North Coast 500 Travel Guide: Explore Caithness
The North Coast 500 is Scotland’s ultimate road trip, stretching 516 miles through some of the Highlands’ most breathtaking scenery. While completing the full route is an incredible achievement, you don’t need to cover every mile to experience its magic. Even a few days exploring just one section of the NC500 can be an unforgettable adventure, filled with dramatic landscapes, fascinating history, local flavours and memorable moments.
In this blog series, we’re breaking the route into six distinct regions, making it easier to explore each one at a more relaxed pace. Our first blog explored Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands, followed by the beautiful Black Isle and the charming Easter Ross peninsula.
In the fourth part of the series, we head a little further along the route to discover Caithness.
Caithness and the North Coast 500
Caithness sits on the north-eastern stretch of the North Coast 500 and is one of the most distinctive parts of the Highlands. Often described as “the lowlands beyond the Highlands”, it is known for its wide open spaces, big skies and sense of remoteness. It is a place defined by vast landscapes, deep history and a dramatic, rugged coastline that feels wonderfully untouched.
Much of the interior is shaped by the Flow Country, one of the world’s largest peatland systems. This vast expanse of peat bog gives Caithness its wild, remote character and supports a rich and globally important ecosystem. Scattered across the region are ancient archaeological sites that hint at thousands of years of human settlement.
Along the coast, dramatic cliffs, sea stacks and busy seabird colonies look out over the powerful waters of the Pentland Firth. It is this combination of space, history and raw coastal scenery that gives Caithness its quiet, enduring charm.
Berriedale Braes
Things to See in and Around Caithness
Iconic Caithness Stops:
Dunnet Head
The most northerly point of mainland Britain, Dunnet Head is an absolutely must-see stop on your NC500 adventure. This wild and remote headland is defined by dramatic sea cliffs and coastal grasslands, home to puffins, razorbills, guillemots, fulmars and kittiwakes. Walk the clifftops for sweeping views across the Pentland Firth to Orkney on a clear day, and take in the sense of standing at the very top of the mainland.
Duncansby Stacks
The Stacks of Duncansby are one of the most striking natural landmarks in the North Highlands and a true NC500 highlight. These towering sea stacks rise dramatically from the Atlantic just off the cliffs near Duncansby Head, with the tallest reaching around 60 metres. A scenic clifftop walk from Duncansby Head Lighthouse brings you to spectacular viewpoints overlooking the stacks and the wild coastline beyond.
John O’Groats Signpost
The John O’Groats signpost is one of Scotland’s most recognisable and photographed landmarks and is a symbolic stop on any NC500 journey.
Castles And Historic Sites:
Castle Sinclair Girnigoe
Perched dramatically on the edge of the North Sea, Castle Sinclair Girnigoe is one of Caithness’s most striking historic sites. The ruins began as two separate fortresses, Castle Sinclair and Castle Girnigoe, which were later linked through structural expansion to form a powerful Sinclair stronghold. Dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries, the site offers a fascinating insight into Scotland’s turbulent clan history. As you explore the remains, the setting feels especially atmospheric, with waves crashing far below the cliffs and sweeping coastal views in every direction.
Whaligoe Steps
Carved into the cliffs near Wick, the Whaligoe Steps are a remarkable example of historic coastal life in Caithness. Built in the 18th century, this steep stone staircase leads down to a small natural harbour that was once used by local fishing boats. The descent is dramatic and rewarding, with wide views over the coastline and a strong sense of the area’s fishing heritage.
Grey Cairns of Camster
Hidden in the Caithness moorland, the Grey Cairns of Camster are among the best-preserved Neolithic chambered cairns in Scotland. These ancient burial tombs are over 5,000 years old and contain narrow stone passages and internal chambers that offer a glimpse into early prehistoric life. Their remote location gives the site a peaceful, timeless feel.
Coastal Landscapes And Beaches:
Caithness is home to some striking coastal scenery, where long sandy beaches meet open views and dramatic skies.
Dunnet Bay is one of the most impressive beaches in the region, a wide sweep of sand backed by dunes and open to expansive views across the Pentland Firth towards Orkney. Sinclair’s Bay, stretching between Wick and Keiss, is a broad and dramatic coastline best known for its castles at either end and its long sandy shoreline. Reiss Beach forms part of Sinclair’s Bay and offers a quieter, more sheltered stretch of sand, popular for walking and enjoying the coastal views.
Dunnet Bay ©kippis-stock.adobe_.com_
Things to Do in Caithness
Outdoor Adventures and Activities
From windswept beaches to rugged coastal cliffs, Caithness is made for outdoor adventure. At North Coast Watersports, visitors can experience the north coast from the water with surfing, paddleboarding and guided adventures around Dunnet Bay and some of the area’s most scenic beaches.
For an unforgettable view of the coastline, Caithness Seacoast runs boat tours from Wick Harbour past towering sea stacks, hidden caves, historic castles, harbours and remote lighthouses. The waters around Caithness are also rich in wildlife, with puffins, terns and seals regularly spotted along the cliffs, alongside the occasional dolphin or whale.
If you’re looking to slow the pace down, Clach Mara Sauna offers a unique wellness experience in beautiful coastal settings across Caithness. Inspired by traditional Finnish saunas, the mobile wood-fired sauna combines heat, stone and sea, creating the perfect place to warm up and unwind after a day exploring the NC500.
Families travelling the route can enjoy a stop at Caithness Animal Farm Park, where visitors can get up close to reindeer, alpacas, goats, donkeys, rabbits and guinea pigs, as well as a variety of reptiles and exotic animals.
