15 BEST Stops on the North Coast 500 Route (Scotland)
For those who’re planning to go to the UK and Scotland particularly, driving on the 500-mile North Coast 500 ought to be in your bucket record. Scotland is extra than simply your common journey to Edinburgh and the scrumptious haggis from pubs. It’s additionally an exquisite place stuffed with reminiscence, tradition, and pure wonders for these prepared to enterprise additional north.
The NC500 means that you can discover the fantastic thing about the North and the Highlands absolutely. From serene seashores, castles, to pure formations and wildlife, the Highlands will astound you with its treasure trove of the gorgeous and the miraculous.
What’s the North Coast 500?
The NC500 will take you on to the fascinating locations within the Scottish Highlands in only a single route. This round highway journey begins from town of Inverness to the extremities of Britain and again to the place to begin.
Nonetheless, you all the time have the choice to begin and end wherever you need. You’re additionally in charge of how a lot time you spend in your journey. However if you wish to take a look at all one of the best spots on the North Coast 500, every week is greater than sufficient to cowl most of them.
This route goals to fill a niche within the Highlands’ tourism and financial system and was launched in March 2015 by the National Highland Initiative (NHI) with assist from Go to Scotland. The North Coast route has considerably elevated revenue and tourism within the Highlands space, including about 29,000 visits within the first 12 months of its launch.
How Lengthy Does it Take to Drive the North Coast 500?
The North Coast 500 is a 516-mile (829 km) scenic route that takes you thru among the Scottish Highlands’ most breathtaking landscapes and charming cities. You possibly can technically drive the route in a day, however the place would the enjoyable be in that? You wouldn’t be capable to cease and revel in all one of the best stops alongside the NC500 route.
A super time could be between 7-10 days, relying on how lengthy you wish to spend at every cease and the way a lot time you wish to allocate for sightseeing and actions alongside the way in which. Though you can simply see quite a bit in 5 days and delve deeper into the highlands with a full two weeks.
15 North Coast 500 Travel Tips to Know (Scottish 500)
Ought to You Drive the North Coast 500 Route Clockwise or Anti-Clockwise?
Each occasions we’ve pushed the North Coast 500 route we’ve finished so anti-clockwise, which isn’t the standard route. So for simplicity’s sake, this submit will element the NC500 route clockwise.
There’s actually no distinction between driving the route clockwise vs anti-clockwise. Folks sometimes hightail it to the west of Scotland as that is the extra dramatic and what some would say “extra lovely” half, so after all, most guests wish to get there in the beginning of their journey. Nonetheless the advantage of driving counter clockwise is “saving one of the best for final.”
I Don’t Have Time to drive the Complete Route, What Ought to I do?
For those who don’t have time to drive the entire North Coast 500, you possibly can nonetheless drive parts of the route for a couple of days. For the extra dramatic part, head to the west of the nation close to Applecross. That is the place you’ll discover breathtaking cliffs and landscapes that appear to be from a film seen. In case you are into castles and tradition we suggest driving north from Inverness in direction of the city of Brora to see Dunrobin Citadel, take pleasure in a Distillery tour, and loosen up on the Scottish seashore.
How you can Keep away from the Crowds alongside the North Coast 500?
Summer time is the busiest time of 12 months on the North Coast 500 with crowds selecting up in July and August. To have probably the most crowd free expertise we suggest visiting outdoors of those months. Though, we drove the NC500 in September, and the route was removed from empty. To keep away from crowds we suggest:
- Waking up early: Beginning your day earlier than 9am shall be helpful.
- Sticking to the east: The japanese part of the route is far quieter than the extra dramatic western space of the Scottish Highlands.
- Go to within the winter: Winter on the NC500 will show to be very quiet, although this implies extra treacherous driving situations. Many operators and vacationer websites will even be closed for the season.
- Get out on a hike: Most individuals driving the NC500 received’t enterprise removed from their automobile and pull off factors. The additional you hike, the extra alone time you’ll have.
The place Does the North Coast 500 Route Begin and Finish?
The “official” begin and finish of the North Coast 500 is in Inverness, however you possibly can hop on the route anyplace you please!
Do I Must Drive the NC500?
