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In the event you’re planning to go to the UK and Scotland particularly, driving on the 500-mile North Coast 500 needs to be in your bucket record. Scotland is extra than simply your ordinary journey to Edinburgh and the scrumptious haggis from pubs. It’s additionally an exquisite place filled with reminiscence, tradition, and pure wonders for these keen to enterprise additional north.
The NC500 permits you to discover the great thing about the North and the Highlands absolutely. From serene seashores, castles, to pure formations and wildlife, the Highlands will astound you with its treasure trove of the gorgeous and the miraculous.
What’s the North Coast 500?
The NC500 will take you on to the fascinating locations within the Scottish Highlands in only a single route. This round highway journey begins from the town of Inverness to the extremities of Britain and again to the start line.
Nevertheless, you at all times have the choice to start out and end wherever you need. You’re additionally answerable for how a lot time you spend in your journey. However if you wish to try all the very best spots on the North Coast 500, per week is greater than sufficient to cowl most of them.
This route goals to fill a spot within the Highlands’ tourism and economic system and was launched in March 2015 by the Nationwide Highland Initiative (NHI) with help from Go to Scotland. The North Coast route has considerably elevated revenue and tourism within the Highlands space, including about 29,000 visits within the first yr of its launch.
How Lengthy Does it Take to Drive the North Coast 500?
The North Coast 500 is a 516-mile (829 km) scenic route that takes you thru a few of the Scottish Highlands’ most breathtaking landscapes and charming cities. You possibly can technically drive the route in a day, however the place would the enjoyable be in that? You wouldn’t be capable to cease and luxuriate in all the very best stops alongside the NC500 route.
A really perfect time could be between 7-10 days, relying on how lengthy you need to spend at every cease and the way a lot time you need to allocate for sightseeing and actions alongside the best way. Though you would simply see so much in 5 days and delve deeper into the highlands with a full two weeks.
15 North Coast 500 Journey Tricks to Know (Scottish 500)
Ought to You Drive the North Coast 500 Route Clockwise or Anti-Clockwise?
Each instances now we have pushed the North Coast 500 route now we have carried out so anti-clockwise, which isn’t the standard route. So for simplicity’s sake, this submit will element the NC500 route clockwise.
There may be actually no distinction between driving the route clockwise vs anti-clockwise. Folks usually hightail it to the west of Scotland as that is the extra dramatic and what some would say “extra lovely” half, so after all, most guests need to get there initially of their journey. Nevertheless the good thing about driving counter clockwise is “saving the very best for final.”
I Don’t Have Time to drive the Complete Route, What Ought to I do?
In the event you don’t have time to drive the entire North Coast 500, you may nonetheless drive parts of the route for a couple of days. For the extra dramatic part, head to the west of the nation close to Applecross. That is the place you’ll discover breathtaking cliffs and landscapes that appear to be from a film seen. If you’re into castles and tradition we advocate driving north from Inverness in direction of the city of Brora to see Dunrobin Fortress, get pleasure from a Distillery tour, and calm down on the Scottish seashore.
Find out how to Keep away from the Crowds alongside the North Coast 500?
Summer season is the busiest time of yr on the North Coast 500 with crowds selecting up in July and August. To have essentially the most crowd free expertise we advocate visiting outdoors of those months. Though, we drove the NC500 in September, and the route was removed from empty. To keep away from crowds we advocate:
- Waking up early: Beginning your day earlier than 9am shall be useful.
- Sticking to the east: The jap part of the route is way quieter than the extra dramatic western space of the Scottish Highlands.
- Go to within the winter: Winter on the NC500 will show to be very quiet, although this implies extra treacherous driving situations. Many operators and vacationer websites may also be closed for the season.
- Get out on a hike: Most individuals driving the NC500 received’t enterprise removed from their automotive and pull off factors. The additional you hike, the extra alone time you should have.
The place Does the North Coast 500 Route Begin and Finish?
The “official” begin and finish of the North Coast 500 is in Inverness, however you may hop on the route anyplace you please!
Do I Must Drive the NC500?
Driving the NC500 is the most well-liked method to expertise the Scottish Highlands, nevertheless you may as well cycle, motorcycle, and even stroll the five hundred miles.
