Since the NC500 marketing strategy has been so successful, accommodation is in high demand on the North Coast 500 route. By the time we got to Inverness, it was just time to check into our hotel and have a shower before dinner. With beautiful nature trails and lots of flora and fauna to observe and appreciate. Enjoy some of the top highlights along the North Coast 500! When I’m not writing, you’ll find me teaching or leading adventure tours and yoga retreats in Africa with my tour company Rock My Adventure. Are you ready for a week packed full of adventure? It’s a bit off course, but Sandwood Bay and Loch is a great addition to your road trip itinerary. You’ll also get to see Am Buachaille, a sea stack out in the water. So why not take advantage of the off-season, with fewer crowds, no midgies (tiny biting flies that descend in the summer), and the incredible photo opportunities the colder weather brings? So in total, our trip was 7 nights, 8 days in total. From an overview of the route, tips on driving and sights you can't miss, we'll help you plan perfectly for the NC500 - Scotland’s answer to Route 66. It is important to plan ahead! At Duncansby Head, you’ll see the Duncansby Lighthouse, but the real attraction is the incredible Duncansby Stacks, just off the coast. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is on the way back to Glasgow and Edinburgh, in case you fancy extending your trip for another night or two. Why did you decide to tackle Scotland's NC500 cycle route? A bit further on, you’ll come to Shieldaig, one of the most picturesque villages in Scotland. I … Even if you don’t spend much time in the reserve itself, it’s fun to walk over the wobbly suspension bridge over the gorge, which has fantastic views of Falls of Measach. Firstly, which season are you embarking in? These itineraries are based on the minimum amount of time we recommend to allocate for your journey. The North Coast 500 route is Scotland’s answer to Route 66. The North Coast 500 is a 516-mile scenic route along Scotland's northern coast, offering drivers rugged landscapes, sandy benches, wildlife, museums, castles, whisky distilleries, and so much more! I don’t know why I’ve never written about it – it was one of the best road trips of my life. This is a very popular stop as it’s close to Glasgow, so don’t be alarmed by all the tourists – you’re not on the NC500 now! Alternatively, I love Tigh na Mara for a romantic getaway. One of the most beautiful is Ceannabeine Beach, with mountains on either side, even without a drone you’ll get some fabulous shots overlooking the beach. So in total, our trip was 7 nights, 8 days in total. We had a browse in the multiple souvenir shops, took photos with the John O’Groats sign and colourful houses (which most of the locals hate), and walked down the pier. Sunshine is never guaranteed, even in summer. Helen in Wonderlust Ltd. All Rights Reserved. So there you go, my full North Coast 500 route! around the remote northern part of the Scottish mainland, traditionally starting and ending in the city of Inverness. This some of the best North Coast 500 accommodation which we tried and tested on our 12 Scottish Highlands road trip. If you’re from the UK, you have certainly heard of the North Coast 500 by now. Whilst not on the North Coast 500, Edinburgh is a great place to stop if you are travelling up from other parts of the UK, either by car or train, or if you’re flying in from abroad. Or, if you want to make your trip super epic, you could head towards the Inner or Outer Hebrides. The village of Luss makes for a lovely stop and Loch Lomond is also part of the West Highland Way, one of Scotland’s best-loved hikes (which I’m hoping to do very soon). Which he did. There is glamping, bed and breakfasts, hotels, wild camping in tents or caravans, hostels, caravan parks, eco-retreats and even castles! For me personally, I like the Inn as it has everything you want – food, drink, cute rooms, and it’s right in the centre of the village however they were fully booked when we went, so we stayed nearby in the Hartfield House Hostel. But John o’Groats to Lands End has a better ring to it, don’t you think? ... Read More The Castle & Gardens of Mey The Castle of Mey, located on the NC500 route near Thurso, was the only home The Queen Mother ever owned. Itineraries. © 2018 North Coast 500 | All Rights Reserved | Design by, Luxury must be comfortable otherwise it is not luxury at all, Take a trip on the wild side and rest your weary head where you like. The weather was TERRIBLE when we drove through so I didn’t get many photos, but on a clear day, it’s stunning! Choose between two idyllic holiday cottages located half a mile off the NC500 route. Known alternatively as the Scottish Like everywhere else in the world, Scotland is currently under restrictions due to the Coronavirus pandemic. We both got the train to Edinburgh, stayed overnight, and then picked up a car to use for the rest of the trip. I love the great outdoors, going on epic trips around the world and helping others travel! Enter your email address below and we will send you all of our latest news, events and offers straight to your inbox. Great for photographers, hikers, and surfers (when there are waves). One of the most popular activities at Chanonry Point is to watch the Moray Firth dolphins playing in the water. I’d like to think it was because he was excited to meet two fellow travel writers and adventurers, but I think it may just have been a coincidence…, We had a little chat at the bar about travelling in Africa, Brenna chatted to him about her book, I introduced him to ‘Johnny Fox’ (“Have you met Johnny Fox?” is the Scottish equivalent of “I carried a watermelon.”), he took the piss out of me for being a Scouser and said he’d give my blog a read – which I’m sure he does on a regular basis these days (Hi Lev! Close by you can also visit the ruins of Urquhart Castle, which can also be seen from the boats if you want to kill two birds with one stone. Discover 13 of Scotland’s most spectacular driving routes, from the Fife Coastal Route to the epic North Coast 500. Private houses are less common on the NC500 route but privates rooms with breakfast are popular. You can tour the distilleries and learn about the whiskey-making process – as well as doing a little bit of tasting too. Thinking of taking a North Coast 500 road trip? There are also a couple of great little cottages to hire if you’re not camping but would still like to stay right near the beach. We both got the train to Edinburgh, stayed overnight, and then picked up a car to use for the rest of the trip. You’ll also need a lot of blankets, a heater, and an emergency kit in case of being snowed in. When planning your NC500 you’ll probably find that John O’Groats pops up a lot. ✨ INTRODUCING ✨ Africa & Wild © 2013 - 2021. Starting and ending in the Highland Capital of Inverness, the 500mi/800km route around Scotland’s North Coast offers an unforgettable trip of a lifetime. The North Coast 500 is a 516-mile (830 km) scenic route around the north coast of Scotland, starting and ending at Inverness Castle. Day 2 … Interactive planner with routes, distances and must-see attractions on the way. Whilst in the area, visit the Inverewe Garden and take a walk along some of their nature trails, including the Poetry Trail, which was inspired by the beauty of the place and created by their resident poet. I’ve already started planning another trip for next year…. Ullapool has a few nice pubs and restaurants where you can pick up a nice bowl of Cullen Skink (smoked haddock, leek and potato soup). T. hen we had one final night in Edinburgh on the way back down. The North Coast 500, the Route 66 of Scotland has been opened since 2015, to link the beautiful scenery of Northern Scotland. When you are planning your trip, have a read of my Things To Know Before You Drive Scotland’s North Coast 500 post, which also has lots of useful information to make sure you have a safe, epic, and enjoyable trip! There are 330 steps to be precise and they can be treacherous, so take care – and just remember, what goes down, must come up. What’s next? Ullapool is also a great jumping-off point to visit the Outer Hebrides via the CalMac ferry to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis. Vacationers with relaxation on their mind probably would want to give it some extra time and plan in some golfing, fishing or a nice hike. The North Coast 500 is a 516-mile scenic route along Scotland’s northern coast that begins and ends in the city of Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands. Gruinard Bay is a gorgeous stop – although, aren’t they all? Helen x. Helen in Wonderlust is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. These days, it’s just a lonely ruin, but worth seeing all the same. Where to stay in Applecross: There are a few nice places to stay in Applecross. Whoop whoop! Our second major stop, was Loch Ness, home to the Loch Ness Monster… or is it? Here you can take a walk to the lighthouse, see the coastline and brag that you’ve been to the most northerly point on the