North Coast 500: A 5–7 Day Overland Adventure Through Scotland’s Wild Highlands

The North Coast 500 (NC500) is Scotland’s premier overland route, a stunning 830 km loop that begins and ends in Inverness. This iconic road trip blends dramatic Highland scenery, ancient castles, white-sand beaches, and cozy villages, making it a perfect overland adventure. Whether you're exploring in a 4x4, campervan, or motorcycle, this 5–7 day itinerary combines nature, history, and unforgettable experiences.

Quick Facts

• Total Distance: ~830 km

• Duration: 5–7 days

• Start/End Point: Inverness

• Best Time to Go: May to September

• Road Conditions: Mostly paved, some narrow single-track roads

• Ideal For: Nature lovers, history buffs, adventure seekers, road trippers

Day 1: Inverness to Applecross (120 km)

• Highlights: Inverness Castle, Bealach na Bà, Applecross Bay

• Experience: Begin your journey in Inverness by exploring Inverness Castle and the charming Victorian Market. Head west through Lochcarron and climb the legendary Bealach na Bà — one of the UK's most thrilling mountain passes. The route offers incredible vistas over the Isle of Skye. End the day relaxing by the sea in the remote village of Applecross.

• Tip: Bring a quality dash cam or GoPro to record the Bealach na Bà — it's that scenic! Shop recommended cameras

• Camping/Stay: Applecross Campsite or wild camping (check local guidelines)

Day 2: Applecross to Ullapool (170 km)

• Highlights: Torridon Mountains, Shieldaig, Corrieshalloch Gorge

• Experience: Follow the coast north through Shieldaig and the rugged Torridon range. Take a short hike or kayak around Loch Maree. Stop at Corrieshalloch Gorge and walk across the suspension bridge above the deep chasm. Arrive in Ullapool, a quaint port town with great seafood.

• Tip: A portable camp stove makes for great meals with loch views. Check out compact stoves

• Camping/Stay: Broomfield Holiday Park (Ullapool)

Day 3: Ullapool to Durness (160 km)

• Highlights: Ardvreck Castle, Knockan Crag, Smoo Cave, Achmelvich Beach

• Experience: Travel through Assynt’s wild terrain. Explore the ruins of Ardvreck Castle beside Loch Assynt and visit Knockan Crag to learn about ancient geology. In Durness, walk into the sea-carved Smoo Cave. Take a dip at Achmelvich Beach — one of Scotland’s finest.

• Tip: Pack a dry bag and quick-dry towel for beach stops. Shop outdoor travel gear

• Camping/Stay: Sango Sands Oasis (Durness)

Day 4: Durness to Thurso (120 km)

• Highlights: Balnakeil Craft Village, Cape Wrath (optional), Dunnet Head

• Experience: Visit Balnakeil Craft Village for quirky shops and local art. If weather and timing permit, consider a guided trip to Cape Wrath. Drive east toward Thurso, making a stop at Dunnet Head — the northernmost point of mainland Britain.

• Tip: A roof storage box adds room for extra gear. Browse rooftop storage solutions

• Camping/Stay: Thurso Bay Caravan and Camping Park

Day 5: Thurso to Wick (110 km)

• Highlights: Castle of Mey, Whaligoe Steps, Old Pulteney Distillery

• Experience: Visit the Castle of Mey, once owned by the Queen Mother. Climb the 365 Whaligoe Steps to a historic harbor built into the cliffs. End the day with a whisky tasting at the Old Pulteney Distillery in Wick.

• Tip: Bring a lightweight camera tripod for capturing coastal shots. Shop tripods

• Camping/Stay: Wick Caravan & Camping Site

Day 6: Wick to Inverness (150 km)

• Highlights: Dunrobin Castle, Glenmorangie Distillery, Black Isle

• Experience: Head south to Dunrobin Castle, with its turrets and falconry displays. Tour Glenmorangie Distillery and take the scenic route back through the Black Isle — a great area for dolphin watching at Chanonry Point.

• Tip: Consider a binocular set for wildlife viewing. Check best outdoor binoculars

• Camping/Stay: Inverness campsites or local guesthouses

Day 7 (Optional): Explore Around Inverness

• Suggestions: Loch Ness cruise, Culloden Battlefield, Clava Cairns

• Experience: Extend your trip with a cruise on Loch Ness or a visit to Culloden Battlefield, site of the last battle on British soil. Walk among Bronze Age standing stones at Clava Cairns.

• Tip: Don’t forget a power bank or solar charger. Explore power solutions for overlanding

Tips for Overlanding the NC500

• Fuel Up: Fill your tank whenever possible; stations can be scarce in remote regions.

• Respect the Land: Practice Leave No Trace and be courteous on single-track roads.

• Plan for Weather: Conditions can change fast. Waterproof clothing and gear are essential.

• Stock Up on Essentials: Use a portable fridge and camping pantry for food storage. Shop camp fridges

Conclusion

The North Coast 500 is a dream for overlanders, combining wild landscapes, fascinating history, and unforgettable local culture. From mountain passes to sandy beaches, whisky tours to castle visits, this 5–7 day itinerary ensures you get the full Highland experience.

Before you go, make sure to check out our Overlanding Gear Guide for essential tools, accessories, and camping equipment to elevate your journey.

Also, don’t forget to explore other adventures in our Best Overlanding Routes in Europe collection!