Plan a North Coast 500 (NC500) Road Trip- Guide

Sharing is caring!

Plan a North Coast 500 (NC500) Road Trip

The North Coast 500 (NC500) is a scenic 500-mile road trip around the northern coast of Scotland. It is considered one of the most beautiful drives in the world and offers a diverse range of landscapes, from rugged cliffs and sandy beaches to rolling hills and lochs.

This guide will provide an overview of the route including some of the most popular sights and activities along the way.

It is essential to plan ahead before starting your trip and it is imperative to make sure your vehicle is in good condition. The NC500 route takes you through some remote areas making it essential to have a reliable vehicle and enough fuel to complete the journey. Also be sure to check the weather forecast and bring appropriate clothing as the weather in Scotland can be unpredictable.

The NC500 route begins in Inverness which is known as the capital of the Scottish Highlands. Inverness is a great place to start your journey as it offers a range of accommodation options and plenty of opportunities for exploring the city. Some popular attractions in Inverness include the Inverness Castle and the Culloden Battlefield both of which offer a glimpse into Scotland’s rich history.

After leaving Inverness your first major stop on the NC500 route is the town of Ullapool which is located on the shores of Loch Broom. Ullapool is a charming fishing village that offers a range of accommodation options and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Visitors can take a boat trip on Loch Broom to spot seals and seabirds or hike the nearby mountains for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

From Ullapool the route takes you along the coast while passing through picturesque towns like Gairloch, Shieldaig and Torridon. These towns offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the Scottish Highlands and are great places to stop and explore. Visitors can take a stroll on the beach, visit the local museums and art galleries or take a boat trip to see the local wildlife.

The next major stop on the NC500 route is the town of Durness which is located on the far northwest coast of Scotland. Durness is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Scotland including the iconic Smoo Cave and the white sandy beaches of Balnakeil Bay. Visitors can take a boat trip to the nearby islands of Handa and Hushinish or hike the nearby mountains for stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

From Durness the route takes you through the towns of Tongue and Bettyhill before returning to Inverness. Along the way visitors can stop and explore the historic towns of Wick and Thurso both of which offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the Scottish Highlands.

The North Coast 500 is a fantastic road trip and definitely something that is worthwhile to consider when planning a trip to Scotland.

It is also not necessary that you drive yourself, why not take a tour?

8-Day Orkney, Hebrides and North Coast 500 Tour from Edinburgh

Experience Scotland beyond the typical tourist destinations on this 8-day tour. Join a group of 18-35 year olds as you explore the North Coast 500, Orkney, Lewis and Harris, the Isle of Skye, Loch Ness, and more.

Discover the mainland’s top sites and the beautiful islands of Skye, Orkney, and Harris. Enjoy an exclusive tour designed for young adults, including a Viking beach feast, fresh seafood, and whisky.

Ready to start planning that trip to Scotland? Start here!

Sharing is caring!