North Coast 500 Highlights. The Top 20 Things To Do On The NC500

During my last visit to Scotland I decided that I would go on an epic road trip and take on the highlights of the North Coast 500.  For those who don’t know, the North Coast 500 is Scotland’s answer to Route 66. It is a circular coastal route that takes you through the North West of Scotland. With over 500 miles of mostly single track roads, stunning beaches, spectacular mountains and overall breathtaking scenery. There is so much to see and do during this epic Scotland road trip.

Although I have been asked many times for an itinerary I feel that itineraries (especially in this case) are not one size fits all. Itineraries are very personal. What works for me may not work for you. However, I still want to help you plan your own NC500 adventure. So I am sharing some of my favorite North Coast 500 Highlights. There are 20 unforgettable experiences you can use to build your own personalized NC500 itinerary.

North Coast 500 Highlights – 20 Unforgettable Experiences

Lets face it you can easily spend a month driving the NC500 and exploring all the amazing things it has to offer. But most of us have a limited time to spend on it. And planning what to experience and what to skip can become a daunting task.  Therefore, I would like to present a list, in no particular order, of the North Coast 500 Highlights. These are some of the best things to do on the NC500. 

1. Drive The Winding Roads of the Bealach Na Ba

The infamous Bealach Na Ba. This can be an incredible experience or a very frightening one. But I guarantee you that this curvy mountainous road in the Applecross peninsula will be an unforgettable experience and a North Coast 500 highlight.  

With an incredibly scenic route that requires 100% concentration you will encounter tight hairpin turns and hills with 20% gradients. It has one of the greatest, if not the greatest, ascent of any road in the UK. Going from sea level to 2,054 ft. And if you luck out with a clear day you will be rewarded with incredible views.

Unfortunately for us we encountered heavy mist so our only reward was a warm meal and a nice drink at the Applecross Inn. Plus a walk in the nearby village to calm our nerves after surviving in zero visibility. It is definitely an experience we won’t forget, frightening and exhilarating at the same time.  I hope to return and drive it in better conditions to appreciate the drive and views better. 

2. Walk Barefoot on The Beautiful Beaches of the NC500

The North Coast 500 is mostly a coastal route and therefore there are numerous breathtaking beaches. The sand is soft, and the water although cold is a beautiful turquoise color. Hence, walking barefoot on the beach is one of the best things to do on the NC500.

I never imagined beaches in Scotland could be this beautiful.  And with so many amazing beaches all along the route you won’t find it hard to find one for a walk or even a swim if you are brave enough. 

I am sure you will find your own little piece of paradise but here is my personal favorite and the one that makes my North Coast 500 highlights:

Achmelvich Beach

Nestled in the rocky bays of the Assynt coastline lies this gem of a beach. Not only does it have the white sand and turquoise waters but you will also find here Europe’s smallest Castle – The Hermit Castle.  

One of my favorite activities was hiking along the coast trying to locate it. The views were amazing and I loved having only sheep as company as I tried my best to find the elusive castle.  

For more information on how to find Hermits Castle and you can check out my post on the Top 10 North Coast 500 Castles. 

If you visit only one beach the Achmelvich Beach would be my top choice. Other great beaches on the NC500 are: Clachtoll, Dornoch, Melvich, Big Sand Beach (Gairloch), Clashnessie, Balnakeil, Sango Sands and Ceannabeinne

3. Stay Overnight in a Castle

We opted for a camper van for this road trip so spent most of our nights at amazing campsites on route.  However on our last night we treated ourselves to an overnight stay in a castle at Tulloch Castle in Dingwall.

This castle was the former seat of Clan Davidson and has rooms that date back to the 12th century.  Although it has been updated it still has some cool original features. For example, a Dungeon Room they now use for small dinner parties and a 250 year old great hall. This castle hotel also features fabulous dining options and full bar. Oh and did I mention the place is haunted? 

While not a luxury hotel it has great character. It is also one of the few options with a family room so our entire family could stay together. Plus the location and price point were perfect for our family.

Other castles on the North Coast 500 you could stay at are: Kincraig Castle, Mansfield Castle, Dornoch Castle, Bunchrew house hotel (technically not a castle but looks like a pink castle).

4. Warm up With a Cup of The Best Hot Chocolate 

For those cold and possibly wet days there is nothing better that warming up with a cup of amazing hot cocoa. And Cocoa Mountain must be the best hot chocolate on the NC500 if not all of Scotland.  They were founded in 2006 with a goal to “produce the most delicious, fresh, and innovative chocolates on the planet.” 

At Cocoa Mountain you will find the richest, velvetiest and most decadent cup of hot chocolate you can imagine. So if you are a chocoholic then do not miss this stop. With location in Durness on the far North West, or in the quaint town of Dornoch on the east coast. This is a highlight of the North Coast 500 you won’t want to miss. 

