When most people think of Scotland, they think of towering mountains, ancient castles, and a LOT of rain. There is, however, a side to Scotland (especially on the northern and western coast of the country) that would leave most people believing they have travelled the beachside paradise of the Caribbean.
Crystal clear water, crashing waves, golden sands, and complete isolation are all that await those who go in search of Scotland’s many beautiful beaches on the North Coast 500 road trip. One of the most spectacular of which is the hidden stretch of sand known locally as Coldbackie Beach, a true hidden gem on the North Coast of Scotland.
For more information on where it is, how to get to it, and why you need to, simply read this complete guide to Coldbackie Beach.
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Coldbackie Beach – Is this the Best Beach on the North Coast 500
As you tour the northern coast of the highlands of Scotland, keep your eyes peeled for the hidden gem of a beach known locally as Coldbackie Beach. We stumbled across this beach by accident and it was possibly one of our favourite beaches in the world.
Table of Contents
Planning Your Trip
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NC500 Motorhome and Campervan Scheme
The NC500 Motorhome Scheme, officially known as the Highland Campervan and Motorhome Scheme, was launched by the Highland Council on July 1, 2024. This innovative initiative is designed to address the growing number of motorhomes and campervans traveling along the popular North Coast 500 (NC500) route, ensuring that their impact on the local environment and communities is managed sustainably.
The scheme offers a voluntary seven-day pass costing £40, inclusive of VAT. This pass grants motorhome and campervan users access to 12 designated overnight parking locations along the NC500 route, including scenic spots like Torvean Car Park in Inverness, Nairn Harbour, Dunnet Head Car Park, and Ullapool Latheron Car Park.
These parking spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis from 10 PM to 8 AM, with a 72-hour no-return policy at each location. This ensures that the facilities are used responsibly and that a larger number of travellers can benefit from them.
Overall, the NC500 Motorhome Scheme provides a structured and sustainable approach to motorhome travel in one of Scotland’s most scenic and popular areas. We think this is a great idea and encourage everyone to take advantage of it if you are looking to explore this road trip soon.
Read all about this new scheme in our complete guide to the NC500 Motorhome Scheme here.
For more information or to purchase a membership, travellers can visit the Highland Council’s official website.
Where to Stay on the North Coast 500
There is a wide range of accommodations around the NC500 route, so you will not be short on options. Depending on how long you are spending in each area will depend on how long you spend in that location. It is worth bearing in mind that some accommodations will require you to stay a minimum number of nights so it is worth researching this when you are planning your North Coast 500 itinerary.
Our new book North Coast 500 Where to Eat and Stay shares the best places to eat and stay around the NC500 and includes whether places are dog friendly, accessible, have wifi and EVC and whether they cater to dietary requirements. Paired with our Destination NC500 guidebook you will have the perfect combo to start planning your roadtrip of a lifetime.
The remoteness in the highlands of Scotland will leave you with little choice of accommodation in each location along the NC500, however, there are still enough options to choose from to ensure a comfortable trip. These are mostly in the shape of B&Bs, Airbnbs, converted cottages and other quirky accommodations.
What is Coldbackie Beach?
On the northern coast of Scotland lie some of the best rated and most picturesque beaches in the world. With golden sands, clear blue water, and miles of stunning beaches with little to no sign of life, meaning you will have them all to yourself. One of the most spectacular of these beaches lies just outside of the town of Coldbackie and is know as the Coldbackie Beach.
Hidden from the roadside, this isolated, remote, and difficult to access stretch of sandy beach is the purest definition of paradise we could ever imagine. Hugely popular with surfers and local swimmers, this beach is usually a quiet and peaceful retreat for this willing to make the climb down the hillside to reach its hidden shores.
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Where is Coldbackie Beach?
The beautiful beach of Coldbackie Sands lies just outside of the small town of Coldbackie, as you drive west towards Tongue. Just as you pass by the signpost that would welcome you back into Coldbackie if you were driving East, you will see a small stopping area on the righthand side towards the open water of Tongue Bay.
When we toured this route, there were a couple of picnic benches at this parking space, as well as a bench that you can use to relax and soak up the stunning view below if you wish. Stop off here and direct your attention towards the small path through the bushes that leads down the hill, seemingly towards the sea before disappearing behind a small hill at the bottom.
If you follow this path down, you will find the isolated paradise of Coldbackie Beach behind this small hill.
Destination North Coast Map
Make sure you have all the resources you need to make the most of your trip to the North Coast of Scotland. Our Destination North Coast Map is the perfect addition to any traveller’s toolkit. With detailed information on all the best spots, along the NC500, this map is your ultimate guide to exploring the rugged beauty of Scotland’s north coast.
How to Get to Coldbackie Beach?
Once you have pulled over at the stopping place, make sure your car is parked responsibly so as to not block or cause a blond spot on the road leading past. If you are struggling for a parking space, the Weavers Craft Shop and Cafe lies just 1-mile along the road towards Tongue. If you use the facilities here and buy a coffee for your trip then there should be no issues leaving your car here.
