The NC500 Road Trip Guide: Why the Isle of Skye is the Ultimate Road Trip Add-On!
You’ve planned it, you’ve dreamt about it, you can’t stop bringing it up: the North Coast 500. Scotland’s iconic road trip, a breathtaking loop through the rugged Highlands, promises epic landscapes, charming villages, and a true sense of adventure.
But what if we told you there’s a way to make it even more unforgettable?
A way to inject island magic, ancient history, and even more legendary beauty into your journey? Enter the Isle of Skye – your ultimate NC500 detour – a natural extension that transforms a great road trip into a truly epic one!
The Iconic NC500
First, let’s acknowledge the star of the show – the North Coast 500 is a true marvel.
It whisks you through gloomy glens, along sun-kissed coastlines, and into the heart of the dramatic, loch-dappled wilderness. You’ll encounter incredible scenery at every turn, from the pristine white sands of Achmelvich to the towering heights of Ben Hope. It’s an authentic, challenging road trip that winds through some of the very best of Scotland!
But after at least five days of Highland grandeur, what if you could pivot to something equally majestic, yet distinctly different?
Skye: The NC500’s Perfect Partner
Think of Skye as the dazzling jewel in the NC500’s crown.
While the NC500 showcases the mainland’s raw power, the surprisingly accessible Skye offers a concentrated dose of mythical landscapes, unique geology, and a direct portal to Scotland’s mystical islands. Adding Skye isn’t just about extending your trip; it’s about enriching your experience with another iconic Scottish destination!
As they say, in for a penny . . .
Table of Contents
The Isle of Skye: Surprisingly Accessible!
One of Skye’s greatest strengths, especially when paired with the NC500, is its incredible accessibility. Unlike many remote Scottish islands, Skye, being directly connected to the mainland via the iconic Skye Bridge at Kyle of Lochalsh, means a seamless transition from your Highland loop – no ferry times or flights in sight; just a straightforward drive. For NC500 visitors, this is a game-changer.
As you complete the eastern or western legs of your NC500 journey, a slight detour south takes you directly onto Skye, minimising logistical headaches and maximising exploration time.
Furthermore, Skye can act as a perfect springboard to the surrounding Hebrides, meaning that once you’ve explored Skye, you’re in the perfect position to extend your adventure even further into the Inner and Outer Hebrides, should time and wanderlust allow!
Planning Your Trip
We use the below booking platforms to plan our trips. We hope you find them useful too!
Skye’s Legendary Attractions
Skye isn’t just a convenient transit point; it’s a destination in its own right, brimming with breathtaking sights that feel plucked from a fantasy novel. Adding a few days here allows you to immerse yourself in truly world-renowned icons:
- Visit the Trotternish Ridge, home to such geological wonders as The Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing, and reward yourself with breathtaking panoramic views that are truly otherworldly – regardless of your hiking interests, these epic landscapes are not to be missed!
- Experience the magic of the Neist Point Lighthouse, situated on Skye’s dramatic westernmost tip, for stunning sunsets and the chance to spot whales or dolphins in the waters below.
- Whether you’re a history-lover, keen gardener or just a curious explorer, Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland and the ancestral home of Clan MacLeod, is waiting.
- For a refreshing wild swim, head to Glen Brittle, where the crystal-clear, turquoise Fairy Pools, fed by waterfalls, await. The beauty of this spot is undeniable, regardless of the water temperature!
- Base yourself in the hospitable Portree, Skye’s vibrant capital, with its picturesque harbour and colourful houses, for travel supplies, hearty local cuisine or just a well-earned pint!
Crafting Your Epic NC500 Itinerary!
Here’s how you could seamlessly integrate a magical 3-day Skye adventure into your 5-day NC500 journey, creating an unforgettable 8-day Scottish odyssey. This itinerary assumes you start and end your NC500 in Inverness, and then continue directly to Skye.
Day 1: Inverness to Applecross/Torridon (approx. 100 miles)
- Morning: Start your NC500 in Inverness, heading west along the A835.
- Afternoon: Take the dramatic Bealach na Bà road to Applecross (weather permitting!) for stunning coastal views, or continue to the majestic Torridon mountains for hiking opportunities.
- Overnight: Applecross or Torridon area.