Driving the NC500 is the preferred method to expertise the Scottish Highlands, nonetheless you may as well cycle, bike, and even stroll the five hundred miles.
In case you are strolling or biking, watch out on the single-track roads and hairpin turns. It’s finest to not stroll or cycle the NC500 after darkish as there are only a few streetlights on the route.
Campervans on the NC500
Renting a campervan for the NC500 may be very common and there are a selection of campervan corporations to select from. Earlier than renting a campervan be sure you really feel comfy driving very slim roads with a relatively giant automobile.
The Finest Stops on the North Coast 500
1. Inverness
Situated within the Northeastern a part of Scotland, this energetic capital metropolis of the Scottish Highlands is the place your North Coast 500 journey begins and ends. Inverness has quite a few wondrous locations to take a look at throughout your journey. It’s the good floor zero to relish the distinctive Scottish Highlands tradition, delicacies, and music.
As a metropolis embedded with wealthy historical past, there are myriad historic and even archaeological websites which you can go to. Add to those the bustling cultural and trendy scenes- glorious eating places, nice pubs, and shops- that may hold you enthralled all through your keep. There are additionally loads of pure wonders and parks good for unwinding for households, children, and {couples}. Luxurious and budget-friendly lodging are additionally accessible.
Nicely-known amongst these points of interest is the historic website of Culloden, the Inverness Citadel, Loch Ness, and the Victorian seaside resort- Nairns. The town additionally gives a lot enticement to the outdoorsy of us because it has scenic trails like Glen Affric, South Loch Ness Path, and Meall fuar-mhonaidh. You can too be part of guided excursions within the metropolis which can be suited to your pursuits, similar to Distillery Excursions, Whiskey Path Excursions, and an Outlander-inspired one for the present’s followers!
The place to Keep in Inverness? The Heathmount Hotel is simply is 10 minutes’ stroll from Inverness Citadel
2. Rogie Falls
As you allow the capital metropolis, take a second to understand the wild, pure, and picturesque great thing about Rogie Falls. Rogie Falls is within the Black Water river within the county of Ross-shire. This wild surprise, amidst the wealthy pine forest, is simply 20.6 miles away from town of Inverness, which makes it one of many first spots you’ll cease by whenever you go for the North Coast 500 journey in a clockwise path.
You possibly can take pleasure in a brief, scenic stroll from the automobile park to the suspension bridge. The bridge can accommodate a couple of individuals without delay (not wheelchair accessible, sadly). It’s the good spot to take pleasure in an up-close view of the speeding falls. The really useful time to go to is in August-September if you wish to see the fascinating sight of leaping wild salmon. You possibly can comply with their course upstream on the lengthy Riverside Path if you wish to see extra of them. Its difficult terrain shall be thrilling for hike lovers and journey seekers!
For individuals who need extra intense vitality from the falls, you possibly can go to after heavy rain or snow. There are additionally free parking areas, accessible bogs, picnic areas, outlets, and meals shops to take a look at.
The place to remain close to Rogie Falls? The Lochview Guesthouse for a distant location.
3. Applecross Peninsula
Suppose you’re in search of a beautiful, distant, and tranquil place with plenty of historical past. In that case, you possibly can all the time go proper in to go to Applecross, which is likely one of the most breathtaking locations within the North Coast 500 for driving.
Applecross is residence to the earliest settlement in Scotland and was largely inaccessible for the higher a part of its historical past. Now, you possibly can go to the historic village on two routes. You possibly can go by way of the coast highway from Shielding, with its beautiful coast views, or via the very best highway in Britain, Bealach na Ba (Cross of the Cattle).
Whereas staying on the Applecross Inn, you possibly can benefit from the ambiance and serene environment. The Inn is now open for reserving till April 2023. You can too benefit from the delicacies and seafood from Applecross Smokehouse to please your palates. Different actions which you can take pleasure in throughout your keep are a go to to the Applecross Photographic Gallery and Applecross Heritage Heart. You can too go fishing and kayaking to expertise the distant Scottish village first-hand!
