Scotland's Ultimate Camping Adventure on the North Coast 500 Highway
Exploring Scotland's North Coast 500: A Journey Through Time and Nature
Embark on an unforgettable adventure along Scotland's North Coast 500 (NC500), a stunning route that showcases the country's diverse landscapes and historic sites. Over seven days, you'll traverse rugged coastlines, explore ancient castles, and marvel at unique natural landmarks.
Day 1: Inverness to Wick
Your journey begins in Inverness, the route's starting point. Visit the grand and fairy-tale-like Dunrobin Castle, Scotland's largest castle in French style. The castle boasts beautiful gardens and offers breathtaking coastal views.
Day 2: Wick to Durness
Journey to Durness, stopping at John o' Groats, the iconic northeastern tip of mainland Britain, and the dramatic Duncansby Stacks. Don't forget to capture the stunning views from Dunnet Head, the northernmost point of mainland Scotland.
Day 3: Durness to Lochinver
Explore the mysterious Smoo Cave, a massive sea and river cave, and the pristine Balnakeil Beach. Then, take a detour to Ardvreck Castle, an atmospheric ruined castle on the shores of Loch Assynt.
Day 4: Lochinver to Ullapool
Travel through the picturesque villages of Lochinver and Ullapool, featuring Ardvreck Castle and the awe-inspiring Assynt Mountains. Don't miss the chance to visit Corrieshalloch Gorge, a 60-meter deep gorge with a suspension bridge.
Day 5: Ullapool to Gairloch
Discover the Inverewe Garden, a beautiful botanical garden nestled on the shores of Loch Ewe, and the dramatic Corrieshalloch Gorge. The route also takes you past the Applecross Peninsula, known for the steep and winding Bealach na Bà pass, offering breathtaking views.
Day 6: Gairloch to Applecross
Traverse the Bealach na Bà Pass and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Applecross Peninsula. Don't forget to stop by Achmelvich Bay, a beautiful beach known for its clear turquoise water and white sand.
Day 7: Applecross to Inverness
Return to Inverness, passing by the Farr Beach, a pristine, secluded beach along the route. The journey concludes in Inverness, where you can explore sights like Loch Ness and the River Ness islands for a touch of local culture.
Along the Way
Throughout your journey, you'll find various hidden beaches such as Clachtoll and Clashnessie Bay, charming villages like Ullapool, and picturesque fishing harbors like Whaligoe. For a closer look at wildlife and landscape details, consider bringing binoculars.
Remember to pack essentials for your trip, including waterproof clothing, hiking shoes, warm clothing, offline maps or an atlas, and mosquito protection for summer travel. Camping stoves will allow you to prepare meals at remote spots, while camper rental costs around 80€ per day.
Fuel for the entire trip costs around 150-250€, and entrance fees for attractions like castles and distilleries range from 10-20€. Eating out can cost around 40€ for 2 people.
As you journey along Scotland's North Coast 500, you'll encounter diverse landscapes—from mountain passes and wild moorlands to sandy beaches and coastal cliffs—offering hiking, photography, local seafood, and historical exploration across approximately 700 miles (1,150 km).
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Savor a captivating lifestyle filled with travel and adventure as you venture beyond the no- Framed by otherworldly landscapes and steeped in rich history, the North Coast 500 journey invites you to uncover Scotland's unique hinterland scenes, charming villages, and hidden beaches.
Embarking on this multi-day excursion allows you to explore other aspects of Scotland's diverse offerings while appreciating a variety of local experiences—from hiking and photography to historical exploring and savoring delectable seafood.