Day 2: Torridon/Applecross to Ullapool (approx. 70 miles)
- Morning: Explore the rugged landscapes of Torridon, perhaps a short walk or a visit to the Torridon Estate.
- Afternoon: Drive north along the A832 and A835, passing through beautiful lochs and mountains, arriving in the picturesque fishing village of Ullapool.
- Overnight: Ullapool.
Day 3: Ullapool to Durness (approx. 100 miles)
- Morning: Continue north, experiencing some of the NC500’s most remote and stunning coastline. Visit the ruins of Ardvreck Castle and the Bone Caves.
- Afternoon: Enjoy the pristine beaches like Achmelvich and Clachtoll. Head further north to the dramatic Smoo Cave near Durness.
- Overnight: Durness.
Day 4: Durness to Thurso/John O’Groats (approx. 80-100 miles)
- Morning: Explore the far north coast. Visit Cape Wrath (via ferry and bus from Durness; check seasonal availability) or take in the vast, wild landscapes around you.
- Afternoon: Drive east along the north coast, visiting the iconic John O’Groats and the nearby Duncansby Head sea stacks!
- Overnight: Thurso/John O’Groats area.
Day 5: Thurso/John O’Groats to Inverness (approx. 110-140 miles)
- Morning: Begin your journey south along the east coast.
- Afternoon: Visit distilleries like Glenmorangie or Balblair, explore Dunrobin Castle, or enjoy the charming coastal towns on the return to Inverness.
The 3-Day Skye Add-On
Instead of heading straight home after your NC500, from Inverness, drive west towards the Isle of Skye, crossing the iconic Skye Bridge!
Day 6: Inverness to Portree, Exploring Southern Skye (approx. 120 miles)
- Morning: From Inverness, head west on the A835, then the A890 and A87 towards the Skye Bridge, enjoying the scenic drive.
- Afternoon: Cross over and begin exploring the island. Head towards the Fairy Pools near Glen Brittle for a beautiful walk and dare to brave a dip if you’re up for it! Continue to Carbost for a visit to the Talisker Distillery.
- Evening: Arrive in Portree, Skye’s colourful capital, check into your accommodation (it’s a great spot to base yourself) and head out for dinner.
- Overnight: Portree.
Want The Best of Both Worlds?
Day 7: Northern Skye’s Legendary Landscapes (Full Day)
- Morning: Head north from Portree to the iconic Old Man of Storr. Hike to the base for incredible views.
- Late Morning/Afternoon: Continue exploring the Trotternish Ridge, visiting the dramatic Quiraing landslip. Take your time to absorb the geological wonders and unique formations.
- Late Afternoon: Drive west to Neist Point Lighthouse for stunning coastal views and a chance to spot wildlife. If staying near Uig for the night, try to stop by the Fairy Glen for some serene splendour.
- Overnight: Portree or Uig.
Day 8: Western Skye or Island Hop & Departure (Approx. 60-100 miles to mainland connection)
- Option A (Skye Exploration): Visit Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, explore the Waternish Peninsula, or revisit a favourite spot from the previous day.
- Option B (Mini Island Hop): Take the short 25-minute ferry from Sconser on Skye to the Isle of Raasay for a taste of another Hebridean island, perhaps visiting the Raasay Distillery or hiking Dun Caan. Return to Skye.
- Afternoon: Depart Skye via the Skye Bridge, heading south to connect with your onward travel plans or a flight from Inverness, Glasgow, or Edinburgh!
Before You Go . . .
We believe that integrating Skye into your NC500 adventure is a fantastic decision!
It adds an extra layer of diverse attractions, local hospitality and legendary landscapes that truly complement the rugged beauty of the mainland Highlands. You will be utterly spoiled for choice – your camera roll will thank you!
Remember, Scottish weather is famously unpredictable, so be prepared to adapt your itinerary – whether you’re relying on public transport or meandering in a motorhome, be prepared for all eventualities. Embrace the setbacks, revel in the detours, and ultimately, allow yourself to be captivated by Scotland’s unparalleled charm.
Happy travels, and may your epic journey be filled with unforgettable moments!
Useful Links
- Cal Mac Ferries
- Discover Ferries (for Raasay & the Small Isles)
- Visit Scotland – Isle of Skye
- Met Office Forecasts
- NC500 Info
- Highlands2Hammocks (Our Site) – find our online shop, other blogs and campervan service here!
