

6. CHANONRY POINT, BLACK ISLE

See if you can spot the resident dolphin population in the Moray Firth from Chanonry Point, a narrow peninsula between Rosemarkie and Fortrose. Dolphin spotting boat tours take place in the summer months.

Find other recommended locations for spotting these delightful creatures.

7. BEALACH NA BÀ, WESTER ROSS

A challenging 2053 ft ascent up the winding, single track Bealach na Bà route between Kishorn and Applecross, is rewarded with views over Wester Ross, the Isle of Skye, Rum and the Outer Hebrides.

For those in larger vehicles, and drivers who don't fancy it, there is an alternative route - phew!

8. AM BUACHAILLE SEA STACK, SUTHERLAND

The walk to Sandwood Bay may take a couple of hours, but the beautiful beach, dramatic cliffs and impressive Am Buachaille sea stack make it worth it.

Other sea stacks along the NC500 include the Stacks of Duncansby in Caithness, and the Old Man of Stoer near Culkein in Assynt.

9. BRIMS NESS, CAITHNESS

It's time to create a splash! Watersports enthusiasts will find themselves well catered for along the NC500. Brims Ness near Thurso in Caithness is particularly popular with surfers, as well as Thurso East.

Other water-based activities to try include kayaking at Gairloch or taking a speed boat tour from Ullapool.