Reasons to return to the North Coast 500!
Have you already driven the North Coast 500, and thought about returning? Hopefully we won’t need to work too hard to convince you to come back to our beautiful wee region!
Everyone who drives or cycles the route will have their own reasons for doing so – but if you ask us, there’s always a reason to return as well. If you’ve travelled the NC500 already but ran out of time to see and do everything that was on your itinerary, why not return and enjoy the route at an even slower rate? You’ll see even more, and savour the experience as you journey through the North Highlands.
Struggling for inspiration? If you’ve been there, done that and bought the t-shirt, and need some inspiration to make a return journey, read on…
1. Why not return and explore your favourite region?
What were your favourite areas on the North Coast 500 route the first time around? Whether you stay a weekend or week, it’s entirely up to you – but remember the places that were particularly important to you, and plan to return and explore these areas in more depth. Check out our interactive map – we have a variety of B&Bs, self-catering accommodation, guest houses, bunkhouses and hotels to choose from! Whichever accommodation type you choose, you’ll receive discounted rates along the whole route with our range of NC500 memberships, too.
Photos: Fairy Glen: Rosemarkie (The Black Isle) and Portmahomack by Andrew Dowsett Photography, Duncansby Stacks: Caithness by Wander In Two, Sandwood Bay: near Kinlochbervie By Saoghal_fasach
2. Take an alternative method of transport
Cycled the NC500? Take the car next time! Or if you’ve already driven the route, why not return and experience the North Highlands in a campervan, or gather your mates and the motorbikes and head out on the road? Whether you’re on two wheels, four, or even more, check out our online itineraries for inspiration – we even have dedicated camping and cycling itineraries. Our new Clan Membership is the perfect travel tool for planning your trip with friends!
Photos: Haggis Tours, Ticket to Ride, Highland Supercars, Highland Campervans
3. A luxury trip around the North Coast 500
Treat your other half to a luxury tour around the North Coast 500. Choose between castles, remote highland lodges, luxury hotels and bunkhouses, glamping pods and high- end self -catered accommodation. Enjoy fine dining and VIP experiences, from a personal guided tour of Attadale Gardens, to champagne at the Queen Mother’s favourite getaway at the Castle of Mey. If Scotland’s national drink is your game, indulge in a VIP distillery tour or have a go at blending your own whisky at Shieldaig Lodge Hotel.
Photos: Inver Lodge Hotel: Lochinver, Rocpool Reserve: Inverness, Blervie House, Forres, Auld Post Office B&B, Caithness
For access to even more VIP experiences, check out our luxury itinerary for even more inspiration.
4. Take the family on a camping trip!
Our campsites boast the most amazing views – so once you’ve reached your base, switch off and immerse yourself in the great outdoors. If a week in a tent sounds like a long haul, consider switching things up and trying a Glamping pod, bell tent or shepherd’s hut for two or three nights – visit our interactive map to search for Glamping options around the route. Alternatively, you could opt for a Scandinavian bunkhouse – perfect if you’re travelling as a large family or as part of a bigger group. Static caravans also make a great base for a week, too. Check out our camping itinerary for more inspiration. Check out our camping itinerary for inspiration.
For content kids and happy parents, preparation is key! Find out our top tips and recommendations on travelling the NC500 trip with the family here.
Photo: Kylesku Bridge by Stuart Gilles, Hamlet Mountaineering, Liquid Footprints, ACE Adventures & Hideaways
5. Take a city break!
Inverness is the capital of the Highlands, boasting a superb live Scottish traditional music scene as well as an array of delicious eateries and picturesque walks. Second (or third, or fourth…) time visitors to the North Coast 500 will have spent some time in Inverness already, as the city’s famous castle is the official start and end point of the NC500 route, but we’d always recommend taking a couple of days or a long weekend to explore all the city has to offer – trust us, you won’t be disappointed…Book your stay now!
Perhaps one of Scotland’s most famous attractions, Loch Ness, is only a 15 minute drive from the city. While you’re there, jump on a cruise with Jacobite Cruises – you may not find Nessie, but you’re sure to have a wonderful time exploring Inverness and the wonderful countryside that surrounds the capital of the Highlands.
Photos: The Ironworks Music Venue, Wild Pancakes, Jacobite Cruises, Inverness Castle
The Black Isle is also just a five minute drive from Inverness, with miles and miles of countryside and coastline to explore – from wildlife to history, adventure and food and drink, there’s something for everyone! Hire a bike from Ticket to Ride in Inverness and explore the peninsula; discover the famous Black Isle Brewery and find out how they brew their organic beer, take a boat trip with EcoVentures to find the Moray Firth dolphins, or seek them out for yourself at Chanonry Point while you’re exploring the charming village of Fortrose.
We mentioned Inverness’ fantastic live music scene, but no blog post about the city would be complete without a shout out to the Ironworks. Purpose built as a live music venue, the Ironworks’ stage has hosted bands including Kasabian, Runrig and Biffy Clyro. If you’re planning to spend a few days in Inverness, check out gig listings in advance – you might discover a new favourite band while you’re visiting the North Highlands!
6. Looking for a group holiday?
If you travelled the North Coast 500 as a couple the first time, or even solo, we’re counting on you to spread the word! For a return trip, why not gather some friends and head to the North Highlands to experience one of the best road trips in the world? We have an array of self-catered accommodation providers who cater for large groups, so make sure to check them out – you can even hire your own personal chef at Achnagairn’s mini manors! Although this will give you a few nights off from cooking, if you’re the only person in your group who has travelled the North Coast 500 already, then you may need to play tour guide… we’re sure you won’t mind.