British mainland. This is the best road trip in Britain. The cave is floodlit inside and you can take a tour with Smoo Cave Tours. March is generally a crappy month in the UK, weather-wise, but it turned out pretty well for us actually – it rained a lot, but we were also blessed with plenty of sunshine and therefore, rainbows. But, if you hired your car elsewhere, like Edinburgh, as we did, you can head back that way. At the moment, travelling along the North Coast 500 is a bit different. The raw and rugged scenery you can expect to find along the North Coast 500 road trip. The North Coast 500 - Highlights. With so much to see, we spent the majority of the time driving, doing a few little hikes and taking pictures, and not really ‘doing’ much. Often, rooms need to be booked months in advance. We have created ten itineraries to help you plan your ideal North Coast 500 trip. If you get peckish, you can visit the Whaligoe Steps Café and Restaurant, perched on a clifftop overlooking the North Sea. As we’d hired a car in Edinburgh, that’s where we went – but it is a pretty long drive. We ate at the lively Johnny Foxes Pub & Restaurant, followed by drinks and a live Ceilidh band (traditional Scottish music) at the famous Hootenanny Inverness… where we bumped into explorer Levison Wood (and also Don Lawson, the owner of Johnny Foxes). Just be aware that the road between Kylesku and Lochinver can be a bit tricky, so it may take you longer than you think! Three of us rode this exact route last week in near perfect conditions. From Oban you can catch the ferry to the islands of Mull, Coll, Colonsay, Islay, and Tiree in the Inner Hebrides, Barra and South Uist in the Outer Hebrides, as well as Kennacraig and Mallaig on the mainland. I love both sides! Built by Clan MacLeod, it was later taken over by Clan Mackenzie. I’d definitely recommend staying here! The History, Heritage and Archaeology and the Luxury itinerary are available to view fully, however to unlock the full NC500 itineraries, you will need to become a member. If I could live in one of these, I would. Sandwood Bay Beach is one of the most remote in Europe and it takes around an hour and a half to walk from the car park in Blairmore to the stunning 1-mile long sandy beach, so give yourself a good few hours here to take it all in and hike around the loch as well. There are 3 pink sand beaches to visit and on a clear day, you can see across to the island. Where To Stay on Loch Ewe: And if you do decide to stop in Loch Ewe, and you have a big group, consider staying at the absolutely GORGEOUS, Poolewe Beach House (sleeps 9). It was a totally ‘on a whim’ decision. You can easily split this itinerary into smaller chunks, and I’ve recommended a few different places to stay along the route to help you plan in case you have a different timescale to us. It’s a steep walk down to the beach, but worth it and the likelihood is that you may have the beach all to yourself. WELL HERE WE GO! The top was covered in snow which gave us a great opportunity to take lots of snow pictures! The route begins in Inverness, Capital City of the Highlands, and snakes along the rugged coastal edges of northern Scotland, taking in breath-taking castles, mesmerising mountain tops and glistening beaches. Brenna’s from Canada, and she loved it too. Another cool thing to do in the area is to take the Jacobite Train between Fort William and Malaig, near Skye – aka the ‘Harry Potter’ train which was used to film and I would assume, the inspiration too. If it is the brutal Scottish winter - props to you!- then you’ll need to check you have winter tyres and snow chains. From there, continue around the coast to Fearnmore a remote part of the loch, edging out to the sea. Another extremely photogenic stop on your journey is The Torridon, a luxury hotel, flanked by mountains and forest and lying right on the lakeside – this would be a great place to rest your head for the night if time permits. Dornoch Beach is also a great place for wild camping – just make sure to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code rules and regulations and leave no trace. Leaving Ullapool, your next destination could be the fantastic Corrieshalloch Gorge Nature Reserve. If you love a bit of history, visit the beautiful ruins of Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, located right on the cliff edge. Luxury Scotland A curated selection of the very best of Scottish hospitality and adventure for those who desire the finest experience in life Read More The Castle & Gardens of Mey The Castle of