Experiences
The Scottish Highlands and the North Coast 500: a road trip of castles, lochs and mountains
Narrow roads along lochs, castles by the water and beaches nobody expects in Scotland. How to plan a Highlands road trip, and where to stay along the way.
The road is so narrow there is only room for one car, and every couple of hundred metres there is a passing place where you wait for oncoming traffic. Around you are heather, rock and a loch reflecting the sky. Beyond the next rise a castle stands on an island.
The Scottish Highlands make one of the best road trips in Europe. The North Coast 500 loops from Inverness around the north coast, and Glencoe, Skye and Loch Ness sit just south of it. Here is how to plan the trip.
The links to the hotels and experiences are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
The North Coast 500
The route starts and ends in Inverness and circles the northernmost part of Scotland. It is around 500 miles long, and most people take five to seven days.
West coast: Applecross and the Bealach na Bà pass, steep and twisting with views towards Skye.
North coast: white beaches at Durness and the Smoo Cave.
East coast: John o' Groats, castles and fishing villages on the way back to Inverness.
Book the experience: See tours and activities from Inverness
More to see in the Highlands
Many people combine the North Coast 500 with the best-known places further south.
Loch Ness
Paddling on Loch Ness.
Loch Ness
The long loch south of Inverness is famous for its monster. Take a boat or paddle on the water, and visit the ruins of Urquhart Castle on the shore.
Glencoe
Glencoe is a dramatic valley with steep mountains on both sides, and one of the most famous in Scotland. Do one of the walks in the glen or simply drive through slowly.
The Isle of Skye
Skye has the Cuillin mountains, the rock formations of the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing, and small villages such as Portree. The island is popular, so book accommodation early.
Glenfinnan and the steam train
The Jacobite steam train crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct on its way from Fort William to Mallaig. Watch from the viewpoint, or ride it yourself.
Tips for driving in the Highlands
Single-track roads: pull into passing places and let cars behind you overtake.
Fuel: fill up when you can. Petrol stations are far apart in the north.
Midges: the tiny biting insects are a nuisance in summer. Bring repellent.
Where to stay in the Highlands
Inverness is the start and finish of the North Coast 500. Fort William and Glencoe are good bases in the south-west.
Rocpool Reserve
By the river in Inverness.
Rocpool Reserve
Rocpool Reserve is in Inverness, by the River Ness and a short walk from the centre. A stylish place to start or finish the North Coast 500.
Book your stay: See rooms at Rocpool Reserve
Culloden House Hotel
A mansion near Inverness.
Culloden House Hotel
Culloden House is an old mansion just outside Inverness, set in large grounds. Calm and traditional, with a restaurant.
Book your stay: See rooms at Culloden House Hotel
Inverlochy Castle
A castle hotel beneath Ben Nevis.
Inverlochy Castle
Inverlochy is a castle hotel near Fort William, beneath Ben Nevis. A good base for Glencoe, Glenfinnan and the road to Skye.
Book your stay: See rooms at Inverlochy Castle
Glencoe House
In Glencoe.
Glencoe House
Glencoe House sits in the glen with views of the mountains and Loch Leven. Small suites and peace, in one of the most famous landscapes in Scotland.
Book your stay: See rooms at Glencoe House
When is the best time for a Highlands road trip?
May and June: long days, often dry weather and few midges early in the season.
July and August: the warmest, but the most traffic and midges.
September: autumn colours and quieter roads.
Scottish Highlands and NC500 FAQ
How long is the North Coast 500?
Around 500 miles, in a loop from Inverness.
How many days do I need?
Five to seven days for the North Coast 500, and more if you add Skye and Glencoe.
Where should I stay?
Inverness before and after, and hotels or inns along the way. Book early in summer.
Are the roads difficult?
Many are narrow with passing places. Drive slowly and use the passing places.
When is the best time to go?
May, June and September give good light and fewer people.