5. Indulge Your Taste Buds with Fresh Local Food

I have often heard that Scotland does not have great food. That is simply not a true statement.  You just need to know where to eat and what to order. My experience eating in Scotland has been nothing less than spectacular. Fresh seafood. Good quality meats. Amazing fruit and produce. Delectable breads and baked goods. And even a variety of restaurants to accommodate special needs such as vegan or gluten free.

The North Coast 500 is no exception to the great quality I have experienced across Scotland. With access to miles of coastline as well as vast lands for roaming game and to grow produce, you will find a variety of culinary delights to satisfy even the most particular of foodies.  

If it is your first time in Scotland you might want to try traditional Scottish dishes like black pudding, cullen skink, and haggis. And don’t forget dessert – my favorite’s are sticky toffee pudding, cranachan, or tablet flavored ice-cream.

A few North Coast 500 highlights and notable places for a good culinary experience are:

Breakfast at The Frigate in Ullapool 

We had a wonderful breakfast at this little shop in Ullapool before our Ferry ride to Lewis and Harris. The atmosphere is cozy and it is really close to the Ferry terminal.  Most importantly the food and coffee were fabulous and the service top notch. They had plenty of options including full Scottish breakfast and lighter items like croissants, smoked salmon, fruit and salads.  I also hear they make some great packed lunches and that their lunch and dinner menu is delicious.  If you are looking for good food and great customer service do not hesitate to give The Frigate a chance. 

Lunch at the Torridon Inn

We stopped at the Torridon Inn on a rainy day. All of us were wet, cold and hungry. And suddenly came to the realization that they had already closed for lunch. However, the Torridon Inn is the epitome of Scottish hospitality and the chef reopened the kitchen and very kindly let us order some food.  We would have been happy with anything but they did not limit us and allowed us to still order anything from the lunch menu.

The restaurant is set inside a unique victorian hotel. The ambiance is comfortable and inviting. Everything we had was incredibly fresh and tasty. I later found out they have their own kitchen garden and we were told all ingredients are sourced locally.  Their menu was simple but with plenty of great choices. Including options for vegetarians. And the pricing was reasonable for the quality.  I would definitely recommend the Torridon Inn as a lunch spot if you are in the area.

Dinner at Kylesku Hotel in Kylesku

The restaurant at The Kylesku Hotel specializes in seafood, using only fresh and locally sourced ingredients in all of their dishes. They aim at being sustainable. Serving only what is in season and locally accessible. Here is a sample menu.

The scallops are harvested by hand by local divers and the mussels are rope-grown from the nearby coastal waters of Kylesku. Fish is also locally sourced.  If you prefer meat they have a few options like free range pork and lamb.  

This was probably one of the best seafood meals I have ever had. Make sure to make reservations to avoid disappointment.  A meal at Kylesku Hotel will be one of your Highlights of the North Coast 500.  

Pro Tip: If you are planning to eat out it pays to plan a bit and think ahead. Especially if you will be staying in a small town or rural area. Options can be limited and many places will not remain open late for dinner. Hotels and pubs might be best option for late night meals. 

6. Spot Amazing Wildlife

From marine animals like whales and dolphins, or birds like puffins and eagles or land animals like deer and the heilan coo, the NC500 offers many opportunities for wildlife lovers. 

For starters, the Scottish coastline and its waters is home to a variety of marine wildlife. If you are a dolphin lover like me I recommend you head to Moray Firth for some dolphin watching at Chanonry Point.

The Moray Firth and area around it is home to about 200 bottlenose dolphins so your chances of seeing them are pretty good. You can watch the dolphins from shore or take a boat tour or an ecoadventure tour for a closer encounter. 

Another of my favorites to spot is the Puffin. And during the summer, there are plenty of places along the northern and eastern sections of the NC500 to see them.  We saw them on our walk to the Sea Stacks at Duncansby Head as well as at the Whaligoe Steps. 

However if you want a one of a kind experience seeing puffins in Scotland then it will take you away from the NC500.  Learn more in my post on the best place to see Puffins in Scotland.

And if you are interested in birdwatching in general then highly recommend you check out the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds . 

For those interested in land animals, there is plenty of opportunity to see sheep, deer and even the Highland Coo in the fields along the NC500. Or you could see them in a unique rural experience on a Farm Buggy Tour in Melvich.  We did not get the opportunity to do this tour but it came highly recommended and I am planning on checking them out next time I drive the NC500 with the family. 

