Scotland's North Coast 500
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Buckle up for action-packed days on the north coast of Scotland, exploring mighty peaks, pristine beaches, clifftop trails and wildlife-filled lochs. From spotting dolphins and puffins to driving the legendary Bealach na Ba road, there’s a new adventure around every corner…
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The route
Inverness – Dornoch – Wick – Durness – Ullapool – Applecross – Inverness
Inverness – Dornoch:45 miles (72.5km)
Dornoch – Wick: 63 miles (101km)
Wick – Durness: 90.5 miles (146km)
Durness – Ullapool: 68 miles (110km)
Ullapool – Applecross: 85 miles (137km)
Applecross – Inverness: 80.4 miles (130km)
Getting around
- The route covers around 500 miles (830km) and can be completed in either direction.
- There are many hotels and campsites along the way, but advance booking is essential.
Route highlights
- Glenmorangie Distillery
- Achavanich Stone Circle
- Whaligoe Steps
- Castle Sinclair Girnigoe
- Glen Torridon
- Rogie Falls
Stop 1: Inverness to Dornoch
Morning: Explore the ‘capital of the Highlands’
Find out why Inverness is said to be the happiest city in Scotland on a walking tour of the historic town.
Afternoon: Sip a dram at Glenmorangie Distillery Visitor Centre
Bask in the golden glow of some of Scotland’s best-loved whiskies, on a tasting and tour experience at Glenmorangie Distillery in Tain.
Evening: Unwind in an ancient castle
Dine (and stay) at the historic Dornoch Castle Hotel located in the refurbished 13th-century Bishop’s Palace opposite Dornoch Cathedral.
Stop 2: Dornoch to Wick
Morning: Explore the Achavanich Stone Circle
In wild, windswept Achavanich, this mysterious stone circle dates back 4,000 years – a spectacular start to your morning, with hiking trails nearby.
Afternoon: Hike the Whaligoe Steps
Discover a secret harbour at the bottom of these steep cliff-face steps, rich in wildlife and edge-of-the-world beauty – ideal for a picnic lunch.
Evening: Walk down the shortest street in the world
Stay at the family-run Mackays Hotel situated on Ebenezer Place, named the World Shortest Street at 2.06 m (6 ft 9 in) by Guinness World Records.
Stop 3: Wick to Durness
Morning: Discover Castle Sinclair Girnigoe
Roam the ruins of this ancient clifftop fortress, which actually comprises two centuries-old castles. A glorious spot for hiking and sea views.
Afternoon: Spot puffins at Dunnet Head
Stand on Britain's most northerly point for breathtaking coastal vistas and look out for its colourful resident puffins!
Evening: Stay in Durness over night
After a day of exploring, unwind at Smoo Lodge, a luxury B&B housed within a former 18th-century sporting lodge.
Stop 4: Durness to Ullapool
Morning: Marvel at Smoo Cave
Cruise through cathedral-like sea caverns on a guided boat tour, and hike to an underground waterfall – following in the footsteps of Vikings.
Afternoon: Enjoy the white sands of Durness
Wide and pristine, the beaches of Durness are gorgeous year-round, whether you’re kicking back in the sun or wrapping up for a long walk.
Evening: Cosy up in a cabin
Book a cabin at boutique hotel Mackay’s or stay in one of their individually styled guest rooms. The hotel’s restaurant serves locally sourced produce such as Loch Eriboll langoustines.
Stop 5: Ullapool to Applecross
Morning: Spy red deer in Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve
Look out for golden eagles, pine martens and red deer as you explore this reserve’s wild mountain-view hiking trails; there are route options for all abilities.
Afternoon: Be awed by Glen Torridon
Keep your hiking boots on! There are beautiful waterside pathways to discover around Torridon, plus mountain biking at Torridon Outdoors visitor centre.
Evening: Gaze at the stars
On clear nights you can see the Milky Way from the Highlands, thanks to the lack of light pollution. Check out The Torridon Resort’s stargazing experience, hosted by an astronomer.
Stop 6: Applecross to Inverness
Morning: Cross the Bealach na Ba
Don’t rush this legendary mountain track – not only because of its many twists and turns, but to savour its breathtaking scenery.
Afternoon: Venture to Rogie Falls
Before you return to Inverness, stretch your legs on this gentle 1.3km (0.75 mile) trail to a thundering waterfall. Look out for leaping salmon in August and September.
Evening: Catch a play in Inverness
Set on the banks of the river Ness, the Eden Court Theatre offers a wide range of entertainment, from drama to silent disco. Stay at the chic Rocpool Reserve Hotel.
Scotland's North Coast 500 Itinerary.pdf
Explore Scotland's North Coast 500
