Business members please sign in here to access your membership benefits.
BUSINESS SIGN INAs you journey across the North Coast 500, you may wish to set up base in multiple locations around the route, spending two or three nights exploring each area.
Nestled between mountain and sea, is the official start and end of your North Coast 500 adventure!
Start your journey in the “Capital of the Highlands” – from food and drink to culture, events, history and heritage, Inverness offers more than its size would suggest!
Start off by taking a stroll along the River Ness, passing Inverness Cathedral, Inverness Castle and folk fishing for salmon and trout. After about a mile and a half you’ll reach the idyllic Ness Islands – a group of natural islands connected by suspension bridges and a real hidden gem.
Visit the Victorian Market next and browse traditional tartan crafters, artisan chocolatiers, art spaces and more. You can treat yourself or take something back for your loved ones.
Spend the remainder of your afternoon exploring the capital of the Highlands, choose between:
Brimming with history, visit the powerfully emotive and atmospheric Culloden Battlefield. Travel back in time and walk the front lines where the Jacobites made their final stand against government troops. You can even experience the battle, in the visitor centre’s very own immersion cinema, as well as admiring the many Jacobite artefacts, including Bonnie Prince Charlie’s letters, weapons, clothing, miniatures and coins display.
If you would rather see dolphins up close – take the ultimate wildlife watching adventure with EcoVentures.
Located at the heart of the Moray Firth, EcoVentures are truly fortunate to have such a variety of wildlife on their doorstep. The most famous being the resident colony of Bottlenose Dolphins. Enjoy the unique thrill of exploring these waters aboard their custom built wildlife watching RIB, located in Cromarty, on the Black Isle.
Enjoy a more leisurely start to your NC500 travels with a spot of Afternoon Tea at the Kingsmills Hotel.
For tonight’s accommodation and evening meal, please choose from the following options:
Escape the ordinary! Achnagairn Estate is located 20 minutes from Inverness and situated a mile off the main NC500 route- it is the perfect start and ending point of your NC500 journey. Simply book an individual room in one of their ‘Mini Manors’ or if you are travelling as a group, hire an entire lodge.
Each lodge has its own large kitchen, making the self-catering experience stress free!If you are a group – why not hire your own private chef or dine in their onsite restaurant Table Manors, less than a minutes walk from your 5 star accommodation? Each bedroom has been individually designed, to create the boutique feel of Achnagairn Estate.
Their restaurant has recently been awarded Two Rosettes from the AA and 2018 Restaurant of the Year in the Highlands and Islands Food and Drink Awards.
If you wish to stay in Inverness – we recommend the following hotels:
If you would prefer an apartment, look no further than:
Travelling from the east coast?
Prefer to ‘Glamp’? Stay at ACE Adventures & Hideaways in the remote Findhorn Valley, forty five minutes from Inverness in their luxury Shepherd’s Hut or Bell Tent.
(ACE Adventures & Hideaways are one of the best outdoor specialists in the UK – offering the best white water rafting in the UK + canoeing, kayaking, river tubing, disc golf and cliff jumping)
Follow the NC500 through the villages of Beauly and Muir of Ord where you can receive a private tour at Glen Ord Distillery – one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland. Watch their distillers at work as they create a magical malt whisky which is sweet, fruity and subtly spicy on the palate. If you are the designated driver? Don’t worry, you can bring a sample back to enjoy later.
En route to Dornoch now you will drive past the Cromarty Firth (a narrow inlet of the sea), a great spot to watch seals bask on the rocks along the shoreline and a superb location to stop for lunch.
The Storehouse of Foulis Ferry on the shores of the Cromarty Firth has been described by locals as “our worst best secret” – eat where the locals (and visitors) eat and enjoy quality locally produced food in their self-service restaurant. Browse their shop for gifts and local delicacies.
Drop your bags at your accommodation provider and spend your afternoon exploring the charming, historic towns and fishing villages along the east coast.
