Travel Information

Planning a journey along the North Coast 500? Whether your clients are arriving by air, rail, or road, we’ve put together essential travel links and tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Getting to the NC500

By Train – Regular services connect Inverness to major UK cities, making it a convenient starting point for the NC500.

• Scotrail – Timetables and ticket bookings.
• LNER – Services from London and Edinburgh.
• Caledonian Sleeper – Overnight trains from London to Inverness.

By Air – Inverness Airport (INV) is the main gateway to the NC500, offering direct flights from UK and European cities.

• Inverness Airport – Flight information and services.
• Airlines serving Inverness: British Airways, easyJet, Loganair, KLM.

By Road – Inverness is well connected by major routes from Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen. The NC500 officially starts and ends in Inverness, but travellers can join the route from various points.

Getting Around the NC500

Car & Campervan Hire – Renting a vehicle is the best way to explore the NC500 at your own pace.

• Highland Motorcycle Hire – Car hire from Inverness Airport and city locations.
• Arnold Clark Car Rental – Wide range of vehicles, including 4x4s.
• 4×4 Overland Hire – Self drive vehicle hire with pop up roof tent.
• Wilderness Ventures – Campervan Hire

Public Transport – While the NC500 is best explored by car, some areas are accessible by bus.

• Stagecoach – Bus routes in the Highlands.
• Highland Council – Information page on public transport.

Cycling the NC500 – An epic challenge for keen cyclists! Plan carefully and check local bike hire and repair services along the route.

• Ticket to Ride – Bike hire in Inverness.
• 42 Cycling – Guided cycle tours.

Ferries to the Isles – Want to extend your journey? Ferries connect the NC500 to Scotland’s stunning islands.

• Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) – Ferries to the Outer Hebrides, Skye, and more.
• NorthLink Ferries – Ferries to Orkney and Shetland.

Essential Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit – The NC500 is spectacular year-round. Summer offers long daylight hours, while autumn and winter provide dramatic scenery and quieter roads.

Navigation & Road Safety – Some roads are single-track; always use passing places and drive responsibly.

• Hitting the Route – Top Tips for safe driving on the NC500.