The NC500 - Your 14-Day Itinerary
The North Coast 500 (NC500) conjures images of striking sea cliffs, rugged mountains, and the silent, deep lochs of the Scottish Highlands. Covering 516 miles, this circular route begins and ends in Inverness and is often completed quickly – a five- or seven-day sprint to the finish. However, the NC500 is not a race, but a journey meant to be savoured, offering a profound exploration of Scotland’s most rugged corners.
For travellers with ample time, a two-week (14-day) itinerary turns the trip from a mere drive into an immersive, genuine Highland adventure. This guide caters to those eager to look beyond the windshield, enjoy scenic detours, and truly connect with the history and hospitality of the Northern Highlands.
This itinerary relies on the traditional anti-clockwise approach for an equal blend of both culture and nature on the circuit; however, if you prefer to prioritise the latter, we recommend going clockwise to spend more time on the rugged West Coast.
If you’re still deciding whether this route is right for you, start with our NC500 overview first.
If you’re ready to plan, you’re in the right place!
The NC500: 14-Day Essential Tips
- Pace & Planning: With 14 days, you can afford spontaneity, but book accommodation (especially in Durness, Applecross, and Ullapool) well in advance, particularly during peak summer!
- Hiking: Pack proper hiking boots, as the 14-day trip allows time for serious walks up mountains such as Suilven or Stac Pollaidh.
- Midges: If travelling between May and September, buy Smidge (a Scottish midge repellent) or a head net, especially for stops near still water or during still evenings.
- Single Track Roads: The West Coast roads demand respect – drive slowly, use passing places correctly, and wave thanks to locals who pull over for you.
- Fuel: Always fill up in major towns (Wick, Thurso, Ullapool), even if you are only half full – fuel stops are sparse.Â
- Accommodation: Mix it up! If you’re relying on fixed accommodation, try a grand old hotel (like Links House or Tongue Hotel), a cosy B&B, and a self-catering cottage for a truly varied experience.
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👉 Where To Eat on the NC500
👉 Where To Stay on the NC500
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Part 1: The Gentle East (Days 1–4)
The eastern section of the NC500 is your gentle introduction, marked by rolling farmland, historic settlements, and the calm waters of the Moray Firth. The driving is easy, allowing ample time for cultural exploration and historical reflection.
Day 1: Inverness to Tain (Approx. 40 miles)
- Cultural Stop: Start with the Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre, a non-negotiable stop. Wander the field where the Jacobite rising ended in 1746 – a sobering but essential foundation for understanding Highland history over the next fortnight! The nearby Clava Cairns, ancient Bronze Age burial sites, also offer a quick, atmospheric stop that helped inspire the global phenomenon, Outlander.
- Lunch: Pick up some fresh seafood from the Redshank in Inverness’ Victorian Market before grabbing some last-minute supplies.
- Detour: Instead of following the A9 directly, consider a short drive around the Black Isle. Though technically a peninsula, it offers charming coastal villages like Cromarty and the chance to spot dolphins off Chanonry Point.
- Dinner: Greens Restaurant offers traditional fare, or if you fancy an earlier meal, stop at the Storehouse just before you reach Tain.
Day 2: Tain to Helmsdale (Approx. 55 miles)
- Historic Stop: Head to the magnificent Dunrobin Castle, complete with its sprawling gardens and a popular falconry display!
- Lunch:Â Enjoy a bite at the Golspie Inn.
- Scenic Detours: Enjoy the nearby Big Burn Walk, an enchanting, easy hike through mossy woodland, or head out to Golspie Beach.
- Cultural Stop: Spend time at the Timespan Museum and Art Centre in Helmsdale. This multi-award-winning museum beautifully chronicles the area’s history, focusing on the Highland Clearances and the local fishing industry.
- Dinner: Enjoy a relaxing dinner in Helmsdale, perhaps at La Mirage, where you can sample local specialities.
