Scenic European Routes

Scotland's North Coast 500 has rapidly earned its reputation as one of Europe's most spectacular driving routes since its official launch in 2015. Often compared to America's Route 66, this 516-mile (830 km) circular route showcases the raw, untamed beauty of the Scottish Highlands, weaving through ancient castles, pristine beaches, rugged mountains, and remote fishing villages. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable journey along Scotland's answer to the great road trips of the world.

What Is the North Coast 500?

The North Coast 500 (NC500) is a circular touring route that begins and ends at Inverness Castle. It follows the coastal roads around the northern tip of Scotland, traversing the counties of Inverness-shire, Ross and Cromarty, Sutherland, and Caithness. While the route can be driven in as little as 3-4 days, most travelers allow 5-7 days to fully appreciate the breathtaking landscapes and numerous attractions along the way.

The concept was developed by the North Highland Initiative, established by Prince Charles to promote economic growth in the northern Highlands. In just a few years, it has transformed tourism in the region, bringing visitors to areas that were previously overlooked by mainstream tourism.

The Route: Section by Section

Inverness to the Black Isle and Easter Ross

Departing from Inverness, Scotland's Highland capital, the route first takes you across the Moray Firth to the Black Isle—which, despite its name, is neither black nor an island. This fertile peninsula is known for its wildlife, particularly the resident bottlenose dolphins that can be spotted from Chanonry Point near Fortrose.

Highlights of this section:

• Dolphin watching at Chanonry Point: One of the best places in Europe to view dolphins from shore, especially on a rising tide.
• Black Isle Brewery: Scotland's only organic brewery offers tours and tastings of their award-winning craft beers.
• Cromarty: A beautifully preserved 18th-century town with Georgian merchant houses, artisan shops, and excellent seafood restaurants.

As you continue north, the route passes through Easter Ross with its picturesque fishing villages such as Portmahomack and Tain, home to the famous Glenmorangie whisky distillery.

The Northeast Coast: Caithness and John O'Groats

The northeastern section of the NC500 takes you through Caithness, a region characterized by open farmland, dramatic cliff scenery, and remarkable coastal castles. The landscape here feels distinctly different from the rugged mountains of the west coast, with wide-open skies and sweeping vistas.

Don't miss:

• Dunrobin Castle: The fairy-tale spires of this stately home make it one of Scotland's most distinctive castles. The formal gardens are inspired by Versailles.
• Whaligoe Steps: A hidden gem where 365 stone steps descend dramatically to a natural harbor between towering cliffs.
• Castle Sinclair Girnigoe: Perched dramatically on a cliff near Wick, these atmospheric ruins combine two castles from different periods.
• John O'Groats: While often wrongly cited as Britain's northernmost point (that's actually Dunnet Head), this famous landmark is worth a stop for the iconic signpost.

The North Coast: Wilderness and White Sands

As you turn westward along Scotland's north coast, the landscape becomes increasingly wild and remote. This section features some of the route's most spectacular beaches with powder-white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters that could easily be mistaken for the Caribbean—until you dip a toe in the chilly North Sea or Atlantic Ocean!

Highlights along the north coast:

• Dunnet Bay: A two-mile stretch of pristine beach backed by dunes and wildflowers.
• Smoo Cave: Near Durness, this impressive sea cave features a waterfall within its chambers and can be explored partly on foot and partly by small boat.
• Cape Wrath: The most northwesterly point of mainland Britain is accessible only by ferry and minibus, offering dramatic cliff scenery and a historic lighthouse.
• Sandwood Bay: For the adventurous, a four-mile hike leads to this remote and stunning beach, often cited as Scotland's most beautiful.

This section of the route is the most remote, with limited facilities. Plan your fuel stops carefully and book accommodation well in advance, especially during summer months.

The West Coast: Mountains, Lochs, and Dramatic Landscapes

The western portion of the NC500 delivers the quintessential Highland scenery that most visitors dream of: towering mountains, deep lochs, and dramatic passes. The road here becomes more challenging but also more rewarding, with hairpin bends, single-track sections, and breathtaking vistas around every corner.

