What is the best route for the North Coast 500?
What is the best route for the North Coast 500?
We recommend driving the NC500 route counterclockwise (starting along the east coast) so the itinerary follows this direction going northeast and then west. However, you can easily reverse this route and start your trip by exploring the west coast first.
How long does it take to walk the North Coast 500?
5-7 days
We would recommend to fully experience the NC500, you should spend at minimum 5-7 days along the route.
What should I not miss on the North Coast 500?
North Coast 500: 20 things not to miss on an epic road trip
- Rogie Falls, Inverness-shire.
- The Fairy Lochs and US bomber crash site, near Badachro, Wester Ross.
- READ MORE: 10 cool and quirky places to stay in Scotland this summer.
- Clachtoll, Sutherland.
- Ullapool Bookshop, Wester Ross.
- Whaligoe Steps, near Lybster, Caithness.
Where does the North Coast 500 start and finish?
The route begins and ends in Inverness at Inverness Castle which, perched on top of a hill, is the perfect starting point to the route and offers unparalleled views from its viewing tower over the capital city of the Highlands.
Is it better to do NC500 clockwise or anticlockwise?
The North Coast 500 is a circular route that begins and ends in Inverness and obviously can be driven in either direction. However, I strongly recommend driving in a counter-clockwise direction starting up the eastern coast, then across the top of Scotland and then back down the western coast.
Is the North Coast 500 worth it?
The North Coast 500 is one of the best road trips we have every done. for example, after researching we decided to spend twice as much time on the West Coast (where the roads and scenery were stunning) than the East Coast (which although still scenic is flatter).
What is the best time to visit Scotland to avoid midges?
Come between late September and late May Midges can’t survive a frost. If you arrive in Scotland, before the weather has warmed up too much you are unlikely to see many midges. Also if you visit in May or early September, you are also likely to encounter the best weather conditions Scotland has to offer.
What can I bring to the North Coast 500?
North Coast 500 Packing Guide Checklist
- A waterproof coat like this Marmot Precip US / UK.
- Or sturdier Mountain Equipment Rupal US / UK.
- Rab Alpine down coat USA / UK.
- Merino Icebreaker tops USA / UK.
- Comfortable walking shoes and hiking boots – I swear by Salomon Ellipse trek shoes US / UK.
Is the North Coast 500 signposted?
Is the North Coast 500 Signposted? There are brown tourist NC500 signs around the Scottish Highlands. You will see lots of Highlands attractions with brown signs t00. The local towns and villages will be signposted so look out for where you are going next.
Is Isle of Skye on North Coast 500?
Though the North Coast 500 route doesn’t include the Isle of Skye, we added a few extra days to our itinerary so we could explore what was recently named as one of the UK’s most beautiful islands in TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards.
Can you see Northern Lights in Scotland?
When people talk about seeing the Northern Lights they tend to mean going on holiday to somewhere like Norway to see them. You can actually see them in the UK and Scotland is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights (also known as the aurora borealis).
Where in Scotland is Midge free?
In the Inverness and Loch Ness area, most places by the coast and along Loch Ness are pretty much midge free, but in other places like Glen Affric you are more likely to encounter them.
Where is the route of the North Coast 500?
The route of the North Coast 500 takes in many areas of the North Highland Way, a walking route along Scotland’s North Coast.
How to become a member of the North Coast 500?
Plan your route Read up on road safety Become a member Purchase your North Coast 500 membership (Standard, Explorer or Gold) today and experience the best the NC500 has to offer, fantastic route discount card. Visit: Merchandise
Is it safe to drive on the North Coast 500?
Safe driving and cycling on the North Coast 500 Police Notice Allow Overtaking 17/27 24/39 17/27 20/32 56/90 36/58 25/40 35/56 41/66 30/48 20/32 16/26 11/18 35/56 6/10 10/16 21/34 10/16 40/64 10/16 37/60 15/24 12/19 Tips before setting off: www.northcoast500.com Plan your route Read up on road safety Become a member
Why is the North Coast 500 important to Scotland?
The route has increased visitor numbers to parts of the north of Scotland, which has brought economic benefits to some areas. The increase in traffic has also led to more instances of bad and dangerous driving, as well as damage to the roads and concerns about the environmental impact.