The North Coast 500 is so much more than just a roadtrip through the Highlands. Whilst some that visit this spectacular part of the world may only be interested in driving the route for the sake of ticking it off the bucket list, most of us will be stopping off along the way to enjoy some of the unique attractions and activities on offer in the northerly reaches of Scotland.
What might make itinerary planning a little tricky however is the sheer number of possibilities awaiting visitors to the NC500. We were genuinely surprised on our eight-night trip about how much there was to do and see and therefore how quickly time ran away from us each day; it was simply impossible to do everything. Beach days, hill walks and Munro bagging, castle exploration, relaxing by a loch or two, wildlife spotting, and stepping back into the history of Scotland - and that’s before even considering visiting an award-winning distillery or two.
So, we advise anyone heading to the Highlands to take the time to research and plan an itinerary around seeing the most of what you love.
To help you get started, we've done a little of the hard work for you. Whilst this is by no means an exhaustive list of all the amazing sights and activities in the region (it would take weeks to cover and do everything), these are the experiences or places that we tried, tested and thoroughly enjoyed, or that we know others will too. It's not got everything on offer on the route, but it certainly is a great starting point for your own itinerary plans!
Each marker in the interactive maps below shows where to find each sight or attraction along or near the North Coast 500 route , along with a brief description (note that entry charges may be in place for some attractions, and there will be increased restrictions or requirements at some in 2020).
So, whether you're an avid twitcher, an archeology fiend or love a good hike and a tipple - we've got you covered!
There are our North Coast 500 highlights!
A Curated Guide to the North Coast 500 Highlights
Wildlife watching on the North Coast 500
From the rare sighting of an orca off the north coast, to the humble highland cow, the NC500 offers so many opportunities for wildlife lovers. But where do you go to find them all?
Otter spotting at Toscaig
A little more than four miles south of Applecross is the small settlement of Toscaig. Incredibly remote (even by Highlands standards) it is home to a number of wild otters and it's possible for lucky visitors to see them doing their thing.
Torridon Deer Museum and Countryside Centre
Wild deer have always lived within Torridon Estate but owing to their low density, they can be pretty tricky to spot. So, to help visitors see the red deer up close, a number have been kept on the farm and within a large open-air enclosure. They're pretty friendly and more than happy to pose for a photo or two - especially if you've bought some deer food from the countryside centre.
Entry to the park and museum is free but donations are kindly accepted.
Achmelvich Beach
Not just a stunning beach (more on those later!), Achmelvich is a great place for twitchers with sightings of black and red-throated divers, and great-northern divers in winter. If you're lucky, you may even spot porpoises, dolphins, and the occasional minke whale.
Handa Island
Located off the north west coast of Scotland, Handa Island is a super important spot for seabird conservation, with nearly 100,000 returning to breed here in the summer months, including internationally important numbers of guillemots, razorbills and great skuas. If you're keen to spot a puffin or two, mid-May to July is your best bet.
Handa Island is accessed via a pedestrian ferry service which runs on demand from Trarbet during the visitor season. You can find out more here.
Broubster Leans
Located seven miles southwest of Thurso, Broubster Leans is one of the most important sites in northern Scotland for breeding waders and, in the winter, a refuge for Greenland white-fronted geese and whooper swans. It is free to enter, and has car parking facilities.
Dunnet Head
The most northernly point in mainland Britain (yep, 3.5 miles further north than John O'Groats!), the peninsula of Dunnet Head is a wonderfully untamed landscape of craggy cliffs, wild seas and coastal grassland. Home to puffins, razorbills, guillemots, fulmars, kittiwakes, shags and cormorants it's also a super popular place for bird watchers.
Loch Fleet Wildlife Reserve
Loch Fleet is a coastal reserve on the north-east coast of Scotland, close to the small village of Golspie. An extensive tidal basin fringed by a mosaic of coastal habitats and native Scots pine forest, it is an internationally important wildlife reserve and a fantastic place to spot seals all year round.
Falls of Shin
Every summer, salmon make the long arduous journey from the open ocean, through the Dornoch Firth and the Kyle of Sutherland, to reach the spot where they were spawned further up the River Shin. Only one major obstacle lies in their way - The Falls of Shin. And it is here that is recognised as one of the best places in all of Scotland to watch jumping salmon. If you're tackling the route between May and November, a stop here is an absolute must!
