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By North Coast 500
Published: 3rd October 2024

Make the Most of your Autumn Adventure on the NC500

While the North Coast 500 is often celebrated as a summer destination, autumn unveils a different kind of charm along this iconic route. As the days grow shorter, the landscape bursts into a riot of warm colours, with crisp breezes and bristling leaves creating a magical atmosphere. With quieter roads and fewer crowds, this season presents a fantastic opportunity for a getaway, allowing you to explore the stunning beauty of the Highlands at a leisurely pace. In this blog, we’ll highlight some of the top activities to enjoy during this enchanting time of year, ensuring you make the most of your autumn adventure on Scotland’s spectacular coastal route.

 

Haunted Highlands

With Halloween just around the corner, why not explore the haunted Highlands as part of your NC500 autumn adventure? On the shores of Loch Assynt lies the ruinous Ardvreck Castle, once the stronghold of the MacLeods of Assynt. Local legends speak of two ghosts who still linger there – a tall man clad in grey, thought to be connected to the betrayal of the Earl of Montrose, and the weeping ghost of a clan chief’s daughter, who tragically threw herself from a window after being promised to the devil.

 

Ardvreck Castle

 

For more eerie encounters, head to Culloden Battlefield, where in 1746, 1,600 men were slain in the final battle of the Jacobite Rising, marking the end of the rebellion. Sightings of spectral soldiers marching across the battlefield have been reported, and the heavy atmosphere and whispered winds are said to carry the spirits of fallen Jacobites. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or intrigued by the supernatural, these sites offer a spine-tingling glimpse into the region’s somber past. Book Now.

 

Photo from Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre.

 

Chase the Northern Lights 

Autumn marks the beginning of star-lit nights, and with some of the darkest skies in Europe, the North Coast 500 is the perfect destination for stargazers. Nothing quite beats standing underneath the star-scattered sky, wrapped up warm with a flask of tea or hot chocolate, and as the North of Scotland lies at the same latitude as Stavanger in Norway and Nunivak Island in Alaska, you’re also in with a good chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis or the Northern Lights! Often, seeing the Northern Lights is all down to luck – it’s about being in the right place at the right time. However, you can monitor the Aurora App to check when your best chance of viewing the Aurora Borealis will be. Find out the ‘Top Tips for Taking Photos of the Northern Lights‘ from the talented and local photographer Graham.

 

Photo by Graham Bradshaw Photography.

 

Capture Time

With the North Coast 500 showcasing a stunning array of autumn colours, there’s no better time to enhance your photography skills. Book a single-day landscape photography workshop with Karen Thorburn and learn how to capture the breathtaking scenery that surrounds you.

This course is designed for both beginners and intermediates, welcoming participants with any camera equipment. Gain valuable techniques and insights to make the most of the vibrant hues and dramatic landscapes you encounter along the route, ensuring that your memories of this magical season are beautifully preserved. Book Now.

 

Karen Thorburn North Coast 500 Landscape Photography Workshops.

 

Explore Nature’s Beauty

Autumn is a magnificent time to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the North Coast 500. Corrieshalloch Gorge is a highlight, boasting incredible scenery and breathtaking views. Follow the woodland trails, cross the Victorian suspension bridge, and gaze down at the torrent of water crashing 45 metres over the Falls of Measach. The wet weather of autumn enhances the dramatic scenery of waterfalls, making this a spectacular time to explore. Don’t miss our guide to five must-visit waterfalls along the route, including Britain’s highest waterfall, where you can witness the awe-inspiring power of nature in full flow.

 

The Falls of Measach at Corrieshalloch Gorge.

 

Britain’s highest waterfall – Eas A Chual Aluinn.

 

Wildlife Watching

The NC500 in autumn is not just about landscapes, it’s also a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for red deer, seals and wild salmon.

The North of Scotland is a hive of wildlife activity in autumn. The annual rutting season is one of nature’s most dramatic sights. You’ll often hear roaring stags as they lock antlers to battle it out for the hearts of the female deer, but be warned, this is best viewed from a distance!

The Grey Seal favours exposed coasts and islands, making the North Coast 500 the ideal place to spot them. Although famous for its Bottlenose Dolphins, the Moray Firth is also a great place to spot Grey Seals, particularly in autumn when they head ashore to give birth to their pups.

Every autumn, wild salmon make a challenging journey from the open sea to their spawning grounds as they leap upstream, battling against strong currents and thundering waterfalls. Best seen in late autumn, Falls of Shin and Rogie Falls are two of the top places along the NC500 to watch this incredible event.

Note:  Please do not approach or feed wild animals, always admire from a safe distance.

 

 

Embrace Adventure

Looking for something more adventurous this autumn? Brave the chilly waters and ride the waves at one of the UK’s cold water surfing Meccas. Experience surfing in autumn with lessons from North Coast Water Sports, perfect for both beginners and seasoned surfers looking to hone their skills. Dive into our comprehensive guide to learn more about surfing on the NC500!

 

Photo from North Coast Watersports.

 

For those seeking even more excitement, Ace Adventures and Hideaways offers a range of exhilarating activities, from white-water rafting to cliff jumping. These unforgettable experiences are sure to liven up your trip and create lasting memories in the breathtaking Highland landscape.

 

Top Activities on the NC500

ACE Adventures & Hideaways: White Water Rafting.

 

 

Warm Up with Whisky Tours

As the weather turns colder, there’s no better way to warm up than with a dram of whisky, and the NC500 is home to some of Scotland’s finest distilleries. Whether you’re just beginning your whisky journey, enjoying it as a novice, or already consider yourself a seasoned connoisseur, our whisky itinerary caters to all levels of enthusiasm.

Discover Balblair Distillery, one of the oldest and most picturesque distilleries in the world, founded in 1790. Book a tour and delve into the history and craftsmanship behind the production process, with the chance to sample some for yourself.

 

Whisky on the North Coast 500

Photo from Balblair Distillery.

 

Further along the route, Old Pulteney Distillery, one of the most northerly on the Scottish mainland, offers a range of tours. Thanks to its coastal location, Old Pulteney ages its whiskies by the sea, giving them a distinctive maritime character. Be sure to book your tours in advance to avoid disappointment and savour the unique flavours of the Highlands.

 

Photo from Old Pulteney Distillery.

 

Please remember Scotland’s drink drive limit – either choose accommodation in walking distance or take your whisky sample back to your accommodation to enjoy when you return.

 

 

Shop Local

While exploring the North Coast 500 this autumn, take some time to shop local and support the small, independently-owned businesses along the route. Not only does shopping local benefit the community, but it’s also a great way to find unique gifts just in time for the festive season—after all, it’s never too early to start thinking about Christmas presents!

You’ll discover charming shops with distinctive offerings, such as Tartan Creations, which sells unique tartan and tweed handmade accessories that will have you feeling every bit Scottish. Another gem is The Old School Beauly, an award-winning lifestyle shop specialising in clothing, gifts, and homeware; you’ll want to set aside a good hour just to browse through everything they offer. Don’t forget to stop by Robertson’s family-owned food and farm shop, where you can stock up on delicious locally produced goodies like cheeses, ice cream, vegetables, and seafood. Plus, you can meet their adorable Highland cows—an experience you won’t want to miss!

 

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Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or unique local experiences, the NC500 in autumn promises unforgettable memories to cherish for years to come.

 

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