The North Coast 500 (NC500) is an incredible 516-mile road trip through the Scottish Highlands, showcasing some of Scotland’s most dramatic scenery, including rugged coastlines, mountains, lochs, and forests.
Beginning and ending at Inverness Castle, this route takes camper van owners on an unforgettable journey through picturesque towns and villages like Ullapool, Durness, John o’ Groats, and more!
During the summer months, the NC500 is the perfect Scotland road trip for a camper van adventure. Along the way, you’ll discover gorgeous beaches and have ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and kayaking. Wildlife enthusiasts will love the chance to spot red deer, otters, seals, and even dolphins and whales in certain areas.
With so much to see and do, we recommend 7 days to complete the NC500, although some travellers may prefer to take longer to fully explore the region. Luckily, there are plenty of campsites along the way, making this road trip ideal for you and your camper van.
Platinum Wave’s 7-day North Coast 500 route includes everything you need to make the most of your journey, from holiday tips to the most stunning views along the route.
So, are you ready to hit the road and embark on the camper van adventure of a lifetime?
Let’s explore the North Coast 500 route together!
Day 1: Inverness – Start your North Coast 500 Route
The official starting point of the North Coast 500 route, Inverness is often called the Capital of the Scottish Highlands and it is the perfect location to begin your camper van holiday.
Explore the city, walk along the River Ness, or visit Inverness Castle before starting your circular driving route.
One of the most iconic and well-known locations in Scotland, Loch Ness is just a 30-minute drive south from Inverness. Shrouded in mystery and legend, head out on a boat trip to learn more about the Loch Ness Monster and all the tales and stories of how she came to be.
Afterwards, pay a visit to the ancient ruins of Urquhart Castle, which is perched on a vantage point above the loch and provides spectacular views for miles around – a great day out in Inverness!
If you have time:
One of the best free things to do in Inverness is to watch dolphins!
Inverness actually sits beside the Moray Firth and the coast is within walking distance of Inverness City Centre. It’s an approximate 40-minute walk from Inverness Railway Station.
One good dolphin spotting area is around Merkinch Local Nature Reserve car park. Here you’ll be looking towards North Kessoch. Dolphins can be seen anytime but are often seen when they move upstream from Chanonry Point.
…or…
If you fancy getting stuck into the turbulent past of Inverness and the Highlands, head to Culloden Battlefield.
Just a short 15-minute drive from the city centre, you can learn all about the eventful details of the Jacobite Risings by exploring the final site of the last and most harrowing pitched battle to be fought on British soil, as well as visiting the interactive visitor centre, with fascinating artefacts from both sides of the battle and an immersive surround cinema.
Our recommendation is to park overnight at Kessock Caravan Park and get an early start for the next day’s adventure.
Day 1 North Coast 500 Route:
- Explore Inverness, visit Inverness Castle and walk along the River Ness
- Head to Loch Ness for a boat trip and visit Urquhart Castle
- Watch dolphins at Moray Firth or visit Culloden Battlefield
- Park overnight at Kessock Park.
Day 2: Inverness to Dornoch – The Coastal Route
On day 2 of your North Coast 500 route, you’ll be travelling from Inverness to Dornoch along the stunning coastal route, with plenty of places to explore along the way.
Start your day by driving north from Inverness and make a stop in the charming village of Cromarty. This picturesque village is home to a range of stunning 18th and 19th-century buildings, including a lighthouse and a medieval church. Take a stroll along the beach, admire the quaint cottages and soak up the village’s rich history.
Next, drive along the north side of the Black Isle, the peninsula located north of Inverness where Cromarty lies. This area is renowned for its natural beauty and stunning wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins, seals, and a variety of seabirds. Take a scenic drive along the coastal road and keep your eyes peeled for any wildlife sightings.
As you continue your journey towards Dornoch, make a stop in Tain, where you can find the world-famous Glenmorangie distillery and take a tour. Here, you can learn all about the distilling process and sample some of Scotland’s finest single-malt whisky.
Another must-visit location on the East Coast is the Mermaid of the North, a stunning sculpture located in the Seaboard village of Balintore. Created by sculptor Steve Hayward, this 10ft bronzed wood mermaid statue is part of the Seaboard Sculpture Trail.
