Exploring Scotland's Highlands: An 8-Day North Coast 500 Road Trip

Start your journey in Inverness and explore attractions like Inverness Castle and the Caledonian Canal. Enjoy a pint and a meal at the Castle Tavern.

Warm up for the adventurous coastal drive with the only interior portion of the trip. Be prepared to drive slowly, because this route includes some of the narrowest roads and large herds of sheep I’ve ever seen. Head west-southwest toward Loch Torridon.

The slower journey is worth it for an overnight stay at The Torridon, a secluded and majestic five-star boutique resort nestled in The Highlands.

Enjoy the incredible field-to-fork menus at 1887 or Bo & Muc Brasserie. Make time to sip and savor at The Whisky Bar, home to 365 classic and rare malts. While at The Torridon, you can also explore the grounds of the estate or take advantage of the plethora of outdoor activities, including stargazing, archery, hiking or even snorkeling.

Start with a slight detour south toward Applecross, known for being the most difficult and steepest part of the North Coast 500. Skip this part if you are a nervous driver. Drive north toward Ullapool, with stops along the way to see the beaches of Clachtoll or Ardveck Castle. Continue north to the picturesque fishing village of Ullapool, on the shores of Loch Broom. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and explore Ullapool's charming shops and cafes.

Day trip:

Take the ferry from Ullapool to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides.

Head north along the stunning coastline towards Durness. Stop at the Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve and explore the famous Smoo Cave, a dramatic sea cave with a freshwater waterfall inside. Continue your journey eastward towards Tongue. Visit the ruins of Castle Varrich, perched on a hill overlooking the Kyle of Tongue. Enjoy a scenic drive along the shores of Loch Eriboll, one of Scotland's most picturesque sea lochs.

Depart Tongue and drive northeast towards Thurso. Visit the Castle of Mey, the former residence of the Queen Mother, and explore its beautiful gardens. Explore Thurso, the northernmost town on the Scottish mainland. Take a walk along Thurso Beach and enjoy the coastal scenery or take advantage of the vibrant local nightlife.

Day 6: Thurso to John O'Groats/Orkney Islands

Travel east from Thurso to John O'Groats, the mainland's most northern point.
Stop at the Duncansby Head Lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the Pentland Firth. Take a bucket list “End of the World” photo at the famous John O’Groats signpost.

Day trip: Orkney Islands

Take a guided tour to the nearby Orkney Islands, home of prehistoric monuments from one of Western Europe’s richest surviving Neolithic landscapes. In one day, you can visit multiple World Heritage sites including The Ring of Brogdar, Skara Brae and Stones of Stenness.

Head south along the eastern coast towards Wick. Visit the Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, perched dramatically on the cliffs overlooking Sinclair Bay. In Wick, tour the Old Pulteney Distillery and learn about the production of Scotch whisky. I recommend the tasting tour! Book ahead for the distillery and tasting tour, as space is limited. Take a stroll along Wick Harbour and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

Continue your journey southwards to Golspie & Tain. Visit the majestic Dunrobin Castle, with its fairytale turrets and beautiful gardens. If time allows, stop at the legendary Glenmorangie Distillery and enjoy a guided tour and whisky tasting.

For a quiet, relaxed last evening in Inverness, stay at the gorgeous The Invervairne and make a dinner reservation at The Classroom Bistro. You will have a wonderful, restful and quiet stay. This property also has a private beach, and it’s just a 15–20-minute drive to Inverness' airport.