The North Coast 500 (NC500) is the touring route that brings together the best of the Scottish Highlands.
It’s Scotland’s own driving route — your highway through the culture and heritage of Scotland’s northern coastline. The NC500 takes you to some of our most famous landmarks: the magnificent Suilven mountain in Sutherland, historic Dunrobin Castle near Golspie, or the beaches at Achmelvich and Dornoch.
If you want an unforgettable Scottish touring holiday that takes you through the stunning Highlands, the North Coast 500 route is for you.
The NC500 route
The official North Coast 500 route begins in Inverness and heads west towards Kyle of Lochalsh. Then it heads north along the scenic west coast to Durness, and across the northern edge of Scotland to John O’Groats before returning to Inverness. In total, the route covers 500 miles of Scottish scenic beauty.
What to see and do along the North Coast 500
No surprises, but we’re pretty keen on the Wester Ross area and its rugged coastline that provides an array of activities and beautiful landscapes to enjoy. From stunning beaches like Applecross and Mellon Udrigle, to the beautiful Ardessie Waterfalls, you’ll not be short of places to explore.
The Highlands is a fantastic natural playground — our own Torridon Outdoors team is ready to help you discover the best of the local mountains and lochs. Another way to enjoy the landscape is from the sea, and Torridon Sea Tours offers daily boat tours on Loch Torridon. Interested in Scottish Heritage? Beinn Eighe NNR Visitor Centre is a great place to learn more about Scotland and the surrounding area. For sporty types, Lochcarron Golf Club is one of several courses to be found along the North Coast 500.
Where to stay on the NC500
No trip around the NC500 route is complete with at least one overnight stay at The Torridon Hotel, where luxury and fine dining go hand in hand. The Stables is also a great base for exploring Wester Ross. Comfortable rooms and great traditional Scottish food means there’s always a warm welcome.
Planning your NC500 trip
To plan your route and the places you want to visit in Wester Ross, use the NC500 interactive map. It’s packed with information on outdoor activities and attractions, history and heritage sites, as well as the location of service stations.
Experience the best that Scotland has to offer on the route that really has it all: dramatic scenery, stunning lochs, beautiful coastal drives, friendly local businesses and pubs.
The Torridon – your North Coast 500 hotel
The NC500 goes right past our front door. So, if you’re looking for a bed for the night, fancy a delicious meal or just want to pop in and say hello, we’ll be delighted to see you.
Book NOWExperience the NC500 with zero emissions
Interested in touring the NC500 with a reduced environmental impact? Both car parks on the resort offer electric and tesla car charging points so you can enjoy a night of luxury recharging your batteries inside whilst your car charges outside. There are numerous car charging points all over the NC500 so why not book your Zero emission road trip now.
Download NC500 Map
View the 500-mile route and start planning your adventure. Click here to download.
Get the App
Helping you discover everything there is to know about the NC500. Download here via the app store or here via Andriod.
NC500 Itineraries
Get inspired! A luxurious getaway or an adventurous experience is just around the corner.
12 Months of The Torridon
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