As you approach Dornoch, you’ll notice the stunning Dornoch Firth, a body of water that provides spectacular scenery of the surrounding landscape. Once in Dornoch, be sure to visit Dornoch Cathedral, a stunning medieval building that dates back to the 13th century.
For those looking to unwind after a long day of driving, Dornoch Beach is the perfect spot to relax and take in the scenery. This stunning beach is renowned for its golden sand and clear waters, making it the perfect spot for a dip in the sea or a sunset stroll.
Our recommendation is to park overnight at Dornoch Caravan and Camping Park, located just a short distance from the beach and town centre.
Day 2 North Coast 500 Route:
- Explore the charming village of Cromarty
- Take a scenic drive along the Black Isle and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings
- Visit the world-famous Glenmorangie distillery in Tain and learn all about the distilling process
- Stop at the Seaboard village of Balintore to see the Mermaid of the North sculpture
- Admire the stunning Dornoch Firth as you approach the town of Dornoch
- Visit Dornoch Cathedral, a stunning medieval building that dates back to the 13th century
- Relax at Dornoch Beach and take in the spectacular scenery
Day 3: Dornoch to John O’Groats – Exploring the East Coast
On day 3 of your North Coast 500 camper van holiday, you’ll be exploring the East Coast of Scotland, starting from Dornoch and ending at the iconic John O’Groats signpost.
Before reaching John O’Groats, plan ahead and make your first stop at the unique Scottish monument of Carn Liath Broch, near Golspie in Sutherland. This Iron Age settlement shows the sophistication of their architecture, even in its ruined state. Take in the history and admire the earthworks and associated villages before continuing your camper van journey.
Next, visit the remarkable Whaligoe Steps, which zig-zag down the cliffside leading to Whaligoe Haven, one of the most remarkable harbours in Scotland. This natural harbour has been a long-standing landing point for herring, salmon, whitefish, and shellfish, and provides stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and coastline.
Finally, continue your journey to John O’Groats and visit Duncansby Head Lighthouse, the most north easterly part of both the Scottish and British mainlands, located slightly northeast of John O’Groats. Take in the stunning views of the coastline and keep an eye out for any seabirds that call this area home.
No trip to John O’Groats is complete without taking a picture by the iconic signpost, marking the end of your journey on the North Coast 500 route.
During peak season, it’s important to plan ahead for overnight parking. Our recommendation is to stay at the John O’Groats Caravan & Camping Site, which offers facilities for motorhomes and camping.
Day 3 North Coast 500 Route:
- Visit the unique Scottish monument of Carn Liath Broch near Golspie
- Take in the remarkable Whaligoe Steps and Whaligoe Haven, one of the most remarkable harbours in Scotland
- Visit the stunning Duncansby Head Lighthouse for views of the surrounding coastline
- Take a picture by the iconic John O’Groats signpost
- Stay overnight at John O’Groats Caravan & Camping Site, which offers facilities for motorhomes and camping.
Day 4: John O’Groats to Durness – Exploring the North Coast
On day 4 of your North Coast 500 road trip, you’ll be travelling from John O’Groats to Durness, a charming small village with several beauty spots along its stunning coastline.
As you make your way towards Durness, make a stop at the Castle of Mey, the former residence of the Queen Mother. This beautiful castle is located on the north coast of Caithness and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Next, visit Dunnet Head, the most northerly point of the Scottish mainland. Here, you’ll find a lighthouse and stunning views of the surrounding coastline. Keep an eye out for any seabirds that call this area home.
Once in Durness, be sure to visit Smoo Cave, a unique natural wonder with both freshwater and saltwater flowing through it. Take a boat tour of the cave and explore the stunning natural rock formations.
Our recommendation is to park overnight at the Sango Sands Oasis campsite, which offers facilities for motorhomes and camping and is located just a short distance from the incredible Durness Beach.
During peak season, it’s important to plan ahead for overnight parking. Be sure to check availability and book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Day 4 North Coast 500 Route:
- Visit the Castle of Mey, the former residence of the Queen Mother
- Stop at Dunnet Head, the most northerly point of the Scottish mainland
- Explore Smoo Cave, a unique natural wonder with both freshwater and saltwater flowing through it
- Park overnight at the Sango Sands Oasis campsite, located just a short distance from Durness Beach.