7. Go on a Distillery Tour and Sample Some of the Finest Scottish Whisky (Or Gin)

You know what they say “The rain of today is the whisky of tomorrow” so it is a good thing it rains in Scotland. And the NC500 has plenty of great distilleries where you can sample some excellent whisky.  If whisky is not your thing then visit a gin distillery or even a brewery.  There are tons of options for you to choose from. 

But, before we get into which distilleries to visit it is important to note that Scotland has a zero tolerance policy towards drinking and driving. Most places offer samples as part of their tour so if you will be partaking in drinking then have a designated driver. Or alternatively, take the sample away with you to enjoy later at your accommodation. Drink responsibly.

Touring Glenmorangie Distillery 

The majority of the whisky distilleries on the route are on the east coast. We chose to visit Glenmorangie for several reasons.  They were open and had availability on the date and time I needed, they allowed children on their tour, and I happen to like their whisky. The tour experience was fantastic.  We got to see the grounds and the facility. Shown firsthand the process of distilling. And got to taste several of their amazing whiskies. Overall a memorable experience and a highlight of the NC500. 

Some other distilleries you might want to check out: Glen Ord, Dalmore, Balblair, Clynelish, Old Pultney, Glen Wyvis, and Wolfburn. For more info check out the Whisky Heritage tour. 

Alternatively you can sample a variety of whiskies at a whisky bar like the one located inside Dornoch Castle.  They do some great flights and whisky tastings and have some unique and rare ones you can sample. You can also check out a Gin Distillery like Dunnet Bay Distillery or a brewery such as the Black Isle Brewery. 

Important tip if you are traveling with Children: Some distilleries will not allow children to join on the tours.  So contact the distillery in advance to avoid disappointment. Also I highly recommend you book your tour in advance. Many of the distilleries will sell out. In which case you can still visit their tasting room but won’t get to experience the tour. 

8. Step Back in Time and Discover The Castles and the Stories Behind Them

I love exploring castles and learning the stories behind them. And if you enjoy visiting castles as much as I do then you will love that the North Coast 500 offers quite an array of amazing castles you can visit throughout the route. 

You can visit unique castles like the Hermits Castle (the smallest castle in Europe). Or beautiful lochside ruins like Ardvreck Castle. As well as gorgeous well maintained castles with beautiful gardens like Dunrobin. Or perhaps romantic cliff side castles with views of the sea like Keiss Castle. Pick you favorites or see them all. Visiting a castle is an experience you won’t want to miss if doing the North Coast 500.

For more information on the castles you can visit while on your NC500 road trip check out my guide to the Top 10 North Coast 500 Castles

9. Descend Into One of the Least Accessible Harbors in Scotland – The Whaligoe Steps

The Whaligoe steps are a man-made stairwell that descend into a natural harbor which formed between two sea cliffs. 

There is a discrepancy regarding how many steps there are. Local sources who take care of the steps say that the total is 365. While the Royal Commission on Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland has the official count at 330.  I was busy making sure I did not slip and fall so did not count at all.

All I know is there were over 300 steps down, many of which were loose and in need of repair. They zigzag down the side of the cliff. And there is no elevator to take you back up. So make sure you have your walking shoes. 

Despite the effort to go down and then back up the Whaligoe steps are a must if you do not have mobility issues. On a clear day the views are amazing. Tons of birds are on the cliff side and there is grass and wildflowers all over. It is incredible to see where fishing boats used to come in. Hard to imagine the women climbing up the steps with baskets of fish on their backs. Then walking seven miles to the market in Wick to sell them.  Not an easy life, and it amazes me to think about the difficult and dangerous things people did as part of their jobs. 

When we were there, there were no clear markings to direct you to the steps. We actually walked through what appeared to be someone’s backyard to find the entrance. But we all enjoyed the exercise and the views and for us this was definitely a highlight of the North Coast 500. 

10. Hike Stac Pollaidh 

Hiking in Scotland is amazing and the NC500 has some great hiking opportunities. One area which I think is ideal for hiking is Assynt and the neighboring Coigach. With some notable hikes being Suliven, the Bone Caves, Cul Beag, Cul Mor and many more you can discover in the walking highlands website. You can easily spend a week or more hiking in this area alone. It all depends on how much time you have and what you want to experience.  

For a relatively short hike with great rewards then I highly recommend Stac Pollaidh.  It is under 3 miles and should take no longer that 3 1/2 hrs to complete. The climb is steep in parts but it’s well marked. And the entire circuit offers incredible views over Assynt and beyond.  Be warned that reaching the true summit involves a bit of scrambling and might not be suitable for small children.  

We unfortunately did not make the top as weather deteriorated during our assent and it became unsafe for our family to continue.  However, we all enjoyed the hike immensely and want to return to summit soon. I highly recommend you add hiking Stac Pollaidh to your itinerary. It was one of our most memorable experiences and is definitely a highlight of the North Coast 500.