If you’re strolling or biking, watch out on the single-track roads and hairpin turns. It’s finest to not stroll or cycle the NC500 after darkish as there are only a few streetlights on the route.
Campervans on the NC500
Renting a campervan for the NC500 may be very widespread and there are a variety of campervan corporations to select from. Earlier than renting a campervan ensure you really feel comfy driving very slim roads with a fairly massive car.
The Finest Stops on the North Coast 500
1. Inverness
Positioned within the Northeastern a part of Scotland, this vigorous capital metropolis of the Scottish Highlands is the place your North Coast 500 journey begins and ends. Inverness has quite a few wondrous locations to take a look at throughout your journey. It’s the good floor zero to relish the distinctive Scottish Highlands tradition, delicacies, and music.
As a metropolis embedded with wealthy historical past, there are myriad historic and even archaeological websites which you can go to. Add to those the bustling cultural and trendy scenes- wonderful eating places, nice pubs, and shops- that may preserve you enthralled all through your keep. There are additionally loads of pure wonders and parks good for unwinding for households, youngsters, and {couples}. Luxurious and budget-friendly lodging are additionally obtainable.
Effectively-known amongst these points of interest is the historic web site of Culloden, the Inverness Fortress, Loch Ness, and the Victorian seaside resort- Nairns. Town additionally gives a lot enticement to the outdoorsy of us because it has scenic trails like Glen Affric, South Loch Ness Path, and Meall fuar-mhonaidh. You can even be a part of guided excursions within the metropolis which can be suited to your pursuits, akin to Distillery Excursions, Whiskey Path Excursions, and an Outlander-inspired one for the present’s followers!
The place to Keep in Inverness? The Heathmount Resort is simply is 10 minutes’ stroll from Inverness Fortress
2. Rogie Falls
As you permit the capital metropolis, take a second to understand the wild, pure, and picturesque fantastic thing about Rogie Falls. Rogie Falls is within the Black Water river within the county of Ross-shire. This wild surprise, amidst the wealthy pine forest, is simply 20.6 miles away from the town of Inverness, which makes it one of many first spots you’ll cease by once you go for the North Coast 500 journey in a clockwise route.
You possibly can get pleasure from a brief, scenic stroll from the automotive park to the suspension bridge. The bridge can accommodate a couple of individuals directly (not wheelchair accessible, sadly). It’s the good spot to get pleasure from an up-close view of the dashing falls. The beneficial time to go to is in August-September if you wish to see the fascinating sight of leaping wild salmon. You possibly can observe their course upstream on the lengthy Riverside Path if you wish to see extra of them. Its difficult terrain shall be thrilling for hike lovers and journey seekers!
For many who need extra intense vitality from the falls, you may go to after heavy rain or snow. There are additionally free parking areas, obtainable bathrooms, picnic areas, outlets, and meals shops to take a look at.
The place to remain close to Rogie Falls? The Lochview Guesthouse for a distant location.
3. Applecross Peninsula
Suppose you’re on the lookout for a beautiful, distant, and tranquil place with numerous historical past. In that case, you may at all times go proper in to go to Applecross, which is among the most breathtaking locations within the North Coast 500 for driving.
Applecross is house to the earliest settlement in Scotland and was largely inaccessible for the higher a part of its historical past. Now, you may go to the historic village on two routes. You possibly can go by way of the coast highway from Shielding, with its beautiful coast views, or via the best highway in Britain, Bealach na Ba (Move of the Cattle).
Whereas staying on the Applecross Inn, you may benefit from the ambiance and serene ambiance. The Inn is now open for reserving till April 2023. You can even benefit from the delicacies and seafood from Applecross Smokehouse to please your palates. Different actions which you can get pleasure from throughout your keep are a go to to the Applecross Photographic Gallery and Applecross Heritage Middle. You can even go fishing and kayaking to expertise the distant Scottish village first-hand!
4. Ullapool
This fishing city on the Loch Broom shores is among the finest locations you may see in your North Coast 500 journey. Amidst its simplicity, the pure magnificence and serenity of the place will tug at your heartstrings. This place can also be historic, for it’s the place the British Fisheries Society was based within the second half of the eighteenth century.