Day 5: Durness to Ullapool – A Beautiful Journey
Day 5 of your North Coast 500 road trip will be the longest journey yet, as you make your way from Durness to Ullapool. Make sure to start early and take plenty of breaks along the way to fully appreciate the stunning scenery.
As you leave Durness, make stops at Kylesku, Achmelvich and Lochinver, all of which are fantastically picturesque in their own right. The Kylesku Bridge is a must-visit spot, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. From here, take a local boat tour to experience the landscape from a unique perspective.
Achmelvich Beach is also relatively close by and is another beautiful sandy beach that you don’t want to miss. This beach provides stunning views of the coastline and clear waters perfect for a swim or a picnic on the shore. When you park up here in your camper van, you won’t believe that you’re on a Scottish road trip.
As you continue your journey towards Ullapool, make a stop at the Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve. This reserve provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is the perfect spot for a hike or a picnic.
For those looking for a place to park overnight, Ullapool has some of the best campsites on the North Coast 500. Be sure to check availability and book in advance to secure your spot.
Here are a few tips for day 5 of your North Coast 500 road trip:
- Start early to make the most of the long journey
- Take plenty of breaks to appreciate the stunning scenery
- Book in advance to secure a spot at one of Ullapool’s best campsites
Day 5 North Coast 500 Route:
- Visit Kylesku, Lochinver, and Ullapool for picturesque scenery
- Stop at the Kylesku Bridge for stunning views and take a local boat tour
- Visit Achmelvich Beach for clear waters and stunning views of the coastline
- Take a break at the Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve for hiking and picnicking
- Stay overnight at one of Ullapool’s best campsites
Day 6: Ullapool to Applecross – The Infamous Bealach na Ba
On day 6 of your North Coast 500 road trip, you’ll be travelling from Ullapool to Applecross, marking the turning point of your journey.
The road to Applecross, also known as Bealach na Ba, is a mountain pass road with a steep incline and several hairpin bends on a single track road. The drive can be challenging, but the stunning views of the surrounding landscape make it worth the effort.
Driving your camper van on this part of your North Coast 500 route, will be an experience in itself.
Once you reach Applecross, take in the stunning scenery and visit the nearby Applecross Bay, a beautiful spot for a picnic or a stroll along the beach. Take your time to relax and explore the local area.
For those looking to park overnight, the Applecross Campsite offers facilities for motorhomes and camping and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Day 6 North Coast 500 Route:
- Take on the challenge of the Bealach na Ba mountain pass road
- Visit Applecross Bay for stunning views and a relaxing picnic or stroll
- Stay overnight at the Applecross Campsite, which offers facilities for motorhomes and camping.
Day 7: Applecross to Inverness – The Final Stretch
On the final day of your North Coast 500 road trip, you’ll be travelling from Applecross to Inverness.
Make a stop at the Eilean Donan Castle for a tour and photo opportunities. This castle is a beautiful sight to behold and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Continue your journey through the picturesque village of Plockton before arriving in Kyle of Lochalsh, a charming seaside village. Take a stroll along the shore and enjoy the stunning views of the sea and surrounding hills.
As you make your way back towards Inverness on the A87, take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lochs. This is the final stretch of your journey, so take your time and savour the beautiful scenery.
Return to Inverness for the night and reflect on your amazing North Coast 500 road trip. The journey is all about taking in the stunning scenery and experiencing the unique culture and history of the Scottish Highlands.
Day 7 North Coast 500 Route:
- Stop at the Eilean Donan Castle for a tour and photo opportunities
- Drive through the picturesque village of Kyle of Lochalsh
- Visit the charming seaside village of Plockton
- Take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lochs on the A87
- Return to Inverness for the night
The North Coast 500 Camper Van Route: More?
In conclusion, the North Coast 500 is the perfect road trip for camper van lovers and nature enthusiasts. From the stunning coastlines to the picturesque villages and rugged mountains, the Scottish Highlands offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world.
While our 7-day itinerary covers some of the highlights of the North Coast 500, there is so much more to explore and discover along the way. You could easily spend weeks or even months taking in all the beauty the area has to offer.
So whether you’re a first-time visitor to the Scottish Highlands or a seasoned traveller, the North Coast 500 is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So pack up your camper van and hit the road – the journey awaits!
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