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BUSINESS SIGN INThey often say, ‘four wheels will get you there but two will make the journey memorable’!
Between mountains and sea, begin your NC500 adventure by exploring the capital of the Highlands. A cultural hub, located astride the River Ness. Sample the Inverness’ mouthwatering Scottish cuisine, unearth the city’s culture and history, experience traditional live music and enjoy a leisurely stroll down the picturesque riverside walks.
Inverness Castle is the official start and end of the North Coast 500. Climb the north tower for 360 degree views of Inverness and the surrounding area, plus find out some intriguing myths and legends about the city (today the castle is a court and otherwise not open to the public). Check its opening times.
Don’t forget to visit the most northerly cathedral on the banks of River Ness.
Staying in Inverness tonight? Why not drop your bags off at your accommodation provider, grab a bite to eat at Ness Walk. They serve delicious breakfasts, afternoon teas, à la carte dinners alongside a diverse range of drinks and beverages. With a cosy fire and sensational views out to the River Ness.
Enjoy the ride out to Dores Beach – the most northern point of Loch Ness and only 20 minutes from Inverness. The ride is accompanied by unrivalled views over the loch. The perfect location to admire the view of Loch Ness and a perfect bike/loch photo opportunity!).
The Loch Ness monster can be tricky to pin down, if you didn’t manage to see Nessie…then you may come across the resident and word record Nessie hunter, who has devoted 25 years searching for the Loch Ness Monster.
Head back towards Inverness – don’t forget to refuel before heading off!
Alternatively, spend your afternoon experiencing the slow distillation at Glen Ord Distillery. Learn about the processes involved in creating the famous Singleton and enjoy a tasting or few.
Scottish music is an important part of Scottish culture. Spend your first evening in Inverness and experience Inverness’ famous musical scene. There are a number of bars showcasing some of the best local Scottish traditional musicians along with some of the best food and drink (Ironworks Music Venue often has shows on).
Spend your first night in Inverness, the following have parking:
Alternatively – venture just outside of Inverness:
Camping is a popular choice for motorcyclists so why not meet more like minded people at Beauly Holiday Park. A peaceful location, set alongside the River Beauly, approx. 20 minutes drive from Inverness (Check out our camping itinerary for more campsite recommendations).
Sorry but full itineraries are only available to North Coast 500 members. We hope you've enjoyed a taste of what's in itineraries. Become a member to unlock itineraries. Members also get a 10% discount on all merchandise purchased online, receive FREE gifts (selected membership only), get access to exclusive goodies and much more.
Sorry but full itineraries are only available to North Coast 500 members. We hope you've enjoyed a taste of what's in itineraries. Become a member to unlock itineraries. Members also get a 10% discount on all merchandise purchased online, receive FREE gifts (selected membership only), get access to exclusive goodies and much more.
Sorry but full itineraries are only available to North Coast 500 members. We hope you've enjoyed a taste of what's in itineraries. Become a member to unlock itineraries. Members also get a 10% discount on all merchandise purchased online, receive FREE gifts (selected membership only), get access to exclusive goodies and much more.
Sorry but full itineraries are only available to North Coast 500 members. We hope you've enjoyed a taste of what's in itineraries. Become a member to unlock itineraries. Members also get a 10% discount on all merchandise purchased online, receive FREE gifts (selected membership only), get access to exclusive goodies and much more.
Sorry but full itineraries are only available to North Coast 500 members. We hope you've enjoyed a taste of what's in itineraries. Become a member to unlock itineraries. Members also get a 10% discount on all merchandise purchased online, receive FREE gifts (selected membership only), get access to exclusive goodies and much more.
Sorry but full itineraries are only available to North Coast 500 members. We hope you've enjoyed a taste of what's in itineraries. Become a member to unlock itineraries. Members also get a 10% discount on all merchandise purchased online, receive FREE gifts (selected membership only), get access to exclusive goodies and much more.
Sorry but full itineraries are only available to North Coast 500 members. We hope you've enjoyed a taste of what's in itineraries. Become a member to unlock itineraries. Members also get a 10% discount on all merchandise purchased online, receive FREE gifts (selected membership only), get access to exclusive goodies and much more.
Why not travel to the Highlands and hire a motorbike for your North Coast 500 adventure? Inverness is well served by transport links, ensuring easy access for visitors by air, train or bus.
For motorbike rental and riding equipment, look no further than Highland Motorcycle Hire in Muir of Ord. They offer a range of equipment and sizes for both the rider and pillion passenger.
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 advice to help you plan your trip and check out our Motorcycle Travel Tips blog for more useful info.
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.
