Scotland's North Coast 500
Britain's answer to Route 66 — a loop from Inverness through the wildest Highlands
The NC500 stitches together the coastal roads of the Scottish Highlands into an 830 km loop. Passing places, sheep-jams, and beaches whiter than the Caribbean. Book B&Bs months out (there's very little accommodation past Ullapool) and never rush — the point is the pull-overs.
Day-by-day route
Bealach na Bà pass — Britain's most dramatic road
Torridon mountains + Corrieshalloch Gorge
Achmelvich white-sand beach + Smoo Cave
Cape Wrath (Britain's NW tip) + Dunnet Head
John o' Groats + Whaligoe Steps + Dunrobin Castle
Glenmorangie distillery + Loch Ness on the way home
B&Bs 4–6 months in advance for peak. Applecross Inn dinner slot the day you arrive.
Midges June–August are brutal; bring Smidge or Avon Skin So Soft. Fuel stations close early — top up when you can.
Other road trips worth planning
Discover Cars, Aviasales, Airalo and EKTA links are affiliate — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Distances and prices reviewed for 2026.