Once you are at the aforementioned parking space, begin the hike down the hill, following the narrow and muddy track through the bushes to the bottom. Take extreme care on this path, especially in wet conditions, as the path can be slippery and treacherous underfoot. Make sure you are wearing appropriate footwear before attempting this walk.
Unfortunately, the climb down to the Coldbackie Beach is not accessible for those with reduced mobility impairments, as there are no stairs or handrails allowing access.
The climb to the bottom of the hill will most likely take you no more than 10 minutes, as the hill is of a very steep decline to the bottom. Once you are on the beach, relax and enjoy the crash of the waves, the sand between your toes, and the peace and quiet of this isolated paradise. Make sure to make the most of your time on the beach as the climb back up is a little more difficult..
Why Should I Go to Coldbackie Beach?
As I mentioned before, the beaches along the North Coast of Scotland as some of the most spectacular, undisturbed, and isolated beaches in the world, and each one is uniquely beautiful. The white sands of Coldbackie Beach are one of our favourite finds along the North Coast 500 road trip and, on a sunny day, the view of the beach will give you a whole new love for this country.
If you like tranquil beaches with soft sand, crashing waves, which are completely removed from the madness of the NC500 road trip then the Coldbackie Beach is one for you.
When Should I Go to Coldbackie Beach
With regards to the seasons here in Scotland, the driest months (and therefore most popular) are namely June through to August, which coincide with the school holidays of the UK. During these months, people flock to the NC500 in droves, which a lot of the time causes the serious issue of over-tourism and the environmental damage that results from it.
If we were to recommend a time of year that is the best time to visit Scotland, it would not be during this busy period. Instead, we would suggest heading north during the shoulder seasons of April, May and September. During these months, the winter rain has stopped and you will be blessed with the pleasant spring and early autumn weather that so many in Scotland prefer to the peak summer weather.
The other perk of visiting during the late spring months is that the biting insects have yet to wake up from winter, meaning that the intolerable “midges” will not ruin your trip. These tiny creatures are not to be taken lightly and are enough to drive the toughest of adventurers squealing back south to relief.
As for the time of day to visit Coldbackie Beach, we highly recommend visiting the beach during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. The lighting during this time of the day is soft enough to do the beauty of Coldbackie Beach its true justice.However, if you cannot make these small windows in the day, any time throughout the day is a good enough time to visit Coldbackie Beach. We would suggest researching the tide times, however, if you wish to swim in the sea, as at low tide the water might be a bit of a walk from the shore.
Other Things to do on the North Coast 500
In addition to the stunning shores of Coldbackie Beach, there are loads of other beautiful sights that you will need to visit close by, both to the west and further to the south. For a full list of all of the best North Coast 500 sights that you cannot miss, read our full guide here.
Snap a Pic at the John O’Groats Signpost
One of the most popular tourist attractions on the north coast of Scotland, this famous John O’Groats Signpost is a definite photo-stop on the NC500 road trip. Marking the end of the countrywide route from its sister signpost in Lands End, Cornwall, this signpost is a welcome sight to the weary travellers who have made this monumental journey.
If you are touring the North Coast 500 then this signpost should be a definite stop on your road trip, as it is the perfect place to stretch your legs, snap a photo and grab a bite to eat.
Read our full guide to the John O’Groats Signpost to plan your trip to the fullest.
Visit the Duncansby Stacks and Lighthouse
Towering above the ferocious North Sea are the beautiful and majestic outlines of the Duncansby Stacks. Standing as a testament to the power of nature in this remote part of the world, it is believed that these sea stacks have existed for over 6000 years, slowly being eroding by the strength of the sea.
During your trip around the NC500, swing by Duncansby Head and visit the lighthouse that dates back to 1924, and wander along the coast to see these impressive sea columns for yourself.
Read our full guide to Duncansby Stacks and Lighthouse to plan your trip to the fullest.
Before You Leave on the North Coast 500
Before you head off on your trip around the NC500, there are certain things you will need to get organised to ensure a smooth trip. These include how to get around the route, including being aware of single track roads, etc., what to pack for Scotland, where to stay along the route and what travel insurance to book.
How Do I Get Around?
Given the remote location of the NC500 and the majority of the sights along the route, the best way to get around this road trip is by driving. There are of course other methods that are still popular, such as cycling and hiking, however, if you have a short amount of time on the route, neither of these are very suitable.
As for public transport, the use around the NC500 is understandably difficult due to how remote each location is, however, with the increasing problem of congestion along the route, this is a good option to research if you have time. If it is something that interests you, you can read a public formed itinerary of how to get around the NC500 by public transport over here.
If you are looking to rent a cosy, reliable and luxurious campervan for your trip along the NC500, we recommend hiring through Spaceships Rentals.
Browse the full range of vehicles on offer at Spaceships over here.
Where to Stay on the NC500
There is a wide range of accommodations around the NC500 route, so you will not be short on options. Depending on how long you are spending in each area will depend on how long you spend in that location. It is worth bearing in mind that some accommodations will require you to stay a minimum number of nights so it is worth researching this when you are planning your North Coast 500 itinerary.
