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Your North Coast 500
Community

Plan your Scottish Highlands road trip with fellow travellers. Discover every stop, get local tips, and share your NC500 adventure.

Explore the Route Join the Forum

516

Miles of Coast

60+

Stops Covered

20+

Travel Guides

Featured Stops

Must-visit destinations along the North Coast 500 route.

North Coast

John o' Groats

The iconic starting point at mainland Britain's most north-easterly settlement.

 North Coast

Durness

Stunning beaches, Smoo Cave, and the gateway to Cape Wrath.

 West Coast

Applecross

Famous Bealach na Bà pass and the legendary Applecross Inn.

 Wester Ross

Ullapool

Picturesque fishing village and gateway to the Summer Isles.

 East Coast

Duncansby Head

Dramatic sea stacks and puffin colonies near John o' Groats.

 Wester Ross

Torridon

Ancient mountains, red deer, and some of Scotland's finest hiking.
View all 60+ stops

Travel Guides

In-depth guides to help you make the most of your NC500 adventure.

Planning

Planning Your NC500 Trip

Everything you need to know before hitting the road — route options, timing, and essentials.

Read guide Seasonal

Best Time to Drive the NC500

Month-by-month breakdown of weather, crowds, daylight, and wildlife along the route.

Read guide Transport

NC500 with a Campervan

Hire tips, wild camping spots, overnight parking, and the best campsites on the route.

Read guide Planning

NC500 on a Budget

How to do the North Coast 500 without breaking the bank — free stops, cheap eats, and more.

Read guide
View all guides

Community Forum

Ask questions, share tips, and connect with fellow NC500 travellers.

First time doing the NC500 in May — any tips?

Trip Planning · by HighlandNewbie

12 replies

Best pubs and restaurants along the route?

Food & Drink · by FoodieRoadTripper

24 replies

Bealach na Bà in a motorhome — doable?

Campervans & Motorhomes · by VanLifeScotland

18 replies

Wild camping spots north coast — recommendations?

Camping · by WildCamperUK

31 replies

NC500 with kids — keep them entertained?

Family Travel · by FamilyAdventures

9 replies
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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the NC500 take to drive?
Most people spend 5 to 7 days driving the North Coast 500. You can rush it in 2-3 days, but you will miss most of the best stops. We recommend at least 5 days to enjoy the route properly.
Which direction should I drive the NC500?
Most travellers drive the NC500 clockwise (up the east coast, across the top, down the west coast) which saves the most scenic west coast for the second half. Anti-clockwise works too — there is no wrong direction.
When is the best time to drive the NC500?
May to September offers the best weather and longest daylight hours. June and September are ideal for avoiding peak crowds while still having good conditions. Winter drives are stunning but many facilities close.
Can I do the NC500 in a campervan?
Yes, campervans are very popular on the NC500. Most of the route is fine for standard campervans, though the Bealach na Bà pass to Applecross is not recommended for large motorhomes. There are campsites and overnight parking spots all along the route.
Is the NC500 free to drive?
Yes, the North Coast 500 is a public road route and completely free to drive. There are no tolls. Your costs will be fuel, accommodation, food, and activities along the way.
Where does the NC500 start and finish?
The official start and finish point is Inverness Castle in the Scottish Highlands. The route is a loop, so you end up back where you started. Many people also begin from John o' Groats on the north coast.