The route, made up of 500 miles can take between 2-9 days to complete depending on how much you wish to experience highland life on your trip. Many opt for 3-4 days as they take their time exploring locations and coastlines and pitching up at camping and holiday park sites along the way, use our Find a Pitch tool to help you plan your route. Don't own a leisure vehicle? Take a look at some of these hire companies here
Here are our suggestions on unmissable locations to visit along the way…
Inverness-Shire
The official starting point to the North Coast 500, known as the hub of the highlands with many visitors passing through Inverness at some point due to the vast amount of transport links. If you’re stopping by near Inverness, there are many places to visit, including Fort George. The Fort, built in 1769 allows you an opportunity to step back in time and see what life was like in a military fortress all those years ago, surrounded by water on three sides, this is also an excellent viewpoint.
We couldn’t possibly talk about Inverness-Shire without mentioning Loch Ness, home to the infamous Loch Ness Monster. There is however much more to Loch Ness than that, if you’re after scenic places to stop off, stunning views and walking adventures then this is an ideal location. If you have time, head to Urquhart Castle and take in the views on offer from the strategically located castle.
Where to stay - Culloden Moor Caravan and Motorhome Club Site - 6 miles away
For nearby campsites, glamping and holiday parks click here
Wester Ross
This area of Scotland is largely uninhabited with only 8 or so large villages throughout, making this the perfect destination for those wanting to get away from it all. Surrounded by stunning Lochs, this is a great location for both walkers and cyclists who are keen to test themselves in order to experience some of the best views in the highlands. Be sure to head to Ullapool, a small seaside village with many transport routes taking you to the outer isles by ferry. You may choose to indulge in some of the local catch served in one of the many seafood restaurants here.
If you’re feeling brave, why not embark on one of the most challenging yet rewarding drives mainland UK has to offer. The ‘Bealach na Ba’ rises to over 2,000 ft, providing some stunning view over nearby Skye and surrounding Isles. Both the drive up and the views once you’re at the summit will live long in your memory.
Where to stay - Inverewe Gardens Camping and Caravanning Club Site - 7 miles away
For nearby campsites, glamping and holiday parks click here
Sutherland
One of the most northern points of the trip, Sutherland is also one of the most remote yet beautiful parts of Scotland. The area is home to glorious neglected beaches and countryside. To get the best views of the surrounding area take a hike up Ben Loyal, also known as the Queen of the Scottish Mountains. Those who take on the tricky ascent to the peak are rewarded by an excellent 360-degree view of the surrounding area.
If you’re looking for places to visit during your stay in Sutherland, be sure to head to Dunrobin Castle. A castle like no other, this piece of architectural brilliance is surrounded by splendid gardens with a view that looks out over the North Sea.
Where to stay - Altnaharra Caravan and Motorhome Club Site - 17 miles away
For nearby campsites, glamping and holiday parks click here
Caithness
Boasting stunning coastal scenery and fantastic sites of Scottish heritage, this is the northern most point of the UK mainland. Surrounded by the North Sea, the area is home to high cliffs and extreme coastlines, all of which are home to many forms of rare wildlife such as seals, dolphins and killer whales.
The area is filled with Scottish heritage sites, with a popular location being the Castle of Mey. The castle, formerly known as Barrogill Castle was saved from abandonment by none other than the Queen Mother herself, she later went on to renovate and restore the castle and enjoyed many summers there between 1952 and 1996.
Where to stay - Dunnet Bay Club Site - 7 miles away
For nearby campsites, glamping and holiday parks click here
Easter Ross
A short drive on from Black Isle you will find the small quaint area of Easter Ross. The area is also sea bound, similar to Black Isle with water surrounding three sides; Cromarty Firth to the north, Dornoch Firth to the south and Moray Firth to the east. These fantastic wildlife filled coastlines are ready to be explored.
Head inland to find some areas of real highland wilderness. The stunning woodland will provide some of the best views the Scottish Highland has to offer. If time allows it, why not visit the Glenmorangie Whisky Distillery in Tain where they have been creating their famous single malt scotch whisky since 1843! Be sure to remain safe and travel by public transport if you wish to try the Whisky.
Where to stay - Grannie's Heilan' Hame Holiday Park - 5 miles away
For nearby campsites, glamping and holiday parks click here
Black Isle
A Scottish Peninsula located just outside Inverness, Black Isle is usually the first or last stop off, depending what way you begin your route. The peninsula is famous for its fantastic woodlands, four of which are extremely popular, these include: Munlochy Clootie Well, Monadh Mor, Culbokie Woods and finally Learnie Red Rocks a particular delight for mountain bikers. All this great woodland brings some fantastic wildlife with it, making this a great location for those with an interest in nature.
With its glorious rich farmland you won’t struggle for places to source local food here, if time allows why not pop down to one of the local community markets to get some Black Isle snacks for the journey ahead.
Where to stay - Rosemarkie Camping and Caravanning Club Site - 5 miles away
For nearby campsites, glamping and holiday parks click here
