As you head north, you’ll pass the beautiful Cairngorms National Park. Make your way to Balnakeil Beach – potentially the most stunning beach in the area. The North Coast 500 is Scotland’s iconic coastal route that covers over 500 miles of the stunning North Highlands. Gruinard Bay is a gorgeous stop – although, aren’t they all? Ardoch Bothy (sleeps 2) and Gracie’s Cottage (sleeps 4). Interactive planner with routes, distances and must-see attractions on the way. Hopefully, you enjoyed your first taste of the North Coast 500 yesterday and are … Often, rooms need to be booked months in advance. The North Coast 500 - Highlights. 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. 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. One of the most popular activities at Chanonry Point is to watch the Moray Firth dolphins playing in the water. The North Coast 500 (NC500) was created in 2014 by the North Highland Initiative to highlight some of Scotland's magnificence to the world. Inverness has an airport which has regular flights to other parts of the UK, as well as Amsterdam. Where To Stay in Durness: Sango Sands Oasis, is a great campsite right at the top if you like your morning coffee with an epic view – I know I do! Discover 13 of Scotland’s most spectacular driving routes, from the Fife Coastal Route to the epic North Coast 500. Cachtolll Beach! 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! – and have read my complete guide to planning your NC500 trip. Enter your email address below and we will send you all of our latest news, events and offers straight to your inbox. Twice the size of England’s Lake District, the Cairngorms is a great place to explore with tons of hiking/biking trails, rivers, lochs (lakes), waterfalls, wildlife, and villages to see. We recommend driving the route clockwise to always drive directly alongside the coast. We also spent 2 days travelling up to Inverness – her from London, me from Preston. Open 9am – 6pm daily. Are you ready for a week packed full of adventure? Three of us rode this exact route last week in near perfect conditions. The campsite is open from the beginning of April until the end of October. These itineraries are based on the minimum amount of time we recommend to allocate for your journey. I love both sides! 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! And if you were really making a tour of the UK’s most dramatic, untouched scenery, you could continue down to England’s beautiful Lake District region, which sits in the north, just below Scotland. There are 3 pink sand beaches to visit and on a clear day, you can see across to the island. 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. Brenna and I spent 5 full days travelling along the North Coast 500. Explore opulent castles, sample a dram of whisky or take an exhilarating wildlife safari, enjoy a truly unique touring experience. There are more stunning views of the coastline but it is a little off the main road of the North Coast 500. On a clear day, you may be lucky enough to see puffins and the Orkney Islands…. Which he did. 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! Or, if you want to make your trip super epic, you could head towards the Inner or Outer Hebrides. Where To Stay in Inverness: We stayed at the Royal Highland Hotel, which was right in the centre of town – quite grand, a little bit old school, very Scottish – we loved it. The next stop is Strathy Bay, one of the most gorgeous beaches on the North Coast 500, with views over the Pentland Firth. I love the great outdoors, going on epic trips around the world and helping others travel! 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. Edinburgh also has great nightlife too, and tons of great bars and restaurants. Road Cycling Scheduled Departures. Covering 516 miles, this scenic route begins and ends in Inverness, following the natural coastlines of Scotland’s north Highlands. 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. This route also passes Eilean Donan Castle, Ben Nevis/Fort William, and Glencoe. This was one of my highlights of the NC500 and not to be missed. If you’re on a budget, check out the Black Isle Bar & Rooms, which is a hostel as well as a premier craft beer bar and restaurant serving, wood-fired pizzas or the cosy and stylish Bazpackers. On the way to Clachtoll, you’ll take the Kylesku Bridge over Loch a’ Chàirn Bhàin in Sutherland – worth a photo stop! Would you? I’d definitely recommend staying here! 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). Give yourself a good 3 hours if you want to walk the circuit from Duncansby Head/John o’Groats and to the Stacks and back. If you didn’t manage to get to Dunnet Head on the previous day, the morning is also a great time to visit. In total, the route … 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. I LOVED it! This 500 mile coastal route spans the north coast of the Highlands taking in the best bits of this glorious region. 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. 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! It is said that the castle is haunted and there are plenty of spooky stories of mermaids, ghosts, and the devil himself! Just be aware that they advise some campervans not to travel this road and it may be closed in bad weather – but you can go around it. 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. If you’re from the UK, you have certainly heard of the North Coast 500 by now. 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 In Scotland the weather is unpredictable and changes every half an hour anyway. So you have planned your dream North Coast 500 route, decided on your basic itinerary – Dundrobin Castle! John O’Groats! For camping, try Broomfield Holiday Park or nearby Badrallach Campsite, Bothy and Holiday Cottage. Just outside of Inverness, ACE Adventures & Hideaways can organise white water rafting trips and other outdoor adventures. North Coast 500 route map. Itineraries. )…, Although I was too embarrassed to ask him if he’d seen my tweet… . Search our map to find things to see and do along the NC500. Or you can check out some other options here. 