Must-see locations:

• Kylesku Bridge: This elegantly curved bridge spans Loch a' Chàirn Bhàin in a stunning setting.
• Ardvreck Castle: The atmospheric ruins of this 16th-century castle sit on a rocky promontory jutting into Loch Assynt.
• Corrieshalloch Gorge: A spectacular box canyon with a suspended walkway offering vertigo-inducing views of the Falls of Measach.
• Inverewe Garden: This unlikely subtropical garden, created in a sheltered bay warmed by the Gulf Stream, showcases plants from around the world that shouldn't logically thrive this far north.

The road through this region includes the famous Bealach na Bà (Pass of the Cattle) to Applecross—a twisting single-track road with hairpin bends that climbs to 626 meters, offering spectacular views across to the Isle of Skye.

Practical Travel Tips

Best Time to Drive the NC500

The ideal season to experience the North Coast 500 is from May to September when daylight hours are longest (up to 18 hours in midsummer) and weather conditions are generally more favorable. Each season offers its own advantages:

• May and June: Longer daylight, spring wildflowers, and fewer midges (Scotland's notorious tiny biting insects).
• July and August: Warmest temperatures but also peak tourist season with busier roads and higher accommodation prices.
• September: Beautiful autumn colors, fewer tourists, but shorter days.
• October to April: Quietest period with the chance of seeing the Northern Lights, but many attractions and accommodation options close for winter, and snow can affect mountain roads.

Weather Consideration: Regardless of when you visit, pack for all weather conditions. The Scottish Highlands are known for experiencing "four seasons in one day," and conditions can change rapidly.

Driving Advice for the NC500

The North Coast 500 includes everything from modern dual carriageways to challenging single-track roads with passing places. Here's what you need to know:

• Single-track road etiquette: Much of the route consists of single-track roads with designated passing places. Pull into these passing places to allow faster vehicles to overtake or to let oncoming traffic pass. Never park in passing places.
• Livestock encounters: Free-roaming sheep and Highland cattle are common, particularly in the west. Drive slowly and be prepared to stop.
• Fuel planning: Petrol stations are limited in the more remote sections. As a rule, never let your tank drop below half-full. Some stations may close early or have limited hours, especially on Sundays.
• Vehicle recommendations: While the NC500 can be driven in any vehicle, including campervans and motorcycles, a car with good ground clearance is advantageous for some of the rougher sections and narrow bridges.

Driving Direction: The route can be driven clockwise or counterclockwise. Clockwise (heading up the east coast first) saves the most dramatic scenery for later in the trip, while counterclockwise means you'll tackle the challenging Bealach na Bà early in your journey.

Accommodation Options

The surge in popularity of the NC500 has led to increased accommodation options, but advance booking remains essential, especially between May and September. Consider these options:

• Historic Hotels: Grand establishments like the Royal Golf Hotel in Dornoch or the Kylesku Hotel offer traditional Highland hospitality.
• B&Bs and Guesthouses: Numerous family-run establishments provide comfortable rooms and hearty Scottish breakfasts.
• Self-catering cottages: Ideal for longer stays, these offer flexibility and often spectacular locations.
• Camping and glamping: For the budget-conscious or those seeking closer communion with nature, campgrounds and glamping pods are available along the route.

Booking Tip: Many accommodations offer discounts for stays of two nights or more, which can be a good option if you want to explore an area in depth rather than moving every night.

Cultural Experiences Along the Route

Castles and Historic Sites

The NC500 region is steeped in history, from prehistoric standing stones to medieval castles and Victorian stately homes. Don't miss:

• Dunrobin Castle: The seat of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland, with distinctive French-inspired architecture.
• Castle of Mey: The former holiday home of the Queen Mother, who saved it from abandonment in the 1950s.
• Ardvreck Castle: The romantic ruins on Loch Assynt are associated with numerous legends and ghostly tales.
• Pictish Stones: Throughout Easter Ross and Caithness, these carved stones provide a glimpse into Scotland's ancient past.