Ullapool gives numerous adventures to these keen to find its quaint magnificence. One can hike via the huge swathe of wildlife and foliage, swim within the serene, azure waters of Ardmair Seashore, climb Ullapool Hill or spelunk within the Bone Caves. One can even go to the wonders of Handa Island with its magnificent fauna, seabirds, and sandstone cliffs. A ship cruise can also be an choice for individuals who can by no means get sufficient of the ocean splash and waves!
Nevertheless, when you don’t desire outdoor-oriented actions, you may as well try the vigorous pubs and the Ullapool Museum to be taught extra concerning the village’s heritage and historical past. The historic and aesthetic Ullapool clock can also be one other sight price seeing. It’s positioned on Quay and Argyle Streets.
The place to remain in Ullapool? The Harbour Home is among the finest stays you may have on the NC500!
5. Clachtoll
Positioned within the county of Sutherland, Clachtoll is one other fishing village price seeing within the Northern Scottish Highlands. The city is located in an space with deep history- the parish of Assynt. Going through the Bay of Clachtoll, this little paradise is full-packed of pure surroundings, from picturesque mountains to pristine shores.
You possibly can get pleasure from water actions akin to kayaking, rock leaping, swimming, and fishing. If you’re into picnics and tenting, you are able to do these actions within the delicate seascape of the Clachtoll Seashore Campsite. It’s a enjoyable, budget-friendly method to spend time with family members! You possibly can even spot some dolphins in case you are fortunate!
The place to remain close to Clachtoll? The Smithy Home & Cottages is a quaint lovely little cottage in a wonderful space.
6. Cape Wrath
The elegant identify of this location certainly lives as much as what it gives. Cape Wrath can also be positioned in Sutherland’s county, essentially the most north-westerly space of mainland Nice Britain. It’s also iconic for being the world the place the Scottish Northern and Western coasts rendezvous. On account of its distant geography, Cape Wrath is difficult to entry as there isn’t a direct highway to it. One should catch a ferry to go to the spectacular place.
Cape Wrath, regardless of its remoteness, is teeming with the breathtaking swathe of the Atlantic Ocean, coastlines, and chilly wilderness. Other than these majestic pure views, there may be additionally a lighthouse to go to.
A restaurant can also be open so that you can get a heartwarming espresso and pastry- simply earlier than you meet up with the bus tour. Cape Wrath is thought to be a web site of Particular Scientific Curiosity and a spot the place uncommon chicken species are protected.
7. Durness
Going to the northernmost elements of the Scottish Highlands, it’s price visiting the northwestern village of Durness. Durness is the right spot for outdoorsy of us, wanderlusts, and sea lovers.
This thriving village in Sutherland boasts of its cerulean shoreline, towering cliffs, bustling wildlife, luscious seaspray, and difficult Scotland mountaineering trails. The city’s remoteness and wealthy adventures listed here are simply the right blends for somebody who needs motion and rejuvenation!
Durness can also be well-known for being primarily related to John Lennon. There’s even a John Lennon Memorial Backyard devoted primarily to the well-known musician! You can even try the serene blueness of Rispond Seashore and take an energizing swim.
For sports activities lovers, there’s the Durness Golf Membership to take a look at. In the meantime, hikers and outdoorsy of us can climb up Ben Stack and benefit from the majestic Sutherland view from the height. You can even have a picturesque picnic on the Smoo Caves, and thrilling boat rides into the caves amidst clement climate.
Keep close by on the Borgie Lodge Resort
8. Thurso
Each time you aren’t prepared to go away Caithness but, take the time to discover the city of Thurso, thought-about “essentially the most northerly city in mainland Scotland” and boasts pleasant locations and wonders to see and expertise throughout your North Coast 500 journey.
Thurso has loads of cafes, conventional outlets, and eating places the place you may get pleasure from a one-of-a-kind gastronomic and procuring expertise. There may be additionally the well-known wellhouse of Meadow Effectively and the Swanson Gallery to go to.