You might also be interested in 5 of the best hikes in Skye 

11. Explore Cool Geological Sites 

There are many interesting geological sites around the North Coast 500. However two of my favorites, which I think are unmissable experiences, have to be Smoo Cave and Knockan Crag.

Smoo Cave

I hear from many that the western part of the NC500 is their favorite. However, for me it was Durness that took my heart.  Perhaps it is because I was forced to slow down here as we experienced a second flat tire. And with no spare had to wait for service to come from Inverness.  Or perhaps it is because we were finally graced with sun which was lacking during the western part of our trip.  

Either way I simply loved Durness were we visited one of Scotlands most unique Geological sites and natural wonders – Smoo Cave. And in my opinion this is a highlight of the NC500 you won’t want to miss.

Smoo Cave is a large combined fresh water and sea water cave. The larger part of the cave was carved over time by the sea. While the inner caverns were formed by the freshwater streams.

You descend to the caves via a footpath with steps. Then you cross the river over a wooden footbridge, and follow the path into the first chamber of Smoo Cave. Here you will encounter a covered walkway that leads to the second chamber with a 60ft waterfall. The second chamber is as far as you can go without a tour.  

The day we were there the tours were not operating due to the water level being to high. However during the summer months, if water levels allow, you can take a tour by boat into a third chamber.  

This is in my opinion one of the best things to do on the NC500 and an absolute must even if the tours are not operating. 

Knockan Crag

There are 3 billion years of history preserved in the rocks and their tag line is “we guarantee you an earth moving experience”.  Pretty clever as over 420 million years ago, the landmass containing Scotland collided with the landmass that included England and the rest of Britain and this is the spot where it was first documented.

Knockan Crag is actually recognized worldwide as the place where scientists first understood the nature of Thrust Tectonics. This is a geological principal where a collision happens and younger rocks are thrust bellow older rocks. You can see these all over the world including the Alps and the Himalayas.

In addition to the cool geological discoveries a short hike offers incredible views over Assynt and beyond as well as some sculptures and interactive exhibits. 

For additional information and cool geological sites I recommend checking out The North West Highlands GeoPark. This park covers a large section of the NW and is a designated UNESCO Global Geopark.

12. Get Your Adrenaline Pumping While Zip Lining or Free Fall Jumping in Durness (Golden Eagle Zip Line)

We have already established how much I loved Durness. I had my favorite cup of Hot Chocolate there (Cocoa Mountain), I stayed at my favorite campsite there (Sango Sands), and visited my favorite geological site (Smoo Cave).  I also did my favorite adrenaline pumping activities there – Zip lining and free fall jumping. 

Aside from this attraction being some of the best fun we had the entire trip, I wanted to take a minute to let you know that the owner of Golden Eagle Zip Line is an amazing human being that goes above an beyond for his customers.  

We had a long full day ahead so originally intended to go zip lining early morning. The owner agreed to accommodate our family and be there prior to their opening time so we could experience the attraction and still make our other appointments.  

However as luck would have it we had the tire issue and had no way of getting there in time. He was gracious enough to offer help including personally driving us back to the campsite so we would not have to walk the 3 miles.  Thanks to his kindness my kids were still able to experience the one thing they most looked forward to.  And this activity was by far their favorite thing to do of the entire trip.

Golden Eagle Zip Line

The Golden Eagle zip line is a thrilling activity and unique experience on the NC500. This zip line is the nearest zip line to the Atlantic Ocean in the UK.  It is 37 meters high and 230 meters long. And you can zip by at speeds of up to 45 kph with incredible beach views.  It is not a long ride, perhaps 20 to 30 seconds, but it is a fun ride and well worth it for the memories. 

I love that this is a family friendly activity. There are no age limits but there are weight restrictions. Minimum weight is 20 kilos which is about 44 pounds. You need the weight to propel you down so you do not get stuck in the middle. And maximum weight is 115 kilos or around 254 pounds.  Fun fact – The youngest person to ride the Golden Eagle zip line was 3 years 8 months old. 

They provide all the safety equipment including special helmets and harnesses for children. Another plus is the harness is extremely comfortable. Unlike other companies who use harnesses that pull at the groin, Golden Eagle uses a chair type harness. So you are seated in comfort as you speed past some amazing views. 

Keep in mind that the zip line only operates if wind conditions are right. High winds make it dangerous so they will close for safety reasons. 

Golden Eagle Free Fall Jump

In addition to the zip line, Golden Eagle had just opened a second thrilling activity – Free Fall Jumping.  And being the thrill seekers that we are we had to give it a go. It sounds really scary but in reality its not that bad once you get the courage to jump.