Discover the small fishing village of Portmahomack – the village in fact benefits from its own micro climate and is one of the driest places in Scotland. Unearth the east coast’s pictish past – join the Pictish Trail and discover the stories behind the Pictish times. Otherwise pop into Tarbat Discovery Centre – a local heritage museum and the only Pictish monastic site found in Scotland to date -‘The Iona of the East’.
Alternatively, take a tour of Glenmorangie Distillery and join them back at their luxury accommodation, Glenmorangie House for a dinner party style service, where guests come together for pre-dinner cocktails and canapés before heading through to their Dining Room to enjoy a bespoke four course menu.
Head along to Glenmorangie House and Restaraunt…Glenmorangie’ is Gaelic for ‘The Glen of Tranquility’ – not a real place, but a feeling. A feeling you’ll experience at Glenmorangie House. Elegant, luxurious and full of Scottish character, the house draws you in with the warmth of a Highland welcome. So, kick off your shoes, sample their delicious food and choose your favourite room in the hotel or one of their self-catering properties. Imagine relaxing with Glenmorangie’s finest single malt whisky in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
You may also want to combine a whisky and cheese pairing or cooking sensory experience!
(Glenmorangie House is located near Tain and can be booked in its entirety for the exclusive use of you and your guests.)
Before you continue up the east coast, explore the charming historic town of Dornoch. The town boasts world class golf, white sandy beaches, hill walking, fishing.. you name it – Dornoch has it all! Even Madonna has visited!
Escape the high street brands and enjoy a unique, luxurious shopping experience in Dornoch! The converted Jail Dornoch has an extensive range of high end products. If you wish to spend the night in Dornoch, you might want to stop for some afternoon tea at Links House in the afternoon?
Dornoch also boasts stunning scenery, golden beaches and championship golf courses – golfers come from across the world!
Continue on to Dunrobin Castle and grab a bite to eat in their popular tearoom – you can sample their soup, sandwiches and home baking. Alternatively, if you are looking for something more formal then why not stop for some delicious local fayre at The Royal Marine Hotel in Brora, serving only the finest and freshest local produce to give you flavour filled dishes, including seafood and 28-day hung beef, supplied from the nearby town of Golspie.
Spend some time exploring the village’s independent shops and walks before visiting the most northerly of Scotland’s great houses – Dunrobin Castle.
Dunrobin Castle is also one of Britain’s oldest continuously inhabited houses dating back to the early 1300s, home to the Earls and later, the Dukes of Sutherland.The earliest part of the building dates from around 1275. You can take a self-guided tour through the state rooms on the first floor before exploring some of the smaller rooms in the older parts of the castle.
Visitors are also able to visit their formal garden and Victorian museum and enjoy displays of the ancient art of falconry on the lawn.
For those interested in history, Timespan Heritage Centre tells the local and social history of their parish and people through a tapestry of local stories, historical objects, archival images, mythology and interactive displays. Besides the History Museum, the Centre also has a shop, a café and even a bakery where you can try some delicious homemade bread. The Timespan Heritage Centre is well worth a visit for any history buffs out there.
Choose between:
After a scrumptious night’s stay in a stunning location, spend the day exploring the north coast, with so much to do in the county – you may want to extend your stay!
Begin your morning exploring John o’Groats…Remember your obligatory photo of the iconic “Journey’s End” signpost, probably one of the most photographed sign posts in the world!
A few miles east of John O’ Groats you will find Duncansby Head, the single track road emerges at the light house and your attention is first drawn to the unparalleled views north to Orkney and west to Dunnet Head before capturing the two spectacular sea stacks, with the greatest stack towering at 60m high. To get a better view, take the rather blustery coastline walk.
The Castle of Mey is the most northerly castle on mainland Britain and is afforded beautiful views across the Pentland Firth to Orkney. Once the home of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother it is now run by The Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust. The Castle of Mey is a five star visitor attraction and holds Gold accreditation for Green Tourism. Enjoy the walled garden, take a stroll around the Animal Centre and then peruse the well-stocked Castle Shop for wonderful gifts.
