If you envision rugged coastlines, historic castles, and twisting roads that take you to the world’s edge, Scotland’s North Coast 500 must be prioritized on your 2025 travel itinerary. Frequently referred to as Scotland’s Route 66, the NC500 is a stunning 516-mile loop through the northern Highlands, beginning and concluding in Inverness.
This 7-day North Coast 500 itinerary serves as your comprehensive guide for discovering Scotland’s most famous road trip — featuring white-sand beaches, stunning cliffs, charming coastal villages, and whisky distilleries. No matter if you’re journeying by car, campervan, or motorcycle, this route guarantees breath-taking scenery and genuine Scottish allure at every turn.
This revised 2025 NC500 guide includes the top stops, hidden treasures, and local travel advice that extend beyond the typical tourist path. Explore spots such as Applecross Pass, Duncansby Stacks, and the blue waters of Achmelvich Beach, while finding out where to dine, lodge, and recharge on your journey.
Prepare for foggy dawns, breezy paths, and sunsets illuminating the Highlands. The North Coast 500 is more than just a drive — it’s an excursion through the wild core of Scotland. So fasten your seatbelt, start your go-to road trip playlist, and let’s discover the charm of the NC500 one mile at a time
In this blog, we will give you the Ultimate 7-Day North Coast 500 Itinerary: Best Stops, Hidden Gems & Travel Tips for Scotland’s Epic Road Trip. If you follow this guide you will have a fantastic and amazing time going around Scotland.
Day 1 – North Coast 500 – Inverness to Applecross (via Bealach na Bà)
Your North Coast 500 journey commences in Inverness, the cultural hub of the Scottish Highlands and the officially designated starting point of this legendary 516-mile route. Before embarking on your journey, visit Inverness Castle and take a walk by the River Ness — then head west to experience the stunning landscapes of Applecross.
This initial segment spans about 80 miles and includes one of the UK’s most breathtaking routes — the famous Bealach na Bà Pass. Gaelic meaning “Cattle’s Pass,” this winding, narrow mountain road ascends more than 2,000 feet, offering stunning vistas of the Applecross Peninsula and the faraway Isle of Skye. The tight hairpin turns and steep slopes of the route create an unforgettable beginning to your NC500 journey, particularly for road-trip lovers and motorcyclists in search of excitement.
Take a moment at Loch Kishorn for pictures, or enjoy a coffee at the welcoming Bealach Café before beginning the climb. Upon arriving at Applecross Village, you’ll encounter tranquil coastal views, quaint stone cottages, and the inviting Applecross Inn — renowned for its fresh seafood and local allure.
As the sun dips behind the western Highlands, pause to inhale the ocean breeze and contemplate the amazing adventure that awaits. The first day of your North Coast 500 adventure establishes the mood impeccably: untamed, rugged, and infinitely stunning — Scotland in its most striking form.
Day 2 – North Coast 500 – Applecross to Ullapool
Rising in Applecross gives the sensation of entering a different realm — a serene seaside community surrounded by jagged hills, ocean fog, and the far-off summits of Skye.
Continuing your North Coast 500 adventure, Day 2 guides you north through one of the most picturesque segments of the whole route, passing through striking landscapes, serene lochs, and small Highland villages.
The journey from Applecross to Ullapool is approximately 120 miles, but it’s best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Travel along the twisting coastal route beyond Shieldaig, where vibrant cottages dot the coastline, and proceed through Torridon, a region known for its sharp peaks and clear lakes. This area is a haven for both hikers and photographers—think about a brief stroll at Loch Maree or a coffee break at the welcoming Torridon Café.
As you travel past Gairloch, the road clings to the shore, showcasing expansive vistas of the Isle of Ewe and hidden sandy beaches. Nature enthusiasts might see deer, Highland cattle, or even eagles flying in the sky.
The last leg takes you to Ullapool, a charming harbor town situated along the banks of Loch Broom. It’s an ideal spot to relax after a lengthy journey — savor fresh seafood at The Seaforth or a local brew at The Arch Inn, each offering waterfront scenery.
As the sun dips below the harbor, the melodies of live folk music echo around — a perfect conclusion to your second day on the North Coast 500, reminding you that the Highlands are as heartfelt as they are picturesque.
Day 3 – North Coast 500 – Ullapool to Durness
Day 3 of your North Coast 500 journey takes you from the vibrant harbor town of Ullapool to the secluded, wind-swept charm of Durness, one of the most striking locations on Scotland’s northern coast. This stretch — approximately 110 miles — is filled with untamed scenery, turquoise shores, and hauntingly stunning relics.
Departing Ullapool, the northern route meanders by Ardvreck Castle, an impressive 16th-century ruin situated along the banks of Loch Assynt. It’s among the most captured locations on the NC500 and an ideal spot to stop for photos or a drone shot. Proceed to Lochinver, a quaint fishing village renowned for its acclaimed Lochinver Larder pies — an essential taste for eager travelers.
After that, the journey turns more adventurous and isolated as you go by the bright white sands of Achmelvich Beach, which is among Scotland’s most beautiful coastal treasures. The pristine waters are perfect for a swift swim (if you have the courage!) or a serene stroll along the dunes.
As you continue your journey through Drumbeg and Scourie, the landscape transforms into a more rugged terrain, with winding single-track roads providing sweeping vistas of lochs and cliffs. Ultimately, you will reach Durness, the furthest north-western village on the mainland.
Discover the intriguing Smoo Cave, an expansive sea cave shaped by ages of wind and water erosion, or enjoy an evening stroll on Balnakeil Beach while the sun sinks beneath the Atlantic.
Distant, rugged, and unforgettable — this segment of the North Coast 500 showcases the wild essence of the Scottish Highlands.
