Cycling the NC500
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The North Coast 500 is an 816-kilometre (just over 500 miles) route that takes you round the unique coastal roads of the North Highlands offering an adventure like no other with captivating views. The route is challenging with plenty of steep climbs, descents, and hairpin bends, which take you past dramatic mountain landscapes, stunning beaches, castles and so much more.
The NC500 route is primarily a driving route as it follows the main artery roads of the North Highlands, However, there are several superb routes out with the main NC500 route to explore and discover.
The route is a challenge of terrain and variable weather and the leisurely pace gives you time to stop and enjoy the landscape and experience this unique environment and it’s communities.
Don’t have a bike? Then why not hire one with Ticket to Ride in Inverness at the start of your trip.
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Karen Newman, local cyclist and cycle trainer has compiled a series of information on cycling the NC500 and Northern Scotland in general to provide you with advice for planning your trip and having a safe and enjoyable journey:
- Safe cycling on Highland Roads
- Bike Advice
- Choose your bike
- Positioning on the road
- Railway level crossings
- The Bealach na ba
- Alternative cycle routes
All distances are approximate and can vary up to 3% depending on which mapping software you use. The route maps and elevation graphs have been plotted using BikeHike.