For those keen to explore beyond the main road, the Northern Saints Trails offer a collection of circular walking routes linking historic sites connected to Caithness’ early Celtic saints, taking in quiet countryside, coastal scenery and centuries of local heritage along the way.
Caithness Seacoast
Distilleries and Local Flavours
Along the NC500, Caithness has quietly emerged as a compelling stop for whisky and craft drinks, combining dramatic coastal scenery with a growing culture of small-batch production.
At Dunnet Bay Distillers, visitors can go behind the scenes at the home of Rock Rose Gin, with experiences ranging from short tours and tastings to lively cocktail workshops.
In John O’Groats, 8 Doors Distillery is Scotland’s most northerly mainland whisky distillery. A relatively new addition to the whisky landscape, guided tours share the story of John O’Groats and the distillery, alongside how the spirit is made. Tours also include a look around the warehouse before finishing with a tasting in the whisky room overlooking the Pentland Firth.
Meanwhile in Wick, Old Pulteney Distillery continues nearly 200 years of whisky-making tradition on the far north coast. Known as “The Maritime Malt”, its whiskies are deeply shaped by the town’s seafaring heritage and coastal conditions.
Explore more distilleries along the Caithness section of the NC500.
Dunnet Bay Distillers
Heritage and Culture
Caithness has a strong sense of history woven through its coastline and communities, with heritage sites that reflect both everyday Highland life and the wider story of the far north.
At John O’Groats Mill, visitors can explore a restored grain mill overlooking the Pentland Firth and Duncansby Burn. Originally built in 1901 and reopened as a visitor attraction in 2025, the community-run site brings Caithness’ industrial, agricultural and local heritage to life through interactive displays and family-friendly exhibits.
In Wick, The Wick Society helps preserve the town’s rich fishing and maritime heritage through the Wick Heritage Museum. Its exhibits explore Wick’s herring fishing heyday, while the extensive Johnston Photographic Collection documents more than a century of local life in Caithness. The society also cares for the restored fishing boat Isabella Fortuna and continues to record local memories through its Wick Voices oral history project.
At Clan Gunn Heritage Centre, visitors can explore the story of one of Scotland’s oldest Highland clans, from its Norse origins through to the present day. Housed within the old Parish Church in Latheron, built in 1734, the heritage centre offers an insight into Clan Gunn’s history and its long-standing connection to Caithness and the Highlands.
Looking to explore even more heritage and culture across Caithness? Discover more historic sites and local stories along this stretch of the NC500.
Wick Heritage Museum
Places to Stay in Caithness
From cosy B&Bs and hotels to campsites, glamping pods and remote Highland lodges, Caithness offers accommodation to suit every kind of NC500 traveller. Here are just a few places to inspire your stay.
Camping and Glamping
For campers and touring visitors, John O’Groats Caravan and Camping Site offers seafront accommodation with views across the Pentland Firth towards Orkney. Just a few miles away, Ferry View is a small family-run eco campsite offering big skies, fresh sea air and a peaceful base on the far north coast.
If glamping is more your style, North Star Glamping combines cosy accommodation with stunning mountain views, sweeping sea views across to the Moray Coast, and spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Meanwhile, Sinclair Bay Lodges offers stylish seafront accommodation with panoramic coastal views near Keiss.
Sinclair Bay Lodges
Hotels and B&Bs
For a classic Highland hotel stay, Ulbster Arms Hotel is a traditional retreat nestled on the banks of the River Thurso in the village of Halkirk. Full of 19th-century charm, the hotel combines cosy log fires, characterful rooms and a warm Highland atmosphere steeped in local history.
In Wick, Mackays Hotel offers a stylish stay in the heart of Caithness. Set on the world’s shortest street, it blends modern comfort with a warm Highland welcome and is perfectly placed for exploring the east coast.
For a more peaceful stay, Auld Post Office B&B is a beautifully restored cottage nestled beside woodland, where individually designed en-suite rooms open onto private patios and landscaped gardens. Meanwhile, The Hawthorns B&B offers a warm family-run stay in the rural village of Mey, close to the Castle of Mey and the northern coastline.
Auld Post Office B&B
Self Catering Stays
For something a little different, The Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage offers a unique stay on the dramatic headland at Noss Head, just outside Wick. Surrounded by sea on three sides, the cosy former keeper’s cottage combines coastal views with a peaceful setting beside the lighthouse and nearby castle ruins.
Meanwhile, Fishers Rest is a secluded one-bedroom chalet overlooking Lybster Harbour and the surrounding cliffs. Complete with a private hot tub and decking area, it’s an ideal place to slow down and enjoy the Caithness coastline.
Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage
Explore the full range of accommodation listings across Caithness here.
Places to Eat in Caithness
Caithness offers everything from cosy cafés to relaxed Highland dining, with plenty of stops to refuel along the NC500.
In Wick, No.1 Bistro at Mackays Hotel is known for its award-winning dining and locally sourced ingredients. At Cafe Groats, visitors can enjoy fresh local seafood, homemade cakes and coffee with views across the Pentland Firth towards Orkney.
Further west, Northern Sands Hotel serves seasonal dishes throughout the day using a wide range of local produce, all just moments from Dunnet Beach and the north coast scenery.
Mackays Hotel
Exploring the North Coast 500 by Region
Exploring Caithness is a fantastic way to experience the North Coast 500 at a relaxed pace. From dramatic coastal scenery and historic landmarks to Highland hospitality and local flavours, there’s plenty to see, do and enjoy across this beautiful northern corner of Scotland.
Next in our series, we’ll continue into Sutherland to discover its incredible landscapes, remote beaches and wild Highland scenery. Stay tuned!
