North Coast 500 (Scotland's answer to Route 66)

A one day (or half day) private/bespoke tour with a qualified tourist driver guide through the historic Northern Highlands of Scotland.

Highlights:

• Inverness overview
• East coast - coast, castles & archaeology
• North coast - coast, cliffs & wildlife
• West coast - coast, geology & wildlife
• Meals - local foods, local drinks, local businesses

Itinerary:

Our remote and rugged coastline still bears the scars of its’ torrid past with a number of castles and ruins standing guard across the Pentland Firth. Some castles have survived the bitter clan rivalries and dastardly deeds. Step back in time, and hear the tales of the local clan struggles.

Travel along the northern coast through rural areas and former fishing villages and remnants of Pictish and Viking occupation. The views from a 2,000 year old broch across the rocky coastal cliffs is quite stunning - literally begging to be photographed.

Then off to John o’Groats with its’ delightful mecca of cafes and tourist outlets, along with the ever popular ‘Journeys End’ signpost. The village takes its’ name from the Dutchman who ran the ferry from the mainland to the Orkney Islands in the 1500s.

We meander through country lanes to Dunnet Head, the ‘most northerly point’ on mainland Britain! A Stevenson lighthouse stands guard over the dangerous straits and notorious tides. During migration and breeding seasons the cliffs are home to thousands of chattering, busy sea birds including puffins!

The journey following the Pentland Firth takes us through areas with a strong Viking past, and through the strongholds the Sinclairs, Earls of Caithness. It is a leisurely drive through farmlands, heathlands and old ruins to the Royal Burgh of Wick.

The award winning North Coast 500 route takes you through some of the remotest areas in Europe, following dramatic coastlines and brings you into touch with our unique wildlife!

Tour duration options: Half Day (4 hours)/ Full Day 8 hours) / Extended (Multi Days)

Pickup Points: Thurso, Wick, Mey, Inverness, Invergordon, Scrabster, Gills Bay or by arrangement.