The Tailor-Made Guide to the NC 500 Route – Scotland’s Route 66
- 2 days ago
- 14 min read
Author: Barry Pickard
Hi, I'm Barry, the owner of Tailor-Made Itineraries and I have been designing bespoke self-guided tours for adventurous and curious travellers since 2015. I am a history graduate with a passion for travel.
I created this blog to inspire curious travellers and share the experiences behind my bespoke itinerary designs — giving you a flavour of what is possible, and the confidence to reach out and make it happen.
Contents
Close your eyes for a second and picture this: you’re sitting in the driver’s seat with the window rolled down, the sharp, peaty scent of the Scottish moorland drifting in on a cool breeze. Ahead of you, a single-track road unspools through a landscape of rust-coloured heather and dark lochs, the kind that look almost black under a cloudy Highland sky. Somewhere nearby a red kite traces lazy circles above a glen so still you can hear your own heartbeat. Then the road bends and suddenly the Atlantic is right there — steel-grey and enormous, crashing against rocks in a way that makes you feel genuinely small and genuinely alive. That’s the North Coast 500. And if you’re reading this, I suspect that’s exactly where you want to be.
So, what is the NC 500 Route – Scotland’s Route 66? Simply put, it’s a 516-mile circular driving route around the Scottish Highlands, starting and finishing in Inverness, winding through some of the most breathtaking and remote scenery in the whole of Europe. Launched in 2015, the North Coast 500 route has been compared to Route 66 in America and the Great Ocean Road in Australia — and in my experience, it absolutely holds its own. Some even call it the most beautiful road in the world. I’d be hard pressed to argue with that.
I’m Barry Pickard, and I’ve been designing bespoke self drive tours in Scotland and beyond since 2015. I’ve driven the NC500 myself — not in a rush, not ticking off a checklist, but as a genuine slow traveller, stopping at prehistoric cairns, chatting to fishermen in tiny harbour villages, and pulling over far too many times because the Scotland scenery demanded it. This isn’t the kind of route you do for the Instagram shot (though you’ll get plenty of those). It’s the kind of Scotland road trip that changes how you think about travel.
This is a complete, practical guide to the entire NC500 road trip, written by someone who’s actually driven it. You’ll find everything you need here to plan your own Scotland self drive tour with confidence. But don’t worry — I’ve also written ten in-depth posts covering each section of the route in detail, and I’ve linked them all throughout this guide so you can dive deeper wherever you want.
Whether you’re an independent traveller planning your first road trip around Scotland, or a seasoned explorer looking to finally tackle Scotland’s NC500, you’re in the right place. Let’s get into it.
Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if a road trip through Scotland appeals to you, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided tour around your requirements incorporating the NC 500 Route – Scotland’s Route 66, or indeed, any other self driving tours of Scotland.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Regardless of this, please be advised that all opinions expressed in this blog post are genuine and authentically my own.
Here’s the thing: most people who drive the NC500 wish they’d allowed more time. Here’s how to avoid that mistake.
Planning Your NC500 Journey
The North Coast 500 route is a 516-mile circular coastal road that loops around the very top of Scotland, tracing the dramatic coastline of the northern and western Highlands. Officially launched in 2015 by the North Highland Initiative, it was designed to bring visitors to some of the most remote and spectacular parts of the country — and it’s fair to say it’s done exactly that. The route takes in sea lochs, ancient castles, white-sand beaches, towering sea stacks and wild moorland that’s barely changed in centuries. It’s one of the most scenic places in Scotland, all strung together on a single extraordinary drive.
The NC500 is best approached as a journey, not a race. While it’s possible to drive the full loop in a few days, the real magic lies in slowing down — taking detours, lingering at viewpoints, and allowing time for the unexpected.
Most travellers start and finish in Inverness, travelling clockwise or anticlockwise around the Highlands. This guide follows the route anticlockwise as part of a Scotland travel itinerary, breaking the NC500 into manageable sections and highlighting the standout places to see along the way.
Think of this guide as your North Coast 500 route planner — a top-level overview of the full NC500 itinerary with links diving deeper into each section. Whether you’re building your own Scottish Highlands itinerary from scratch or looking for a ready-made North Coast 500 itinerary to follow, this is your starting point.
Each section links to a dedicated, in-depth post with detailed attractions, walks, historic sites and lesser-known stops.
If you are enjoying this guide, remember and subscribe to my mailing list to receive my latest blog posts.
NC 500 Route – Scotland’s Route 66
Inverness to the Black Isle: Setting the Tone
Leaving Inverness, the NC500 immediately introduces you to a softer side of the Highlands. The Black Isle feels gentle and pastoral compared to what lies ahead, making it the perfect warm‑up for the route.