In the event you’re lusting after out of doors thrills, Thurso gives numerous water sports activities, akin to browsing and kayaking. There are many seashores and a assure of beautiful countryside at Geise Farm. The family-friendly farm is among the finest methods to bond together with your family members whereas having fun with the corporate of nature.
Keep on the charming Creag Na Mara B&B in Thurso!
9. John O’Groats & Wick
Let the refreshing North Sea Breeze embrace you in John O’ Groats! Positioned in Sutherland, within the northeasternmost a part of Britain, this beautiful village is full of historical past, pure wonders, heritage, and adventures for people who enter its borders.
John O’ Groats gives many actions vacationers can get pleasure from, akin to browsing, speedboat excursions across the shoreline, and a tour on the Fortress of Mey, the official residence of the late Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mom in Caithness. Different out of doors actions which you can get pleasure from are the three-kilometer coastal walks or a 40-minute journey to the Orkney Islands.
Nevertheless, you may be a part of an thrilling distillery/brewery tour when you desire indoor actions. There may be additionally a gallery the place you may see when you get extra in contact with the native tradition and artwork.
Contemplate staying at John O'Groats which offers epic sea views
10. Fortress Sinclair and Girnigoe
The castles across the NC500 are out of this world. They’re majestic and historic, identical to the traditional stays of the well-known Fortress Sinclair and Girnigoe. Positioned within the northern a part of the city of Howick, it’s arduous to overlook because it’s perched near the cliff’s edges.
This mysterious fortress has a wealthy historical past and has undergone grand expansions, with its oldest elements courting again to the fifteenth century. It was expanded constantly till the siege of 1680 when it suffered extreme damages, which made it uninhabited.
It continued to decay for 340 years, however within the early twenty first century, it was restored via the Clan Sinclair Belief and have become secure for guests. These days, you may entry the ruins via a newly put in bridge. The fortress grounds are open yearly, and so they solely ask for donations.
11. Helmsdale
Whenever you’re nonetheless round Sutherland, don’t neglect to go to this beautiful village on the jap coast. Helmsdale is a city that’s well-known for its salmon fishing and herrings! So, for fishing fanatics, that is one other wonderful spot to discover. River Helmsdale gives you an abundance to catch your first Scottish salmon!
Throughout your keep, you may go swimming at Helmsdale Seashore or discover the stays of Helmsdale Fortress. You can even see and purchase distinctive and exquisite trinkets on the Gifted store to commemorate your journey to the Highlands. Furthermore, you may deeply join with the city’s distinctive tradition and historical past by visiting the Timespan Museum and Arts Centre, The Emigrants Monument, and the Helmsdale Warfare Memorial Clock Tower.
Ever fancied staying in yurt? You are able to do that in Helmsdale on the Tall Pines Yurt.
12. Falls of Shin
The Falls of Shin boasts of breathtaking waterfalls. Along with the spectacular sight, passersby can even witness the fascinating leaping of salmon from the center of Could to late autumn. Salmon may be seen leaping up the shallow set of waterfalls as they put together to spawn.
After watching this pure phenomenon, you may calm down and reenergize on the onsite café earlier than you progress on to your subsequent vacation spot.
13. Brora
Brora is a village located on the east coast of Sutherland within the Highland area of Scotland. Though fairly small, with a inhabitants of simply over 1,200 individuals, it’s a unbelievable place to go to in Scotland when you’re on the lookout for a quaint, peaceable vacation spot with many issues to do in Brora.
The village is extensively identified for being the house of the Highland League soccer workforce, but it surely’s additionally identified for its small sandy seashore, wildlife viewing, and exquisite mountaineering. Benefit from the seashore, go on a distillery tour at Clynelish Distillery, or go paddleboarding on Lake Brora!
Simply the very best place to remain is on the Royal Marine Resort!
14. Dunrobin Fortress
In the event you’re fascinated by castles and fairytale-like scenes, don’t miss the possibility to go to the enchanting Dunrobin Fortress within the county of Sutherland. With its magnificent spires, turrets, and gardens, Dunrobin is a advantageous piece of structure within the coronary heart of the Scottish Highlands. This 189-room fortress is the Earl of Sutherland’s magnificent seat and is rooted in medieval instances.
