North Coast 500

This itinerary will bring you a mix of historic sites, stunning coastal views, and opportunities to sample local produce and delicious foods along the way.

Before you set off…

Our itinerary provides six days of driving and sightseeing opportunities - condense or stretch out at your leisure, of course! 

We’ve chosen to take the route from West to East. This is the most popular option for the NC500, as it leaves some of the most breathtaking views until the end and gradually introduces you to Scotland’s bumpier roads. If you’d prefer to travel East to West, simply reverse our itinerary.

Please allow enough time to travel to and from Inverness. It will likely take you an entire day’s travel to the starting point if you don’t live in Scotland.

Take note of the NC500 visitor pledge, which can be found at northcoast500.com: “Your adventure on the North Coast 500 starts with more than just the journey - it starts with your commitment to protecting this incredible region.” 

Be sure to plan ahead! Hotels and restaurants are often booked up months in advance. Spring or autumn-time are our preferred seasons for the NC500, they ensure a quiet route and there’s still hope for dry weather.

Day 1 

Inverness to Applecross (100* miles)

Top spots

Inverness itself - Capital of the Highlands. Explore the castle, River Ness, and the poignant site of the 1746 Culloden Battle.
Beauly village and the Beauly Priory - fab lunch spots.
Tomatin Distillery - book onto a whisky tour!
Applecross and the Bealach na Bà pass - dramatic coastal and mountain views and some of the freshest seafood in Scotland.

Day 2

Applecross to Gairloch (60* miles)

Top spots

Drive towards Shieldaig - take in the beautiful coastal views and peaks of the Torridon mountains.
Gairloch Museum - located in a converted nuclear bunker with galleries showcasing the history, culture and natural heritage of this beautiful area.

Book on a boat trip - take in the area's wildlife and meet the resident seals.

Day 3

Gairloch to Ullapool (85* miles)

Top spots 

Inverewe Gardens - home to a variety of plant species that thrive in the mild gulf stream climate.
Ullapool - a charming fishing village with a lively arts scene. Check out the Ullapool museum to discover more about the town’s history.
Corrieshalloch - a spectacular meltwater glacial gorge, one of the many wonders of the highlands.

Day 4

Ullapool to Durness (120* miles) 

Top spots

Lochinver - gorgeous views of rugged landscapes and coastal beauty. Enjoy the peaceful harbour.
Smoo Cave - a must-see natural wonder. A dramatic sea cave with a waterfall inside.
Sango Bay - explore the beautiful white sand beaches and take the chance to truly unwind in a beautiful and remote environment. 
Durness - enjoy a peaceful evening in the tranquil village.

Day 5 

Durness to John O’ Groats (130* miles)

Top spots

Cape Wrath - the northernmost point of the Scottish mainland. You can get there via ferry or minibus.
Explore Thurso - Scotland’s most northerly town Caithness Horizons Museum. 
John O’Groats - be sure to snap a photo by the iconic signpost.

Day 6 

John O’ Groats to Inverness (120* miles)

Top spots
Journey south and say goodbye to the beautiful North.
Nairn - if you have time, Nairn is a small coastal town known for its charming atmosphere, take a break and enjoy a quiet beach walk.
Inverness - if you didn’t have time to explore the Castle or Eden Court Theatre the first time around, now’s your chance.