The words “UK” and “beautiful coastal scenery” don’t usually go together. Right? Actually no, wrong. Forget all you know about Britain’s drab pebbly beaches, and start imagining white sandy beaches, as that’s what you’ll find if you embark on the North Coast 500 route. If you dream of rocky mountains and quaint fishing villages, take a look below at the tour you can take for yourself without leaving the country.
Inverness
The NC500 begins in Inverness, right by Inverness castle. Being the most southern location of the trip, Inverness has a whole host of tourist attractions to appreciate. As well as admiring the castle, you can visit the beautifully landscaped Inverness Botanical Gardens, or take a look at historical military base Fort George. As there’s a lot to do, it’s recommended to spend a day in Inverness taking it all in before heading off on the proper journey.
Black Isle
When taking the counter-clockwise route, one of the next interesting destinations is Black Isle, a peninsula home to a number of small towns. Black Isle brewery will be a pleasant stop for any beer lovers, or if you’re more into nature you’ll want to seek out Fairy Glen Waterfall and the Pictish Stones.
Easter Ross
Labelled as a romantic area, Easter Ross is definitely somewhere to stop if travelling with a loved one. Not far from Black Isle, you can stop off at Glenmorangie Distillery to get some authentic Scottish whiskey, or chill at Portmahomack Beach if the weather is pleasant enough.
Caithness
The North-most location on this tour, Caithness is an essential place to stop and take in your surroundings. Smoo Cave offers scenic boat trips so you can really explore, and Dunrobin Castle is a wonderful old house which will be worth your time.
Sutherland
As you begin your descent down the east coast, Sutherland is another notable location in the Scottish Highlands to take a rest. Scourie is a picturesque village where you’ll find bed-and-breakfasts to stay and take in the views of the deep blue sea. If you’re feeling more adventurous, Achmelvich Beach is a hub for all kinds of watersports, plus it’s gorgeous.
Wester Ross
Coming to the end of your journey, it’s only right to stop in Wester Ross, the counterpart of Easter Ross which you visited in the beginning. Here you’ll find the famous Inverewe Garden, or the Russian Arctic Convoy Museum if you’re into your Second World War history.
Along the way, there are so many hidden gems to be discovered, and certainly things to cover all kinds of tastes. The beauty of the trail is that you can have an action-packed trip, or use it as a time to relax surrounded by breathtaking views. The power is in your hands.
If you want more travel options, take a look at our Most Scenic Road Trips You Can Take In One Day.