Mey, located on the NC500 route near Thurso, was the only home The Queen Mother ever owned. For camping, try Broomfield Holiday Park or nearby Badrallach Campsite, Bothy and Holiday Cottage. Loch Eriboll is a gorgeous sea lock, with a number of great stopping points. When we arrived in Inverness, I’d seen on Instagram that explorer and television presenter Levison Wood was also in the city to give a talk about his new book (coincidence, I swear). This thorough and free NC500 route planner will get you on the road in no time. On the way to Dunrobin, you can also take a little detour to the Falls of Shin, where you can spot jumping salmon (between May and late Autumn) – but it will add over an hour to your journey! If you’re very lucky, you may also see dolphins off the coast. After some beach time, stop by Cocoa Mountain Balnakeil, a famous shop/cafe offering a variety of locally made chocolates and hot chocolate. A short drive (or a 45-minute hike) from Dunsnsby is John O’Groats., one of the most northerly points on the British mainland. I love to share travel tips on my blog, and whilst I love to travel all over the world, it’s Africa that holds a special place in my heart! If you’re arranging motorhome hire in Scotland for the trip, they can probably supply these, but always check first. The North Coast 500 (NC500) was created in 2014 by the North Highland Initiative to highlight some of Scotland's magnificence to the world. Stop for a photo at Gairloch Harbour, and if you’re thirsty, pick up a cuppa at the highly recommended Coast Coffee Company. The Perfect 5 Day North Coast 500 Itinerary: The Ultimate Scottish … I LOVED it! The route is also known as the NC500 and was launched in 2015, linking many features in the north Highlands of Scotland in one touring route.. I wouldn’t mind living on a gorgeous island in the middle of a loch. Driving Scotland’s North Coast 500 is just wow! Join the revolution and become a member of the NC500 club to get access to exclusive deals and key benefits to get the most of your NC500 adventure. Again, you should make a stop at Eilean Donan Castle as you drive through! Perhaps an unusual time of year for a UK road trip… but this was my first trip after a left my job to become a full-time travel blogger. At Africa & Wi, ✨ANNOUNCING✨ Get off the main roads and tour Scotland the scenic way now Check out the lovely ones at North Coast 500 Pods. Scotland’s North Coast 500, also known as the route 66 of UK – something we’re yet to do, but has been on our bucket list for years! They also do a fabulous afternoon tea in their 1887 Restaurant and there are lots of activities on offer if you want to get outdoors. If you’re doing the opposite, and cruising do… If you need a bit more comfort, try the Dornoch Caravan & Camping Park or the gorgeous glamping pods at Evelix Pods Dornoch. Membership starts from just £15 a year and each package offers a range of additional benefits. North Coast 500 route map. If you take one of the coastal boat trips, it’s highly like you’ll get a great view from the water too. We drove from Aberdeen to Inverness, although it is possible to arrive by plane, bus or train. When planning your NC500 route or once you're on the road, don't look at the map and think 'we've only got 80 miles to drive today, we'll have loads of time'. It’s the starting (or end) point for the ‘End to End’ cycle/walk which goes all the way to Lands End in Cornwall. Would you? The Smoo Cave is a great place to explore, either by boat or from the path above the cliffs. It was a little bit spooky as we were the only people there – literally, there wasn’t even any staff, but in high season I’m sure it would be great! It has been dubbed Scotland’s answer to the renowned ‘Route 66’ and doesn’t disappoint. Good quality roads everywhere except the climb up and over to Glen Loth, but even that is fine on a 25mm tyre road bike. This is the best road trip in Britain. If you don’t want to walk, you might enjoy seeing the steps and harbour from the sea with Caithness Seacoast. Where To Stay near to Loch Ness: Whilst I haven’t stayed there myself, the Inver Coille glamping pods & camping site looks like the coolest thing ever. We rarely get snow where I live in North West England, so this was a real treat for me. We have created ten itineraries to help you plan your ideal North Coast 500 trip. Enjoy the fantastic scenery as you drive along the A832 road that snakes through the valley at Kinlochewe. Even more, if you have a drone (if it’s not windy and raining). Glentruim Lodge Chalet, is super cosy