Curator’s statement
The North Coast 500 (NC500) is a scenic (and ambitious) driving route in the Northern Highlands of Scotland. Starting and ending in Inverness, the North Coast 500 spans approximately 500 miles of some of the most breathtaking landscapes Scotland has to offer. The best time of the year to drive the NC500 is between May and September. Get ready to explore rugged coastlines, historic castles, quaint villages and stunning lochs.
I’m lucky to have friends who enthusiastically said “YES!” when I said I wanted to rent a car and drive the North Coast 500 in Scotland for my 40th birthday. I had already been to Scotland a few times, but had never been to the Highlands, and what better way to see them than a road trip?
Here's our 8-day itinerary for the North Coast 500.
The Fora Difference
Book with Jonna to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Unlock perks by contacting Jonna to book your trip.
Day 1: Inverness
Start your journey in Inverness and explore attractions like Inverness Castle and the Caledonian Canal. Enjoy a pint and a meal at the Castle Tavern.
Day 2: Inverness to Torridon
Warm up for the adventurous coastal drive with the only interior portion of the trip. Be prepared to drive slowly, because this route includes some of the narrowest roads and large herds of sheep I’ve ever seen. Head west-southwest toward Loch Torridon.
The slower journey is worth it for an overnight stay at The Torridon, a secluded and majestic five-star boutique resort nestled in The Highlands.
Enjoy the incredible field-to-fork menus at 1887 or Bo & Muc Brasserie. Make time to sip and savor at The Whisky Bar, home to 365 classic and rare malts. While at The Torridon, you can also explore the grounds of the estate or take advantage of the plethora of outdoor activities, including stargazing, archery, hiking or even snorkeling.
Day 3: Torridon to Ullapool
Start with a slight detour south toward Applecross, known for being the most difficult and steepest part of the North Coast 500. Skip this part if you are a nervous driver. Drive north toward Ullapool, with stops along the way to see the beaches of Clachtoll or Ardveck Castle. Continue north to the picturesque fishing village of Ullapool, on the shores of Loch Broom. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and explore Ullapool's charming shops and cafes.
Day trip:
Take the ferry from Ullapool to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides.
Day 4: Ullapool to Tongue
Head north along the stunning coastline towards Durness. Stop at the Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve and explore the famous Smoo Cave, a dramatic sea cave with a freshwater waterfall inside. Continue your journey eastward towards Tongue. Visit the ruins of Castle Varrich, perched on a hill overlooking the Kyle of Tongue. Enjoy a scenic drive along the shores of Loch Eriboll, one of Scotland's most picturesque sea lochs.
Day 5: Tongue to Thurso
Depart Tongue and drive northeast towards Thurso. Visit the Castle of Mey, the former residence of the Queen Mother, and explore its beautiful gardens. Explore Thurso, the northernmost town on the Scottish mainland. Take a walk along Thurso Beach and enjoy the coastal scenery or take advantage of the vibrant local nightlife.
Day 6: Thurso to John O'Groats/Orkney Islands
Day 6: Thurso to John O'Groats/Orkney Islands
Travel east from Thurso to John O'Groats, the mainland's most northern point.
Stop at the Duncansby Head Lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the Pentland Firth. Take a bucket list “End of the World” photo at the famous John O’Groats signpost.
Day trip: Orkney Islands
Take a guided tour to the nearby Orkney Islands, home of prehistoric monuments from one of Western Europe’s richest surviving Neolithic landscapes. In one day, you can visit multiple World Heritage sites including The Ring of Brogdar, Skara Brae and Stones of Stenness.
Day 7: John O'Groats to Wick
Head south along the eastern coast towards Wick. Visit the Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, perched dramatically on the cliffs overlooking Sinclair Bay. In Wick, tour the Old Pulteney Distillery and learn about the production of Scotch whisky. I recommend the tasting tour! Book ahead for the distillery and tasting tour, as space is limited. Take a stroll along Wick Harbour and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.
Day 8: Wick to Inverness
Continue your journey southwards to Golspie & Tain. Visit the majestic Dunrobin Castle, with its fairytale turrets and beautiful gardens. If time allows, stop at the legendary Glenmorangie Distillery and enjoy a guided tour and whisky tasting.
For a quiet, relaxed last evening in Inverness, stay at the gorgeous The Invervairne and make a dinner reservation at The Classroom Bistro. You will have a wonderful, restful and quiet stay. This property also has a private beach, and it’s just a 15–20-minute drive to Inverness' airport.
Need to know
Driving the North Coast 500 really is a trip of a lifetime. This itinerary is a compact yet comprehensive exploration of the North Coast 500 route, but there is so much more to see! You could easily make this a 10 to 14-day trip and I plan to do just that next time. Let’s chat about your first or next trip to Scotland, because it’s one of my favorite places on earth.
"Planning is my superpower." - Jonna Travels
Travel Advisor
Jonna Robertson
Get in touch with Jonna
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Jonna within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to Scotland. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Big Easy Essentials: A 4-Day Journey Through the Heart and Soul of New Orleans.