Heard of the famous Rock Rose Gin or Holy Grass Vodka? If you have a keen interest in premium Scottish spirits or locally made goodies, get yourself along to Dunnet Bay Distillery. Come and meet Elizabeth, their traditional copper pot still – take a tour of the gardens and receive a private tour of their multi-award winning products.
(Designated driver? samples can be brought back and enjoyed at your hotel).
From John o’Groats head west to Dunnet Head -the most northerly point of mainland Britain! It’s dramatic and untamed landscape, with impressive sea cliffs and coastal grasslands are home to a variety of bird life, including puffins, razorbills, guillemots, fulmars and kittiwakes during the spring and summer months. Between April and August, join RSPB for a seasonal guided walk every Thursday (between 2-3pm – no booking required) to search for puffins and other birds nesting in the seabird cities! Historically Dunnet Head also has significant World War II importance, see if you can spot the remains of old military buildings.
Caithness Seacoast in Wick offer exhilarating boat trips around the north east Caithness Coastline. Join fellow visitors or opt for their VIP private charter, you can travel with friends or family and choose your own destination (as long as its within their operating range) or opt for when one of their ‘North’ or ‘South’ route. Their boat can take up to twelve passengers in comfort, tailoring it to your individuals requirements. All you need is warm clothing and a sense of adventure.
Beaches,beaches…. and …..more beaches!!
Take your pick from a dazzling array of beaches along the northern tip of Scotland. Take a walk along golden sands, often having an entire beach to yourself.
….and the list doesn’t stop there! Check out our Top Beaches article for more inspiration for your NC500 travels!
Back on the North Coast 500 now, you will pass through some amazing scenery of Ben Loyal, Ben Hope and Loch Eriboll. Be careful whist driving as our friendly sheep and Highland Coo’s tend to like walking the road too.
Indulge in sensuous luxury at the very heart of wilderness with our recommended properties:
Smoo Lodge offers a premium stylish night stay in the rugged far north-west corner of the Scottish Highlands. Enjoy uninterrupted views of the sea loch and mountains. For your evening meal, Korean/Japanese influenced cuisine is on offer – using fresh locally grown produce and seafood where possible. Evening meals must be pre-booked (subject to minimum numbers)
If you prefer to stop at Tongue instead, the former sporting lodge of Tongue Hotel promises to deliver… a taste of Scotland! Overlooking the beautiful Kyle, the mighty Ben Loyal and Ben Hope, the hotels offers visitors a a glimpse of its glamorous past and reflects a bygone era. Perfectly located for those wishing to to hill walk, stalk or fish!
Approx 40 minutes from Durness lies the village of Scourie. Scourie Lodge overlooks Scourie Bay on the North West coast of Scotland, with three large en-suite rooms and a restaurant. This historic house and its beautiful walled garden provide a spacious and peaceful place to stay.
Take this morning at a more leisurely pace, relax and enjoy a hearty Highland breakfast taking in the breathtaking coastal views. If you stayed at Smoo Lodge, they offer a fresh continental breakfast buffet with fresh fruit, as well as cooked dishes including Porridge, Full Scottish breakfast, Korean breakfast, Smoked Salmon, Smoked Haddock, Marinated Herring, etc.
Spend the morning exploring Balnakeil Bay and admiring the sights of Sango Sands. On the eastern edge of Durness, you will find one of Britain’s largest sea caves! Set into the limestone cliffs is Smoo Cave – a popular and unique attraction for the small hamlet. The cave was formed over many thousands of years. The internal chamber has been formed by the action of fresh water rivers which flows through it today. Learn all about the history of the cave with a short 20 minute cave tour.
Balnakeil Craft Village has a fascinating history having being converted in the 1970s from an austere disused military camp to a creative community of artists and crafts people. Here you will find Cocoa Mountain – chocoholic’s heaven!
Leaving from the picturesque fishing hamlet of Kylesku (approx. 50 minutes from Durness), North Coast Sea Tours provide guided coastal boat tours to uninhabited islands, offering you the chance to see wildlife in their natural environment. Why not explore the coastline of Handa Island with their ‘Stacks and Sea Birds Adventure’? During May and July you can watch nesting seabirds on some of the UK’s highest and most spectacular sea stacks. Taking in The Old Man of Stoer, the Islands of Handa and Oldany. Alternatively, you may wish to explore Cape Wrath. For more tours, check out their website.