4. Ullapool
This fishing city on the Loch Broom shores is likely one of the finest locations you possibly can see in your North Coast 500 journey. Amidst its simplicity, the pure magnificence and serenity of the place will tug at your heartstrings. This place can also be historic, for it’s the place the British Fisheries Society was based within the second half of the eighteenth century.
Ullapool gives numerous adventures to these keen to find its quaint magnificence. One can hike via the huge swathe of wildlife and foliage, swim within the serene, azure waters of Ardmair Seashore, climb Ullapool Hill or spelunk within the Bone Caves. One also can go to the wonders of Handa Island with its magnificent fauna, seabirds, and sandstone cliffs. A ship cruise can also be an possibility for individuals who can by no means get sufficient of the ocean splash and waves!
Nonetheless, when you don’t want outdoor-oriented actions, you may as well take a look at the energetic pubs and the Ullapool Museum to study extra concerning the village’s heritage and historical past. The historic and aesthetic Ullapool clock can also be one other sight price seeing. It’s situated on Quay and Argyle Streets.
The place to remain in Ullapool? The Harbour House is likely one of the finest stays you possibly can have on the NC500!
5. Clachtoll
Situated within the county of Sutherland, Clachtoll is one other fishing village price seeing within the Northern Scottish Highlands. The city is located in an space with deep history- the parish of Assynt. Dealing with the Bay of Clachtoll, this little paradise is full-packed of pure surroundings, from picturesque mountains to pristine shores.
You possibly can take pleasure in water actions similar to kayaking, rock leaping, swimming, and fishing. In case you are into picnics and tenting, you are able to do these actions within the delicate seascape of the Clachtoll Seashore Campsite. It’s a enjoyable, budget-friendly method to spend time with family members! You possibly can even spot some dolphins in case you are fortunate!
The place to remain close to Clachtoll? The Smithy House & Cottages is a quaint lovely little cottage in a wonderful space.
6. Cape Wrath
The elegant identify of this location certainly lives as much as what it gives. Cape Wrath can also be situated in Sutherland’s county, probably the most north-westerly space of mainland Nice Britain. It is usually iconic for being the world the place the Scottish Northern and Western coasts rendezvous. On account of its distant geography, Cape Wrath is difficult to entry as there isn’t a direct highway to it. One should catch a ferry to go to the spectacular place.
Cape Wrath, regardless of its remoteness, is teeming with the breathtaking swathe of the Atlantic Ocean, coastlines, and chilly wilderness. Other than these majestic pure views, there’s additionally a lighthouse to go to.
A restaurant can also be open so that you can get a heartwarming espresso and pastry- simply earlier than you meet up with the bus tour. Cape Wrath is thought to be a website of Particular Scientific Curiosity and a spot the place uncommon hen species are protected.
7. Durness
Going to the northernmost elements of the Scottish Highlands, it’s price visiting the northwestern village of Durness. Durness is the right spot for outdoorsy of us, wanderlusts, and sea lovers.
This thriving village in Sutherland boasts of its cerulean shoreline, towering cliffs, bustling wildlife, luscious seaspray, and difficult Scotland hiking trails. The city’s remoteness and wealthy adventures listed here are simply the right blends for somebody who desires motion and rejuvenation!
Durness can also be well-known for being primarily linked to John Lennon. There’s even a John Lennon Memorial Backyard devoted primarily to the well-known musician! You can too take a look at the serene blueness of Rispond Seashore and take an energizing swim.
For sports activities lovers, there’s the Durness Golf Membership to take a look at. In the meantime, hikers and outdoorsy of us can climb up Ben Stack and benefit from the majestic Sutherland view from the height. You can too have a picturesque picnic on the Smoo Caves, and thrilling boat rides into the caves amidst clement climate.
Keep close by on the Borgie Lodge Hotel
8. Thurso
Every time you aren’t prepared to go away Caithness but, take the time to discover the city of Thurso, thought-about “probably the most northerly city in mainland Scotland” and boasts pleasant locations and wonders to see and expertise throughout your North Coast 500 journey.
Thurso has loads of cafes, conventional outlets, and eating places the place you possibly can take pleasure in a one-of-a-kind gastronomic and purchasing expertise. There’s additionally the well-known wellhouse of Meadow Nicely and the Swanson Gallery to go to.