Day 3: Helmsdale to Wick (Approx. 35 miles)Â
- Historic/Scenic Detour: For a taste of maritime history, spend time at the old Latheronwheel Harbour or the Whaligoe Steps – the latter is more challenging, as you descend 330 hand-cut stone steps down a cliff face to a former fishing harbour, a humbling glimpse into the lives of 18th-century fishwives.
- Lunch:Â Enjoy a lovely meal at The Old Smiddy Inn near Thrumster.
- Cultural Stop: Drop by Old Pulteney Distillery in Wick, one of the most northerly mainland distilleries, known for its “maritime malt.” A pre-booked tour is essential!
- Historic Detour: Explore the spectacular, ruined Castle Sinclair Girnigoe near Wick, perched dramatically on the cliffs.
- Dinner: Wick is a larger town and offers several dining options. Try the No 1 Bistro for quality, fresh Scottish cuisine.
Day 4: Wick to John o’ Groats/Thurso (Approx. 45 miles)
- Scenic Stop: While John o’ Groats gets the fame, Duncansby Head, just two miles east, has the drama. Walk from the lighthouse to view the towering Duncansby Stacks – sea-battered rock formations that are arguably the most spectacular sea pinnacles on the route.
- Cultural Attraction: Stop at John o’ Groats for the obligatory NC500 photo at the iconic signpost!
- Historic Detour: Visit the Castle of Mey, the late Queen Mother’s beloved former holiday home. Its gardens are stunning and offer a lovely insight into royal life. The tearoom is also great for a quick lunch!
- Scenic Detour: Venture out to Dunnet Head (the most northerly point of the mainland), relax at Dunnet Bay or grab lunch at the Northern Sands Hotel.
- Dinner:Â Grab a table at Bydand for some high-quality local cuisine.
Part 2: The Rugged North (Days 5–7)
The northern section is all about big skies, golden sands, and the wild, exposed coast facing the turbulent Pentland Firth. The driving is still relatively straightforward but requires attention to the wind and weather.
Day 5: Thurso to Tongue (Approx. 65 miles)Â
- Cultural Stop: Join a tour at the Wolfburn Distillery in Thurso.
- Lunch: Stop by the Store Bistro & Bar in Bettyhill for a light lunch.
- Cultural Detour: Visit the nearby Strathnaver Museum, housed in a former church, to learn about the devastating effects of the Highland Clearances in this very area.Â
- Scenic Stop: Take time to explore the vast, golden expanse of Coldbackie Beach or Farr Beach – the sands here rival the Caribbean on a sunny day!
- Dinner: Have a bite at the Tongue Hotel. Its traditional bar and restaurant are cosy spots to relax and watch the sunset over the Kyle of Tongue!
Day 6: Tongue to Durness (Approx. 30 miles)Â
- Scenic Detour:Â Enjoy a post-breakfast hike up to Castle Varrich, a hilltop ruin boasting spectacular panoramic views on a clear day!
- Scenic Stop: Head to Smoo Cave near Durness – this massive limestone sea cave features a dramatic waterfall inside (the inner chambers and waterfall are only accessible via a guided tour, weather and river-level permitting).
- Cultural Stop: Stop by the quirky Balnakeil Craft Village, where a collection of artists’ studios and shops is housed in a former RAF station. It’s a great place to pick up authentic, locally-made crafts!
- Scenic Detour: Spend time on Balnakeil Beach, a breathtaking stretch of white sand backed by dramatic dunes.
- Dinner: The Smoo Cave Hotel is the main dining hub in Durness, offering hearty pub fare perfect after a day of exploring the coast.Â
Day 7: Durness (Rest Day)Â
Since you have 14 days, build in a rest day after the initial push – Durness is the perfect spot. Also, make sure to stock up your supplies before you turn onto the more remote Western stretch of the circuit!
- Scenic Detour: Take the Cape Wrath Ferry from Durness for a more adventurous day trip – a true coastal wilderness awaits!
- Scenic Detour: Dedicate your day to a coastal walk, such as the lengthy hike out to Sandwood Bay, south of Cape Wrath. This secluded beach offers incredible views and perfect respite from the NC500 circuit!