Highlights include:
Dolphin spotting at Chanonry Point
The historic town of Cromarty, with its two excellent museums
Fortrose Cathedral, a striking medieval ruin overlooking the Moray Firth
This section eases you into Highland driving and rewards those who slow down and explore the coastline and villages.
The Black Isle to Golspie: History and Heritage
As the route curves north and east, history becomes a constant companion. Ancient churches, Pictish stones and grand castles sit quietly alongside the road.
Key experiences include:
The evocative ruins and carvings at Nigg Old Church
A stop in the historic town of Dornoch, with its cathedral, beach and independent shops
Dunrobin Castle, with its fairy‑tale architecture and formal gardens
This stretch combines easy driving with rich cultural depth — ideal for travellers who enjoy heritage alongside scenery.
👉 Read more: Adventures Along the NC500 – Nigg to Golspie
Golspie to Wick: Coastlines, Harbours and Highland Folklore
The east coast of the NC500 delivers long beaches, windswept harbours and a fascinating mix of ancient landscapes and local stories.
Don’t miss:
The harbour village of Latheronwheel, steeped in fishing history
Local folklore surrounding the fairies of Latheronwheel
Prehistoric sites like the Grey Cairns of Camster
Dramatic coastal features such as the Whaligoe Steps
This is a landscape shaped by both time and tide, with plenty of quiet corners just off the main road.
👉 Read more: Adventures Along the NC500 – Brora to Wick
Wick to John o’Groats: Scotland’s Far North
This short but memorable stretch brings you to one of Scotland’s most famous destinations. While John o’Groats itself is often busy, the surrounding coastline holds some of the area’s most impressive sites.
Be sure to explore:
The atmospheric ruins of Castle Sinclair Girnigoe
The dramatic cliffs and sea stacks at Duncansby Head
A photo stop at the iconic John o’Groats signpost
Timing your visit carefully helps avoid crowds and makes the most of the light along this exposed stretch of scenic Scotland — one of the most dramatic in the whole country.
👉 Read more: Adventures Along the NC500 – Wick to John o’Groats
John o’Groats to Durness: Wild and Remote Scotland
Turning west, the NC500 enters a more remote and untamed landscape. Roads narrow, traffic thins, and the sense of adventure deepens.
Standout stops include:
Vast coastal views along the north coast
The striking inlet of Loch Eriboll
Smoo Cave, one of Scotland’s most impressive sea caves
The white sands of Balnakeil Beach
This is a section where weather, light and tides dramatically shape the experience — flexibility is essential.
👉 Read more: Adventures Along the NC500 – Loch Eriboll to Durness
Durness to Ullapool: Iconic Highland Scenery
Often considered one of the most dramatic parts of the NC500, this stretch delivers raw Highland scenery and unforgettable coastal views.
Highlights include:
The towering sea stack known as the Old Man of Stoer
Waterfalls at Clashnessie
Turquoise waters and pale sands at Achmelvich Beach
Wildlife spotting along quiet single‑track roads
This is North Coast 500 scenery at its most powerful — classic northwest Highland drama and coastal Scotland at its most wild.
👉 Read more: Adventures Along the NC500 – Kylesku to Ullapool
Exploring Ullapool: A Highland Hub
Ullapool is more than just a stopover — it’s a lively cultural hub and a welcome pause point on the route.
Things to enjoy:
Views over Loch Broom
A walk up Ullapool Hill for panoramic scenery
Peaceful paths around Loch Achall
Local seafood, galleries and independent shops
Many travellers choose to spend an extra night here on their driving tours in Scotland, and it’s easy to see why.
👉 Read more: Adventures Along the NC500 – Ullapool
Ullapool to Loch Ewe: Waterfalls, Gardens and Coastal Beauty
Leaving Ullapool, the route becomes quieter again, offering some of the most rewarding stops on the west coast.
This section includes:
The dramatic suspension bridge and views at Corrieshalloch Gorge
The stunning sands of Mellon Udrigle Beach
A visit to Inverewe Garden, where subtropical plants thrive beside the Atlantic
It’s a varied and memorable stretch that combines natural drama with unexpected beauty.
👉 Read more: Adventures Along the NC500 – Ullapool to Loch Ewe
Loch Maree to Loch Carron: Mountains, Passes and Iconic Views
This is one of the most visually striking sections of the entire route.
Highlights include:
The serene beauty of Loch Maree
Mountain scenery around Beinn Eighe
The unforgettable drive over Bealach na Bà to Applecross (weather permitting)
Classic Highland views near Eilean Donan Castle
Allow extra time here — this is a place to savour rather than rush.
Loch Carron to Inverness: A Gentle Return
The final stretch brings you back toward Inverness through forests, glens and small Highland villages.