For those who’re lusting after out of doors thrills, Thurso gives plenty of water sports activities, similar to browsing and kayaking. There are many seashores and a assure of pretty countryside at Geise Farm. The family-friendly farm is likely one of the finest methods to bond along with your family members whereas having fun with the corporate of nature.
Keep on the charming Creag Na Mara B&B in Thurso!
9. John O’Groats & Wick
Let the refreshing North Sea Breeze embrace you in John O’ Groats! Situated in Sutherland, within the northeasternmost a part of Britain, this beautiful village is crammed with historical past, pure wonders, heritage, and adventures for people who enter its borders.
John O’ Groats gives many actions vacationers can take pleasure in, similar to browsing, speedboat excursions across the shoreline, and a tour on the Citadel of Mey, the official residence of the late Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mom in Caithness. Different out of doors actions which you can take pleasure in are the three-kilometer coastal walks or a 40-minute journey to the Orkney Islands.
Nonetheless, you possibly can be part of an thrilling distillery/brewery tour when you want indoor actions. There’s additionally a gallery the place you possibly can see when you get extra in contact with the native tradition and artwork.
Contemplate staying at John O'Groats which supplies epic sea views
10. Citadel Sinclair and Girnigoe
The castles across the NC500 are out of this world. They’re majestic and historic, similar to the traditional stays of the well-known Citadel Sinclair and Girnigoe. Situated within the northern a part of the city of Howick, it’s onerous to overlook because it’s perched near the cliff’s edges.
This mysterious citadel has a wealthy historical past and has undergone grand expansions, with its oldest elements courting again to the fifteenth century. It was expanded constantly till the siege of 1680 when it suffered extreme damages, which made it uninhabited.
It continued to decay for 340 years, however within the early twenty first century, it was restored via the Clan Sinclair Belief and have become secure for guests. These days, you possibly can entry the ruins via a newly put in bridge. The citadel grounds are open yearly, and so they solely ask for donations.
11. Helmsdale
If you’re nonetheless round Sutherland, don’t neglect to go to this beautiful village on the japanese coast. Helmsdale is a city that’s well-known for its salmon fishing and herrings! So, for fishing fanatics, that is one other glorious spot to discover. River Helmsdale gives you an abundance to catch your first Scottish salmon!
Throughout your keep, you possibly can go swimming at Helmsdale Seashore or discover the stays of Helmsdale Citadel. You can too see and purchase distinctive and delightful trinkets on the Gifted store to commemorate your journey to the Highlands. Furthermore, you possibly can deeply join with the city’s distinctive tradition and historical past by visiting the Timespan Museum and Arts Centre, The Emigrants Monument, and the Helmsdale Struggle Memorial Clock Tower.
Ever fancied staying in yurt? You are able to do that in Helmsdale on the Tall Pines Yurt.
12. Falls of Shin
The Falls of Shin boasts of breathtaking waterfalls. Along with the spectacular sight, passersby also can witness the fascinating leaping of salmon from the center of Could to late autumn. Salmon may be seen leaping up the shallow set of waterfalls as they put together to spawn.
After watching this pure phenomenon, you possibly can loosen up and reenergize on the onsite café earlier than you progress on to your subsequent vacation spot.
13. Brora
Brora is a village located on the east coast of Sutherland within the Highland area of Scotland. Though fairly small, with a inhabitants of simply over 1,200 individuals, it’s a implausible place to visit in Scotland when you’re in search of a quaint, peaceable vacation spot with many issues to do in Brora.
The village is extensively recognized for being the house of the Highland League soccer group, nevertheless it’s additionally recognized for its small sandy seashore, wildlife viewing, and delightful mountain climbing. Benefit from the seashore, go on a distillery tour at Clynelish Distillery, or go paddleboarding on Lake Brora!
Simply one of the best place to remain is on the Royal Marine Hotel!
14. Dunrobin Citadel
For those who’re fascinated by castles and fairytale-like scenes, don’t miss the prospect to go to the enchanting Dunrobin Citadel within the county of Sutherland. With its magnificent spires, turrets, and gardens, Dunrobin is a effective piece of structure within the coronary heart of the Scottish Highlands. This 189-room citadel is the Earl of Sutherland’s magnificent seat and is rooted in medieval occasions.