You are harnessed and are provided with helmets. All the equipment is comfortable and has been checked and tested for safety.  Then you need to decide if you will be jumping off the cliff facing forward or backwards. My daughters jumped forward and I jumped backwards. My husband decided the zip line was enough adventure for him.

The scariest part is taking that step off the cliff.  My daughters, as is common with most younger kids, had no fear and jumped with no hesitation. I on the other hand had to mentally battle fear.  Even knowing I was harnessed and watching my youngest daughter jump and land safely, the decision to actually jump was scary.  

However, once you take that step the rest is a piece of cake. You simply lean in and the cable safely pulls you away from the rocks and somewhat controls your descent to the soft sand below.   We landed very ungracefully on our bums. However none of us got hurt and we all agreed it was thrilling and incredibly fun. We were so glad we tried it out and highly recommend the experience.

Pro tip – The Golden Eagle zip line and free fall jump is a cash only attraction. Also try and park in the middle car park to cut on the amount of walking.

So if weather conditions allow make sure to go zip lining and/or free fall jumping.  I guarantee this will be a highlight of your North Coast 500 road trip, and an experience you won’t soon forget. 

13. Take in the Beauty of the Wild Natural Landscape With a Walk to the Duncansby Stacks 

Duncansby Head is the real northeastern tip of the Scottish mainland. And while John O’Groats is the commercialized tourist attraction, Dunscansby Head is the Natural wonder. If you visited the cliff of Moher in Ireland and/or the Cliffs of Dover in England and liked them, then you will love the Dunscansby Head Sea Stacks. 

Although there is no actual formal path getting to the Stacks is easy. From the car park at Dunscanby Head Lighthouse head south. Simply follow the coast (with the sea to your left) and keep going as far as you wish.   We did this walk on the longest day of the year during the Sumer solstice. The colors over the Stacks and the sun set were truly spectacular. 

During our walk we got to see some puffins nesting in the nearby cliffs of the Geo of Sclaites as well as tons of other birds. Then a bit further down the real natural wonder soon comes into view. The first rocky arch is Thirle Door and the second group of large jagged sea stack are the Stacks of Duncansby. 

14. Go Chasing Waterfalls – Best Waterfalls of the NC500

Ok confession time – I did not visit either of these waterfalls even though they were on my list. I intended to visit but unfortunately time and other circumstances interfered and sadly had to skip them. 

However, a few of my friends have visited and provided me with tons of information while I was researching for my own trip. Additionally, Stephen Wardlaw very kindly provided the pictures you see below. I have been assured these are incredible highlights of the NC500 and if you love waterfalls then these should not be missed. I am looking forward to a return trip and getting to see these myself one day.

Clashnessie Falls

I hear the parking situation can be a bit awkward but I am assured there are a few spots on the road in a layby near the falls. Additionally I am told the path while not long or difficult can be a bit boggy, so it is important to have proper footwear. 

The name Clashnessie, derives from Gaelic meaning “Glen of the Waterfall”. It’s not the tallest of waterfalls but when it has rained the thunderous stream of water pouring over its sides makes it an impressive sight. 

Wailing Widow Falls

This waterfall is right off the A894 between Loch Assynt and Kylesku Bridge. There is no official car park but a small off road spot you can leave your car at.

The Wailing Widow Falls are the dramatic 100 foot falls that are a result of the out-flow from Loch na Gainmhich. The falls cannot be seen from the road so you need to know they are there. Because they are slightly hidden they still remain a little hidden gem.  

Click here for other spectacular waterfalls along the NC500. 

15. Make a Photography Pitstop at John O’Groats

Ok lets be honest, there is not much to John O’Groats but the quirky sign and the pretty rainbow cottages. But both make for nice pictures. And I hear from reliable sources that the cottages are a great place to stay on the NC500.

The famous sign at John O’Groats marks one of the endpoints to mainland Britain’s longest overland travel route. The spot is often touted as the northernmost point in mainland Britain. However, that’s incorrect, as Dunnet Head a few miles away is the actual spot. 

This is also where the ferry departs to Orkney which makes for a great side trip.  Additionally there are some cool things to do nearby like visit the Rock Rose Gin Distillery and the Castle of Mey in Thurso.

16. Explore the Small Towns and Villages Around the NC500

One of the best things about the NC500 is that there are so many small town along the way that you can explore. Many have quirky shops and cool bookstores and wonderful little cafes. It is amazing how seeing these small town helps us slow down and appreciate the small things in life.  And those times are some of the most memorable of any trip. Here are my top 5 small towns and villages I visited. Each of them were memorable and make my North Coast 500 highlights list.

Dornoch

Absolutley loved visiting this small town. There is actually quite a lot to do here and its surroundings. Cool fact is that this town gained notoriety when Madonna chose Dornoch Cathedral as the location for her sons christening. She also married in nearby Skibo Castle. 

