The Open Road Atlas

North Coast 500 Road Trip Itinerary

It compresses the wild character of the Highlands into one complete loop.

Bealach na Ba on the North Coast 500
Country
Scotland
Region
Europe
Distance
830 km
Suggested duration
5-10 days
Best season
May to September
Difficulty
Single-track roads, changeable weather

Why drive the North Coast 500

Scotland's famous northern loop is all moody sea stacks, empty beaches, peatland, castles, and mountain-backed single-track roads. Drive gently, use passing places properly, and leave room for weather and whisky tastings.

Suggested itinerary

  1. Days 1-2: Inverness to Applecross over Bealach na Ba and sea-loch viewpoints.
  2. Days 3-5: Wester Ross beaches, Ullapool seafood, and northwest Highland passes.
  3. Days 6-8: North coast cliffs, whisky towns, castles, and the return to Inverness.

Main stops along the North Coast 500

Detours worth adding

Bealach na Ba on the North Coast 500
Bealach na Ba on the North Coast 500
Applecross Road ascending Bealach na Ba
Applecross Road ascending Bealach na Ba
Smoo Cave near Durness
Smoo Cave near Durness

Book this road trip

Flights Search flights into the closest useful airport for this route. Car Rentals Compare vehicle hire and transfer options for this route. Campervans Find bookable road-trip transport and useful extras. Stays Book hotels, route stops, and destination essentials. Experiences Tours, passes, ferries, museums, and guided days. Insurance Travel essentials and destination services for the trip. Saily eSIMs, navigation apps, and connectivity essentials.

North Coast 500 road trip FAQ

How long do you need for the North Coast 500?

Plan on 5-10 days for the core 830 km drive. Add extra time if you want slower overnight stops, side roads, or longer detours.

When is the best time to drive the North Coast 500?

The usual best window is May to September. Check local road closures and weather before committing to fixed dates.

What are the main stops on the North Coast 500?

Core stops include Inverness, Applecross, Torridon, Gairloch, Ullapool.

Is the North Coast 500 difficult to drive?

The route is best described as: Single-track roads, changeable weather. Build in time for fuel, rest stops, and changing conditions.

What detours are worth adding?

Popular detours include Isle of Skye, Smoo Cave, Dunrobin Castle.

See the full route, mini map, closest airports, and booking modules on the interactive atlas.

Open North Coast 500 on the map →

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