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North Coast 500
An exhilarating journey along the north coast of Scotland, passing by historic landmarks, beautiful beaches and wonderful woodland. There really is something for everyone in this area of the world and the North Coast 500 is the perfect way to explore it. Are you in awe of Scotland’s fascinating history? Would you enjoy relaxing on some of the UK’s best beaches? Or are you partial to whiskey tasting experiences? Whatever you enjoy, you are certain to find something to keep you occupied.
I would recommend at least 7-10 days to explore what is on offer along this road trip; although, 2-weeks would be even better! The beauty of this road trip is that you can pick and choose exactly what suits you, so even if you do have less time to explore, you can choose the parts you do not want to miss. I would try to visit 4 or 5 locations a day to fit in as much as possible, but bear in mind that you are bound to stop and appreciate the scenery along the way, so allow yourself time to enjoy.
For our road trip, we had 6 days and the luxury of a fully equipped motorhome. A motorhome/camper van is highly recommended for this trip; however, plenty of people have also completed this trip in a car or on a motorcycle with the use of wonderful B&B’s along the way. Here is our 6-day plan for the North Coast 500, so you have an idea of what you can complete in this time.
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Day 1
Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle
Not officially on the route, but also should not be missed! Loch Ness is 30 minutes away from the official start point, Inverness Castle, and while you are so close, it would be a shame to miss. The home of Nessie is a must-visit during your trip to Scotland and you could easily spend a full day here if you have the time. There are plenty of attractions surrounding the shores of Loch Ness, including Urquhart Castle and Nessieland; there are also plenty of water sports to enjoy. However, if you are limited on time, I would recommend visiting for sunrise or sunset. For sunrise, make your way to the west side and for sunset, aim for the east.
If you enjoy a bit of wild camping, there are plenty of locations around Loch Ness to park up your motorhome or camper; there are campsites or sizeable lay-bys. For the purpose of this road trip, start day 1 at Loch Ness for sunrise, somewhere around Urquhart Castle!
For more information about Loch Ness, visit our Loch Ness page.
Approximately 30 minutes to next stop…
Inverness Castle
Inverness Castle is the start and end point of this awesome road trip and is well worth exploring; while you cannot go inside the castle, you can explore the grounds. This 19th century castle sits above the River Ness, which flows down to the iconic Loch Ness. Inverness Castle is the gateway to the North Coast 500 and this is where your road trip will officially begin.
Approximately 30 minutes to next stop…
Chanonry Point
Chanonry Point is a stretch of beach along Rosemarkie Bay; you can park up for free near the lighthouse and have a stroll down the beach. There are some picnic benches available if it’s a nice day too. Chanonry Point is a known location to spot Dolphins and they can often be seen around an hour after low tide time, however, waiting for low tide may not fit in with your road trip plans. Chanonry Point is a good stop to make nonetheless.
Approximately 10 minutes to next stop…
Fairy Glen Falls
Fairy Glen Falls is another great stop on the road trip. If you like a scenic walk and a waterfall, then this one should not be missed. It is a relatively short walk and easy enough to navigate; the path is uneven and when it rains, it can get pretty muddy, so I would advise walking boots or wellies for this one. It is roughly a 3km walk (there and back) with some wonderful waterfalls and wildlife along the way.
Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to next stop…
Dunrobin Castle
A stunning 19th century castle located on the east coast of Scotland and absolutely worth a visit, even if you just stop to take in the scenery and wander around the gardens. Dunrobin Castle is closed during the winter, so if your road trip is between October 31st and April 1st, then unfortunately you will not be able to visit, however, if you do manage to get to Dunrobin Castle, then there is plenty on offer. Explore the castle, the gardens and the museum; you may even witness a spectacular falconry display.
Find out more about Dunrobin Castle here.
Approximately 1 hour to next stop. Can be driven at the end of day 1 or at the beginning of day 2…
Day 2
Whaligoe Steps
A great place to start early in the day, as parking is limited and there will be less people navigating the 365 steps. The walk is scenic all the way to the bottom of the steps and offer incredible views of Scotland’s rugged coastline and the North Sea; if you go early, there is also a good chance of an amazing sunrise. The steps have recently been renovated, making it easier to descend and ascend, but still be mindful of your footing.
For more about where to find Whaligoe Steps, take a look at our page.
Approximately 40 minutes to next stop…
Duncansby Head
The most northeasterly point of mainland UK and home to Duncansby Head Lighthouse, as well as the famous Duncansby Sea Stacks. The sea stacks are the main attraction here and are located around half a mile from the car park; they are thought to have been in position for the last 6,000 years! In my opinion, this is one of the best stops on the road trip and cannot be missed. You can just take a short walk to see the sea stacks and back, or can continue along the coastal path for a longer walk.
Find out more about Duncansby Head here.