Celebrity christenings aside, Dornoch is primarily known for its golf. It has a championship course which is said to be one of the best in Scotland.

Other great things to do in Dornoch are visiting Dornoch Castle.  You can book a room there or have a dram of whisky in their bar. Visit the Dornoch Jail or the Carnegie Courthouse. Also, Dornoch has a Coco Mountain location. So if you did not get to taste the amazing hot chocolate in Durness then this is a second spot where you can have cup. 

Helmsdale 

This is small village on the East coast of Sutherland. Its origin dates back to the Vikings. However, its fame comes from Helmsdale Castle where the 11th Earl of Sutherland was poisoned by his Aunt so her son could become Earl.  Unfortunately her son also perished by accidentally consuming the same poison. 

Most of what you see in Helmsdale today is from more recent periods – the period of the Highland clearances. Many of those cleared from the inland settlements were relocated to Helmsdale. Helmsdale is home to the Timespan Museum and Arts Center, a war memorial and clock tower, a few shops and cafes and a pretty little harbor.  Here is a link to picturesque walk you can do in the area 

Gairloch 

This small village on the shores of Loch Gairloch in Wester Ross is as quaint as they come. One of my favorites and what made me stop to begin with was the pretty stone church that sits atop the hill.

Then there is Main Street with one of the quirkiest shops and cafes I visited the entire trip – Hillbillies, The Mountain Coffee Company!  This is the kind of coffee shop I love. Unique, with a quirky charm. Walls are adorned with memorabilia, comfy sofas, tables and chairs. And it has a wonderful little book store. Worth a stop to peruse the books and have a cup of coffee with some scones or cake.  

Shieldaig

When you think of picturesque villages Shieldaig is what comes to mind. Truly superb location on the edge of the Loch with many quaint white cottages with pretty flowers lining the streets. 

From the time the Vikings dominated the waters, Shieldaig was known to be the best herring location.  Therefore the name of the village which means “Herring Bay”. I learned from the pages of Undiscovered Scotland that “Shieldaig was established in 1800. Its purpose was to attract families to take up fishing for a living; and, in the process, to help build up a stock of trained seamen who could be called upon by the Royal Navy during the Napoleonic wars.”

One of the things I really like is that they have ample easy parking and you can then spend time walking the streets and checking out the shops. There is a great picturesque walk you can do here and if you have 2 hours to spare I highly recommends it.  Here is a link to the walk. 

Shieldaig can be easily bypassed by the A896. So plan your route to make sure you do not overlook this little gem and highlight of the North Coast 500.

Applecross, Milton & Camusterrach 

If you are driving the NC500 route clockwise like we did, the village of Applecross is where you will wind up after driving the Bealach na Ba. The Applecross Inn is a great stop to sit down for a drink or a hot meal. You can also do take out at the Food Caravan right outside. Or head to the Applecross Walled Garden and Café. 

Do not make the mistake to overlook the small settlements to the south. In many ways these are more charming than Applecross itself. They are small unspoiled coastal villages with a few art galleries and charming cottages. It feels untouched and miles away from civilization.  A great place for a walk and to clear your head and nerves from the drive.

17. Discover Some Amazing Lighthouses on The NC500

Did you know that Scotland has nearly 200 lighthouses and all of them operate automatically? And with so many miles of coastline you are bound to encounter a few lighthouses on the NC500.  Here are my top 5:

Stoer Lighthouse: A furnished self catering lighthouse in a fantastic location. Find information on booking accommodation on their website.  The lighthouse is relatively short in stature at 14 meters high. However it sits at 54 meters above the sea. Additionally, there is a great walk to a beautiful sea stack known as the Old Man Stoer.

Cape Wrath lighthouse: This lighthouse is on Scotland’s most North Westerly point. It is in a very remote location and access requires a ferry from Durness. Cool fact: this lighthouse shone for the very first time on Christmas day in 1828. 

Dunnet Head Lighthouse: Many think that John O Groats is the most northerly point in the Scottish mainland.  But it is actually Dunnet Head who claims that tittle. Cool Facts: The Queen mother has visited this lighthouse on several occasions. Also this lighthouse is monitored from headquarters in Edinburgh. 

Duncansby Head Lighthouse: This lighthouse is situated on the most Northeasterly part of the British mainland. It is relatively small at just 11 meters high. However it stand on a cliff 67 meters above the sea. There is plenty of parking at the lighthouse but the road to get there by car is small and winding.  Combine a visit to this lighthouse with a walk to Duncansby Head Sea Stacks. 

