The North Coast 500 (NC500) is widely regarded as one of the world's greatest road trips. Starting and ending at Inverness Castle, this 516-mile route traces the rugged top edges of mainland Scotland. It is not a race—long stretches are single-track roads with passing places, and the true reward lies in the wild landscapes, ancient castles, and coastal villages you discover along the way. For the optimal experience, we recommend dedicating 7 to 10 days to complete the circuit.
INEOS Grenadier
Single-track mountain passes, gravel laybys and unpredictable Highland weather demand a vehicle that commands confidence. The INEOS Grenadier effortlessly swallows a week's worth of luggage and never feels out of its depth, whether you are navigating the steep hairpins of Applecross or cruising the east coast tarmac.
Check availabilityThe route, stage by stage
- 01
01. Inverness to Applecross
Head west from Inverness through Achnasheen to tackle the Bealach na Bà. This historic pass of the cattle features tight hairpin bends and 20% gradients, making it the third highest road in Scotland and climbing from sea level to 2,054 feet. The nail-biting ascent is rewarded with a panoramic summit view stretching across to the Isle of Skye.
- 02
02. Applecross to Ullapool
Follow the winding coast road past the dramatic mountains of Torridon and the white sands of Gairloch. Stop at the subtropical Inverewe Gardens before pushing on. Your natural overnight stop is Ullapool, a bustling and picturesque working fishing port famous for its exceptional fresh seafood.
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03. Ullapool to Durness
This stretch takes you through the wildest and most remote sections of the NC500, through a designated UNESCO Global Geopark surrounded by ancient landscapes. Explore the 16th-century ruins of Ardvreck Castle, drive over the sweeping, curved architecture of the Kylesku Bridge, and walk the pristine sands at Balnakeil and Sandwood Bay.
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04. Durness to John o' Groats
Begin the day at Smoo Cave, a massive sea and freshwater cave that is a true geological marvel. From there, embark on the long northern coastal run, passing the sweeping moors of Tongue and the surfing town of Thurso, eventually arriving at John o' Groats, the most north-easterly tip of the British mainland.
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05. The East Coast Home
The final leg brings you south along the east coast on faster tarmac, making for a smooth final day of driving. Highlights include the fairy-tale architecture of Dunrobin Castle, the historic town of Dornoch, and dolphin spotting at Chanonry Point on the Black Isle before arriving back in Inverness.
Stops worth making
- Bealach na Bà summit viewpoint
- Corrieshalloch Gorge
- Inverewe Gardens
- Kylesku Bridge
- Smoo Cave, Durness
- Dunrobin Castle
- Chanonry Point
Driving notes for visitors
- Passing places are strictly for letting oncoming or faster traffic pass. Do not use them for parking or taking photographs.
- Fuel stations are sparse north of Ullapool. Make it a habit to fill up whenever you pass a pump.
- Sheep, deer, and Highland cows have right of way and know it. Always anticipate them over blind crests.
- Drive on the left. The national speed limit on single carriageways is 60mph, and at roundabouts, priority is always given to traffic approaching from your right.
Remember: drive on the left, the national speed limit on single carriageways is 60mph, and roundabouts give priority to traffic from your right.