RSPB Udale Bay
Whilst late summer to April is the best time of year for bird spotting (widgeons, wild fowl and wading birds), should you arrive out of season, time your visit an hour either side of high-tide and you'll be treated to views of flying flocks of birds.
Note that coastal sighting opportunities depend on the season. Roughly speaking, it can be broken down into common dolphin (May-August), white-beaked dolphin (July-October), minke whale (May-September), harbour porpoise (all year), basking shark (May-October), orcas (May-October).
Dolphins
We were unfortunate during our own visit now to spot them, but you dolphin sightings are pretty common from Chanory Point on the east coast. Increase your chances by arriving an hour after low-tide, and give them a wave from us!
Castles and Ruins along the North Coast 500
Scotland's history stretches back thousands of years and, unlike many countries, there are reminders of this fact all over the Highlands.
Whether you'd prefer to spend a night in a four-poster bed in a centuries old room or to capture the perfect shot of crumbling ruins at dusk, there's something for every history lover…especially those who are big fans of Outlander.
Ardvreck Castle Ruins
Sititng at the edge of Loch Assynt, 35 minutes away from Ullapool, are the particularly photogenic ruins of Ardverk Castle. Built by the Macleod Clan in the 5th century, very little now remains after an unfortunate lightning strike all but destroyed the castle in 1795.
Given the ghost stories and frequent sightings, we chose to simply take a photo from a distance in the day time!
Castle Varrich
Few sunsets were more beautiful than the one we watched over Castle Varrich, a crumbling old tower house of the Mackays atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the village of Tongue. Only accessible by foot, it's a 30-40 minute round trip from the village.
You can find full details on the walk here.
Gardens and Castle of Mey
Castle of Mey very nearly didn't survive, having by the mid-20th century fallen into a state of disrepair and on the cusp of being abandoned. Miraculously however, in 1952 The Queen Mother visited and fell in love with its isolated charm, bought, renovated, restored and created the stunning gardens that visitors are able to visit now. Gifted back to a specially created trust in 1996, it has since been awarded the Scottish Tourism Board's highest accolade several years in a row.
Entry costs £12.25 per adult to visit the castle, gardens and grounds or £6.50 for access to the gardens and grounds only. For further infomration, see their website.
Ackergill Tower
Built around 1475, Ackergill Castle is the very definition of a luxurious castle experience. Situated on the shoreline of Sinclair Bay, in one of the UK's most unspoilt locations, this exquisitely decorated and stunningly refurbished castle more than earns its five stars - spend a night here and you'll soon understand why this is one of the most sought after hotels in the world - check availability here.
Castle Sinclair Grinigoe
Built in the 15th century and one of the earliest seats of the powerful Sinclair Clan, this once impregnable medieval/renaissance stronghold is now one of the most spectacular ruins in the North of Scotland, and the only castle in Scotland to be listed by the World Monuments Fund.
Camster Cairns
Built more than 5000 years ago, the two Grey Cairns of Camster - a pair of Neolithic tombs - are among the oldest stone monuments in Scotland. Although reconstructed in more recent years, they provide a fascinating insight into funerary practices at that time.
Dunrobin Castle
Dunrobin Castle is the most northerly of Scotland's great houses and the largest in the Northern Highlands. Dating back to the early 1300s, it's also one of Britain's oldest continuously inhabited houses. Beautifully decorated with stunning with stunning gardens, this castle is right out of a fairytale!
Entry is £12.50 per adult (£6.50 per child) which includes a falconry display and access to the museum and gardens. Find out more here.
Read More | Spending the night in a castle is high on the bucket list of many visitors to the Highlands, so we've put together this post - Five Castles to Stay at on the North Coast 500 - to help make that dream a reality.
Best Beaches Along the North Coast 500
Unbeknownst to many, the north of Scotland is home to some spectacular beaches - in fact, on a bright, sunny day, you could be forgiven for forgetting you're in the UK entirely. Some are super famous (like the stunning Achmelvich Beach) but there's still little coves and local-only secrets to discover, especially if you just take a chance, a small road and head toward the sea.
For those that love the feel of sand beneath you toes, don't forget to check out our favourite North Coast 500 beaches along the route.