Kylesku Hotel near the Kylesku bridge have a passion for food, especially seafood! They are very fortunate to have such a rich larder on their doorstep..you may even see fishing boats landing near the entrance to the hotel. They have recently received a number of awards for their food so make sure to stop in for a bite to eat
If you are an experienced driver and enjoy a challenge, take the very remote and extremely narrow B869 to Lochinver, situated just outside of Unapool. You will encounter 22 miles of single track roads, steep hills and unexpected hairpin bends. You will experience some of the west’s most spectacular white sandy beaches and turquoise waters..
Remember to allow for over taking and lookout for farm life and wildlife who also share these roads.Alternatively if you prefer a less challenging route then follow the A894 road until you reach the junction to Lochinver (A837).
Assynt Aromas is nestled in the tiny picture postcard hamlet of Drumbeg, halfway along the spectacular B869 coastal road. Hidden from view, take a look out of the back door of their Candle Shop and you will discover their Secret Tea Garden. You can relax with a delicious slice of cake, scone or freshly made sandwiches, a cup of fresh roasted coffee, tea or choice of herbal teas. Discover their beautiful evocative scented Candles, luxurious organic body care, and natural artisan soaps. An exclusive range you won’t find on the high street!
The light in this area of the world is out of this world! It changes as quickly as the weather! Spend the afternoon capturing the sweeping vistas and enchanting natural scenery of Sutherland. It can change so dramatically within a matter of hours, from dark clouds to breathtaking pink sunsets!
After arriving in Lochinver, stop by Peet’s Restaurant for some delicious Scottish food. Peet’s is a locally owned lunch and dinner spot, serving freshly caught seafood and lots of dishes the locals love. Peet’s also has a fully stocked bar with a great wine list and Scottish beers on draught which is perfect if you’re looking to quench your thirst after a busy day of exploring.
For tonight’s accommodation, sit back and relax at Caisteal Liath Chalets. The holiday chalets are situated in well kept grounds on the northern side of Lochinver bay with stunning views of the sea-loch and majestic mountain range. Each cabin is very well appointed, comfortably furnished and well equipped with all modern conveniences to make this a perfect ‘home from home’. Each chalet has a private balcony with garden furniture and some have a Jacuzzi hot tub where you can just simply relax taking in the highland air and admire the magnificent scenery.
You don’t need to be a geologist to notice the fantastic landscape on the north west coast! Did you know you are in fact travelling through a large portion of the North West Highland Geopark?
You have no doubt already been blown away by the wild and rugged landscape that makes up the north coast! These stunning mountain landscapes, rocky bays, coastal cliffs, waterfalls and pristine white sandy beaches are special. This area has been a key site for geological research for many years! At 3,000 million years old, the rocks at the seashore are even older than the hills – they are among the oldest rocks in Britain! And..where else can you experience a skyline that compares to the ridges of Foinaven and Arkle, or classic hills like Suilven or Stac Pollaidh? In places like this it’s not just the eagles or the peregrines that soar. This is the most sparsely populated corner of Europe. So set yourself free in a place with space to spare with our following recommendations:
The North West Highlands of Scotland offers some of the most stunning and dramatic mountain scenery anywhere in the UK. Spend a day or a couple days in the area and explore the rugged Highland mountains with Hamlet Mountaineering, who provide quality mountain guiding, scrambling and rock climbing experiences, tailor made to suit your experience level and ability. Why not follow in the footsteps of Sheila Hancock and walk up the mighty Suilven Moutain, as witnessed in the film Edie?
Alternatively, explore the inland Lochs around the Inverpollaidh and Assynt area by canoe or explore the north west coast by sea kayak with Kayak Summer Isles!
Stalking and Fishing
Take advantage of the world class salmon and trout fishing available in Assynt, as well as deer stalking!
