Serene NC500 Seascapes – best beaches on the NC500
Although it’s hard to choose a favourite when there are so many stunning sandy seascapes, there are some incredible contenders for best beach and they’re all fabulous in their own way. Meghan Taylor, freelance writer and travel fanatic, has written a blog about her favourite North Coast 500 beaches.
Achmelvich Beach, Lochinver
There are many reasons why we should all be looking at staycations in 2022. The cost of living has risen significantly and we are all trying to be more conscious of our carbon footprint and reduce the amount that we are flying. But we all need some time off every now and again – and that’s where a staycation in Scotland comes in!
Whether you live in the hustle and bustle of a town or city and feel that you need to get away for a while, or just want to indulge in seeing some stunning coastal scenery, Scotland’s coastlines are the ideal place for you. A Scottish escape is just what you need to relax and recharge the batteries – a chance to enjoy some Highland hospitality and take in the awe-inspiring seascapes.
With this in mind, here are some of Scotland’s most stunning sealines that you should visit in 2022.
Lochinver, Sutherland
Lochinver is a small fishing port nestled just north of Ullapool in the remote region of Sutherland. With breath-taking views of not just the coast but also the mountains, Lochinver is the ideal place to pause, breathe in the clean air, enjoy the land (and sea) scapes, and tuck into one of its famous – and delicious – pies.
Lochinver boasts beautiful white, sandy beaches, the Culag Woods with its stunning views, and you can even take a boat trip or kayaking expedition to get a closer look at the coast from the ‘sea’ side. If you are a keen hill walker, you could scale Suilven – the bizarre-looking twin-peaked, iconic mountain that is on the bucket list of many and enjoy some of the unforgettable views that you get from the top.
Lochinver Larder Pie with Suilven in the background
Oldshoremore Beach
Ranked consistently as one of Britain’s best beaches, Oldshoremore Beach lies on Scotland’s west coast and is locally known as Am Meallan. The narrow beach, with its pristine sand, lies on the other side of the Eilean na h-Aiteig peninsular to Polin Beach.
Oldshoremore Beach is situated near Kinlochbervie, Sutherland, and it is a spectacular, remote, curving bay with turquoise waters. It is the ideal place for a stroll to take time out for some quiet contemplation, or to enjoy a tranquil picnic.
Melvich Beach
Melvich Beach is one of the north coast’s most beautiful sandy beaches. It is situated at the mouth of the River Halladale and is popular with walkers and surfers alike – and even better, it is often empty. The beach is reached by a short walk through natural dunes which are covered with wildflowers in the springtime.
Surf lessons on the north coast with North Coast Watersports
Whaligoe Haven
Whaligoe Haven in Caithness is a harbour found on the east Caithness coastline. Famous for its iconic Whaligoe Steps – 330 steps that were embedded into the cliff-side and used for years by local fishermen and women. Whaligoe Haven was once a hive of the local fishing industry.
Whaligoe Haven can be reached by road from Wick, or by boat as part of a trip where you can explore sea caves and stacks, see castles, lighthouses and harbours. The stunningly rugged east Caithness coastline is also home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including whales and dolphins.
Firemore Beach
Firemore Beach is located near Poolewe and is a firm favourite of the locals. Its red-hued sandy beach is ideal for bathing and water sports thanks to its proximity to the gulf stream. The beach is predominantly sandy but there are some interesting rock pools around, and the tiny sandy Ewe Island is just across the water.
Close by to Poolewe is also Mellon Udrigle Beach – a serene, sandy beach set against a dramatic backdrop of the highland mountains. Locally known as Camas a’Charraig, Mellon Udrigle Beach offers spectacular views both inland over the mountains and out across Gruinard Bay.
Whether you are looking for somewhere to bathe, fish, walk or enjoy the local wildlife, Scotland’s coastlines are the perfect place to go to unwind. Stunning scenery, a unique blend of sea and mountains, clean air, and overwhelming hospitality make Scotland’s coast a wonderful place to enjoy a staycation.
Gairloch Beach
