A carefully crafted introduction to Scotland’s most iconic coastal route, designed to give a rich sense of the journey without feeling rushed.
This three-day journey offers a well-paced introduction to the North Coast 500, taking in some of its most memorable landscapes while maintaining a comfortable rhythm throughout…
Driving north out of Inverness, we cross the Kessock Bridge before heading west through Achnasheen to Lochcarron. We’ll pay a visit to the wonderful Lochcarron Weavers Heritage shop, grab a coffee and patisserie at The Old Butchers coffee shop and gallery, before heading for the Beallach na Ba!
Our dramatic route takes us over the Beallach, one of Scotland’s highest mountain passes, rising from sea level at Kishorn, to over 2000 feet before descending back to the shore at Applecross. A fabulous seafood lunch (or similar) and we’re on our way again.
The road around the Shieldaig peninsula is simply spectacular, with wonderful views across the inner sound to the Isles of Rona, Raasay and Skye, before driving through the Torridon Mountains to Kinlochewe and beautiful Loch Maree.
Gairloch is just a four or five miles up the road, but we can take a gentle diversion along ‘the overside’, the south side of Loch Gairloch, through Badachro and on to Red Point beach for a gentle walk, or a more vigorous climb up the sand dunes. The views west to the northern tip of the Isle of Skye, and on a particularly clear day, the Outer Hebrides, are hard to beat.
Just a short drive out of Gairloch to the next wee village up the road, Poolewe, and the world famous Inverewe Garden. Take your time to explore this beautiful NTS (National Trust for Scotland) garden on the eastern shore of Loch Ewe. We then travel on to another NTS site; Corrieshalloch Gorge, stopping en route for a wander at Melon Udrigle beach. We’ll be back amongst the mountains as we pass through Dundonnel.
Our day begins with a visit to Strathnaver Museum, followed by a gentle drive eastwards along Scotland’s north coast, through the town of Thurso and on to Dunnet Head, mainland Scotland’s most northerly point. Splendid views here of Hoy, South Ronaldsay and more of the Orkney Islands. On a really clear day it almost feels as if you can reach out and touch these mystical islands.
Our final eastward drive to John O’Groats and Duncansby Head, mainland Scotland’s most north-easterly point. More fabulous views of the Orkney Islands. If the wind is blowing, hang on to your hats!
Time to begin our journey south; destination Inverness. After passing through the town of Wick and navigating the Berriedale Braes we’ll head for Dunrobin Castle. We’ll aim to catch the afternoon falconry display there, before enjoying a dram or two at Balblair and/or Glenmorangie Distilleries.
The last leg of our epic journey around the NC500 takes us along the increasingly busy A9 road, passing the oil rigs in the Cromarty Firth and over the Kessock Bridge to Inverness!
Suitable for up to seven people, travelling in our comfortable premium vehicle, this is a three day tour. Pick-up and drop-off will be from your Inverness (or nearby) accommodation and the tour costs £2200 (including all taxes and driver expenses) for the tour. Please note that entry fees for any attractions / visitor experiences are not included. Accommodation will also be organised separately – we are very happy to help with this.
Would you prefer a longer or more tailored experience? We would be delighted to create a bespoke tour to suit the time you have available.
How about adding the Isle of Skye to your journey – a place of dramatic landscapes, quiet corners, and some of the most memorable scenery in Scotland.