The current fortress and its sprawling, magical backyard have been the work of the well-known British architect Sir Charles Barry throughout the nineteenth century. The backyard is claimed to be impressed by the Palace of Versailles! There may be additionally a museum and falconry which you can try. The fortress is open to guests yearly between April and October.
Close by in Brora you may name a small pod house on the North Coast 500 pods.
15. Dornoch Firth & Cromarty Firth
In the event you love the coastal space, a visit to Dornoch Firth & Cromarty Firth have to be in your record of North Coast 500 finest stops. From the historic Dornoch Firth Bridge to the extra trendy really feel of Cromarty Firth, you’ll by no means get uninterested in taking within the lovely surroundings. You’ll want to have your digital camera prepared and seize each second.
In the meantime, historical past geeks can discover quite a few museums and heritage websites just like the Tain and District Museum and the Nigg Previous Church which dates again to the 8th century.
Boasting backyard views in Dornoch Firth, Clashmore Wooden options lodging with a terrace.
The Finest Castles Alongside the North Coast 500 Route
There are a lot of castles alongside the North Coast 500 route (or not far off of it) that you could be need to go to!
- Fortress of Mey
- Dunrobin Fortress
- Eilean Donan Fortress
- Inverness Fortress
- Slains Fortress
- Cawdor Fortress
- Dunvegan Fortress
The Finest Seashores on the NC500
- Balnakeil Seashore
- Dornoch Seashore
- Dunnet Bay Seashore
- Oldshoremore Seashore
- Brora Seashore
Tricks to Make The Most Out of The NC500
- Plan your route and make lodging upfront, particularly in the summertime. The NC500 is a well-liked route and lodging is proscribed. Come with out reservations in August and also you is likely to be sleeping within the automotive.
- Take your time and permit for loads of breaks. The NC500 is a protracted drive and there are lots of scenic stops and points of interest alongside the best way. They’re all properly price a cease and picture ops.
- Know drive in Scotland – or be taught rapidly! The roads on the NC500 may be winding and slim, and also you’ll must pay further consideration whereas driving in Scotland.
- Respect the native wildlife and atmosphere. The NC500 passes via a few of the most lovely and unspoiled areas of Scotland. Look ahead to livestock on the roads!
Enjoyable Experiences on the North Coast 500 Route
Prolong Your NC500 Journey to the Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye in all probability has the very best surroundings in the entire of Scotland and might simply be added onto a North Coast 500 journey. It’s a brief drive from the Applecross Peninsula and gives loads of issues to do.
We advocate spending 3-4 days on the Isle of Skye alone, nevertheless, even when you solely have one further day it’s price including it onto your Nort Coast 500 Route.
Transport Round Scotland
Most journeys to Scotland will begin and finish at Edinburgh Airport. One of the best ways to journey round Scotland is with a rental automotive, particularly when you’re touring with a gaggle. Driving in Scotland isn’t any joke and it’s vital to understand that earlier than you lease a car. For starters, the Scots drive on the left aspect of the highway, with the steering wheel on the suitable.
Second, as an alternative of cease lights and indicators to idle at many of the roads in Scotland run easily due to roundabouts.
Third and most vital – the roads on the North Coast 500 are sometimes small single observe roads match for only one car at a time. There are passing factors each 400 meters or so to let oncoming site visitors get via. The automotive closest to a passing level needs to be the one to yield. E-book your rental automotive far upfront to get the very best price, you may at all times cancel later when you discover a higher price!
My favorites to have a look at are:
13 Automotive Rental Scotland Suggestions To Know BEFORE You Go
Web in Scotland
If you wish to keep related whereas in Scotland, I like to recommend selecting up a Sim card and buying knowledge once you arrive. We personally bought 12 GB of knowledge for £20 with Three.
Their protection prolonged into patches of the highlands and allowed us to on the very least examine our emails, Instagram, and Fb every day. Different comparable telecom corporations within the UK embrace O2 and Vodafone. You’ll not have service the complete route.
When is the Finest Season to Drive the NC500?
