NC500 Road Trip - Self Drive Tour

Welcome to Inverness, the Highland Capital! Arrive in time for lunch and pick up your car or campervan. After checking into your hotel, spend the rest of the day exploring the city at your leisure. You can stroll around the city centre, visit the historic battlefield of Culloden, or indulge in some retail therapy at the local shops. Overnight at an Inverness hotel or guest house.

The adventure begins as you follow the NC500 from Inverness, passing through the picturesque villages of Beauly and Muir of Ord. Stop at Beauly, a village named by Mary Queen of Scotland in 1564, and visit the Glen Ord Distillery, one of Scotland's oldest distilleries. Continue your journey along the Cromarty Firth, a great spot to watch seals, before exploring the charming Royal Burgh of Tain. End your day in the historic town of Dornoch, home to a golden beach and the championship golf course, Royal Dornoch. Overnight in Dornoch.

After a restful night in Dornoch, continue your journey north to John O'Groats. Along the way, stop at the majestic Dunrobin Castle, dating back to the early 1300s, and the enigmatic Carn Liath, a prehistoric structure from the Iron Age. If time allows, also visit the Old Castle of Wick and Castle Sinclair. Don't miss the Whaligoe Steps, built into the cliff face and leading down to the harbour. Overnight in John O'Groats.

Start your day with a visit to Duncansby Head, the most North Easterly tip of Scotland, and take a photo by the famous John O'Groats signpost. If you're a fan of Scottish spirits, don't miss the Dunnet Bay Distillery, home to the famous Rock Rose Gin and Holy Grass Vodka. Visit Dunnet Head, the most northerly point on mainland Britain, and spot an array of wildlife and birdlife. In Thurso, spend an hour at the 5-star Caithness Horizons museum before heading to your overnight stop in Durness.

On the eastern edge of Durness, take a tour of Smoo Cave, one of Britain's largest sea caves. Then, treat yourself to a visit to Cocoa Mountain, probably the most geographically remote chocolate producer in Europe. Spend some time exploring Balnakeil Bay and admiring the sights of Sango Sands before heading south to Ullapool. The route offers magnificent panoramas and landscapes, so take your time and enjoy the views. Overnight in Ullapool.

Get ready for another day of spectacular scenery and incredible roads. Stop at Inverewe Gardens, a beautiful estate and gardens established in 1862. Drive around the coast, passing through the villages of Poolewe and Gairloch, before reaching the stunning Applecross Peninsula. Spend some time in the charming fishing village of Applecross, visit the Heritage Centre, the Smoke House, and the Walled Garden TeaRooms. Don't miss the chance to try the speciality of Pasta with Squatlobster at the award-winning Applecross Inn. Overnight in Applecross.

Today is the last leg of your journey, and you'll head back to Inverness. But not before experiencing the Bealach na Bà, one of the most dramatic mountain roads in the UK. The rest of your journey will take you through Strathconnon, Lochcarron, Achnasheen, and Garve. Enjoy the stunning landscapes as you make your way back to the Highland Capital. Overnight in Inverness.

Drop off your vehicle and start your journey home. We hope you've enjoyed your adventure on the NC500 and have made memories to last a lifetime. Safe travels and slàinte mhath!