Our new book North Coast 500 Where to Eat and Stay shares the best places to eat and stay around the NC500 and includes whether places are dog friendly, accessible, have wifi and EVC ad whether they cater to dietry requirements.
The remoteness in the highlands of Scotland will leave you with little choice of accommodation in each location along the NC500, however, there are still enough options to choose from to ensure a comfortable trip. These are mostly in the shape of B&Bs, Airbnbs, converted cottages and other quirky accommodations.
Depending on how adventurous you are, there may be more accommodation choices than just the above, often with an even better view. Caravan and camping sites are abundant along the NC500, drawing camping enthusiasts from all over the world. For some of the most spectacular bedside scenery along the North Coast 500, we recommend packing a tent and getting in touch with nature for the week.
As we travelled along the North Coast 500, camped in our trusty Vango tent on a mixture of campsites and wild sites. Wild camping is a fantastic way to enjoy the beauty of the highlands, however, it must be done respectfully. Read our full guide to Wild Camping if you wish to give it a go so you know everything you need to for a comfortable and sustainable trip.
What Should I Pack?
When it comes to packing for a trip to Scotland there is one item of clothing that you are going to need all year round: a waterproof. It rains in Scotland on average 250 days a year, meaning that during your 5-day Heart 200 road trip you will probably experience at least a drizzle of rain. Due to this, the number one item on any Scotland packing list is a good waterproof jacket.
As for the rest of the year, the temperature in Scotland and the central heartlands is reasonably mild for most of the year. During the winter months, you will most likely experience snow, however, temperatures usually sit around freezing, so it is not too cold. For your reference, the average temperatures in Scotland are listed below during each season.
Spring (March, April, May) – 5-10 degrees C
Summer (June, July, August) – 15 degrees C
Autumn (September, October, November) – 5-10 degrees C
Winter (December, January, February) – 0-5 degrees C
As you can see, the weather never really gets above the teens, with anything over 25 degrees C considered a heatwave. The best way to pack for your trip to the highlands is with layers that can be added and removed as you need them. You will definitely need a hat and gloves during the colder months and will most likely need sunscreen to protect you on the long days in the open.
It is also important to stay hydrated, especially when you are out exploring in the marvellous landscape of Scotland. We use Water to Go water bottles to fill up with water from running streams when we are hiking.
We would also recommend taking our NC500 guidebooks with you on your journey. This will help you plan your itinerary and ensure that you don’t miss out on any of the best places to go on the NC500. Our Destination NC500 guidebook is well paired with NC500 Where to Eat and Stay and you can buy the combo here.
Given the beautiful sights and scenery that you are no doubt going to see around Scotland, we highly recommend packing a good camera for your trip. If you want to read more about the cameras we use and why we love them, check out the link below.
Photography Equipment
Main Photography Camera – Sony A7v Mirrorless Camera and Sony A7iii Mirrorless Camera
Microphone – Sony Mic ECM-B1M
Main Lens – Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8
Zoom Lens – Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8
Camera Tripod – ZOMEI Z669C Camera Tripod
Gorilla Pod – JOBY JB01507-BWW GorillaPod
Action Camera – GoPro Hero 11 and Insta 360 One RS
Drone Camera – DJI Mavic Pro 3
Camera Bag – Wandrd PRVKE 41L and The Nest by Tropicfeel
Phone Tripod – Manfrotto MKPIXICLAMP-BK, Mini Tripod with Universal Smartphone Clamp
Sturdy Phone Tripod & Selfie Stick – ATUMTEK 61″ Selfie Stick Tripod, Sturdy Phone Tripod Stand with Wireless Remote
Hard Drives – LaCie Rugged Mini, 5TB, 2.5″, Portable External Hard Drive
SSD – SanDisk Extreme Pro 1TB Portable NVMe SSD
Travel Adapter –Worldwide Travel Adapter Universal Travel Plug with 4 USB Ports+Universal AC Socke
What is the Best Travel Insurance for the North Coast 500
I know travel insurance is the least enjoyable thing to purchase and look at when you’re planning a trip, however, you wouldn’t want to be without it in the event that something happened. Accidents can happen anywhere and the extortionate medical bills will ruin your trip if you are not covered.
To ensure you have a stress-free trip with no worries about potential medical bills, make sure you cover yourself when you travel. We can recommend using SafetyWing, a backpacker-friendly and cheap insurance company that provides good coverage and support. It is also nomad-friendly, unlike most other insurance companies, meaning you do not need to worry about being out of your home country for too long.
Get a quote for your travel insurance right here and get covered!
So there you have it, a guide to visiting one of the best beaches on the North Coast 500, Coldbackie Beach.
As always, sharing is caring so make sure to share this guide with your family and friends and inspire them to head off on their own North Coast 500 adventure. If you are planning the trip for yourself, make sure you have a look at the rest of our Scotland content for more inspiration to our beautiful home country.
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