Look out for:
Waterfalls such as Rogie Falls
The Victorian spa village of Strathpeffer
A visit to Glen Ord Distillery, a fitting final stop on the route
It’s a gentle and reflective end to an extraordinary Highlands itinerary — and a reminder of why driving trips in Scotland are in a class of their own.
👉 Read more: Adventures Along the NC500 – Garve to Inverness
But wait — before you hit the road, there are a few things you need to know about driving in Scotland that could save you a lot of stress.
Driving in Scotland
Here’s what you need to know about roads in Scotland before you set off on your NC500 road trip. Drive on the left-hand side of the road. If you’re coming from a European Union country - as long as you have a valid license, you can drive in Scotland. If you’re coming from outside the EU - as long as you have a valid license from your own country, you can drive in the UK for up to 12 months.
In the cities, you'll often find 24-hour access at fuel stations. In the countryside, there are fewer fuel stations, so it's best to keep your vehicle topped up when travelling in remote areas.
Driving under the influence of alcohol is taken very seriously in Scotland and the UK and there can be heavy penalties for those found to be above the legal blood/alcohol limit. The legal limit is 50 mg of alcohol in 100 ml of blood.
There are no toll roads or bridges in Scotland. Roundabouts are commonly used - give way to vehicles from your right and turn left on entering the roundabout. Bus lanes are used in some cities - they can only be used by buses and taxis when in operation at certain times of the day. Seatbelts are compulsory for all drivers and passengers in the vehicle. Children under 12 who are under 135 cm (4 ft 5 in) tall should use a child seat appropriate for their weight. It is illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving. You must also have proper control while using hands-free.
Still got questions? Good — here are the ones I get asked most often, answered straight.
Quick Questions Answered
Is inverness worth visiting as part of the NC500? Yes, Inverness is absolutely worth including in your NC500 itinerary. The range of attractions in Inverness — from Inverness Castle and the Victorian Market to the beautiful riverside walks and the proximity to Loch Ness — make it well worth at least one full day. How long you spend there ultimately depends on what you want from the trip. It’s not the wildest or most dramatic stop on the route, but it is the Highlands’ cultural hub and a very practical base.
Can I visit Scotland with a UK Visa? Yes, if you already hold a valid UK visa, you can visit Scotland. Scotland does not have its own separate immigration system. Entry rules are set at the UK level.
How expensive is it to do the NC500? A realistic NC500 budget ranges from about £600 to £2,500+ per person, depending on your travel style, season, and accommodation choices. The NC500 can be done cheaply, but it’s also very easy for costs to creep up — especially with fuel and food in remote areas.
Can you sleep in your car on the NC500? You can sleep in your car on the NC500, but only in the right places and under the right conditions. You can sleep in official car parks that allow overnight stays (many do, some don’t), designated motorhome stopovers / aires, campsites (many allow car‑sleepers for a small fee), private land with permission.
Are there many petrol stations on the NC500? Across the full 516‑mile loop, there are around 20–25 petrol stations, including small independent ones, but they’re not evenly spaced, so make sure you top up regularly.
How difficult is the drive on the NC500? The NC500 isn’t a technically difficult drive — but it is demanding, tiring, and very different from normal UK roads. Note that large sections of the west and north coasts are single‑track.
What type of car is best for the NC500? The best type of car for the NC500 is a small to mid‑sized vehicle with good visibility, decent ground clearance, and excellent fuel efficiency.
Can you do the NC500 in 3 days? It would be physically possible, but I’d advise that it would be too tiring and you would not be able to experience what makes the route special. Look to take a minimum of 5 days, but 10 days would be perfect.
Is it better to do the NC500 clockwise or anticlockwise? Go anti‑clockwise if you want the best scenery saved for last and easier driving. Go clockwise if you want the dramatic west coast early and don’t mind tougher roads. Both directions work, but they create very different experiences.
Are the midges bad on the NC500? Midges can be bad on the NC500, but only in certain places, at certain times, and in certain weather. In my experience, I’ve never encountered these infamous little flies. Purchase some midge repellent, like Smidge, to be on the safe side.
If you are enjoying this guide, remember and subscribe to my mailing list to receive my latest blog posts.
Conclusion
The NC 500 Route – Scotland’s Route 66 is unlike any other drive in Britain, and honestly, unlike most drives in the world. I’ve designed self driving tours of Scotland for many years, and the NC500 remains the one route that clients come back and tell me they can’t stop thinking about. And that’s because it gives you something that packaged holidays simply can’t — freedom. Freedom to stop when you want, to linger longer in the places that speak to you, and to explore Scotland entirely on your own terms. Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or this is your first Scotland self drive tour, I hope this guide has given you everything you need to plan an extraordinary road trip around Scotland that you’ll be talking about for years to come. The North Coast 500 scenery will surprise you, the people will welcome you, and the most beautiful places in Scotland will stop you in your tracks. Now go and drive it.
