The North Coast 500

Highlights

Clava Cairns

Now, I know this isn’t on the NC500 – in fact, it’s the wrong way. That said, it’s well worth the detour, either before you set off or once you’ve finished. It’s very accessible, in fact it has a road practically running through the historic site. Dating back around 4,000 years, this well-preserved Bronze Age burial site is made up of chambered cairns and standing stones that align with the winter sunset.

Endlessly fascinating, the site is believed to have inspired the fictional “Craigh na Dun” standing stones in the popular TV show, Outlander.

Rogie Falls

This is an easy and accessible woodland walk to dramatic waterfall views. Best in autumn’s gold and copper hues, but nice in any season. Good paths and public toilets are available.

Highlights

Glen Docherty Viewpoint

You’ll regret not grabbing this classic roadside stop overlooking Loch Maree, with a framed view of Slioch mountain.

Shieldaig

Perfect for lunch or dinner; grab a tasty fish and chips and enjoy the views out to Shieldaig Island. A simple stop, but a very good one.

Bealach na Bà

Driving the pass is an unforgettable activity. The hairpin bends are reminiscent of alpine roads, with steep ascents and descents. Ultimately, it’s all about the views. Do it from Applecross down towards Loch Kishorn for the wildest Highland vistas.

Inverewe Garden

Run by the National Trust for Scotland, this well-maintained garden is surprisingly lush, thriving on the northwest coast thanks to the Gulf Stream. Feels completely out of place in the best way.

Gruinard Ba

Jaw-droppingly gorgeous, with bright sand and turquoise water on a good day.

Corrieshalloch Gorge

An impressive Victorian-era suspension bridge crosses a deep gorge with a striking waterfall below. A great leg stretch and fantastic in autumn.

Highlights

Stac Pollaidh or Knockan Crag

A short but significant hike up Stac Pollaidh, or a more accessible but geologically fascinating walk around Knockan Crag. Both are immensely enjoyable, and if you have the time and energy, it’s worth doing both.

Achmelvich Beach

Scotland’s west coast is dotted with beautiful white sand beaches, but this one has to be one of the best. Worth the detour. A perfect place to dip your toes in the Atlantic Ocean.

Inchnadamph Bone Caves

This walk packs a punch. The caves were once used by prehistoric animals, and the area features a stunning valley setting with a fascinating limestone landscape along the route. Keep your eyes peeled for the natural spring bubbling away along the path.

Ardvreck Castle

Perhaps one of the most strikingly positioned castles in the Highlands. Small, but set within a vast and cinematic landscape. A great roadside stop.

Kylesku Bridge

Possibly the most iconic sight along the NC500. Incredibly photogenic.

Highlights

Smoo Cave

An impressive sea cave just off the road. Part natural sea cave, part freshwater cave system, with a waterfall inside. Public toilets are available.

Highlights

Dunnet Head

Skip John o’ Groats and head here instead – this is the actual most northerly point on the British mainland. Far quieter, far more dramatic and more than just a tourist photo opportunity.

Duncansby Head

Famous for its sea stacks and lighthouse. A short walk with big rewards.

Castle Sinclair Girnigoe

A spectacular cliffside ruin split across two linked castles. Less about size, more about its dramatic position right on the edge of the North Sea.

Castle of Mey

The former home of the Queen Mother, offering a more personal glimpse into royal Highland life, surrounded by gardens that somehow thrive in the coastal winds. Check opening times to avoid disappointment.

Whaligoe Steps

This is a cool spot, though it gets more hype than it perhaps deserves. What makes it worthwhile is the history – over 300 stone steps were carved into the cliff to allow fishermen and local women to haul herring catches up from a tiny natural harbour below. Brutal work in brutal conditions.

Highlights

Brora & Wool Heritage

Brora was once a centre for wool production, with its mill producing tweed and knitwear that became known far beyond the Highlands. Now, it’s a worthwhile place to shop for woollens. There’s also an outlet shop in the village with great bargains.

Carn Liath Broch

A remarkably well-preserved Iron Age broch – a hollow-walled circular stone structure rather than a tower in the traditional sense. You can still explore inside.

Dunrobin Castle

One of the grandest castles in the Highlands, with fairytale spires and manicured gardens that sit along the coast.

Read More: Scottish Wool & Textiles

Chanonry Point

One of the best places in Europe to see dolphins from the shore.

Cromarty

Historic seaside village that’s nice for a mooch.