The North Coast 500 is one of the most scenic road trips in the UK, offering breathtaking landscapes, coastal views, historic landmarks and hidden gems around every corner. From dramatic cliffs and quiet beaches to castles and iconic viewpoints, there is no shortage of sightseeing opportunities along the NC500 route.
North Coast 500 Route Guide & Help
The North Coast 500 is one of Scotland’s most iconic road trips, covering over 500 miles of stunning coastal scenery, mountain landscapes and historic landmarks across the Highlands. Starting and ending in Inverness, the NC500 takes you through regions including the Black Isle, Caithness, Sutherland and Wester Ross.
This section of the site helps you plan your journey, from finding accommodation and food stops to discovering the best sightseeing locations along the route. Whether you are travelling for a few days or completing the full circuit, you will find useful guides, tips and local information to help you make the most of your trip.
Use the links below to explore places to stay, where to eat, and what to see on the North Coast 500, or browse the full directory to find services and stops along the route.
Finding the right accommodation on the North Coast 500 can make a huge difference to your trip. From coastal hotels and traditional bed and breakfasts to remote lodges and campsites, there are plenty of places to stay along the NC500 route to suit every budget and travel style.
The best food stops on the North Coast 500 include a mix of traditional Scottish pubs, coastal seafood restaurants, cafés and takeaway spots. Whether you are planning your trip or already travelling the NC500 route, finding the right place to eat can make your journey far more enjoyable.
Are you ready for the ultimate cycling adventure? Look no further than the North Coast 500, a 500-mile route that takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the UK. Whether you're an experienced cyclist or a beginner looking for a challenge, this route has something for everyone. Strap on your helmet, hop on your bike, and get ready to embark on a journey you'll never forget.
Are you ready to embark on a memorable journey along the North Coast 500? This iconic Scottish route offers breathtaking landscapes, charming coastal villages, and a taste of the rich Scottish heritage. Whether you prefer a leisurely road trip or an adventurous outdoor experience, there are various ways to explore the North Coast 500. Let's dive into the different options available.
Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure through the Scottish Highlands? Look no further than the North Coast 500, a scenic route that takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Scotland. In this blog post, we will guide you through the perfect North Coast 500 itinerary, ensuring you make the most of your road trip experience.
Planning a trip to the North Coast 500? You're in for a treat! This scenic route in the Scottish Highlands offers breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and rich cultural experiences. But before you hit the road, it's essential to consider the best time to travel to make the most of your journey.
The North Coast 500 is a stunning route that winds its way around the north coast of Scotland, offering visitors an abundance of natural beauty, history, and culture. Whether you're a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply seeking adventure, the North Coast 500 has something for everyone.
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The North Coast 500 is a breathtakingly beautiful route that winds its way through the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. However, like any travel route, it can present some dangers to visitors. Here are a few potential hazards that visitors should be aware of to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
Like any travel route, the North Coast 500 has its fair share of issues and challenges that visitors may encounter. Here are a few of the most common issues that visitors may face.
Driving Tips
Drive too many hours at once and you will be in danger of missing the sights along the way and only make yourself tired. Try to aim at driving not more than 5 hours a day. always allow for the time you will be stopping to fuel up, eat, and just have of coffee. Remember that the North Coast 500 is not a motorway, so you will go slower. It's not a race.
Follow our simple tips to help you along the way as you travel around this amazing coastal route around the Scottish highlands
Motorhomes & campervan Links
Discover things like where you can and can't park up for the night, waste disposal locations, and designated campervan and motorhome parks along the NC500 route.
Hidden Gems
The North Coast 500 route is full of stunning scenery, charming villages, and interesting attractions. While some of these locations are well-known and popular with tourists, there are also many hidden gems along the route that are worth exploring. Here are some of the North Coast 500 hidden gems.
- Stoer Lighthouse - This working lighthouse is located on a rocky headland on the west coast of the Scottish Highlands, and offers stunning views of the coastline and the sea.
- Sandwood Bay - This remote beach is accessible only by foot, but is well worth the effort. The beach is surrounded by towering sand dunes and dramatic cliffs, and is one of the most unspoiled beaches in Scotland.
- Smoo Cave - This sea cave is located near Durness and features a large, impressive entrance chamber that can be explored by boat or on foot.
- Achmelvich Beach - This beautiful sandy beach is located on the west coast of Scotland, and features crystal-clear water and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Applecross Pass - This winding road is one of the most scenic drives in Scotland and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
- Falls of Shin - These waterfalls are located near Lairg and are home to a popular salmon leap, where visitors can watch salmon leap up the falls during the summer months.
These are just a few of the hidden gems along the North Coast 500 route. Exploring these lesser-known locations can be a great way to experience the beauty and charm of the Scottish Highlands, and to create lasting memories of your NC500 road trip.
Fanny Bay
This is the place on the North Coast 500 you don't want to be at.
North Coast 500 Maps
You don't need to be doing the NC500 to have a great time on Scotland roads.
The North Coast 500 is Scotland's answer to Route 66 and although the suggested route is around 516 miles long, you don't have to complete the route in one go, we have listed several trips which are quite easily completed in a day using The Highland's capital city of Inverness as your base.
Things To Do
The North Coast 500 is a scenic route through the Scottish Highlands, offering stunning landscapes, charming villages, and breathtaking vistas. Along the way, there are several attractions to explore, including Dunrobin Castle, Smoo Cave, the Old Man of Storr, the Fairy Pools, the North Coast 500 beaches, and the Glenmorangie Distillery. Dunrobin Castle is a majestic castle with opulent interiors and beautiful gardens. Smoo Cave is a fascinating sea cave with a large entrance chamber and underground waterfall. The Old Man of Storr is an iconic rock formation with panoramic views. The Fairy Pools are crystal-clear pools and waterfalls with vibrant blue and green hues. The North Coast 500 beaches offer opportunities for relaxation and swimming. The Glenmorangie Distillery provides a chance to learn about whisky-making and indulge in a tasting session. Whether interested in history, nature, or simply enjoying the scenery, the North Coast 500 offers something for everyone.
NC500 Glamping
NC 500 glamping sites along the North coast 500 tourist route around the Scottish highlands
Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the ultimate guide to the North Coast 500! If you're wondering about the best time to embark on this epic Scottish road trip, look no further. The North Coast 500 is a dream come true for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Picture yourself cruising along the rugged coastline, passing by majestic castles, and stopping at quaint villages along the way. But what about accommodation options, you ask? From charming B&Bs to luxury hotels with stunning sea views, the NC500 has it all. And for those concerned about driving in a foreign country, fear not! The roads are well-maintained, and signposts are clear, making it a breeze to navigate. So, pack your bags, fuel up your car, and get ready for an unforgettable journey on the North Coast 500!
NC 500 Itinerary
Plan your ultimate Scottish Highlands road trip with our curated NC500 itineraries. Whether you're visiting for 3 days or 10, travelling by car, motorhome, or bike — we've got the perfect route for you. Each itinerary highlights the best of the North Coast 500, including scenic drives, hidden gems, historic landmarks, and must-see stops along the way.
From coastal adventures and castle trails to family-friendly and pet-friendly routes, our itineraries are designed to help you make the most of your NC500 journey — whatever your style, time, or budget.
- 3 to 10-day road trip plans
- Route maps and highlights
- Seasonal suggestions
- Ideal stops for food, fuel, and overnight stays
Use this category to find the perfect North Coast 500 itinerary and turn your Highland adventure into a trip of a lifetime.