Excessive season (July-September)
Like most locations in Europe, Scotland’s excessive season runs from July to mid-September. That is when you’ll find the very best climate as famous above, but additionally crowds. Days are longer, the climate is hotter, and lodge and automotive rental costs are at their highest. Lodging alongside the NC500 can e-book up rapidly, make certain to e-book properly upfront.
Shoulder Season (Could-June and Late September-November)
We’ve traveled to Scotland throughout the shoulder season and beloved it. The climate is cool, the leaves are orange and yellow, and the vibe within the air is fantastic. That is additionally once we’ve discovered nice offers on automotive leases and guesthouses. Nevertheless, widespread locations like Glasgow and Skye have been very busy. We noticed sunny days, but additionally had plenty of these wet Scotland overcast days.
Low Season (November-April)
The temperatures are cooler throughout the off-season in Scotland and also you stand a really sturdy probability of getting caught in a rain (or snow) storm. In the event you plan to journey to Scotland throughout this time you completely want a packable rain jacket, journey umbrella, and waterproof boots. The upside is you’ll discover low costs and low numbers of vacationers. If you’re in Scotland over the vacations make certain to participate within the festivals across the cities!
The place to Keep on the North Coast 500?
Kingsmills Resort – Inverness
Just about each North Coast 500 highway journey begins or ends within the highland capital of Inverness. Lodging is proscribed for the demand, however these fortunate sufficient to e-book upfront can rating rooms on the Kingsmills Resort. Kingsmill is among the finest locations to remain within the metropolis. The lodge gives fantastic service primarily based out of a seventeenth Century residence.
Pure Retreats – John O’ Groats
That is in all probability one of many coolest locations to remain relating to lodging in Scotland. These glass-faced self-catering residences are positioned in essentially the most Northernly city in Scotland, John O’ Groats, on the British Isle.
Previous Drynie Home – Black Isle
This was really the primary “true” mattress and breakfast now we have stayed at collectively (even after 60 international locations!). It was a splendid expertise and the character of a properly run Scottish mattress and breakfast makes it a should for anybody touring the North Coast 500.
Royal Marine Resort – Brora
Upon arrival on the Royal Marine Resort, you’ll be handled to traditional Highland hospitality earlier than being led to your beautiful and comfy house away from house. Unwind in your well-equipped visitor room or enterprise outdoors to discover the grounds or the gorgeous seashore that’s only some minutes away.
What to Pack for the NC500
Questioning what to put on in Scotland? The nation’s climate is fairly infamous so it’s solely pure that the query of what to pack for Scotland comes up so much. With that in thoughts, you have to be ready as you’ll find yourself spending a lot of your time in Scotland outdoors having fun with its lovely cities and breathtaking landscapes.
Scotland is brimming with previous strolling paths, historical mountains, deep lakes, winding roads, rocky coastlines, castles, hundreds of thousands of sheep, barrels of whisky, and charming cities it’s the right place to lose your self. It needs to be no shock that Scotland is one in all our favourite international locations on the planet. It’s roughly the massive brother to Eire with grander landscapes, prettier cities, extra historical past, and one hell of a tradition — kilts and bagpipes are superior.
Wildlife to Be Conscious of In Scotland
- Highland Cows: Wildlife in Scotland is so huge. Clearly, there may be the highland cow which is an iconic image of the highlands. You’ll discover all of them alongside the route! Watch out and look ahead to them crossing the highway.
- Stags and Deer: Deer and Stags are pretty widespread throughout Scotland and there may be nonetheless an enormous looking group
- Puffins: Puffins may be discovered from late March and early April till August and nest on coastal clifftops. The largest colony is on the island of St Kilda, however they could possibly be noticed on the jap cliffs from North Berwick to Berwick-on-Tweed and likewise from Galloway to Wick. When driving alongside in Scotland, it’s not unusual to see birds of prey throughout the sky both!
- Midges: Unsure how a lot you’d class it as wildlife, however I’ve talked about midges already however these deserve it once more. Earlier than we traveled to Scotland, I didn’t notice how dangerous the midges really could be, and they are often wretched relying in your season of journey (significantly within the summertime). Seize some smidge if they’re driving you loopy.
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