Approximately 10 minutes to next stop…
John O’Groats
An incredibly popular tourist attraction along the north coast of Scotland and known for its signpost signalling the distance to a variety of locations, including Land’s End (874 miles). Often mistaken as the most northerly point of mainland UK, however, this title actually belongs to Dunnet Head, the next stop.
Approximately 30 minutes to next stop…
Dunnet Head
The official most northern point of mainland UK; you can drive up to this point and see Dunnet Head Lighthouse. Take a stroll along the stunning coastline and possibly see some puffins on the cliffside, as well as a variety of other wildlife!
Approximately 15 minutes to next stop…
Dunnet Bay
Just a little further down the road from Dunnet Head, you will find Dunnet Bay, a 2-mile stretch of sandy beach. If you happen to get here in the evening, it is a great stop for a sunset, due to the western facing beach. But equally as beautiful during the day for a stroll or possibly sunbathing, depending on the time of year you visit.
Approximately 40 minutes to next stop… ready to start day 3…
Day 3
Melvich Beach
A beautiful, golden, sandy beach to the west of Thurso and well worth a stop on the road trip. Melvich (or Mel Vic) is norse for ‘Sand Dune Bay’ and this is an accurate description of this location. Melvich Beach is one of the most attractive beaches along the north coast of Scotland.
Approximately 50 minutes to next stop…
Kyle of Tongue Causeway
A scenic road along the North Coast 500 route with incredible panoramic views. You can stop on the causeway at Tongue Viewpoint to take in the scenery and there are some picnic benches if you plan to stay a little longer.
Approximately 15 minutes to next stop…
Ard Neakie Lime Kilns
This was once a limestone quarry and is located on a peninsula in Loch Eriboll. The site consists of a quarry and four lime kilns, built in around 1870, and can be visited by walking the sand and shingle shores of the loch. Ard Neakie Lime Kilns is particularly impressive from above and viewing from a nearby lay-by is a good choice.
Approximately 30 minutes to next stop…
Ceannabeinne Beach
An incredible sandy beach on the north coast of Scotland, just east of Durness. In my opinion, it is the most beautiful beach along the north coast and cannot be missed. There is a convenient, small car park at the top of the beach, with just a short walk down to experience this magnificent site. It can get incredibly busy in the summer, so you may want to head down earlier in the day; Ceannabeinne Beach is also amazing in the winter, and far fewer visitors!
Approximately 5 minutes to next stop…
Smoo Cave
An impressive sea and freshwater cave set into the cliffside, located in the North West of Scotland. The cave welcomes visitors every day of the year and is very easily accessible from the car park. You can walk down the steps and head directly into the mouth of the cave; once inside, you will find a wooden bridge to take you to a viewpoint for a spectacular waterfall. Depending on the recent rainfall, this may be tame of incredibly ferocious. For further cave exploration, you could consider taking a guided boat tour.
Approximately 5 minutes to next stop…
Sango Sands Bay
A stunning, golden sandy beach located nearby the village of Durness. It is the perfect beach to stroll or relax and possibly spot whales, seals, or dolphins! You will find a viewpoint where you are able to overlook the gorgeous, award-winning bay. The Sango Sands Oasis campsite is also located here and is usually open during peak season, between April to end of October; however, some facilities may be available in the off-season.
Approximately 1 hour to next stop for the beginning of day 4…
Day 4
Kylesku Bridge
The Kylesku Bridge, built in the early 80s, is part of the A894 and crosses the Loch a’ Chàirn Bhàin. There is a small car park just before you get to the bridge where you can pull in and enjoy the views. You may even spot some of Scotland’s beautiful wildlife in the area, including stags. You do not need to spend too long here, but it is definitely worth a stop.
Approximately 10 minutes to next stop…
Loch Na Gainmhich (Wailing Widow Falls)
Not too far from Kylesku Bridge, you will find this impressive 50ft waterfall flowing from Loch Gainmhich, which can be accessed from either the top or the bottom of the falls. From the bottom car park, the walk should not take more than around 10-15 minutes; the car park is small, so an early arrival is better. The walk can be a challenge in some parts, so comfortable walking attire is strongly recommended.
Approximately 45 minutes to next stop…
Clashnessie Falls
An incredible waterfall with a drop of almost 50ft! This is only a short walk from the nearby Clashnessie Bay (another good stop), roughly 20 minutes. It is well worth the stop to witness this sight from the bottom; be sure to take your waterproofs! The walk to the waterfall is generally uneven and can get very boggy if the weather has been particularly wet.
Approximately 10 minutes to next stop…
Split Rock of Clachtoll
A beautiful example of Scotland’s rocky coastline and with a western position, it is a great location for a sunset. The beach here is small with a mixture of rock and sand and the view is stunning, whatever time of year you visit. There is a campsite located nearby, as well as a B&B, so you have the option to stay here for the night.
