Scotland: North Coast 500
Moody day on the Applecross Pass on Scotland’s North Coast 500.
To increase tourism in northern Scotland, a 516-mile route was created to link together the area’s breathtaking sites. The route was dubbed North Coast 500 (NC500) and launched in 2015.
After driving NC500 in 2016, I can tell you these are 500 miles worth travelling! Here are my recommendations for the top six things to do along the way:
The port at Ullapool in all her misty glory.
Take the Applecross Pass. This is the most memorable experience of my NC500 experience. The pass rises 2053 feet (626 metres) in five short miles with sharp drop-offs, a single lane road and high winds. This makes the drive exhilarating and the views second to none. There is a second route to Applecross, but if you’ve got the nerves for it, take Applecross Pass. Then stop in at the Applecross Inn for lunch -- or better yet, book in at the inn for a couple nights. It’s an inviting and relaxing place.
Enjoy the picturesque port village of Ullapool. Ullapool oozes charm with cute shops and cafes. Nearby day trips include a visit to Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve.
Spend multiple nights in Durness. The stunning, isolated beaches, Smoo caves and general good vibes make the area a must do. We enjoyed walking the beaches, wandering the ruins of the Balnakeil church, and exploring the Balnakeil Craft Village. Durness is also near Cape Wrath – a military training area – which makes for lively evenings at the local pub full of locals and soldiers alike.
Visit Dunnet Head. Forget John O’Groats and visit the true most northernly point in mainland Britain, Dunnet Head. Take in the sea cliffs, light house and look for the elusive puffins in this windy, rugged place.
Relax at Dornoch Beach. Shallow waters, miles of sand dunes, and a quiet setting for picnicking or reading on the beach.
Visit the Black Isle Brewery. Just a 20 minute drive from Inverness, this adorable brewery offers organic, craft beer for take away or enjoy in the pastural setting on the outdoor patio.
Know before you go:
Book accommodations well in advance. Unless you’re equipped to camp, be sure to have your sleeping arrangements sorted in advance. Even in the off season you’ll need reservations.
Allow time for unplanned stops. Some of the most memorable moments on the route are the ones you didn’t plan for. Be ready to pull over, hop out of the car and explore.
Don’t rush. We spent 9 nights on the route but could have spent much longer.
Watch for the wildlife. There’s plenty of highland cows and sheep, but we also spotted red stags, golden eagles and dolphins. Seeing these animals in their habitat never gets old.
There’s very few vegan/veggie options. The only strictly vegan/vegetarian restaurants along the route are in Inverness. Most pubs and cafes along the way have at least one vegetarian option, but if you’re vegan, plan to hit up some grocery stores and look for self-catering accommodations.
xx Rachel
I never tire of seeing Highland cows lounging on/beside the road — they are so handsome!
Balnakeil Beach — an easy walk from Durness. Some days you’ll find highland cows lounging on the beach having wandered over from a nearby estate.
Like their bovine brethren, sheep also seem to range free along parts of NC500.
Ruins of Ardvreck Castle built in the 15th century. Said to be haunted by the weeping daughter of a MacLeod chief, who was drowned in the nearby loch after marrying the devil in a pact to save her father’s castle.