If you dream of dramatic coastlines, wild beaches, and winding roads through some of the UKโs most spectacular scenery, the North Coast 500 (NC500) is your perfect adventure.
This iconic 516-mile (830 km) loop around the northern Highlands of Scotland is often called โScotlandโs Route 66โ-and for good reason! Whether youโre a first-timer or a seasoned explorer, hereโs your complete guide to planning and experiencing the NC500.
What is the North Coast 500?
The NC500 is a circular route that starts and ends in Inverness, the Highland capital. It takes you through remote fishing villages, past ancient castles, along rugged cliffs, and beside some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Youโll find yourself stopping constantly for photos, wildlife spotting, and the sheer joy of the journey.
Planning Your NC500 Adventure
How Long Does It Take?
Most people spend 5 to 7 days on the route, but you can stretch it out to two weeks if you want to explore every corner.
Which Direction Should You Go?
You can drive clockwise or anti-clockwise. Many prefer clockwise for a dramatic finish along the wild west coast, but both directions are equally rewarding.
How to Travel?
- Car (for shorter trips)
- Campervan or motorhome (check out Goboony for great campervans in Scotland)
- Motorbikeย
- Bicycle (for the truly adventurous!)
Whenโs the Best Time to Go?
- Summer: Best weather and longest daylight hours.
- Spring and Autumn: Quieter roads, but some attractions may have limited hours.
- Winter: Skip
A Classic 7-Day NC500 Itinerary
Day 1: Inverness to Wick/John OโGroats (East Coast)
Kick off in Inverness. Visit Culloden Battlefield or the dolphin-rich Black Isle. Head north to Dunrobin Castle, then follow the coast to Wick and the iconic John OโGroats.
Day 2: Wick/John OโGroats to Durness (North Coast)
Take in the Duncansby Stacks and Castle Sinclair Girnigoe. Donโt miss the wild cliffs and beaches as you make your way to Durness, home of the famous Smoo Cave.
Day 3: Durness to Ullapool (Northwest)
This stretch is all about wild beauty: Balnakeil Beach, Ardvreck Castle, and the turquoise waters of Achmelvich Bay. End your day in the bustling harbour town of Ullapool.
Day 4: Ullapool to Gairloch
Stop at Corrieshalloch Gorge for a dramatic waterfall and suspension bridge. Visit Inverewe Garden and relax on Big Sand Beach.
Day 5: Gairloch to Applecross (West Coast)
Drive the legendary Bealach na Bร pass (not for nervous drivers or large motorhomes!). Soak up the views and enjoy a meal at the Applecross Inn.
Day 6: Applecross to Torridon
Explore the wild Torridon mountains, perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting. Consider a detour to the charming village of Plockton.
Day 7: Torridon to Inverness
Wind your way back to Inverness, perhaps with a final stop on the Black Isle to celebrate your adventure.
Ready to Hit the Road?
The North Coast 500 is more than just a road trip-itโs a true adventure through some of Scotlandโs most awe-inspiring landscapes. Whether youโre seeking solitude, outdoor thrills, or charming Highland hospitality, the NC500 delivers in spades. So fuel up, pack your camera, and get ready for the journey of a lifetime!