Explore the Geopark’s Rock Route or Pebble Routes
The Geopark have created some trails to make it easier for you to explore the area by vehicle and on foot Their Rock Route begins at Loch Eribol, outside Durness and guides you to great views and panels explaining the stories behind the jaw-dropping scenery. If you wish to explore the lesser travelled roads of the Geopark – take one of their six self-guided pebble trails, that can be downloaded or purchased from their website or cafe at the Rock Stop. The pebble routes take in quaint communities and hidden gems including film worthy mountains (for example Edie), the most remote beaches in the UK, and a hamlet that holds the record for Britain’s coldest temperature at a freezing -27C
Here are some of our favourite Rock Route stop offs to experience:
Before reaching the small fishing village of Ullapool, enjoy a browse of Rhue Art Gallery, the studio celebrates diverse, contemporary art by established and emerging artists whose work encompasses painting, film-making, prints, photography, textiles and sculpture. Those who live and work in the area cannot help but have their work influenced by the environment around them.
Why not continue on to Badachro…
Located on the sea shore, in the heart of the Highlands, in a village with its own sheltered bay… Badachro Inn is the place to relax and recharge. Enjoy a meal and a drink in the Inn garden looking out on Badachro Bay and the nearby working jetty, or come inside for the best in Highland hospitality in front of a roaring fire.
Shieldaig Lodge– nestled next to Shieldaig Bay, the refurbished Victorian hunting lodge is set in a 26,000 acre estate, a short distance from the village of Gairloch. The lodge retains the warm and welcoming atmosphere of its original 19th century origins, with each of their 12 boutique bedrooms being beautifully restored and quietly sophisticated and furnished with antiques and cosy touches!
It’s enchanting waterside views, cosy log fires, snug lounges and vast whisky and gin collection makes it the perfect base to explore – you will experience Scottish hospitality at its finest. Whether it’s a luxury romantic getaway, a country sporting weekend or a foodie tasting experience – Shieldaig Lodge has it all:
Plus you can enjoy Pony Trekking along Red Point Beach, an unforgettable flying experience at the Falconry Centre, Canoeing and Kayaking, cycling and fishing- check out their website for more details (non-residents welcome for evening meals & experiences).
Alternatively, you could stay at the cosy Rose Cottage. It’s hard to imagine a more idyllic location, set on the edge of the sea with the Torridon hills as a magnificent backdrop. The cottage is full of traditional charm, but with all the modern touches to make your stay easy and comfortable.
Spend the morning discovering the charming village of Gairloch, take a morning stroll around the picturesque village and explore the gift shops and sandy bays. There are a variety of walking opportunities from gentle strolls along Flowerdale and Big Sands Beach to the Fairy Lochs near Badachro. You can explore Gairloch’s earliest settlers to the twentieth century engineering marvels at Gairloch Heritage Museum before venturing out of the village towards Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve, 20 miles south of Gairloch – the reserve has a variety of walking trails and the visitor centre is located on the shores of Loch Maree.
Before you take the road to Torridon from Kinlochewe, you might want to drive approx 1.5 miles towards Achnasheen and experience the iconic view that is famously associated with the North Coast 500 – perhaps you will recognise it! The ‘Glen Docherty View Point’ looks down Glen Docherty to the stunning Loch Maree.
Check into The Torridon Hotel. Once checked in make yourself comfortable, perhaps a spot of lunch!Enjoy a full day or half day with their ‘Torridon Outdoors’. You will receive complimentary use of their activities when you stay at the Hotel and they have an extensive list of activities to choose, from: archery, clay pigeon shooting, guided walks, coasteering, gorge scrambling, canoeing and more, there is something for everyone! (Remember to pre book and check out their daily activity programme, should you wish to book an activity outside of this programme please see their bespoke activity prices for more information)
On the other hand, maybe you would prefer a relaxed afternoon with a walk around the grounds, set in 58 acres of parkland at the end of a spectacular sea loch – the Torridon has one of the most stunning and idyllic settings in the country. The resort offers something for everyone.
