7 day itinerary
North Coast 500 Scotlad
Itinerary
The North Coast 500 (NC500) is a stunning road trip that showcases the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Buckle up for a week of adventure, stunning views, and a taste of Scottish culture! Here’s a fun and engaging 7-day itinerary for your journey along the NC500.
Day 1: Inverness to
Morning: Start your adventure in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. Grab a hearty Scottish breakfast at a local café. Don’t forget to visit the iconic for some great views of the city!
Afternoon: Hit the road towards . The drive along the A835 and A832 is simply stunning. Stop at the picturesque village of for a quick photo op.
Evening: Arrive in and check into a cozy B&B. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at the Inn, famous for its fresh seafood. If you’re lucky, you might catch a beautiful sunset over the bay!
Day 2: to
Morning: After breakfast, take a stroll along the beach or hike up to the Pass for some breathtaking views.
Afternoon: Drive to , stopping at the charming village of along the way. The scenery is jaw-dropping, so keep your camera handy!
Evening: Settle into your accommodation in . Enjoy a quiet evening with a meal at the Inn, where you can savor local dishes and perhaps a dram of whisky.
Day 3: to
Morning: Explore the stunning mountains. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a hike in the area. The views are worth every step!
Afternoon: Continue your journey to , a lovely fishing village. Stop at the beautiful for a picnic lunch and some photos.
Evening: Arrive in and check into your hotel. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some fresh fish and chips. If you’re up for it, take a stroll along the harbor to soak in the evening atmosphere.
Day 4: to Durness
Morning: After breakfast, head out to explore the stunning coastline. Stop at the famous for a short hike and some geological wonders.
Afternoon: Drive to Durness, stopping at the beautiful along the way. It’s a great spot for a little exploration and some fantastic photos!
Evening: Arrive in Durness and check into your accommodation. Enjoy dinner at the Hotel, where you can enjoy local dishes while listening to the sound of the waves.
Day 5: Durness to Thurso
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the stunning . It’s a perfect spot for a morning walk or just to relax and take in the views.
Afternoon: Head towards Thurso, stopping at the historic , the former home of the Queen Mother. Explore the gardens and enjoy a light lunch at the café.
Evening: Arrive in Thurso and check into your hotel. Enjoy dinner at a local pub, where you can chat with locals and perhaps hear some stories about the area.
Day 6: Thurso to
Morning: After breakfast, take a short drive to , the famous northernmost point of mainland Scotland. Don’t forget to take the classic photo with the signpost!
Afternoon: Explore the area, perhaps taking a ferry to Orkney if you’re feeling adventurous. If not, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café and explore the coastal paths.
Evening: Return to Thurso for the night. Enjoy a relaxed dinner and maybe a nightcap at a local bar to celebrate your journey so far!
Day 7: Thurso to Inverness
Morning: Start your journey back to Inverness. Take the scenic route along the coast, stopping at any spots that catch your eye.
Afternoon: Arrive back in Inverness and spend some time exploring any sights you may have missed, like the or the beautiful .
Evening: Celebrate the end of your NC500 adventure with a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant in Inverness. Reflect on the incredible landscapes and experiences you’ve had over the week!
Tips for Your Trip:
- Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. Layers are your best friend!
- Fuel: Make sure to fill up your tank whenever you can, as some stretches have limited services.
- Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife, including red deer and various bird species.
Enjoy your journey along the North Coast 500! It’s a trip filled with stunning scenery, rich history, and unforgettable experiences. Safe travels! 🏞️🚗✨