Noss Head Lighthouse: They have a cottage next door you can stay at. Also close by are the ruins of Castle Sinclair or Castle Girnigoe. Cool Fact: The name Noss Head comes from the Old Norse word, Snos, a nose, the peak of nose-shaped headland

Other NC500 Lighthouses you Might Consider

Rua Reid Lighthouse: This is one you can sleep at as it is now a B&B and also has self catering. It is at the end of a three mile private track in a remote location. For more information check out their website here. 

Rhue Lighthouse: A small lighthouse near Ullapool. A short and easy walk takes you to this lighthouse with great views down Loch Broom and to the Summer Isles. For a description of the walk click here.

Holborn Head Lighthouse: Interesting small lighthouse situated above the harbor near the Scrabster cruise port.  Easy to get to. Past the lighthouse there is a footpath up to the cliffs with great views and interesting rock formations.

Strathy Point Lighthouse: Roughly a mile and a half walk roundtrip this is not a difficult walk.  It should take about 1 hr to 1 ½ hrs to complete allowing time for stops and pictures.  Cool fact: This was the first lighthouse in Scotland built specifically to be electrically operated.  Detailed walk here.  

Chanonry Lighthouse: If you are in Chanonry Point to watch the dolphins then it is worth taking a minute to go see the lighthouse

18. Admire Some Engineering Marvels

There are many engineering marvels across Scotland. But two of my Favorites ones on the NC500 are the Kylesku Bride and the Suspension Bridge at the Corrieshalloch Gorge. 

Kylesku Bridge

The Kylesku Bridge officially opened in 1984. Although it is only 276 meters long its curved design is innovative and instantly recognizable. Its modern concrete design is a dramatic contrast to the rugged Highland landscape setting. Its method of construction has been recognized through a number of prestigious awards, including the Scottish Award for Civil Engineering Construction and the Concrete Society Award.

Cool fact: The Kylesku bridge has been awarded category A status by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) and is legally renamed with a Gaelic tag – Drochaid a’ Chaolais Chumhaing.

Suspension Bridge at the Corrieshalloch Gorge

The Victorian 25 meter / 82 feet long suspension bridge hangs over one of the most spectacular gorges of its type in Britain. It was built by John Fowler, the pioneering engineer responsible for the world’s first underground railway and joint chief engineer on the iconic Forth Railway Bridge.

Please note that the only entrance to the park which is currently open is the one off the A832. There is a large car park and two trails you can follow.  A short steep route, or a longer wheelchair accessible route. After you pass the suspension bridge the path takes you to an observation deck where you can see the suspension bridge and waterfall behind it. 

19. Hike to the Fyrish Monument

This is one of those places that I once admired in an Instagram post by a friend. So I decided to add it to my list of things to see when the opportunity arose.  Well our North Coast 500 road trip was the perfect time to climb to this strange monument and it instantly became one of our North Coast 500 highlights. 

One of the greatest things about The Fyrish Monument is that it lies right off the A9 so it is easy to get to. There are two paths to get to the monument. We took the shorter, although slightly steeper path described here by Walking Highlands. And while the climb is steep in parts, it is quite straightforward and offers rewarding views over the Cromarty Firth. 

Some History About the Fyrish Monument

For those wondering about the strange monument and its history here is a little summary.  The Fyrish Monument itself represents the gates of Negapatam, a port in Madras, India which General Munro took for the British. It was built in 1782 on his orders during the beginning of the Highland Clearances.  

General Munro used local men to build the monument giving them employment during difficult times.  It is even said he rolled stones back down the mountain in order to extend the time it took to build. Therefore allowing him to pay additional wages.  It is a controversial topic as the work was extremely difficult and wages were said to be low. However it kept many employed and able to continue to feed their families. 

This is the more popular monument, but it is not the only one. There are actually three monuments and my friend Lilly from Find Her in the Highlands talks about them in her article “TheThree Monuments of Fyrish”

20. Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns

I actually did not visit these 2 as part of my NC500 itinerary.  However I did visit back in 2016 and believe that both of these sites are North Coast 500 highlights  

As you will most likely start and/or finish your route in Inverness then Culloden and the Clava Cairns are attractions near Inverness that should make your must do list. 

Culloden Battlefield & Visitor Center

The grounds of the Culloden Battlefield are the powerfully moving site of the final Jacobite rising. The visitor center next to the battlefield offers a very informative and interactive exhibition where you will learn about the history.  

Even though I visited in 2016 and do not have any blood ties, I still remember the powerful emotions it evoked. Feelings of grief and despair of pride and honor. I could not see them and I could not hear them, but I certainly could feel them – the ghosts of Culloden.  There is no escaping these emotions. 

I will leave you with this beautiful yet sorrowful song by Isla Grant – The Ghosts of Culloden. 

