It’s no secret that Scotland has some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet and much of it can be found along its now-famous NC500 route. Make your road trip last longer by checking in to some North Coast 500 accommodation along the way.
How long does it take to drive the North Coast 500?
It varies – the scenic route is 516 miles long, but you can take your time to stop off for hikes and overnight stays to truly take it all in. To really see it properly, you’ll need at least five days.
Is the NC500 worth it?
Short answer: yes. Scotland has been blessed with some wonderful scenery, especially in the Highlands, and this route in its furthest reaches takes you past some of the best of it. You’ll see spectacular shorelines, historic castles, windswept coastal towns, remote villages and the northeasternmost point of the UK mainland, John O’Groats.
What is the best part of the North Coast 500?
It’s hard to say, but one of the highlights is visiting where the UK ends at John O’Groats, which sees 21 hours of daylight in high summer. Castles worth stopping off for include Dunrobin and Mey, and almost-tropical Achmelvich and Portmahomack are just some of the beautiful Scottish beaches along the way.
Where does the North Coast 500 start and finish?
Inverness Castle is the starting point – and the finish line. The route is a circuit from Inverness, along the east coast past Dornoch and John O’Groats, up to Thurso and then around to Ullapool, Torridon and Applecross, before returning to Inverness.
Where is the best NC500 accommodation?
From a fairy-tale castle to the home of whisky royalty and a riverside retreat, we've picked the very best places to stay on your NC500 road trip so you can take your time, soak up the scenery and stay overnight at the best North Coast 500 accommodation…