The current citadel and its sprawling, magical backyard had been the work of the well-known British architect Sir Charles Barry throughout the nineteenth century. The backyard is alleged to be impressed by the Palace of Versailles! There’s additionally a museum and falconry which you can take a look at. The citadel is open to guests yearly between April and October.
Close by in Brora you possibly can name a small pod residence on the North Coast 500 pods.
15. Dornoch Firth & Cromarty Firth
For those who love the coastal space, a visit to Dornoch Firth & Cromarty Firth should be in your record of North Coast 500 finest stops. From the historic Dornoch Firth Bridge to the extra trendy really feel of Cromarty Firth, you’ll by no means get bored with taking within the lovely surroundings. Make sure you have your digital camera prepared and seize each second.
In the meantime, historical past geeks can discover quite a few museums and heritage websites just like the Tain and District Museum and the Nigg Previous Church which dates again to the 8th century.
Boasting backyard views in Dornoch Firth, Clashmore Wood options lodging with a terrace.
The Finest Castles Alongside the North Coast 500 Route
There are lots of castles alongside the North Coast 500 route (or not far off of it) that you could be wish to go to!
- Citadel of Mey
- Dunrobin Citadel
- Eilean Donan Citadel
- Inverness Citadel
- Slains Citadel
- Cawdor Citadel
- Dunvegan Citadel
The Finest Seashores on the NC500
- Balnakeil Seashore
- Dornoch Seashore
- Dunnet Bay Seashore
- Oldshoremore Seashore
- Brora Seashore
Tricks to Make The Most Out of The NC500
- Plan your route and make lodging upfront, particularly in the summertime. The NC500 is a well-liked route and lodging is proscribed. Come with out reservations in August and also you is likely to be sleeping within the automobile.
- Take your time and permit for loads of breaks. The NC500 is a protracted drive and there are numerous scenic stops and points of interest alongside the way in which. They’re all nicely price a cease and picture ops.
- Know learn how to drive in Scotland – or study rapidly! The roads on the NC500 may be winding and slim, and also you’ll have to pay further consideration whereas driving in Scotland.
- Respect the native wildlife and atmosphere. The NC500 passes via among the most lovely and unspoiled areas of Scotland. Look ahead to livestock on the roads!
Enjoyable Experiences on the North Coast 500 Route
Lengthen Your NC500 Journey to the Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye in all probability has one of the best surroundings in the entire of Scotland and may simply be added onto a North Coast 500 journey. It’s a brief drive from the Applecross Peninsula and gives loads of issues to do.
We suggest spending 3-4 days on the Isle of Skye alone, nonetheless, even when you solely have one further day it’s price including it onto your Nort Coast 500 Route.
Transport Round Scotland
Most journeys to Scotland will begin and finish at Edinburgh Airport. One of the simplest ways to travel around Scotland is with a rental automobile, particularly when you’re touring with a bunch. Driving in Scotland isn’t any joke and it’s essential to comprehend that earlier than you hire a automobile. For starters, the Scots drive on the left aspect of the highway, with the steering wheel on the proper.
Second, as a substitute of cease lights and indicators to idle at a lot of the roads in Scotland run easily due to roundabouts.
Third and most essential – the roads on the North Coast 500 are sometimes small single observe roads match for only one automobile at a time. There are passing factors each 400 meters or so to let oncoming visitors get via. The automobile closest to a passing level ought to be the one to yield. Guide your rental automobile far upfront to get one of the best fee, you possibly can all the time cancel later when you discover a higher fee!
My favorites to have a look at are:
13 Car Rental Scotland Tips To Know BEFORE You Go
Web in Scotland
If you wish to keep linked whereas in Scotland, I like to recommend selecting up a Sim card and buying knowledge whenever you arrive. We personally bought 12 GB of knowledge for £20 with Three.
Their protection prolonged into patches of the highlands and allowed us to on the very least verify our emails, Instagram, and Fb every day. Different comparable telecom corporations within the UK embrace O2 and Vodafone. You’ll not have service your entire route.
When is the Finest Season to Drive the NC500?