Have you driven the NC500, or are you planning your trip? I’d love to hear about your experience — drop a comment below and let’s talk about it!
North Coast 500 Accommodation
One of the biggest decisions when planning your NC500 road trip is where to stay each night. The route offers everything from boutique guesthouses and coastal B&Bs to remote campsites and some of the best luxury hotels in the Scottish Highlands.
The key is to strike the right balance between location, comfort, and driving distances. Rather than rushing from place to place, I always recommend choosing a handful of well‑placed bases where you can slow down and properly experience each section of the route.
Below is a curated selection of recommended stops along the NC500, based on my own experiences travelling the route.
Places to Stay in Inverness Scotland
As the starting and finishing point of the NC500, Inverness has one of the widest ranges of accommodation options on the route.
Great choice of boutique hotels, riverside stays and self‑catering apartments
Ideal for your first or final night, or both
Easy access to fuel, supplies and transport connections
Top picks:
Ness Walk Hotel – one of the standout luxury hotels in the Scottish Highlands, perfectly positioned on the River Ness
Glen Mhor Hotel & Apartments – a flexible option right in the city centre
Kingsmills Hotel – a classic Highland hotel with spa facilities
For those travelling on a budget or in a campervan, there are also several well‑located campsites in Inverness, making it a practical starting point for all travel styles.
Brora Hotels and East Coast Stays
The east coast offers some of the most accessible driving on the NC500, making Brora a good early stop.
Ideal base for exploring beaches, distilleries and coastal villages
Typically quieter than Inverness and the west coast
Recommended stays:
Royal Marine Hotel (Brora) – a reliable and comfortable Highland hotel
Golspie Inn – a great value option with local character
Wick, John o'Groats and Thurso
As you reach the far north, accommodation becomes more limited — so booking ahead is essential.
Wick Hotels
Wick is one of the best-equipped towns in Caithness and a practical overnight base.
Mackays Hotel – stylish, modern and one of the best Wick hotels available
Thrumster House – enjoy your evenings in this Victorian Laird’s house.
John o'Groats Hotels
Accommodation here is limited but memorable:
Seaview John o’Groats Hotel – simple but well located
Thurso Hotels
If you're exploring the north coast further west, Thurso offers good alternatives:
Pentland Hotel – central and convenient
Forss House Hotel – a standout option, especially if you’re seeking a more premium experience
Ullapool Hotels: The Perfect Mid-Route Base
Ullapool is one of the most important overnight stops on the NC500 and arguably the best base on the west coast.
Lively atmosphere with restaurants, shops and harbour views
Ideal for breaking up longer driving days
Easy access to multiple NC500 sections
Top recommendations:
The Arch Inn – iconic, characterful and perfectly located
Caledonian Hotel – reliable and central
Old Surgery Guest House – comfortable accommodation with excellent views
There are plenty of excellent Ullapool hotels, but availability can be tight in peak season, so book early.
Hotels in West Coast of Scotland: Remote and Scenic Stays
The west coast delivers some of the most atmospheric and memorable stays on the entire route. This is where accommodation becomes part of the experience.
Expect:
Remote locations with incredible views
Smaller guesthouses and family-run hotels
Limited availability — plan carefully
If you’re searching for hotels in West Coast of Scotland, focus on areas like Lochinver, Achmelvich and Gairloch.
Lochcarron Hotels and Applecross Area
This part of the route is ideal for those tackling (or avoiding) the Bealach na Bà.
Good base for exploring Applecross and the surrounding coastline
Less busy than some of the more famous stops
Recommended stays:
Plockton Inn – classic Highland hospitality
The Strathcarron Hotel – comfortable accommodation near the start of the Bealach na Bà
Final Tips for Booking NC500 Accommodation
Book early (especially May–September) – availability is limited in remote areas
Mix one or two luxury stays with simpler accommodation
Plan overnight stops around driving distances, not just locations
Consider flexibility if you're travelling in shoulder seasons
Related Blog Posts
If you would like more information on other aspects of scenic Scotland and how to visit these locations, please view the Tailor-Made Itineraries posts below:
Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if a road trip through Scotland appeals to you, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided tour around your requirements incorporating the NC 500 Route – Scotland’s Route 66, or indeed, any other self driving tours of Scotland.
Tailor-Made Itineraries posts every two weeks, and you can subscribe to the latest blog and newsletter here. Until then, happy reading and safe travels.
Barry
Contact Me: tailoritineraries@gmail.com
Tailor-Made Itineraries creates one-of-a-kind bespoke self-guided travel itineraries for adventurous and curious travellers.
These self-guided tours deliver a personalised and exciting holiday experience that takes the effort out of trip planning.
Scotland NC500 map
North Coast 500 accommodation map
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