North Coast 500: Experiencing Scotland’s Most Iconic Road Trip
There are few better ways to truly understand a destination than experiencing it yourself. That’s exactly why Daria and Diane from the team recently set off on a six-day FAM trip around Scotland’s iconic North Coast 500…
The aim wasn’t to enjoy one of Scotland’s most spectacular road trips (although we certainly did!), but to experience the route exactly as our clients do. We visited the hotels we recommend, explored highlights along the way, sampled local restaurants and attractions, and made plenty of notes to help us give even better advice to future travellers.
As if Scotland wanted to put on a show for us, we were incredibly lucky with the weather! Blue skies followed us for almost the entire journey, allowing us to experience the NC500 at its absolute best.
Day 1 – A Wonderful Start in Dornoch
Leaving Edinburgh behind, we headed north towards the charming seaside town of Dornoch. After a relaxed lunch, we spent the afternoon visiting several hotels we recommend to our clients. Meeting the teams, seeing the rooms and experiencing each property’s atmosphere is invaluable and helps us confidently match the right hotel to the right customer.
We finished the day with dinner overlooking the coastline at Royal Golf Hotel, the first of many evenings where the views were just as impressive as the food.
Day 2 – Castles and Scotland’s Northern Coast
Our second day showcased just how varied the North Coast 500 can be. We explored the magnificent Dunrobin Castle and Gardens before continuing north through some of Scotland’s most dramatic coastal scenery. Scenic coastal walk to Duncansby Stacks, visiting the famous John o’Groats signpost and reaching Dunnet Head (northernmost point of the British mainland) offered some unforgettable views, each stop more impressive than the last.
Day 3 – Wild Coastlines and Unforgettable Adventures
If we had to choose one day that perfectly captured the spirit of the NC500 – this might be it. The day began with more spectacular scenery as we travelled along the rugged north-west coast before adding a little excitement with the Golden Eagle Zip Line near Durness. After a quick stop to admire the impressive Smoo Cave, we had lunch at Cheese ‘n’ Toasted in Durness, where we enjoyed what were quite possibly the best toasties we’ve ever had.
With full bellies, we continued to Balnakeil Beach – without a doubt, our favourite beach of the entire trip. The vast stretch of soft white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water and dramatic dunes created a scene that was almost impossible to believe was Scotland. Later on, we stopped at the beautiful Achmelvich Beach. With the warm weather continuing, we couldn’t resist taking a refreshing swim in the sea – a spontaneous moment that summed up what made this trip so special.
The day ended with a delicious dinner overlooking the harbour at The Royal Hotel in Ullapool before settling in for the night after what was one of our favourite days on the route.
Day 4 – Seafood, Dolphins and the Summer Isles
Some experiences stay with you forever, and our Summer Isles cruise was certainly one of them. Setting sail from Ullapool, we enjoyed spectacular views across the islands before being treated to the sight of dolphins swimming nearby. Watching them in their natural habitat against such a beautiful backdrop was a special moment and one we’ll be recommending to our clients for years to come.
Back on land, fresh seafood for lunch at the famous Seafood Shack was the perfect way to continue the day before exploring more of Ullapool and seeing more hotels. Later, we stopped at the dramatic Corrieshalloch Gorge before continuing along the coast.
Day 5 – The Legendary Bealach na Bà
No North Coast 500 itinerary would be complete without driving the famous Bealach na Bà, and it certainly lived up to its reputation.
Before reaching Applecross, we enjoyed more viewpoints and visited several more hotels, including one of the route’s most luxurious properties, The Torridon. The dramatic hairpin bends, steep climbs and panoramic Highland views make Bealach na Bà one of the most memorable roads in the UK. Thankfully, the clear weather meant we could enjoy every moment of the drive.
Day 6 – Ending in Inverness
Our final morning was dedicated to Inverness, where we visited some excellent hotels, including two that we regularly feature in our holidays, the Kingsmills Hotel and Ness Walk. We also enjoyed a fascinating tour of Uile-bheist Distillery before it was time to head back home.
A Journey We’ll Never Forget
It was the perfect way to round off six unforgettable days. From dramatic mountain passes and white sandy beaches to unforgettable wildlife encounters, fantastic food and visits to many of the hotels we proudly recommend, the trip exceeded every expectation. Most importantly, it gave us invaluable first-hand knowledge that will help us create even better North Coast 500 holidays and confidently advise our clients every step of the way.
To find out more about Daria and Diane’s NC500 adventure, or if you’re interested in a similar trip, give the team a call on 0131 243 8098 or send us an email.