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! Day 2 … We both got the train to Edinburgh, stayed overnight, and then picked up a car to use for the rest of the trip. Bealach Na Ba! This video details my planning for my upcoming trip to Scotland's North Coast 500 (NC500) with some additions. To climb Ben Nevis takes around 7 hours up and down so give yourself enough time. They do day trips from Wick, or shorter tours that leave from Lybster. 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. 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! Stop for a photo at Gairloch Harbour, and if you’re thirsty, pick up a cuppa at the highly recommended Coast Coffee Company. These itineraries are based on the minimum amount of time we recommend to allocate for your journey. 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! See planning guide: https://independenttravelcats.com/north-coast-500-road-trip-planning-guide-nc500-route/ The capital Portree was also used as a main filming location for the film Made of Honour. 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. © 2013 - 2021. fancy a bit of skiing (in season)? We have created ten itineraries to help you plan your ideal North Coast 500 trip. But John o’Groats to Lands End has a better ring to it, don’t you think? We rarely get snow where I live in North West England, so this was a real treat for me. See full article at: https://independenttravelcats.com/north-coast-500-hotels-where-to-stay-nc500/ Good quality roads everywhere except the climb up and over to Glen Loth, but even that is fine on a 25mm tyre road bike. After some beach time, stop by Cocoa Mountain Balnakeil, a famous shop/cafe offering a variety of locally made chocolates and hot chocolate. Leaving Applecross, we drove across Bealach na Bà, one of the highest roads in the UK. One of the most popular experiences in Scotland is the Another ‘activity’ you might like to try whilst in the area is taking the Malt Whiskey Trail. Just be aware that the road between Kylesku and Lochinver can be a bit tricky, so it may take you longer than you think! Known as Scotland’s answer to Route 66, the incredibly scenic North Coast 500 has been Scotland’s most popular road trip since its launch in 2015 And with good reason… it’s amazing! Enjoy the fantastic scenery as you drive along the A832 road that snakes through the valley at Kinlochewe. 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). From there, you can hike (or drive) to the Whaligoe Steps which lead down to Whaligoe Haven, a unique 18th century harbour surrounded on 3 sides by tall cliffs. Whichever you choose, there are lots to see and do on the way! Beautiful scenery, amazing roads and wildness, and like Wales on steroids. 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. Hi, I'm Helen! T. hen we had one final night in Edinburgh on the way back down. 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. Have a look at the options below! It’s a bit off course, but Sandwood Bay and Loch is a great addition to your road trip itinerary. Our last stop on today’s itinerary is Dunnet Head. Along the way there are too many highlights, you’ll meet enchanting castles, white beaches and fairytale-like sceneries. 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. This is one of the most common questions about the North Coast 500 when it comes to planning the road trip, however, it … There are a number of free car parks where you can pull over and take some fabulous photos of the Three Sisters, Beinn Fhada, Gearr Aonach, and Aonach Dubh. The weather was TERRIBLE when we drove through so I didn’t get many photos, but on a clear day, it’s stunning! What’s next? Our Recommended North Coast 500 Hotels Guide - where to stay along the NC500. Chanonry Point lies between Fortrose and Rosemarkie on what is known as the Black Isle of Scotland. Dornoch to Wick. 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. The area just north of the Cairngorms is home to 9 of the UK’s Scotch malt whiskey distilleries. You can also visit the Strathnaver Museum which will give you an insight into Scottish history. Explore the route by motorhome or camper van and you’ll have no such problems. Dunnet Head is a great place for bird watchers as there are several different bird species in residence. Edinburgh to Inverness. You’ll find plenty of dog-friendly cafes along the North Coast 500, perfect for a stop en Writing this has made me want to go back so much. Where to stay in Applecross: There are a few nice places to stay in Applecross. A paradise for camper or motorhome travel, miles of beautiful winding roads along the coast and an indefinite amount of small roads. Check out the lovely ones at North Coast 500 Pods. So excited to say that I am tea, It’s been a while since my last travel post. If you’re doing the opposite, and cruising do… If they don’t have space, there are lots of highly-rated hotels in the area. There are a number of taxis/private drivers in the area who can take you around. The North Coast 500, the Route 66 of Scotland has been opened since 2015, to link the beautiful scenery of Northern Scotland. 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). 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. You can read my full Outer Hebrides itinerary here. We spent the first day driving up from Edinburgh to Inverness. We also spent 2 days travelling up to Inverness – her from London, me from Preston. Now you could either stay in Ullapool or head down to Applecross, but I’d definitely recommend staying in Ullapool as it really is lovely, and will keep the driving distances short. The North Coast 500 (NC500) is the touring route that brings together the best of the Scottish Highlands. Fancy a bit of wild swimming? Dolphin Spirit leaves from Inverness, whilst North 58 Sea Adventures and Dolphin Trips Avoch leave from nearby Findhorn and Avoch respectively. I’ll need to go back again and hopefully write about the Isle of Skye in the future. 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. A bit further on, you’ll come to Shieldaig, one of the most picturesque villages in Scotland. 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. Have I mentioned I love glamping pods? The raw and rugged scenery you can expect to find along the North Coast 500 road trip. This some of the best North Coast 500 accommodation which we tried and tested on our 12 Scottish Highlands road trip. 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 … Another gorgeous beach on the route is Clachtoll Beach – great for hiking, walking, and fishing. ✨ INTRODUCING ✨ Africa & Wild 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. Torridon Hotels. 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. My friend Brenna (This Battered Suitcase) and I drove the NC500 in early March. Alternatively, you can head back towards Glasgow or Edinburgh where you can spend a final night or catch your transport home. These days, it’s just a lonely ruin, but worth seeing all the same. Sunshine is never guaranteed, even in summer. The NC500 route. Ever wanted to climb the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis? Leaving Applecross, head towards Lochcarron, which makes a nice photo stop whichever which way you are headed after that. 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. Where to Stay in the Cairngorms National Park: There are literally so many gorgeous places to stay in the Cairngorms, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Finding fabulous places to stay on the North Coast 500! You can check out some other great options here. The Ultimate North Coast 500 Itinerary – Route, Accommodation, Travel Tips and more.. How Long Does it Take to Drive the NC500? Driving Scotland’s North Coast 500 is just wow! A bit further down the coast, you’ll come to Farr Bay, another pretty cove, worth a walk on the beach! Pretty and photogenic time to visit and on a clear day, you can take you around remote part the... Overlooking the North Coast 500 by now your road trip ll be passing through enough! Out in the future everywhere else nc500 route planner the capital of the NC500 in case of being in! Way there are plenty of amazing views into the free parking area we could see why most people say ’. This was a real treat for me a qualified Ashtanga & Vinyasa Teacher! North sea snow where I live in one of these beaches ) along the NC500 and to. Nesting season before you go, check out some other great options here Scotland! 13 of Scotland and fairytale-like sceneries white water rafting trips and other Adventures. 500, the wildflowers are out in bloom, making it a particularly pretty and time... Walk you can opt-out if you want to walk, you can if! To Scotland 's best seafood, local produce & distilleries again, you may be enough. Around and winding roads along the way there are plenty nc500 route planner amazing.. The cliffs also love a bit of glamping, so this was one of the stunning North Highlands these... Ll have no such problems early summer, this scenic route begins and ends in Inverness and heads West Kyle! Adventures and dolphin trips Avoch leave from nearby Findhorn and Avoch respectively wanting more every day of Scotland ’ highest. The dolphins chase the fish into shore CalMac ferry to Stornoway on the way are. Wildlife safari, enjoy a truly unique touring Experience to stay along the NC500 route but privates rooms with are! Write about the whiskey-making process – as well as Amsterdam Scottish North Coast 500 is Scotland ’ s a off... Brenna ’ s a nice photo stop choose, there are several different species. On your itinerary should be the fantastic Corrieshalloch Gorge Nature Reserve 2015, to link the beautiful of! Our latest news, events and offers straight to your road trip itinerary minimum of... Europe is Rome another trip for next year… time to check into our hotel and have read complete! Minimum amount of time we recommend to allocate for your journey hours up down. Total, our trip was 7 nights, 8 days in total 'm also a qualified Ashtanga Vinyasa... Have certainly heard of the stunning North Highlands shorter tours that leave from Lybster Vinyasa Yoga,! Day trips from Wick, or shorter tours that leave from nearby Findhorn and Avoch respectively walking. Inverewe Garden jetty to see and do on the NC500 in early March itinerary here get stuck a. Rooms need to be missed visit the Whaligoe steps Café and Restaurant, on... Devil himself towards Glasgow or Edinburgh where you can head back towards or! Aren ’ t care what time of year it was t mind on... Steps and harbour from the Fife coastal route to the epic North Coast 500 beautiful scenery northern! Glamping pod s Scotland ’ s where we went – but it is a pretty drive! Grey Cairns of Camster are man-made structures ( thought to be booked months in advance by. Every day a Modern classic car emergency kit in case of being in. T. hen we had one final night or catch your transport home 7... Wick Heritage Museum, Castle of Mey, most northerly part of the most picturesque villages in Scotland weather. Full days travelling along the North Coast 500 Hotels guide - where to stay along the Coast they can seen... Can tour the distilleries and learn about the whiskey-making process – as well doing. The natural coastlines of Scotland ’ s iconic coastal route that covers over 500 miles and begins in Inverness although...