The North Coast 500 | Driving the North Coast 500

What Will You See?
The rugged Highlands and the endless coast and picturesque beaches are a reason in itself to go and marvel at the natural beauty. There is ample wildlife spotting, from dolphins, seals, puffins, deer and birdlife, notably some incredible birds of prey.

The route is scattered with stunning castles and mysterious ruins to wander around and let your imagination run wild. Not only this, you will receive the finest Scottish hospitality, with attractive and welcoming places to stay and some of the best eateries where you can sample culinary marvels and local seafood. Your journey will also take you to some excellent distilleries for whisky or gin so that you can sample truly everything that Scotland has to other.

Bringing your camera is a must as you will discover picturesque scenes and sights that you will never have imagined.

How Should I Travel?
While travelling by car is the most common method, motorcycles, bikes and campervans are popular too. Whether you want the luxury of a convertible sports car or even want to complete it on foot, the choice is yours. What’s important to know is that a good level of driving experience is necessary as the roads have very narrow sections, hairpin corners and the surprise of the unexpected on the roads, whether that is adverse weather or a herd of sheep.

Top Ten Reasons To Go
If you’re not convinced already, here are our ten best reasons to make this trip, we know you won’t regret it.

1. Landscapes like no other – from mountains, glens, lochs and coasts you’ll just want to stop and stare.
2. Excellent restaurants – all that view-marvelling is hungry work.
3. Step back in time – the history is everywhere to be seen, from ancient ruins to battlegrounds.
4. Get on the water – from boat trips to sea-kayaking, don’t just limit yourself to the driving route.
5. Museums and attractions – find out more about the fascinating land.

6. Hike the Munros – The perfect opportunity for Munro-bagging.
7. Visit and stay in castles – Time to feel like royalty.
8. Wildlife – seals, dolphins and the Highland cows
9. The best road trip fun you’ll have – pack snacks and some tunes.
10. Distilleries and breweries – there’s more to taste than the Scottish fresh air.

Driving The Route

The Coastal Route 500 is one of the most popular scenic routes in Europe and certainly amongst the top five in the UK.

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Cycling The Route

Those who cycle the North Coast 500 route are light travellers. You’d have to be if you’re covering this route self-powered on two wheels and have to carry your own luggage.

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Motorhomes

The best part of motorhome travel along this route is that you can enjoy the scenery anywhere along the journey from a home-like environment, irrespective of the weather.

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