The North
Coast 500
A signed loop of about 830 km around the north of Scotland starting and ending in Inverness: mountain passes, single-track roads, sea lochs and empty beaches. Allow about a week.
Inverness to Applecross
The North Coast 500 is a signed loop of about 830 km (516 miles) that starts and ends at Inverness Castle. Most people drive it anticlockwise, heading west across to the coast first.
The Bealach na Bà, the pass into Applecross, climbs steeply with hairpin bends and single-track sections, and is not suitable for large vehicles or caravans; the coastal road in is an easier alternative.
Single-track road etiquette
Much of the route is single-track with passing places. Pull into a passing place on your left, or stop opposite one on your right, to let oncoming traffic by, and wave thanks.
Ullapool to Durness
Ullapool is the main town on the west coast, with a harbour, shops and places to eat. North of it the landscape empties out: sea lochs, mountains and long views. Durness, near the north-west corner, has Smoo Cave and some of the most beautiful beaches in Scotland.
The north coast and back down the east
The road follows the north coast east to John o' Groats, then turns south through Wick towards Dunrobin Castle in Golspie and Dornoch, before returning to Inverness.
Fuel and food are limited in the far north, so fill the tank when you can and book accommodation well in advance in summer.
Bealach na Bà
One of the steepest road climbs in Britain.
Ullapool harbour
Fresh seafood on the west coast.
Book ahead
Accommodation along the route fills up early in summer.
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