Route 500 Scotland: The Ultimate Guide to Scotland’s Most Breathtaking Road Trip
What is Route 500 Scotland? The Ultimate Highland Adventure
Scotland’s Route 500, also known as the North Coast 500 (NC500), is one of the most scenic road trips in the world. This 516-mile (830 km) circular route takes you through the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, offering a blend of breathtaking scenery, historic sites, and unforgettable experiences.
The route starts and ends at Inverness Castle, winding through majestic mountains, white sandy beaches, hidden lochs, and dramatic coastal cliffs. If you’re looking for an adventure that immerses you in Scotland’s raw beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, this is it.
NC500 Essentials: Everything You Need to Know
Where does the Route 500 Scotland start and end?
The North Coast 500 starts and finishes at Inverness Castle, forming a circular loop through the Highlands.
How long does it take to drive the NC500?
Most travelers complete the NC500 in 5-7 days, but it can be done in as little as 3 days if you’re short on time, or extended to two weeks for a more relaxed experience.
What are the must-see stops on the NC500?
Some top attractions include:
– Bealach na Bà – Scotland’s most thrilling mountain pass.
– Duncansby Stacks – Towering sea stacks in the North Sea.
– Smoo Cave – A dramatic sea cave with a waterfall.
– Dunrobin Castle – A French château-style castle with falconry displays.
What is the best time of year to do the NC500?
The best months to visit are May to September, when daylight hours are long, and the weather is more favorable. Winter offers stunning snow-covered landscapes but requires extra caution.
Is the NC500 difficult to drive?
Some parts of the NC500 include single-track roads with passing.
Why Route 500 Scotland is a Must-Do
🌄 Stunning NC500 Scenery
The North Coast 500 is often compared to Route 66 in the USA, but with ancient castles, Highland cows, and dramatic coastal roads. You’ll drive through:
- Bealach na Bà – A winding mountain pass offering panoramic views.
- Duncansby Stacks – Towering sea stacks rising from the Atlantic.
- Smoo Cave – A massive sea cave with a hidden waterfall.
- Sandwood Bay – A remote golden beach with turquoise waters.
🏰 Historic Landmarks Along the NC500
The route is dotted with castles, ruins, and landmarks from Scotland’s past:
- Dunrobin Castle – A fairytale-like castle with Falconry displays.
- Ardvreck Castle – A haunting ruin on the shores of Loch Assynt.
- Culloden Battlefield – The site of the famous 1746 battle.
- Clava Cairns – Ancient standing stones that inspired Outlander.
🍺 Local Culture & Highland Hospitality
No trip to the NC500 is complete without experiencing:
- Whisky Distilleries – Stop by Glenmorangie or Old Pulteney for a dram.
- Fresh Seafood – Try locally caught langoustines in Ullapool.
- Scottish Music – Enjoy a traditional ceilidh (dance) in Durness.
🚗 NC500 Route Map & Best Itinerary
🏆 Best NC500 Itinerary: 7-Day Adventure
| Day | Route | Must-See Stops |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Inverness → Applecross | Loch Ness, Bealach na Bà |
| Day 2 | Applecross → Ullapool | Torridon, Corrieshalloch Gorge |
| Day 3 | Ullapool → Durness | Ardvreck Castle, Achmelvich Beach |
| Day 4 | Durness → Thurso | Smoo Cave, John O’Groats |
| Day 5 | Thurso → Wick | Dunnet Head, Castle of Mey |
| Day 6 | Wick → Dornoch | Whaligoe Steps, Dunrobin Castle |
| Day 7 | Dornoch → Inverness | Glenmorangie Distillery, Culloden Battlefield |
🔥 Hidden Gems & Unique Local Recommendations
While the NC500 is famous for its must-see attractions, there are plenty of hidden gems off the beaten path:
🏡 Small Villages Worth Exploring
- Plockton – A charming seaside village with palm trees and stunning coastal views.
- Shieldaig – A peaceful village nestled by the loch, perfect for kayaking.
- Helmsdale – A historic fishing village with a fascinating gold rush history.
- Scourie – A picturesque stop with incredible birdwatching opportunities.
🏕️ Secluded Spots & Local Secrets
- Big Burn Walk (Golspie) – A hidden woodland trail leading to cascading waterfalls.
- Achmelvich Beach – Lesser-known than other beaches but perfect for wild swimming.
- The Bone Caves – Ancient caves near Inchnadamph where prehistoric bones were discovered.
- Stoer Lighthouse – A remote lighthouse with epic views and great dolphin-spotting chances.
🍽️ Authentic Highland Food & Drink
- Kishorn Seafood Bar – Fresh local seafood with unbeatable views.
- Lochinver Larder – Famous for its award-winning handmade pies.
- The Cocoa Mountain (Durness) – Indulge in Scotland’s best hot chocolate.
- Badachro Distillery – A small-batch distillery crafting unique Highland gins.
🏛️ The History & Growth of the NC500
The North Coast 500 was officially launched in 2015 by the North Highland Initiative (NHI) to promote tourism in the Scottish Highlands. Since its inception, the route has seen a rise in visitor numbers by over 25%, boosting local businesses and accommodations.
Historically, many of these roads were ancient drovers’ routes, used by Highlanders to move cattle and goods across Scotland. The scenic Bealach na Bà pass, for example, dates back centuries as a key trading route. Today, the NC500 has become Scotland’s answer to Route 66, drawing in road trip enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers from around the world.
🛏️ Where to Stay on the NC500: Best Accommodation Options
Luxury Accommodations:
- Links House at Royal Dornoch – A 5-star retreat with fine dining.
- Torridon Hotel – Stay in a Highland castle with loch views.
Budget-Friendly Options:
- Hostelling Scotland (Ullapool & Durness) – Affordable and friendly.
- Wild Camping – Scotland’s Right to Roam allows responsible camping.
🏕️ NC500 Travel Tips
✅ Best Time to Visit: May to September for long daylight hours. ✅ Driving Tips: Single-track roads require patience & passing etiquette. ✅ Fuel Up: Some areas have no petrol stations for miles. ✅ Book Early: Accommodation fills up fast in peak season. ✅ Respect Nature: Leave no trace & support local businesses.
🌟 Why the North Coast 500 is Scotland’s Most Beautiful Drive
The NC500 isn’t just a road trip; it’s an unforgettable experience through the most stunning landscapes in Scotland. Whether you want to chase waterfalls, hike rugged cliffs, or sip whisky by a loch, Scotland’s Route 500 is calling.
Are you ready to hit the road? Start planning your NC500 adventure today!