Day 4 – North Coast 500 – Durness to Thurso
Day 4 of your North Coast 500 journey takes you from the isolated wilds of Durness along the rough northern shore to Thurso, the northernmost settlement on the British mainland. This path, approximately 90 miles long, is among the most stunning parts of the NC500 — a trip characterized by lofty cliffs, sandy white beaches, and amazing vistas at every corner.
Start your day in Durness with a stroll on Balnakeil Beach, where endless golden sands meet a landscape of undulating dunes. Before you go, visit Cocoa Mountain, a local favorite known for its rich hot chocolate — an ideal indulgence before you hit the road.
Traveling east, the landscape changes from rugged Atlantic shores to expansive moorlands and striking sea stacks. Be sure to visit Ceannabeinne Beach, a concealed treasure, and the Kyle of Durness Viewpoint for expansive coastal views. Proceed to Tongue, a delightful village featuring outstanding photo opportunities at Castle Varrich and the Tongue Bridge.
Continuing eastward, stop at the stunningly picturesque Dunnet Head, the genuine northernmost point of mainland Britain, where cliffs steeply descend into the ocean and puffins may occasionally be seen during summer. Ultimately, reach Thurso, a welcoming seaside town celebrated for its surfing culture and historical appeal.
Take a stroll at sunset on Thurso Beach, explore Old St Peter’s Church, or unwind with dinner at a nearby pub. Following a day of seaside marvels, you will sense the untamed enchantment of Scotland’s northern reaches — the ideal halfway point of your North Coast 500 journey.
Day 5 – North Coast 500 – Thurso to Wick
Your North Coast 500 adventure moves eastward from Thurso to Wick, tracing a rocky shoreline filled with sea cliffs, castles, and historical sites. Although the journey spans only 55 miles, it is abundant in culture, heritage, and breath-taking vistas of Scotland’s stunning northern coastline.
Begin your day by discovering Thurso, the northernmost town on the British mainland. Stroll over to Thurso Beach or visit the Caithness Horizons Museum to discover the area’s Viking history. From this point, take the coastal route heading east to Dunnet Head, the actual northernmost point of the British mainland. On sunny days, the Orkney Islands can be seen across the Pentland Firth, and in summer, puffins frequently nest on the cliffs — a dream come true for photographers.
Proceed several miles south to the remarkable Castle of Mey, formerly the cherished vacation residence of the late Queen Mother. The gardens are meticulously maintained, and the ocean vistas are stunning.
As you continue driving, take a detour to the concealed Whaligoe Steps, a steep staircase crafted into the cliffs that descends to a small natural harbor — one of the NC500’s most distinctive locations.
Ultimately, reach Wick, a historic port town that used to be a bustling hub of the herring trade. Explore Old Wick Castle, discover the Wick Heritage Museum, or savor a whisky tasting at Old Pulteney Distillery, renowned for its seafaring essence.
Day 5 provides an ideal blend of seaside exploration, royal heritage, and Highland allure — a noteworthy segment of your North Coast 500 journey.
Day 6 – North Coast 500 – Wick to Tain
Day 6 of your North Coast 500 plan travels from the historic fishing village of Wick down to the delightful seaside town of Tain. This distance — approximately 85 miles — combines rough shoreline, historical sites, and tranquil Highland views, providing a calmer journey following the dramatic landscapes of the north.
Departing Wick, your initial stop will be the charming village of Helmsdale, celebrated for its gold-mining heritage and the poignant Timespan Museum, which shares narratives of Highland existence and the Clearances. The southern road presents expansive ocean vistas and numerous chances for photographs — watch for seals lounging on the rocks close to Brora Beach, a lesser-known treasure along Scotland’s coast.
In Brora, you can visit the charming and compact Clynelish Distillery, famous for its rich, waxy single malt whisky. Next, proceed along the picturesque A9 to Dornoch, an idyllic town featuring a 13th-century cathedral, pristine sandy beaches, and the renowned Royal Dornoch Golf Club. It’s a perfect spot to take a break for lunch or enjoy a relaxed stroll by the beach.
Today, your ultimate destination is Tain, which is among the oldest Royal Burghs in Scotland. Be sure to visit the Glenmorangie Distillery, where you can savor a tour and tasting with views of the Dornoch Firth.
As the sun sets, relax in one of Tain’s inviting inns or B&Bs — the ideal starting point before your last leg back to Inverness. Day 6 presents the tranquility and allure of seaside Highland living — a more leisurely pace before your North Coast 500 adventure completes its loop.
Day 7 – North Coast 500 – Tain to Inverness
Your last day on the North Coast 500 brings you from the tranquil town of Tain back to Inverness, finishing one of the most scenic road trips in the world. Despite being just about 45 miles, this final segment presents an opportunity to decelerate, relish the ride, and immerse oneself in the enchantment of the Scottish Highlands one final occasion.
Before departing from Tain, visit the Glenmorangie Distillery if you overlooked it previously — its smooth single malt makes an ideal keepsake from your NC500 journey. From this point, continue on the A9 south along the picturesque Dornoch Firth, one of the most serene coastal regions in Scotland. Watch for dolphins and seals that frequently show up in the glimmering waters close to the Dornoch Bridge.
A brief diversion leads you to Chanonry Point, one of the top locations in the UK for observing wild bottlenose dolphins up close. Just over the Black Isle, explore Fortrose or Rosemarkie Beach for a final seaside walk.
Upon crossing the Kessock Bridge and re-entering Inverness, pause to contemplate the 516-mile journey you’ve accomplished — featuring mountain passes, sea cliffs, white-sand beaches, and whisky trails.
Toast to Scotland’s wild beauty while enjoying your last night with dinner by the River Ness. Finishing the North Coast 500 is not merely a drive — it’s an expedition into the essence and spirit of the Highlands.