Photo: By Jack and Jones
7. Anti-clockwise or clockwise
One of the biggest questions while planning your itinerary – which direction to set off in? If you’ve already driven the route anti-clockwise, return and try it clockwise – or vice versa. You’ll see all those beautiful views you enjoyed so much the first time around from a completely different angle. Plan your trip on the North Coast 500 interactive map.
Photo: Iain Sarjeant, Bealach na Ba
8. Experiences galore!
The North Coast 500 is a gold mine when it comes to unique and unusual experiences, our diverse scenic landscape and history offer something different for every visitor. Visit our ‘See and Do‘ area for inspiration and check out our 2019 ‘top unique experiences not to miss!’.
With some of the best salmon and trout rivers and lochs in the world, why not take a more leisurely break by the water? TroutQuest offers fly fishing experiences for salmon and wild brown trout on numerous rivers and lochs in Ross-shire, as well as guided excursions throughout the North Highlands and along the North Coast 500 route.
TroutQuest can provide GAIC-qualified fly fishing instruction for trout and salmon, fishing experiences for beginners or experienced anglers, as well as specialising in custom ‘Learn to Fly Fish’ and ‘Learn to Salmon Fish’ short breaks. If you’re visiting the area and looking for a day or two of unguided trout or salmon fishing, TroutQuest also offers salmon fishing day permits on the River Alness, and boat hire and trout permits for several local lochs.
Photo: TroutQuest
9. Venture off the beaten path
While the North Coast 500 route is clearly marked on our maps and within the Rough Guide to the North Coast 500, venturing off the beaten path is always a good idea. If you’ve completed the route already and stuck to the famous 516 miles of coastline, come back and explore more of the towns and villages off the main route.
From the Victorian spa village of Strathpeffer, to Alness (the town which won acclaim with numerous Scotland In Bloom awards) to the small fishing villages of the east coast, there’s so much to discover by deviating from the main route. Explore the Pictish trail from Portmahomack or try your hand at gold panning along the Kildonan River- while you explore the interior of the North Coast 500. Discover the North West Highland Geopark and explore the villages of Achiltibuie and Kinlochbervie; at 3,000 million years old, the rocks at the seashore are even older than the hills – and what hills they are!
Photo: Andrew Dowsett Photography, Portmahomack
10. Explore the interior of the route
With a few extra days to explore the North Highlands, don’t forget to travel inland! On quiet, almost deserted roads surrounded by spectacular scenery of mountains, lochs, rivers and glens, you can create a memorable road trip of your very own. The main North Coast 500 route can be easily accessed from several inland points, and most attractions are only a short drive from the coast – many of which can be grouped together for an enjoyable day car tour. If this is your plan, stay more than one night and set up a base. Find out more here.
11. Explore behind hidden doors
The natural beauty of the North Coast 500 landscape provides inspiration for artists and craft makers throughout the North Highlands. You’ll find many art galleries and studios located around the route, so take a moment to stop by and feel inspired. Many venues host events throughout the year, including classes and open studios where visitors are welcome to come along and paint.
Photos: Rhue Art Gallery, North Coast Glass, Castle Gallery, North West Highlands Art
12. Discover the Highland wilderness
Spending time in the great outdoors is one of the best ways to feel ultimately recharged and connected – so you’ll return home feeling like you’ve had a proper holiday, away from daily pressures and stress. Take a canoe exhibition with Tim from Hamlet Mountaineering or Chris from Liquid Footprints– explore the lochs, eat good food and camp at the bottom of Suilven, before climbing it the following day. Tie in a trip to the Isle of Skye with a sea kayaking expedition with Sea Kayak Plockton or connect your mind and body with ACE Adventure & Hideaway’s Adventure Yoga Retreat!
Photo: Hamlet Mountaineering, Suilven
13. Experience the winter wonders of the NC500
What comes to your mind when you think of winter on the North Coast 500? A cosy log fire, Northern Lights, snowy mountains, warming whisky, and a calm stillness that lends itself perfectly to photography… the list could go on and on. Find out all there is to know about winter on the North Coast 500 here.
Photo: Graham Bradshaw Photography: Ceannabeinne beach, Durness
14. Festival fun
Festivals and events are a regular occurrence throughout the North Highlands, particularly during the summer months. Longer, lighter evenings and warmer weather lend perfectly to all sorts of outdoor activities and gatherings. Before travelling the North Coast 500, check whether your trip coincides with any local festivals – from food and drink to traditional Highland games, there really is something for everyone!
Taking place for the first time this year, from 10th-17th May, the Highland Whisky Festival is a must-visit for fans of Scotland’s national drink. Visit eight outstanding distilleries along the North Coast 500 route, sample some of Scotland’s finest single malts, and experience more than 1,000 years of craftsmanship.
If beer is your drink of choice, Black Isle Brewery’s Jocktoberfest brings together beers, bands and brilliant food on the 6th & 7th September. Trust us, it’s more than worth a day trip from Inverness!
Music fans are well catered for in the North Highlands – from the Ironworks, the best music venue in Inverness, to the Lyth Arts Centre in Caithness, Scotland’s most northerly music venue, you’ll find a whole host of events throughout the year. Be sure to browse each venue’s website ahead of your travels and see what takes your fancy. However, you don’t necessarily need to head to a venue to hear amazing live music; some villages, including Dornoch and Beauly, have bagpipe players in the main square on certain evenings during the week.
For more information about festivals and events along the NC500, head to our events section.
Photos: Highland Whisky Festival, Jocktoberfest, Ironworks Music Venue, Lyth Arts Centre