Enjoy an exquisite fine dining cuisine in Torridon’s AA 3 rosette 1887 restaurant where they offer daily changing menus, which reflect the consistent excellence of their dishes, local ingredients and wine selection. Why not treat yourself and a loved one to the ultimate dining experience with their tasting menu? The head chef is always happy to show guests around the farm, before you dine, to give them a deeper understanding.
Travel to Inverness via the stunning and atmospheric Applecross peninsula. The peninsula projects westwards from the mainland towards the Isle of Skye and Rasaay – creating the impression that you are at the ‘edge of the world’! Applecross is the name for the whole peninsula and community and is made up of various crofting townships – the area around Applecross is believed to be one of the earliest settled parts of Scotland. The Gaelic name for the area is ‘a Chomraich’, meaning ‘The Sanctuary’ and you will understand why!
As you may have realised by now, we are a country of proud food and drink heritage so be sure to visit the family run Applecross Smokehouse, situated in one of magnificent crofting townships, overlooking Loch Torridon and the Torridon Mountains.. Why not order some local smoked fish or cheese to be delivered on your return home and enjoy, while you reminisce on your travels along the NC500?
As you leave the picturesque village of Applecross, you will find yourself at the spectacular Bealach na Bà, Gaelic for ‘Pass of the Cattle’. The route is an unforgettable drive along one of the most dramatic mountain roads on mainland UK, rising up to 626 metres (2,054ft) above sea level; the third highest road in Scotland- you’ll see the kind of views normally reserved only for mountaineers.
The Kishorn Seafood Bar is a “seafood Highland gem”! Scottish seafood served in a spectacular coastal setting.
Why not spend your last afternoon exploring some of the lesser known hidden gems?
As you venture out of Lochcarron, take the turning towards Strathcarron to Attadale Gardens? The beautiful, tranquil gardens are set in a stunning natural setting with an imaginative creation of different environments! Indulge in some scrumptious cake and tea in the drawing room after a VIP tour of the gardens or you may opt for a two course meal! (please book in advance)
As you return to Beauly and if you have time, enjoy the short detour to Glen Affric- it is a photographer’s paradise! Strathglass, situated in the North West Highlands has long been recognised as one of the most scenic areas of Scotland. Glen Affric is a National Nature Reserve often described as the most beautiful of all the Scottish glens.
If you would like to extend your stay by a few nights in Applecross, A Brilliant Find is the ideal perch to take some time out! The luxurious coastal accommodation is located just two miles from the spectacular Bealach na Ba winding road. A delicious three course homemade dinner will be served to you in the open-plan dining and living area. You get to eat, drink and stay in the same location which means you can completely relax after a busy week exploring the North Highlands.
Looking to Hire a Vehicle?Whether you need a compact car, an off-roader or something to keep the whole family comfortable, Arnold Clark in Inverness offer an unrivalled range of vehicles to take on every terrain.
Alternatively you could use our Interactive Map to search for classic car, 4×4, motorcycle or motorhome and campervan hire.
Road Safety
When you are on this wonderful touring route, you will be sharing it with the people whose lives and livelihoods depend on the roads in and around the NC500, as well as your fellow travellers from all over the world, so make sure you know how to drive and ride responsibly, safely and respectfully, and remember to leave the countryside as you would all wish to find it – leave no trace of your visit!
Please read our Road Safety advice and visit our Top Tips section for other useful advice to help you plan your trip.
With Caledonian Sleeper, you get to say goodnight to queuing in traffic, and wake up to something different while you travel to Scotland. Allow yourself to unwind from the stress of everyday life as you snooze your way through the night. After a comfortable night’s sleep wake up in the very heart of the Highlands feeling refreshed and ready to make the very most of your adventure.
All our itineraries are based on suggestions alone. If you would like a more comprehensive option please head to our interactive map. Itineraries are based on main seasonality opening times from March to September – remember to pre book meals/activities/tours.
Set up base
While many NC500 travellers spend one night in a handful of different locations as they travel the route, a large proportion of visitors opt to set up base in a number of locations around the route – spending a few nights in each place and getting to know the different regions that make up the route.
Guided tours
Explore the North Coast 500 with bespoke guided tours from North Coast Explorer.