Clava Carins

The Clava Cairns are a well preserved Bronze Age cemetery. When I first visited back in 2016 not many people knew about it. However with the popularity of Outlander the site gained almost instant popularity. Many fans of the show now visit Clava Cairns not for its historical significance but for the standing stones that are present there. Standing stones which are similar to the fictitious stone circle of Craigh na Dun (where Claire went through time).  

Please be respectful, this is a cemetery. Explore and take pictures. However, do not lean on, climb on, or touch the standing stones.  We want these to last for future generations to see and learn from. 

Go Off Route and Explore Nearby Islands

The North Coast 500 is technically a defined circular route. However, the beauty of a road trip is that you can go off route and explore nearby areas. If you have the time then I highly recommend you take a few detours to explore some nearby Islands. Some great choices would be:

The Isle of Skye

I recommend a minimum of 3 days on Skye in order to get a good taste of what the Island has to offer. However if you have less time then here is a sample Isle of Skye one day itinerary focusing on the Trotternish loop. It is a very full day and might feel rushed for most people but will give you an idea of a few things to do in Skye.

Another great activity in Skye I recommend is sailing to loch Coruisk. It is a hidden gem and you won’t encounter as many people.  Sailing is weather dependent and you will be notified if a tour is cancelled due to bad weather. 

The Isle(s) of Lewis and Harris

These are the northernmost island(s) in the chain of islands called the Outer Hebrides. You can get to Lewis and Harris by ferry either from Uig in Skye or from Ullapool. We took the 2 hr 45 min ferry from Ullapool to Tarbert, Isle of Harris and spent 2 nights on the Island(s).  In hindsight I wish I would have had a few extra days to spend here as there is so much to see and do.  

If you are interested in visiting Lewis and Harris then here is a guide with 15 unmissable things to do in Lewis and Harris. It includes details on how to get there with links to the ferry timetables. As well as places to eat and where to stay. 

Orkney Islands

Another great side trip is Orkney which is an archipelago off the northeastern coast of Scotland. There are day trips from John O Groats to Orkney which take you to many of the highlights all in one day.  A day is not nearly enough but if its all you have it is possible to do. John O’Groats Ferry has daily organized tours from May through September. You can check them out here.

You can also check out Susanne’s blog Adventures Around Scotland – I have linked you to her section about Orkney. She lives in Orkney and has lots of great information on things to do there. 

Facts and Important Tips to Make Your NC500 Road Trip Better

Distance & Trip Duration

The NC500 is actually 516 miles. Although you might drive less or more depending on how much of the route you do or if you add any side trips.  For Example I added in Skye and Lewis and Harris.

I am sure some could argue that you can drive the NC500 in a day.  However to enjoy at least some of the highlights described in this post you will want 5 to 7 days minimum.  If you can can spare 10 to 12 you can see more and go at a more relaxed pace. 

NC500 Accommodations and Best Campsites on the North Coast 500

I recommend you book these as far in advance as you can. The route is becoming very popular and the demand can exceed the supply in the more popular months.  There are varied types of accommodations to suit your type of preferred travel. From luxury hotels, castles, Bed and Breakfast, pods, self catering and camping sites. 

My favorite camping site of the entire trip was Sango Sands Oasis in Durness. It is a big camp site with wonderful facilities.  Close to the ocean and great activities nearby. I wish I would have stayed an extra night here. Other campsites which are highly rated with good facilities are:

• Wick Caravan and Camping Site on the North East
• Sands Caravan and Camping in Gairloch on the West Coast
• Applecross Camping Site with camping pods, caravans, tents and even a B&B
• Achmelvich Beach and Clatcholl beach both have camp sites and are wonderful beaches to spend time at

Vehicle and Driving Tips

• Type of Vehicle: Safety is the focus. Roads are narrow and winding. There are hills and blind spots. Pick a vehicle that you are comfortable driving. Don’t pick this road to experiment. If you have never driven a camper or if you have never driven a manual transmission this is not the place to learn. Safety first. 
• Driving Etiquette: As mentioned you will be driving on many single track roads during the NC500 road trip. This requires extreme attentiveness and a knowledge of driving etiquette. It is important to understand how to use passing places.  Remember you drive on the left side of the road. Therefore, don’t pull off into the right passing places.  That is equal to pulling into oncoming traffic.  The correct etiquette is to stop on the road prior to the passing place. Then allow the car use of the passing place on the right. So the oncoming car drives around you. Or invert the scenario if passing place is on the left.
• Letting locals pass: This is part of driving etiquette. You may be on holiday driving slow to take in the views.  But remember that others use these roads as commute to and from work.  Use the passing places to allow faster traffic to pass.
• GPS: Allow yourself more time than what your GPS tells you it will take.