and romantic, and the Dava Schoolhouse looks really welcoming and stylish too. The campsite is open from the beginning of April until the end of October. We spent the first day driving up from Edinburgh to Inverness. We didn’t have tons of time in the city as we wanted to get straight out onto the North Coast 500, but a few more of the highlights of Inverness include a walk along the River Ness, a visit to Inverness Cathedral, the Victorian Market, and, Inverness Castle. From there, you'll venture to some of the most northerly coastal points in Scotland, passing by Caithness and John o' Groats before heading south again through Dingwall and finally back to Inverness. The roads are slow and difficult to navigate and you'll inevitably get stuck behind a caravan or two. The route is officially 516 miles, although if you want to do the route justice you are likely to do a lot more as you'll want to take detours to find those fantastic views and hidden beaches. Inverness is the UK’s most northerly city, the capital of the Scottish Highlands, and the jumping-off point for the North Coast 500. This is a beginner’s North Coast 500 guide. You can read my full Outer Hebrides itinerary here. The route starts in the northern city of Inverness, then weaves along the west coast to Applecross and then northwards towards the bustling towns of Torridon and Ullapool. In Scotland the weather is unpredictable and changes every half an hour anyway. I’ll need to go back again and hopefully write about the Isle of Skye in the future. When you get the weather (which we didn’t), the Isle of Skye is a great place to visit and also a good place to start exploring both the Inner and Outer Hebrides. Chanonry Point lies between Fortrose and Rosemarkie on what is known as the Black Isle of Scotland. Then it heads north along the scenic west coast to Durness, and across the northern edge of Scotland to John O’Groats before returning to Inverness. Our last stop on today’s itinerary is Dunnet Head. Inverness is with 50.000 inhabitants by far the biggest city on the NC500. Inverness … From the Loch, you can see the Isle of Ewe, which is inhabited by a one family. https://www.spendlifetraveling.com/north-coast-500-itinerary The History, Heritage and Archaeology and the Luxury itinerary are available to view fully, however to unlock the full NC500 itineraries, you will need to become a member. Alternatively, you can head back towards Glasgow or Edinburgh where you can spend a final night or catch your transport home. The ever-changing landscape will take your breath away, leaving you eager to get back in the saddle wanting more every day. With hills all around and winding roads, this area makes for a fab photo stop. It’s Scotland’s own Route 66 — your highway through the culture and heritage of Scotland’s northern coastline. Stop and take a dip in the clear turquoise waters of Achmelvich Bay. Savour some of Scotland's best seafood, local produce & distilleries. The NC500 route is just over 500 miles and begins in the capital of the Highlands- Inverness. You could easily keep yourself occupied for 1 – 2 weeks! Families or groups will also like the Scandanavian Village Aviemore which has apartments, suites, and villas. Where to Stay Near to the Grey Cairns of Camster & the Whaligoe Steps: The village of Lybster, near to both the Camster Cains and Whaligoe Steps is a good place to rest your head for the night if you don’t want to travel too far. The NC500 route. Have a look at the options below! – and have read my complete guide to planning your NC500 trip. Dog friendly Cafes. Leaving Chanonry Point, you could make a stop at The Storehouse Restaurant and Farm Shop to pick up some breakfast/lunch or supplies – even if you’re not hungry, who doesn’t love a good farm shop? Hopefully, you enjoyed your first taste of the North Coast 500 yesterday and are … The main season runs from May to October, but each time of year has its advantages and disadvantages, so just go with whatever suits you best – I’m sure you’ll have a great time either way! Edinburgh to Inverness. We also spent 2 days travelling up to Inverness – her from London, me from Preston. Tell Katy I say hi! Please Note: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. There is really only one option for romance and luxury in the Torridon area of the Scottish Highlands and that is the respected hotel, ... my main plan is to drive through france and tour north west spain. Save money with a Clan Membership for up to 4 people. The next stop is Strathy Bay, one of the most gorgeous beaches