Approximately 30 minutes to next stop…
Ardvreck Castle
The ruins of Ardvreck Castle stand on a peninsula within the picturesque Loch Assynt. The late 15th century castle is surrounded by stunning waters and mountainous scenery. It is possible to walk to Ardvreck Castle from the road (A837), but if rainfall has been high, some of the path to the castle may be under water (as the picture demonstrates!); in this case, you will have to enjoy the view from the road!
Approximately 1 hour to next stop…
Day 5
Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve
The incredibly deep gorge, formed as a result of glacial meltwaters, is located south of Ullapool. Take a stunning woodland walk to the suspension bridge; if you are brave enough, you can cross over the 60m (almost 200ft) gorge and view the wonderful waterfall. The gorge stretches around 1.5km (1 mile) in length and the River Droma flows through.
Approximately 40 minutes to next stop…
Gruinard Bay
A quiet and picturesque bay with pink tinted sands is a great place to stop off on your road trip. There is some stunning scenery surrounding the bay and you can park up to enjoy the view; Gruinard Bay is also a great place to swim, should you want to brave the cold Scottish waters! Nearby, you will also find the Gruinard Bay Caravan Park, if you wish to stop for the night; equally, you could wild camp in the lay-by along the bay and wake up to a magnificent view.
Approximately 10 minutes to next stop…
Mellon Udrigle Beach
A white sandy beach with clear waters and if you are a sea fishing fanatic, then this stop is a good choice. For fishing tide and bite times, take a look at here. If you are not interested in fishing, but do enjoy a sandy beach, then equally, this is a great stop. As with many of the roads in the north of Scotland, the roads approaching Mellon Udrigle Beach are narrow and can be tricky to navigate in larger vehicles, i.e. motorhomes; however, it is possible, just take extra care.
Approximately 35 minutes to next stop…
Gairloch Beach
Another pink tinted sandy beach very popular with families, couples, dog walkers, etc. It is located in the village of Gairloch, nearby the Gairloch Golf Club. If you enjoy a few rounds of golf, then you are able to book a tee time online at the Gairloch Golf Club website. There is parking available nearby the golf course, as well as a small dog-friendly cafe.
Approximately 25 minutes to next stop…
Beinn Eighe Nature Reserve
A lovely nature walk, and our last ‘official’ stop on the NC500 road trip. Beinn Eighe Nature Reserve offer a couple of different walking routes, depending on time and ability. The Woodland Trail is around a 1.5km circular route and takes up to about an hour to complete (including plenty of photo-taking time). The Mountain Trail is a 6km route and may take around 3 or 4 hours, depending on your fitness levels. Both routes are signposted, and you are almost guaranteed to spot wonderful wildlife, possibly even golden eagles!
Approximately 1 hour to next stop… However, if you have more than 6-days, you may want to consider taking a small detour from here to the Isle of Skye before continuing to the next stop.
Day 6
The next couple of stops are not officially a part of the North Coast 500 route, however, as I was in the north of Scotland, they are stops I could not miss. A detour further south to visit Eilean Donan Castle and the magnificent Glenfinnan Viaduct, before making my way to the finish line at Inverness Castle.
Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle is a 13th century castle located on a small island and has featured in a number of blockbuster films, including Highlander and The World is Not Enough (James Bond). The castle is full of history and well worth exploring; pre-booking is advised for this attraction, as it can get booked up quite quickly.
Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to next stop…
Glenfinnan Viaduct
Any avid Harry Potter fans will recognise this iconic 21-arch viaduct as the Hogwarts Express viaduct; this features when Harry and Ron decide to take the Weasley family car on a journey to get to Hogwarts itself. While you may not find Harry and Ron flying a car around here, you may very well spot the incredible Jacobite Steam Train making its way across the viaduct; you will only be able to see this between April and the end of October, so check the timetable if this is a must-see for you. There are a number of viewpoints to enjoy this stunning site and Loch Shiel in the background.
Approximately 2 hours to next stop…
Inverness Castle
To complete the North Coast 500 road trip, make your way to Inverness Castle.
This is the end of our 6-day North Coast 500 road trip! Following the completion of the NC500, we compiled some essential tips:
- Download the North Coast 500 app, as this will show you the must-see stops along the way. You can filter to what you enjoy doing.
- If you are travelling during the autumn/winter seasons, check which campsites are open. Some campsites shut after the summer season. It’s worth making some enquiries before setting off, just to see what options you have along the way.
- Do not let your fuel tank go less than about half full. There are limited fuel stops along the north coast, so it is wise to fill up when you see them.
- Midge season in Scotland is generally between April and September, and it is highly recommended that you take bug spray with you.
- Bear in mind the seasons – you can fit more into your day during the summer, with more daylight hours, and less in the winter. Our road trip was completed end of October to early November.
- Have a rough plan of what you really want to do, but stay open minded and just stop whenever and wherever you want to.
ENJOY!
**Information correct as of November 2021**