Whisky Distilleries

No Scottish road trip would be complete without sampling the national drink. The NC500 region includes several notable distilleries:

• Glenmorangie: Near Tain, known for its distinctive tall stills and elegant, complex whiskies.
• Old Pulteney: In Wick, producing maritime malts influenced by their coastal location.
• Clynelish: Near Brora, famous for its waxy, complex character and connection to the legendary lost distillery of Brora.
• Balblair: One of Scotland's oldest distilleries, producing vintage-dated expressions.

Most distilleries offer tours and tastings, but book in advance and always have a designated driver or use local taxi services.

Wildlife Watching Opportunities

The diverse habitats along the NC500 support an incredible range of wildlife:

• Marine life: Dolphins, seals, and occasionally orcas can be spotted from coastal viewpoints. The Scottish Wildlife Trust's Dolphin Centre at North Kessock offers guided watching.
• Birdlife: Puffins, gannets, eagles, and numerous seabirds inhabit the coastal cliffs. The RSPB reserve at Dunnet Head is particularly good for seabird colonies.
• Highland wildlife: Red deer are common in the mountains, while pine martens, otters, and wildcats are more elusive but present throughout the region.

Wildlife Watching Tip: Early morning and dusk are the best times for wildlife spotting. Bring binoculars and maintain a respectful distance from all wild animals.

Gastronomic Highlights

The food scene along the NC500 has flourished in recent years, with an emphasis on local, seasonal produce:

• Seafood: From simple harbor-side shacks serving fresh lobster to fine dining restaurants, seafood is a highlight. Look for langoustines, scallops, crab, and salmon.
• Highland beef: The distinctive Highland cattle produce exceptional beef, often raised on small family farms.
• Game: Venison, pheasant, and grouse feature on many menus, particularly in autumn and winter.
• Craft beverages: Beyond whisky, look for local craft beers, gins (often featuring Highland botanicals), and even wines from Scotland's most northerly vineyard.

Must-Try Eateries:

• The Torridon: Award-winning fine dining using ingredients from their kitchen garden and farm.
• Kylesku Hotel: Renowned for exceptional seafood landed at their doorstep.
• Cocoa Mountain in Durness: Artisan chocolates and hot chocolate in one of Britain's most remote locations.
• The Seafood Shack in Ullapool: Simple, fresh seafood served from a blue and white shack to takeaway or eat at outdoor tables.

Responsible Tourism on the NC500

The surge in popularity of the North Coast 500 has brought economic benefits but also challenges to local communities and fragile environments. Practice responsible tourism by:

• Following the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which emphasizes responsible behavior in the countryside.
• Using designated camping areas rather than wild camping in popular spots that may suffer from overuse.
• Supporting local businesses by shopping in village stores and eating at local establishments.
• Driving considerately, especially on single-track roads, and being patient with agricultural vehicles and local traffic.
• Taking all litter with you and leaving no trace of your visit.

By traveling responsibly, you'll help ensure that the North Coast 500 remains a sustainable destination that balances tourism with community needs and environmental protection.

Conclusion: Scotland's Ultimate Road Trip

The North Coast 500 delivers everything a great road trip should: breathtaking scenery, cultural discoveries, culinary adventures, and the sense of journey through a landscape that changes dramatically from mile to mile. Whether you're drawn by the romance of ancient castles, the challenge of winding mountain roads, the tranquility of deserted beaches, or the warmth of Highland hospitality, the NC500 offers experiences that will linger in your memory long after you've completed the circuit.

This 516-mile route may be modest in distance compared to some of the world's famous road trips, but what it lacks in length, it more than makes up for in depth of experience. Take your time, venture off the main route to discover hidden gems, and embrace the spirit of exploration that the Scottish Highlands have inspired for centuries.

Slàinte mhath! (To your good health!) – and happy travels on Scotland's epic North Coast 500.