La baie de Dunnet, Thurso, Caithness

North Coast 500

There's nothing quite like the freedom of the long open road. Never-ending back roads, wide meandering country tracks and beautiful bends through some of Scotland's finest coastal scenery are just a few things you can expect along the North Coast 500. Strap yourself in for the road trip of a lifetime.

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Recherchez un large éventail d’hébergements, d’événements, de restaurants et d’activités, en intérieur comme en extérieur, d’exursions et de circuits guidés, et bien plus encore.

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Locations on the route

The NC500 starts in the northern city of Inverness, weaves along the west coast to Applecross and then northwards towards the towns of Torridon and Ullapool. From there, you'll venture to some of the most northerly coastal points in Scotland, passing by Caithness and John o' Groats before heading south again through Dingwall and finally back to Inverness.

Top tips

  • Distance: 516 miles
  • Trip length: at least 5 - 7 days is recommended.
  • Accommodation: book well in advance - make sure you consider camping as an option.
  • Transport: you can drive, cycle, or even walk this route!

Plan your trip

Find everything you need for a North Coast 500 trip.

North Coast 500 Interactive Map

Plan your adventure with the interactive map, or check out the six individual regions.

North Coast 500 Itineraries

Check out the 2 free itineraries or become a member for more tips on planning the ultimate themed route.

Road Safety tips

Get helpful advice on road safety for exploring the North Coast 500.

Frequently Asked Questions

Check out the most commonly asked questions for info on safety, weather and wild camping.

Things to do ideas

Find ideas on places to visit as you explore the North Coast 500.

Accommodation

Find accommodation around the North Coast 500 and make the most of your trip.

Vehicle Hire & Renting a Car in Scotland

Tour Scotland at your own pace by renting a car.

Your NC500 photos

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Explore the North Coast 500 responsibly

Vue sur Canisp, Cul Mòr and Cul Beag depuis Stac Pollaidh

Remember to plan your trip in advance. It is crucial for the wellbeing of Scotland's landscapes, as well as for local residents and businesses, that the areas around the route are respected and looked after properly.

Book your accommodation in advance; don't park or stay outwith designated camping/caravan areas.

Take all litter, waste and rubbish away with you to dispose of correctly.

Highland Cup Movement

La cathédrale d’Inverness, Highlands

Fancy a brew while doing your bit for the planet? Businesses across the Highlands are taking part in the Cup Movement, a new campaign designed to promote the use of reusable cups and reduce the number of takeaway drinks sold in single-use cups.

Here is how to get involved with this simple step-by-step guide:

  1. Download the Vytal app from the Apple or Google Play stores.
  2. Visit a business in the network (a map of the participating businesses can be found on the Keep Scotland Beautiful website or Vytal app).
  3. Bring your own reusable cup or ask for your drink in a Vytal cup and show your customer QR code when you order your takeaway drink. If you’re in an area with poor connectivity, we recommend saving your customer QR code on your phone’s photo gallery.
  4. Enjoy your favourite drink while exploring the Highlands.
  5. After your trip, it’s time to return your Vytal cup at any participating business within the network. If you do not return your cup within 14 days, you will be charged £4 and become the owner of the cup. There is no additional cost if you return your cup within 14 days.
  6. The cup will be washed ready to be used again for the next customer.

Find out more information about the Keep Scotland Beautiful Highland Cup Movement campaign

Download the Vytal app

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