- Scenic Detour: Drive a little inland to explore the quiet majesty of Loch Hope or hike Ben Hope, Scotland’s most northerly Munro (a mountain over 3000 ft).Â
Otherwise, grab a book and a pint and settle in for the day!
Part 3: The Wild West (Days 8–11)
This is the NC500’s most thrilling segment. The landscape turns savage, dominated by ancient, isolated mountains due to Assynt’s unique geology, and the roads often narrow to single-track, demanding careful driving.
Also, start early, there’s plenty to see and do!
Day 8: Durness to Kylesku/Lochinver (Approx. 60 miles)Â
- Scenic Detour: Start with a visit to Oldshoremore Beach and stop by The Quay House in Kinlochbervie for a quick bite and a coffee.
- Scenic Stop: Pull over for a photo of the Kylesku Bridge, an elegant, curved structure spanning a narrow sea inlet. It’s a modern architectural highlight resting upon a timeless landscape, a true NC500 landmark!
- Lunch:Â Treat yourself at the Kylesku Hotel, renowned for its exceptionally fresh, locally landed seafood.
- Historic Stop: Stop by the forlorn ruin of Ardvreck Castle on Loch Assynt, a symbol of the Highlands’ isolation and history.
- Scenic Detour: Take the minor road through Drumbeg (the “Wee Mad Road”). This incredibly twisty, challenging drive offers some of the most spectacular coastal views and stops along the entire route, like Achmelvich Bay.Â
- Dinner: Book a table at Delilah’s, a wonderful family-run establishment.
Day 9: Lochinver to Achiltibuie (Approx. 50 miles)Â
- Lunch: A stop by Lochinver Larder is mandatory. Famous for its award-winning, gourmet savoury and sweet pies, it’s the perfect place to grab lunch or stock up for a later picnic!
- Photo Stop: Keep an eye out for the distinct, magnificent shapes of the Assynt mountains: Suilven, Stac Pollaidh, and Quinag. These peaks define the dramatic skyline and make for some awesome pictures when the light is right.
- Scenic Detour: Drive the Achiltibuie Loop for unparalleled views of the Summer Isles – a small but hugely atmospheric corner of the NC500!
- Dinner:Â Try the Summer Isles Hotel for fine dining using local ingredients, or enjoy a hearty meal at Am Fuaran, a local pub.
Day 10: Achiltibuie to Ullapool (Approx. 40 miles)
- Scenic Stop: Hike Stac Pollaidh (‘Stack Polly’). This mountain, while steep, is climbable for fit hikers, offering world-class views for a relatively short effort (approx. 2-3 hours return). If not climbing, simply admiring its silhouette is a must.
- Cultural Stop: Take time to enjoy Ullapool, a major fishing port and vibrant hub of Wester Ross. Browse the bookshop or the small art galleries, or relax with a coffee.
- Scenic Detour: Visit Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve. This site offers short, easy geological trails that explain the Moine Thrust – the scientific discovery that helped prove continental drift!
- Dinner: Ullapool is known for its seafood. Try The Seafood Shack for the freshest catch, or the Ferry Boat Inn for a classic pub dinner.
Day 11: Ullapool to Poolewe (Approx. 60 miles)
- Scenic Detour: Visit the Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve, and brave the views from the Victorian suspension bridge down to Measach Falls, a thrilling start to the day!
- Cultural Stop: Break up the drive with a trip to Inverewe Gardens, near Poolewe. This surprising, exotic oasis thrives due to the warming effect of the Gulf Stream. Spend a couple of hours wandering and enjoy coffee and cake at Osgood’s Café.
- Scenic Detour: Drive the coastal road around the Rubha Reidh Lighthouse near Melvaig for extreme isolation and incredible sea views.
- Dinner: Grab dinner at the Poolewe Hotel and relax with a dram in the evening.
Part 4: The Dramatic Finale (Days 12–14)
The final days are a crescendo of drama, culminating in the infamous mountain pass before the return to the gentle slopes around Inverness.
Day 12: Poolewe to Torridon (Approx. 45 miles)
- Cultural Stop: Stop at the Beinn Eighe Visitor Centre near Kinlochewe for information on the local wildlife, geology, and short trails.