Little Gruinard Beach
Gruinard is a huge golden sand, secluded beach with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and across Gruinard Bay, Coigach Hills and Gruinard Island. Very popular on a sunny day, it's known for its clear shallow waters, rock pools and soft sand.
There is a decent sized carpark directly across the road from the beach and (steep) wooden step access to the beach. Do note that there are no services nearby, so if you plan on spending the day here, bring a picnic.
Achmelvich Beach
We've seen a lot of beaches, all over the world, and have to admit that this is pretty darn spectacular, with a perfect crescent of white sand and turquoise waters. Our top pick, and perhaps the best beach in the Highlands.
The beach has good parking facilities, as well as a campsite/caravan park and hostel. You can even stay in these wee pods right by the beach! There is also a small giftshop selling coffee and snacks, and a chip shop in Achmelvich village.
Clachtoll Beach
Around a 15 minute drive from Achmelvich Bay is the equally beautiful Clachtoll Beach. All white sand and aquamarine water, its location means that it is a little quieter than its neighbour down the road. It's also the perfect option if you're travelling with a dog, as you're able to take your four-legged friend on to the beach.
There's also a highly rated campsite next to the carpark.
Sandwood Bay
Help up by some as most beautiful beach in Britain (it’s lovely, but we don’t agree having been to the Isle of Lewis), the wild, secluded and spectacular Sandwood Bay has nearly 1.5 miles of wide pink sand backed by huge sand dunes and flanked by rugged cliffs.
Located in Kinlochbervie, the Bay is not accessible by road, so instead you'll need to park in Blairmore car park and embark on the four-mile walk along a well trodden path.
Balnakeil Beach
A wide, white beach with large dunes, Balnakeil Beach is known for its spectacular sunsets. Located near the the very north western tip of mainland Scotland, its isolation and size offers the chance to bathe and relax without the risk of being disturbed by others - even in the busier summer months.
Farr Beach
A peaceful stretch of light golden sand a short walk away from the main road that we stumbled upon quite fortunately - definitely one to consider on a hot sunny day! A popular beach for waterspouts (including kayaking, surfing and body boarding) it also plays hot to an abundance of wildlife including otters, seals and plenty of birds.
Sango Sands
A great beach by the popular base town of Durness, Sango Sands has lots of accommodation options nearby. Find out the best four budget or travel style in our North Coast 500 Accommodation Guide.
Melvich Beach
Set at the mouth of the River Halladale, this crescent shaped terracotta coloured beach is backed by sand dune which are particularly beautiful in spring when they become carpeted with wild flowers. At low tide there is a vast expanse of sand, which feels all the bigger as there is rarely anyone else here (in fact, it was just us and a nudist couple on the afternoon we visited - that was surprise, let me tell you).
It’s also one of the region’s best surfing spots.
The beach is located on the outskirts of the village of Melvich, with access via a track off the main Thurso to Melvich road to a small car park from which it is a short 100m walk through the dunes.
Dornoch Beach
Easily accessed from the delightful village of Dornoch, miles of golden sand stretch from Dornoch Point heading past Embo beach to the mouth of Loch Fleet National Nature Reserve. A blue flag beach, it’s ideal for families with its gentle shallows and sheltering dunes.
Wildlife lovers will be happy to hear that it’s also possible to see seals and sometimes even dolphins playing in the firth.
If you’re not staying in Dornoch, you can use the car parking facilities at the beach.
Read Later | North Coast 500 Accommodation Guide + Best Places To Stay
Outdoor Adventure and Attractions along the north coast 500
Unsurprisingly in a part of Scotland known for its rugged landscapes and many Munros, this is a dream destination for those that love the great outdoors and the odd bit of adventure.
Whilst there are countless hikes and coastal activities across the Highlands (find out more here), we've focused on a handful that we think are just that little bit special and accessible for those who are driving the route, rather than visiting the Highlands for a hiking holiday.
Bealach na Bà
This famous twisting, single-track mountain road boasts the greatest ascent of any road climb in the UK, rising from sea level at Applecross to 626 metres (2,054 ft), and is the third highest road in Scotland.
Expect some spectacular views but do be very very careful driving.
