Scotland from Above - North Coast 500

Long open roads, vast scenic landscapes, wide meandering country tracks and some of Scotland’s finest coastal scenery are just a few of the memorable things that await you on the famous North Coast 500. So, strap yourself in and prepare for a road trip of a lifetime.
The North Coast 500 is a world-famous circular driving route starting in the ‘capital of the Highlands’, Inverness, and weaving its way along the west coast to Applecross, northwards to Torridon and Ullapool, before passing some of Scotland’s most northerly points, Caithness and John O’Groats. From there, journey south through Dingwall back to Inverness.

Here are some picturesque points you can see en route, or even stop off at for a longer stay:
Located in northern Wester Ross, Inverpolly is home to some of the most distinctive mountains in Scotland, including Stac Pollaidh, Cul Mor, and Cul Beag, and boasts incredible scenery and views no matter where you go.

A beautiful crescent of sand in Ullapool, