The North Coast 500 isn’t just a road trip — it’s a journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes Scotland has to offer. With rugged mountains, windswept coastlines and charming Highland villages, it’s no wonder this scenic loop has become a bucket-list favourite for travellers around the world.
My husband Nathan and I recently got to experience the NC500 – and if I could sum our trip up in one word it would be “magical.” But, here are a few more for those who are planning on doing the famous NC500 route themselves.
What Is the NC500?
First things first, if you’re completely new to the concept of the NC500, allow me to fill you in.
This 516-mile driving route across the north coast of Scotland spans the Highland regions of Caithness, Sutherland, and Ross and Cromarty. Typically, the NC500 starts and ends in Inverness (known as the capital of the Highlands), but people often adapt the route based on their travel plans.
It’s quite common to start in Inverness (which lies north of Edinburgh) and drive the route anticlockwise looping back around to Inverness. This is because the landscapes get more dramatic the further west you travel.
Source: Wikipedia
Coming from North Yorkshire, Nathan and I drove up to Scotland through Glasgow and spent our first night in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. We drove clockwise and diverted to the Isle of Skye from Lochiber before making our way across the country to Caithness.
Although there is a standard NC500 route, you can create your own that works for you and your schedule.
How to Get on the NC500 Route
Scotland is quite easily accessible from the north of England. However, from the south (or elsewhere around the world), it might not be feasible to travel by car.
In this case, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Inverness all have international airports and you can catch a flight to one of these. Unless you’re flying from a major international airport, keep in mind that you may have a stopover rather than a direct route.
Most people who fly to one of these cities then choose to rent a car from the airport. You can use public transport too, such as ScotRail and bus operators like Stagecoach. However, the best way to do the NC500 route is by car, as that is how it was designed.
How Long Do I Need for the NC500?
How long you choose to do NC500 is completely up to you. You may follow the main NC500 route exactly, whether anticlockwise or clockwise, or you may dip in and out like Nathan and I did.
Either way, to do the majority of it, I’d say you need at least a week. Nathan and I had 8 days but we had to cut out bits of the north-east as we spent two nights in Lochaber and two nights on the Isle of Skye. We could have done the whole NC500 comfortably in 7-10 days or more leisurely in two weeks.
I didn’t want to come home, so I’d say the more time you have, the better!
Where to Stay on the NC500
The NC500 is very popularly travelled by motorhome and campervan, as well as car.
Wild camping is generally allowed in Scotland. That being said, it must be done responsibly following the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which limits group size and duration.
Therefore, a lot of people camping or using motorhomes may just stop spontaneously as they go along the NC500 route. Planning ahead can be a good idea if you’re heading to Scotland in peak season and want to book specific campsites or accommodations. Map out your itinerary based on what you’d like to see and do; then pick your towns to stay in overnight based on what works for your route.
Ulbster Arms Hotel & Lodges
I can highly recommend staying in Ulbster Arms Hotel & Lodges as an ideal location for exploring the NC500.
Location
Ulbster Arms is based in Halkirk, which is a charming village a 10-minute drive from Thurso on the north coast. It’s on River Thurso and surrounded by beautiful countryside and farms where I spotted some fluffy Highland cows!
A lot of the popular northeast attractions like the John O’Groats sign and Duncansby Stacks are about a 30-minute drive from the hotel. Dunrobin Castle and Whaligoe Steps are an hour’s drive away.
Nathan and I even drove to the north coast beaches of Coldbackie and Durness on a day trip. In other words, Ulbster Arms is the perfect base for the northeast and east coast parts of your NC500 route.
Accommodation
Ulbster Arms offers a range of family- and dog-friendly rooms, including affordable main-building options and separate Executive Lodges.
We were lucky enough to stay in an Executive Lodge room, which was just as spacious as it was cosy. It was so lovely to return to such comfort after a long day of exploring, and we appreciated the little thoughtful touches, such as private parking and free biscuits with daily housekeeping.
We had a king-size bed for two and slept serenely on the soft sheets each night of our stay.
We loved the communal kitchen and lounge area that we shared with the other rooms in the same lodge. The main building also had a lounge area made up of cushioned seats, coffee tables and bookshelves filled with books you were allowed to grab and read.
Every aspect of the accommodation had cosy furnishings and country decor, providing the ultimate home-away-from-home feeling.
Food
Bed and breakfast is a popular boarding option at the Ulbster Arms, and it’s easy to understand why. We got to choose from a menu of hearty meals every morning, as well as take advantage of a continental buffet.
We also sampled the restaurant on the first night with a three-course meal. The large portions were unbelievably tasty and offered great value for money.
Staff
The best thing about Ulbster Arms is undoubtedly the people who work there. They are the warmest, kindest and friendliest bunch and went out of their way to ensure we were enjoying our stay.
Nothing was too much trouble and Nathan and I had so much fun chatting to them and learning more about the hotel and the top things to do in the area.
Popular NC500 Stops
There are many different stops on the NC500 route, but the following places seem to be the most popular.
Inverness
The traditional NC500 route begins and ends in Inverness – a lively city that’s often dubbed the gateway to the Scottish Highlands. Nathan and I only had a day to explore it as we passed through en route to Edinburgh on our way home, but we were genuinely surprised by how much we loved it. It’s full of charm, culture and cosy corners – definitely one to factor into your itinerary.
If you’re spending some time in the city, here are a few fun things you can do in and around Inverness.
- Victorian Market
This charming indoor market is packed with quirky shops, local treasures and beautiful Victorian architecture. - River Ness and Inverness Botanic Gardens
Enjoy a peaceful stroll by the water, cross the scenic bridges and explore the Ness Islands if you’ve got time. - Inverness Castle
This iconic red sandstone castle overlooks the city and usually features an immersive experience that brings Highland stories to life, but it’s currently under construction. - Fort George
This 18th-century fortress has incredible views and a deep dive into Scotland’s military past. - Craig Phadrig
This is a short hike with big rewards, offering sweeping views over the city and beyond. - Loch Ness boat tour
See if you can spot Nessie while soaking up the epic scenery. (Spoiler alert: we didn’t, but there’s always next time!) - Urquhart Castle
These dramatic ruins on the edge of Loch Ness are packed with history and photo ops.
Caithness
Tucked away in the northeast corner of the Highlands, Caithness is known for its wild beauty, rugged coastline and, of course, the iconic village of John O’Groats. It’s especially gorgeous in summer when yellow gorse bushes brighten up the rolling hills and coastal paths, creating picture-perfect scenery at every turn.
If you’re exploring the east coast NC500 route, don’t miss the following must-see spots.
- Dunrobin Castle
This enchanting stately home looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale and offers dreamy gardens and sea views to match. - Whaligoe Steps
These dramatic zig-zag steps take you down a 250-foot cliff to a tucked-away fishing harbour steeped in history.
- Castle Sinclair Girnigoe
Discover the atmospheric ruins of two castles perched on a cliff edge – a hidden gem for history lovers and photographers alike. - John O’Groats sign
A classic NC500 photo op marking the most northerly settlement on the British mainland – you can’t leave without one! - Duncansby Stacks
Take a short scenic walk on the cliffs near John O’Groats to check out these striking sea stacks.
- Dunnet Head
Officially the northernmost point of mainland Britain, this rugged headland features a lighthouse and unforgettable sea views. - Castle of Mey
Once home to the Queen Mother, this beautifully preserved castle offers royal charm and sweeping sea views. - Thurso and Wick
These historic coastal towns offer charm, local shops and great seafood, making them pleasant to wander through if you have the time.
Sutherland
Remote, rugged and ridiculously beautiful, Sutherland in the northwest Highlands is a dream for road trippers seeking golden beaches, dramatic landscapes and a true taste of untamed Scotland.
Here are some top spots to check out as you pass through.
- Dornoch Beach
Stretching from Dornoch Point to Loch Fleet, this sweeping beach is all soft golden sand and peaceful coastal vibes. - Dornoch
This characterful town is packed with history, featuring the impressive Dornoch Cathedral and a touch of castle ruins. - Coldbackie Beach
Just over an hour from Dornoch, this hidden gem offers wild beauty and crystal-clear waters backed by rolling hills.
- Durness
This charming Highland village is your gateway to stunning coastal walks, beaches and that wild northern magic. - Smoo Cave
Located just east of Durness, this massive sea and freshwater cave is one of Sutherland’s top attractions – and for good reason!
- Durness Beach/Sango Bay
Only a few minutes from Smoo Cave, this stunning spot boasts turquoise waters and soft sands with an epic cliffside backdrop.
- Ardvreck Castle
These dramatic ruins on the edge of Loch Assynt are a must for moody photos and Highland history. - Achmelvich Bay
Think white sands, clear waters and a total “is this really Scotland?” moment. - Kyle of Tongue
This scenic coastal spot has postcard-perfect views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Ross and Cromarty
Ross and Cromarty is where rugged mountains meet wild coastlines, and every turn brings a new “wow” moment. It’s an unmissable stretch of the NC500 that’s packed with natural beauty, delightful villages and epic viewpoints.
Add the following stunning spots to your NC500 route.
- Bealach na Bà
Scotland’s most iconic mountain pass isn’t for the faint-hearted, but has jaw-dropping views over the Applecross Peninsula. We definitely tested Nathan’s driving skills that day!
- Applecross Peninsula
This is a peaceful and remote slice of the Highlands with gorgeous scenery, coastal walks and cosy village vibes. - Gairloch
This friendly seaside village is where you’ll find sandy beaches, scenic hikes and plenty of local character. - Ullapool
This charming harbour town is perfect for a pit stop, with cute cafés, craft shops and scenic harbour views. - Shieldaig
This tiny but enchanting village hugs the coast and offers amazing views across Loch Shieldaig.
- Torridon
Famous for its dramatic peaks and mountain trails, this area is a haven for hikers and nature lovers. - Corrieshalloch Gorge
Take in the roaring waterfalls and cross the Victorian suspension bridge in this breathtaking wooded gorge. - Eilean Donan Castle
One of Scotland’s most photographed castles, this picturesque fortress sits on its own little island and feels straight out of a film.
There is more to see and do on the NC500 route than just the popular stops. If you have the time, I’d suggest making other spontaneous stops as and when you stumble across them, as that’s half the fun of this incredible road trip!
Popular NC500 Detours
While the NC500 is iconic in its own right, one of the best things about it is the freedom to make it your own. With a little extra time, you can easily veer off the main loop and explore some of Scotland’s most magical spots.
The three most popular detours — Edinburgh, Lochaber and the Isle of Skye — are totally worth it (trust me).
Lochaber
If you fancy extending your NC500 route, Lochaber is a no-brainer for soaking up the Highlands in all their moody glory. This rugged region is packed with majestic mountains, cinematic views (literally — hello, Skyfall and Harry Potter), charming villages and scenic hiking trails. Explore Glencoe’s epic Glen Etive road and tick off must-sees in and around Fort William like Glenfinnan Viaduct, Loch Leven and Ben Nevis.
Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is pure magic and totally worth the detour. Think dramatic cliffs, landslides, fairytale hikes and misty mountain views that’ll blow your mind. (They did ours.) The crystal-clear Fairy Pools, impressive Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock falls and quirky Fairy Glen aren’t to be missed. Stop by picturesque Portree for a bite to eat and don’t forget a whisky distillery tour for an unforgettable mini road trip within your road trip.
Edinburgh
If you’re ending your NC500 adventure in Edinburgh like we did, you’re in for a treat. Scotland’s capital is a vibrant mix of history, charm and modern cool. Stroll along the cobbled streets of the Royal Mile, hike up Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views and explore the grand Edinburgh Castle. Nathan and I have been to Edinburgh multiple times now and we can’t resist the quaint cobbled streets, lively pubs and gorgeous Georgian architecture.
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
If you’re starting or ending your NC500 adventure via Glasgow, don’t miss the chance to explore Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. We first visited in 2023 during a Glasgow road trip and instantly fell for the tranquil beauty of Luss, a postcard-perfect village with quaint cottages, pretty gardens and stunning views over the loch. The whole area is a peaceful contrast to the rugged Highlands, making it the perfect spot to ease into — or wind down from — your NC500 journey.
Final Thoughts on the NC500 Route
If you’re craving an unforgettable road trip packed with raw natural beauty, historic gems and cosy Highland hospitality, the NC500 ticks every box. From castle ruins and secluded beaches to friendly locals and hearty meals, the NC500 is more than just a road — it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.
Stay at Ulbster Arms Hotel & Lodges along the way for the best of Highland hospitality and give yourself at least a week to explore, tailoring the NC500 route to suit your pace and interests. Wherever you stop along the way, one thing’s for sure: Scotland will steal a piece of your heart.
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