- Lunch:Â Grab a bite at the nearby Kinlochewe Hotel before continuing onwards.
- Scenic Detour: Take a short walk to the Victoria Falls viewpoint on the shores of Loch Maree, named after Queen Victoria, who visited in 1877.
- Dinner:Â The Torridon is a 5-star hotel boasting several smaller venues within its grounds, including a brasserie, a pub and a whisky bar. If you’re interested in a cosy atmosphere with high-quality food, then this local icon is perfect.
Day 13: Torridon to Applecross (Approx. 50 miles)
- Lunch: Stop by Shieldaig Bar & Coastal Kitchen for some locally caught seafood.
- Scenic Drive: This is the road trip’s ultimate challenge and highlight – Bealach na Bà (“Pass of the Cattle”) is the steepest ascent in the UK, featuring extreme hairpin bends and a summit over 2,000 feet. Only attempt this in clear weather and if you are a confident driver with a smaller vehicle. Instead of going over the Pass, you can take the longer, but still stunning, coastal road around the Applecross Peninsula, especially if you’re in a larger motorhome/RV.
- Cultural Stop: Spend time in the secluded village of Applecross. After conquering the pass, enjoy the tranquillity of this remote spot nestled on the coast.
- Dinner: The legendary Applecross Inn is a must. Park up and reward yourself with their incredible seafood platter and a local ale, enjoying the views across to Raasay and Skye.
Day 14: Applecross to Inverness (Approx. 100 miles)Â
- Cultural Stop: Stop in the village of Plockton, often described as the ‘Jewel of the Highlands,’ with its white cottages and palm trees (yes, really!) in a sheltered bay.
- Lunch:Â The Croft Cafe in Duirinish is a popular spot offering local delicacies in a family-friendly setting.
- Historic Detour: Drive through the magnificent Glen Shiel area and past the iconic Eilean Donan Castle (just slightly off the official route, but worth the 15-minute detour).
- Scenic Stop: Take the road towards Loch Ness for one final, iconic Scottish experience before reaching Inverness.
- Dinner: Celebrate your triumphant return to Inverness. Choose The Mustard Seed Restaurant or Scotch & Rye for quality Scottish fare, or enjoy the lively atmosphere of a pub like Gellions for some incredible live music and one last dram!
Want Help Planning Your Trip?
If you’d like a second opinion or help tailoring the route to your exact needs, we offer personalised trip planning calls.
These are ideal if:
It’s your first time on the route
You’re short on time
You’re travelling by campervan
You want reassurance before booking
You’ll speak directly with people who’ve driven the NC500 themselves and understand what works in practice – not just in theory!
 Book a planning call
Ready to Take the Next Step?
You don’t need to have everything figured out at once. Start with a clear understanding of the route, choose a pace that feels comfortable, and build from there.
From here, you can:
 Read the NC500 practical advice
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This itinerary looks incredible! I can’t wait to explore the stunning sights along the North Coast 500. The restaurant recommendations are a bonus—always on the lookout for great places to eat while traveling. Thanks for the detailed tips and insights!
What an amazing guide! I can’t wait to explore the North Coast 500 with your detailed itinerary. The recommended places to eat sound delicious, and your tips on where to stay are so helpful. I’m especially excited about the scenic spots you’ve highlighted. Thank you for sharing this fantastic resource!
What an informative post! I loved the detailed itinerary and all the recommendations for sights, dining, and accommodations. Can’t wait to start planning my own adventure on the NC500! The tips on hidden gems really caught my attention. Thanks for sharing!
This itinerary looks amazing! I can’t wait to explore all the breathtaking sights and local eateries you’ve highlighted. Thank you for sharing such detailed tips on where to stay too! It’s definitely going to make planning my trip a lot easier.
This itinerary sounds incredible! I can’t wait to explore the stunning sights and try the recommended places to eat along the way. The tips on where to stay are super helpful too—thank you for putting this together! Looking forward to hitting the road on the NC500!