The NC500 in Winter: A Guide to Historical Hidden Gems
Forget the summer throngs and embrace the atmospheric magic of the North Coast 500 in autumn and winter! As the days shorten and the landscape takes on a dramatic, brooding beauty, a campervan road trip along Scotland’s iconic circuit transforms into an adventure steeped in ancient folklore, chilling history, and the cosy embrace of local hospitality. The following hidden gems we collected along the NC500 are therefore absolute must-dos in our opinion, especially in the colder months!
If you prefer the present to the past (or simply don’t scare easily!), don’t be put off – we’ve also included some iconic Highland hotspots and campervan-friendly campsites to illuminate the darker days with some historic hospitality!
With our northern guide, your frosty, far-flung forays are about to become the stuff of legend.
Let’s get started!
Winter on the NC500: Why a Campervan?
Embracing the NC500 in the cooler seasons in your campervan offers unparalleled freedom and intimacy with the landscape. You’ll have the flexibility to chase (or dodge!) dramatic weather patterns, park up with incredible views crowd-free, and always have a warm, self-contained haven to retreat to.
Imagine brewing a hot chocolate as a sudden squall passes, or tucking into a hearty stew whilst the Northern Lights dance through your window, your hiking boots and waterproofs drying by the heater.
Is it an unconventional getaway? Sure. Is it for the faint of heart? Probably not.
But for those of you who are intrigued by the unknown, who find beauty in the unlikely and are always interested in a challenge, this is the type of trip you cannot afford to miss!
Top Tips for Your Off Season Road Trip:
- Embrace the Dark: Shorter daylight hours mean more opportunities for stargazing and, if you’re lucky, catching the Aurora Borealis.
- Layer Up: Scottish weather is famously changeable. Pack plenty of warm, waterproof layers, sturdy boots, and at least one good hat and gloves.
- Road Conditions: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and Traffic Scotland for potential road closures, especially on higher passes. Winter tyres or snow chains can be advisable.
- Book Ahead: While quieter, popular pubs, restaurants, and campsites with good winter facilities can still get busy. Don’t risk it!
- Respect the Wild: Be mindful of the environment and leave no trace.
- Enjoy the Photogenic Views: Autumn and winter light are simply magical for photography. Long golden hours and dramatic skies make for stunning shots!
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Planning Your Trip
We use the below booking platforms to plan our trips. We hope you find them useful too!
NC500 Hidden Gems: Winter Wanderings
The Highlands are a tapestry woven with tales of old, and many of its most captivating “hidden gems” come alive with an eerie beauty in the colder months. Picture ancient standing stones silhouetted against a bruised sky; silent, storm-stirred lochs illuminated by forked lightning, or castle ruins wailing as the winter wind whips through their walls!
It’s Scotland at its most stark.
Clachtoll Broch, Sutherland
Tucked away on the wild Sutherland coast, the remains of Clachtoll Broch are a magnificent example of an Iron Age drystone tower. In autumn, with the wind whipping off the Atlantic and the waves crashing below, you can almost hear the echoes of its ancient inhabitants.
It’s hard not to imagine their lives here: huddled against the elements, sharing stories by firelight. This dramatic site feels particularly alive with history, a place where the veil between worlds seems thinnest.
Dunrobin Castle, Golspie
(External Viewing & Grounds)
While the full castle tour might be more of a summer affair, the imposing grandeur of Dunrobin Castle, especially when viewed from its extensive grounds in the crisp air of autumn, is genuinely breathtaking!
With its fairytale turrets and imposing stature, Dunrobin has its own share of ghostly legends, including the spirit of a former resident, ‘The Seamstress’, said to wander its corridors, as well as that of the tragic Lady Margaret Gordon, who “fell” to her death not long after declaring her love for a servant.
Even from a respectful distance, the sheer scale and Gothic beauty of this architectural marvel will leave a lasting impression, particularly as the mist and frost starts to take hold.
Croick Church, Ardgay
For a truly poignant and chilling historical experience, a visit to Croick Church is a must.
This unassuming rural church holds a dark secret not within its walls, but its windows – the names and messages of the “Sutherland Clearances” victims, scratched into the glass by those evicted from their homes in 1845. In the quiet of a winter’s day, standing before these etched pleas, the raw human tragedy of the past feels incredibly close.
It’s a sobering reminder of a darker chapter in Highland history and a profoundly moving hidden gem.
Castle Varrich, Tongue
Perched dramatically above the Kyle of Tongue, the ruins of Castle Varrich offer unparalleled views and a tangible link to Norse invaders and ancient clan chiefs. The short hike to the castle in autumn is invigorating, and once there, the sense of history is palpable.