Excessive season (July-September)
Like most locations in Europe, Scotland’s excessive season runs from July to mid-September. That is when you will see that one of the best climate as famous above, but in addition crowds. Days are longer, the climate is hotter, and lodge and automobile rental costs are at their highest. Lodging alongside the NC500 can e book up rapidly, be certain to e book nicely upfront.
Shoulder Season (Could-June and Late September-November)
We’ve traveled to Scotland throughout the shoulder season and beloved it. The climate is cool, the leaves are orange and yellow, and the vibe within the air is fantastic. That is additionally after we’ve discovered nice offers on automobile leases and guesthouses. Nonetheless, common locations like Glasgow and Skye had been very busy. We noticed sunny days, but in addition had quite a lot of these wet Scotland overcast days.
Low Season (November-April)
The temperatures are cooler throughout the off-season in Scotland and also you stand a really robust probability of getting caught in a rain (or snow) storm. For those who plan to travel to Scotland throughout this time you completely need a packable rain jacket, travel umbrella, and waterproof boots. The upside is you’ll discover low costs and low numbers of vacationers. In case you are in Scotland over the vacations be certain to participate within the festivals across the cities!
The place to Keep on the North Coast 500?
Kingsmills Lodge – Inverness
Just about each North Coast 500 highway journey begins or ends within the highland capital of Inverness. Lodging is proscribed for the demand, however these fortunate sufficient to e book upfront can rating rooms on the Kingsmills Lodge. Kingsmill is likely one of the finest locations to remain within the metropolis. The lodge gives fantastic service based mostly out of a seventeenth Century residence.
Pure Retreats – John O’ Groats
That is in all probability one of many coolest locations to remain relating to lodging in Scotland. These glass-faced self-catering residences are situated in probably the most Northernly city in Scotland, John O’ Groats, on the British Isle.
Previous Drynie Home – Black Isle
This was truly the primary “true” mattress and breakfast we’ve stayed at collectively (even after 60 nations!). It was a splendid expertise and the character of a nicely run Scottish mattress and breakfast makes it a should for anybody touring the North Coast 500.
Royal Marine Lodge – Brora
Upon arrival on the Royal Marine Lodge, you’ll be handled to basic Highland hospitality earlier than being led to your pretty and cozy residence away from residence. Unwind in your well-equipped visitor room or enterprise outdoors to discover the grounds or the gorgeous seashore that’s only some minutes away.
What to Pack for the NC500
Questioning what to put on in Scotland? The nation’s climate is fairly infamous so it’s solely pure that the query of what to pack for Scotland comes up quite a bit. With that in thoughts, you ought to be ready as you’ll find yourself spending a lot of your time in Scotland outdoors having fun with its lovely cities and breathtaking landscapes.
Scotland is brimming with outdated strolling paths, historical mountains, deep lakes, winding roads, rocky coastlines, castles, tens of millions of sheep, barrels of whisky, and charming cities it’s the right place to lose your self. It ought to be no shock that Scotland is one in all our favourite nations on this planet. It’s roughly the massive brother to Eire with grander landscapes, prettier cities, extra historical past, and one hell of a tradition — kilts and bagpipes are superior.
Wildlife to Be Conscious of In Scotland
- Highland Cows: Wildlife in Scotland is so huge. Clearly, there’s the highland cow which is an iconic image of the highlands. You’ll discover all of them alongside the route! Watch out and look ahead to them crossing the highway.
- Stags and Deer: Deer and Stags are pretty common throughout Scotland and there’s nonetheless an enormous searching neighborhood
- Puffins: Puffins may be discovered from late March and early April till August and nest on coastal clifftops. The most important colony is on the island of St Kilda, however they might be noticed on the japanese cliffs from North Berwick to Berwick-on-Tweed and in addition from Galloway to Wick. When driving alongside in Scotland, it’s not unusual to see birds of prey throughout the sky both!
- Midges: Unsure how a lot you’ll class it as wildlife, however I’ve talked about midges already however these deserve it once more. Earlier than we traveled to Scotland, I didn’t understand how dangerous the midges truly could be, and they are often wretched relying in your season of journey (significantly within the summertime). Seize some smidge if they’re driving you loopy.