Read later | 23 Things To Know Before Driving The North Coast 500
Torridon Hills
These mountains to to the north of Glen Torridon are among the most dramatic and spectacular peaks in the British Isles and made of some of the oldest rocks in the world. A mecca for hikers and munro baggers, this area offers up a wonderful selection of excellent walks.
You can find all the possible hikes in the Torridon Hills here, including full instructions and comprehensive maps.
Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve
Begging the question, what's in a name?, Corrieshalloch Gorge meaning 'ugly hollow' in old Gaelic, is anything but. This mile-long plunging box canyon, through which the River Droma rushes, is one of nature's star attractions in this part of Scotland.
They very best way to take in the views of the tumbling water below is from atop the suspension bridge that sits 150 foot above the gorge.
Entry is free, and there's a small carpark on-site.
Suilven
Whilst only 731m, its unique outline, challenging remoteness and superlative views make Suilven one of the finest mountains in Britain. Made up of two peaks - the spire of Meall Meadhonach (meaning middle-round hill) and the summit of Caisteal Liath (grey castle) - this eight hour hike is perhaps a little more challenging than you would expect.
For further information, see this blog post.
Summer Isles Sea Kayaking
Run by an enthusiastic Scot named Jules with a passion for her home country, the team at Summer Isles Sea Kayaking can arrange half, full or multi-day trips to explore the stunning and remote coastlines of The Summer Isles, Ullapool, Assynt and beyond.
We spent a morning with Jules and it remains a real high point of our time along the NC500. Find out more here.
The Smoo Caves
Near Durness, this is a limestone sea cave with a 50ft entrance - one of the largest to any sea cave in the UK. Unfortunately, due to trying to fit far too much into that day’s driving in our North Coast 500 itinerary, we missed out on visiting these! The entrance to the cave is accessed via a circular walk, starting and finishing in the car park above on the main road. Tours do sometimes run in summer too, depending on the weather.
Eas a' Chual Aluinn
With a sheer drop of 658 ft (200 m), Eas a' Chual Aluinn is Britain's highest waterfall which, when in full flow, is over three times higher than Niagara Falls.
One of the country's least accessible waterfalls, only decent hikers should attempt the 8.5 mile, non-signposted route. Click here for full details of the hike.
Ben Hope
The most northernly of the Scottish Munros, this is a great day hike for those basing themselves in Tongue, with those making it to the summit on clear days being rewarded with 360 far reaching stunning views, including all the way to Orkney.
There are two main approaches up Ben Hope: a quick and easy route starting from near Dun Dornaigil broch to the south, or a more complex and longer route from the shores of Loch Hope that takes in some exposed scrambling. For full details, see this comprehensive blog post.
Duncansby Stacks
The most north-easterly point in the UK, Duncansby Head has a coastline carved by the strong waves of the north sea, a wild highland wind and the passage of time. Guarded by the incredibly photogenic - nearly 100 year old - lighthouse, it is the natural wonder of the Duncasby Stacks that continue to enthrall visitors.
Rising up 60 m out of the sea, these sea stacks are some of the most impressive in all of Britain, a joy to witness and photograph, even if coated in a film of grey mist like they were when we visited…
Caithness Seacoast Tours
For alternative perspective of the coast, consider booking yourself on to an exhilarating sea tour around the East Caithness coastline in a 10m long 'RIB' boat with Caithness Seacoast Tours.
Rates depend upon length of tour, starting at £21 per adult (£13 per child) for a half hour blast around Wick Bay. Click here to check tours, prices and availability.
Whaligoe Steps
Built in the early 19th century by a man named David Brodie, these 330 flagstone step have their origins in a number of fables. Acting as a path to provide access through the steep 250 foot cliffs, and down to the small harbour below, remarkably they are still used by small-scale fishermen providing food to local restuarants and tourists that visit the Highlands.
A bit of a steep, slippery climb back up, but more than worth the effort. Especially if you nip into the Whaligoe Cafe for a coffee and cake before continuing on with your road trip!
Distilleries and Breweries along the north coast 500
Whisky lover? Then you’ll be delighted to know that route is host to several internationally renowned distilleries as well as a some up-and-coming breweries. Read our post on the the best distilleries and breweries along the North Coast 500 to find out more about which ones we recommend visiting along the way.