It’s said to be one of the oldest castles in Scotland, and its stark, skeletal remains against a dramatic sky and surrounding hills are incredibly atmospheric. It’s easy to imagine the fierce battles and ancient rituals that unfolded here centuries ago, and the views are not bad either!
NC500: The Hidden Gems of Hospitality
After a day of exploring windswept historical sites, there’s nothing better than retreating to a warm, welcoming pub or inn – especially one with enough of its own stories to match your own!
These local establishments are the heart and soul of Highland hospitality, offering respite from the elements and a chance to enjoy the local culture (and perhaps a dram or two!).
The Old Inn, Gairloch
A firm favourite on the west coast, The Old Inn in Gairloch exudes charm and warmth. With its roaring fires and friendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to refuel with hearty Scottish fare and a local ale. The building itself has a long history, and you can almost feel the generations of travellers and locals who have sought refuge within its walls.
It’s an excellent spot to discuss the day’s discoveries and perhaps hear a local ghost story if you’re lucky enough.
The Tongue Hotel, Tongue
Overlooking the water, The Tongue Hotel is a truly classic Highland establishment. Its cosy bar and restaurant offer magnificent views, excellent food, and a chance to warm up in comfort.
With its traditional décor and welcoming staff, it’s a slice of old-world charm that feels especially inviting during the colder months.
The Kylesku Hotel, Kylesku
Situated in a truly spectacular location by the Kylesku Bridge, this award-winning hotel is renowned for its seafood and its warm hospitality. In autumn and winter, watching the dramatic scenery outside from the comfort of their restaurant or bar is a real treat.
It’s a perfect spot to indulge in some delicious, fresh, local produce and appreciate the wild beauty of the North (while staying snug and warm!)
The Alladale Wilderness Reserve (Various Lodges & Cottages – Book Ahead)
While not a pub, for a truly immersive and luxurious “hidden gem” experience (if your budget allows!), consider a stay at one of the lodges or cottages within the Alladale Wilderness Reserve, slightly off the main NC500 route but easily accessible.
This vast conservation project offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the wild Highlands. Imagine evenings by a crackling fire, surrounded by ancient Caledonian forest, with the chance to spot red deer, rare birds, and perhaps even the elusive Scottish wildcat. It’s an investment in a truly unforgettable winter wilderness experience!
NC500: Winter Campsites
Sometimes, after a day on the road, you just want a hot shower, an electric hook-up, and a friendly chat with fellow travellers.
That’s where the NC500’s fantastic campsites really shine. They offer a range of facilities, from modern heated washrooms to on-site shops and even pubs, providing a welcome slice of civilisation amidst the wilderness. Many are ideally situated for accessing local attractions and offer a sense of community that can be a real bonus on a more extended trip.
Book well in advance – don’t dilly-dally!
Our Camper-friendly Favourites:
- Black Rock Caravan Park, Evanton: A superb start or end point on the NC500 circuit. Hard-standing pitches, excellent heated facilities, and a warm welcome.
- Sands Caravan & Camping Park, Gairloch: Renowned for its stunning coastal location and top-notch facilities, including a campers’ kitchen. Perfect for West Coast exploration.
- Scourie Campsite, Scourie: Family-run with superb views over Scourie Bay and a crucial drying room – a winter lifesaver!
- Durness Campsite (The Wee Campsite): Small, friendly, and ideally located for iconic locations such as Smoo Cave and Balnakeil Beach.
- Dornoch Caravan & Camping Park, Dornoch: An award-winning park near a charming historic town and a beautiful beach, offering modern comforts.
In Need of a Highland Steed?
The NC500 in Winter: Your Own Hidden Gems Await!
So there you have it – if you’re planning on hitting the world-famous NC500 circuit as the nights grow long, we hope this guide will prove useful. With a winter-proofed campervan, a list of lovely pubs and local campsites, and some epic Highland haunts to explore, we reckon you have all the makings of a truly timeless Scottish trip.
However, we recommend one thing – balance your bookings and research with some spontaneity! The North Coast 500 is a real behemoth, bursting with historical sites, ruins and hidden gems around every bend and behind every crag. Don’t stress about seeing it all – enjoy the downtime, leave some room for adventure and exploration, and embrace every setback as much as every success.
That’s how you make history!
Happy travels!
Useful Links
- CalMac Ferries – book well in advance.
- North Coast 500 – official site.
- Met Office – check the weather!
- walkhighlands – for iconic, well-reviewed hiking trails.
- Traffic Scotland – check your route for warnings and closures.
- Highlands 2 Hammocks (that’s us!) – check out our online shop, other blogs and brand-new campervan rental service!