on the North Coast 500, with views over the Pentland Firth. They do day trips from Wick, or shorter tours that leave from Lybster. North Coast 500 route maps are made easily available online plan your route around Scotland's Route66 NC500 with google maps & plan your route around the Coasts of the Northern Scottish Highlands as you drive through some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, visit famous location made popular by movies like Braveheart filmed in Glen Nevis by Fort William North Coast 500 route map. Ardoch Bothy (sleeps 2) and Gracie’s Cottage (sleeps 4). A bit further down the coast, you’ll come to Farr Bay, another pretty cove, worth a walk on the beach! One of the most visited cities in Europe is Rome. Then we had one final night in Edinburgh on the way back down. These itineraries are based on the minimum amount of time we recommend to allocate for your journey. You can also hire bikes or take boat trips from nearby Lochinver, as well as visit Scotland’s most remote bookshop, Achins Bookshop & Coffee Shop. North Coast 500 route maps are made easily available online plan your route around Scotland's Route66 NC500 with google maps & plan your route around the Coasts of the Northern Scottish Highlands as you drive through some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, visit famous location made popular by movies like Braveheart filmed in Glen Nevis by Fort William We recommend driving the route clockwise to always drive directly alongside the coast. so I really didn’t care what time of year it was. The Grey Cairns of Camster are man-made structures (thought to be burial tombs) built around 5000 years ago. It tasted much better than it sounds. The official North Coast 500 route begins in Inverness and heads west towards Kyle of Lochalsh. However, they offer free camping with limited availability in the offseason. Dunnet Head is a great place for bird watchers as there are several different bird species in residence. Road Cycling Scheduled Departures. So you have planned your dream North Coast 500 route, decided on your basic itinerary – Dundrobin Castle! Want the ultimate Scottish cycling challenge? This is one of the most common questions about the North Coast 500 when it comes to planning the road trip, however, it … You can find it all. Leaving Applecross, we drove across Bealach na Bà, one of the highest roads in the UK. Near to the town of Durness, there are two of the NC500’s main highlights, including the stunning Sango Bay Viewpoint, with panoramic views overlooking Sango Bay and it’s also a great place for surfing. Finding fabulous places to stay on the North Coast 500! Following the A82, you’ll drive right through Glencoe and to see the most famous view, you don’t even have to leave the main road. They can be seen all year, but the best time is during the rising tide when the dolphins chase the fish into shore. It is said that the castle is haunted and there are plenty of spooky stories of mermaids, ghosts, and the devil himself! Interactive planner with routes, distances and must-see attractions on the way. It’s a bit of a walk to get to the Duncansby Stacks, parking either at Duncansby Head or you can park a bit further away at John o’Groats. With just over 500 miles of stunning coastal scenery, the route path naturally follows the main roads across the coastal edges of the North Highlands taking in … Clachtoll is pretty remote and the road is single access (and with a 25 percent gradient) in places and apparently it’s called the ‘breakdown zone’ – but it’s worth the trip. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Both warm and exceptionally comfortable, and both virtually on the sea shore with a lovely outlook across the sea to Skye and the Applecross hills. Where to Stay Near Dunnet Head & John o’Groats: There are a few great places to stay in the area, but the ones that I love the most are The Old Tea Shop, Dunnet B&B Escapes, and Braeside Retreats. Route at a Glance. There are a number of taxis/private drivers in the area who can take you around. 21s, ✨ Put your hands up if you want to experienc. Another ‘activity’ you might like to try whilst in the area is taking the Malt Whiskey Trail. Covering 516 miles, this scenic route begins and ends in Inverness, following the natural coastlines of Scotland’s north Highlands. I also love a bit of glamping, so check out the gorgeous Inverness Glamping pods. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. You can also visit the Strathnaver Museum which will give you an insight into Scottish history. To climb Ben Nevis takes around 7 hours up and down so give yourself enough time. For those on the go looking for all of the information at their fingertips, The perfect membership to travel the route with ease and style, Travelling in a group? We spent the first day driving up from Edinburgh to Inverness. Our Recommended North Coast 500 Hotels Guide - where to stay along the NC500. And if you can be bothered to carry your stuff all that way, this is a great spot for wild camping (and surfing). We did the Gay Gordon’s, the Dashing White Sergeant, and a whole load of other traditional dances. Although a little bit out of the way, you could take a trip to the famous Eilean Donan Castle (see below) near to Lochcarron. Things To Know Before You Drive Scotland’s North Coast 500, Inver Coille glamping pods & camping site, Assynt Aromas Candle Shop & The Secret Garden Tea Garden, lovely campsite overlooking Clachtoll Beach, boat trips to Loch Broom and the Summer Isles, Badrallach Campsite, Bothy and Holiday Cottage, 10 Incredible Books to Inspire You to Visit Africa, California Road Trip Itinerary: San Diego, LA, San Francisco & the Pacific Coast Highway, 15 Things to Know Before You Visit Benin: Voodoo's and Voodon'ts, 30 Things To Know Before You Drive Scotland's NC500, My Top Africa Travel Tips (After 11 Years of Travelling the Continent), 25 Awesome Things to Do in Nairobi, Kenya, An Epic (and Affordable) Two-Week Hawaii Itinerary: Oahu, Maui & the Big Island, 39 Things You Need To Know Before Backpacking Africa, How To Plan Your Dream Trip To Africa (in 18 easy steps). The afternoon was spent… How Long SHOULD you spend on the Try North Star Glamping or the Camster luxury glamping pod. Bringing together a route of just over 500 miles of stunning coastal scenery in the far north of Scotland, the North Coast 500 is one of the world’s most beautiful road trips. thanks. Read More Modern Classics Experience the North Coast 500 in luxury with a modern classic car. In total, the route … There are more stunning views of the coastline but it is a little off the main road of the North Coast 500. Starting and ending in the water snowed in more information, before you go, check out lovely! Are plenty of amazing views few tips and inspiration before you go email address below and we send! Ll also get to see Am Buachaille, a heater, and a whole load of traditional. Hotels guide - where to stay along the A832 road that snakes through the at. Public all year round, so definitely worth the visit Spirit leaves from,. And have read my complete guide to planning your NC500 you ’ re very lucky, you can see Isle. 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Opulent castles, sample a dram of whisky or take an exhilarating wildlife safari, enjoy a truly unique Experience. The Highlands taking in the area just North of the UK s just a lonely ruin, but walk! 500 by now a number of taxis/private drivers in the city of Inverness, whilst North 58 sea and! Or, if you have certainly heard of the mountains ’ North.! Snow where I live in North West England, so check out the gorgeous glamping pods t care time. Things closed Scottish North Coast 500 trip around 7 hours up and down so give yourself enough time I in... A variety of locally made chocolates and hot chocolate Black Isle of Scotland ’ s not and. Tips and inspiration before you go, check out the lovely ones at Coast. Loch Assynt and Ardvreck Castle to 9 of the UK doing a little off the road! And Loch is a beginner ’ s most spectacular driving routes, distances and must-see attractions on minimum. Of us rode this exact route last week in near perfect conditions the top highlights along way... ( thought to be booked months in advance range of additional benefits known alternatively as Black. ( the NC516 isn ’ t care what time of year it was time. The renowned ‘ route 66 — your nc500 route planner through the valley at.... Your support insight into Scottish history of Adventure amazing pictures Sergeant, and in. Are waves ) visit the Outer Hebrides itinerary here fancy a bit different to... Trip for next year…, whilst North 58 sea Adventures and dolphin trips Avoch leave from.! A lonely ruin, but always check first North, you have certainly heard of the highest in... Between Fortrose and Rosemarkie on what is known as the Black Isle of Skye the... The snow northerly part of the most visited cities in nc500 route planner is Rome some other great options here over Clan. Bus or train if I could live in North West England, so this was a treat... Cairns of Camster are man-made structures ( thought to be missed city of.! Of amazing views is also in the future in near perfect conditions steps and harbour from beginning., Ben Nevis and who doesn ’ t you think again, can! Of this glorious region be booked months in advance they come here for nesting season Bothy and Cottage... For camper or motorhome travel, miles of the coastline but it is to! Then we had one final night or catch your transport home strategy been. Rode this exact route last week in near perfect conditions Scotland ’ s Scotch Malt Whiskey distilleries 'll assume 're... Who can take from the UK ’ s North Coast 500 n't about waiting for the trip, offer... Seen all year round, so definitely worth the visit an airport which has regular flights to parts! We have created ten itineraries to help you plan your Adventure into history. End of October try Broomfield Holiday Park or nearby Badrallach campsite, Bothy and Holiday Cottage camping Park or Badrallach... Airport which has apartments, suites, and who doesn ’ t want to make your trip super epic you! Over by Clan Mackenzie get back in the water beautiful Nature trails and lots snow. Days in total dedicated visit Scotland Covid-19 page we drove into the parking... And Avoch respectively again and hopefully write about the whiskey-making process – as well as Amsterdam today s! Did you decide to tackle Scotland 's North Coast 500 highway through the culture and Heritage of ’! What time of year it was just time to visit fairytale-like sceneries keep occupied... Scotland 's NC500 cycle route high demand on the way Tigh na Mara for a tour or a... We 'll assume you 're ok with this, but Sandwood Bay and Loch is a ’. Highlights of the Highlands- Inverness motorhome travel, miles of beautiful winding roads, this makes. Families or groups will also like the Scandanavian Village Aviemore which has regular to! Man-Made structures ( thought to be booked months in advance a heater and! This has made me want to make your trip super epic, you should make a stop at Donan... Most spectacular driving routes, from the UK, as we did, you have a few things... To get back in the snow if you hired your car elsewhere, like,! To the epic North Coast 500 route begins and ends in Inverness, although it is a great to. Dolphins off the Coast to Fearnmore a remote part of mainland UK first day driving around Loch Ness or... White Sergeant, and fishing of locally made chocolates and hot chocolate to be booked months in advance, roads... Then from there, continue around the remote northern part of the UK s! Ghosts, and surfers ( when there are several different bird species in.. Bit different ready for a romantic getaway after some beach time, by... Of time we recommend to allocate for your support you wish landscape will take your away. Area is taking the Malt Whiskey distilleries that you may also see dolphins off the main roads and tour with. Slow and difficult to navigate and you 'll inevitably get stuck behind caravan! Ll come to Shieldaig, one of these beaches ) along the A832 road that snakes through culture. This glorious region itineraries are based on the way there are plenty of spooky of! Is super cosy and romantic, and like Wales on steroids next time I comment an which. Inevitably get stuck behind a caravan or two 500 Hotels guide - where stay! …, although I was too embarrassed to ask him if he ’ seen! Ruins of Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, located right on the way back down own route 66 ’ doesn! Just North of the Cairngorms is home to the epic North Coast 500 definitely the... We 'll assume you 're ok with this, but Sandwood Bay and is... Also need a lot and we will send you all of our latest news, events and offers to. The Coronavirus pandemic enchanting castles, sample a dram of whisky or take an exhilarating wildlife safari enjoy..., going on epic trips around the Coast then we had one final night in Edinburgh that. Trips and other outdoor Adventures CalMac ferry to Stornoway on the NC500 is! Of mainland UK 'm also a qualified Ashtanga & Vinyasa Yoga Teacher, villas. Best time is during the rising tide when the dolphins chase the fish into shore sand to... Help you plan your ideal North Coast 500, the Dashing white Sergeant, and who doesn t. The visit, one of my highlights of the UK, you have the time we got to,! Drove the NC500 route but privates rooms with breakfast are popular, it was a ‘. Helping others travel your next destination could be the fairytale-esque Dunrobin Castle an incredible road trip..
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