Scotland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world; it is home to rolling, picturesque fields, striking, imposing mountains, and an incredible coastline. The Northern-most part of the UK also features beautiful towns and cities throughout, all of which deserve all the attention they receive from tourists
The North Coast 500 is the best way to see Scotland and manages to take drivers around some of the world’s most stunning places in one drive. The North Coast 500 follows a 516-mile-long route around the North Coast of Scotland, launched in 2015 to encourage tourists to visit this part of Scotland.
The route takes you through Inverness-Shire, Black Isle, Easter Ross, Wester Ross, Caithness, Sutherland, and Wester Ross and covers pretty much all terrain, making it a brilliant way to get to see a lot of Scotland in a relatively short time. The recommended time to spend on the trip is between 5 and 7 days, which would give you plenty of time to not only get the mileage done but to stop and enjoy where you are and the locations along the way.
Key places along the way
One of the most dramatic sections of the NC500 is the Wester Ross coastline. Known for its jagged cliffs, secluded beaches, and turquoise waters, this area is a paradise for photographers and nature lovers alike. Locations such as Gairloch and Loch Torridon offer opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting, including seals and sea eagles. The scenery here is so striking that many travellers often stop their cars to take in the views.
As the route enters Sutherland, the landscape transitions to more remote, rugged terrain. Mountains rise sharply from the coastline, and vast stretches of moorland dominate the inland view, creating a very dramatic contrast that tourists love to admire. The area is very sparsely populated, giving travellers a sense of isolation and tranquillity. Some notable landmarks include the picturesque village of Durness, Sandwood Bay with its pristine beach, and the iconic Cape Wrath lighthouse, accessible by ferry and footpath.
The eastern section of the NC500 takes travellers through Caithness, a region famous for its flat, windswept landscapes and historical sites. John o’ Groats, often mistakenly thought of as the northernmost point of mainland Britain (Dunnet Head), serves as a symbolic endpoint for many travellers. From here, it’s possible to take ferries to the Orkney Islands, adding another layer of adventure to the journey. It is highly recommended to add this to your trip to see a destination most people may never visit.
The final stretch (depending on which way you travel) of the NC500 brings travellers back towards Inverness, where they will pass through the west coast with its dramatic lochs and mountains. You may be wondering what options there are for online entertainment, games such as Big Bass Bonanza Slot are an option when you are not exploring the outdoors. Loch Maree and Loch Assynt are particularly scenic, providing perfect spots for hiking, dog walks, camping, or simply enjoying the serene surroundings. The route eventually circles back to Inverness, with the legendary Loch Ness nearby, an amazing landmark which is a fitting finale for a journey through some of the most beautiful scenery in the UK, if not the world.
Practical Tips for Completing the NC500
The ideal time to take on the NC500 is between May and September, as the weather is generally warmer and drier, and daylight hours are significantly longer than in the winter. The only drawback is that the summer months can be very busy, so early booking of accommodations is recommended, including campsites, if you are taking a tent or completing the roadtrip in a campervan.
The North Coast 500 does feature a mix of single-track roads and narrow country lanes, which can be challenging for those unfamiliar with Scottish driving conditions. Patience is key to navigating these, particularly when it’s busy, and when you need to rely on passing places that allow vehicles to pass safely. Rental cars, campervans, and motorcycles are popular ways to explore the route, so expect some people to be unfamiliar or not very confident with the vehicle they are driving.
Travellers can choose from a variety of accommodations, including hotels, B&Bs, hostels, and campsites. For a really unique experience, some people decide to ‘glamp’ or stay in traditional Highland cottages.
While the route passes through several towns and villages, some sections are very remote, so it is important to carry snacks, water, and make sure your vehicle has enough fuel, as well. It is also recommended to take a first aid kit and a tire-repair kit in case you have a minor accident or injury.
Before you go
Make sure to plan what you need before you go so that, during your road trip, you can enjoy it without worrying about mistakes or forgotten items. This truly is a trip that the whole family will be able to enjoy, even your pet dog, if you have one! Take plenty of photos and have a good time.
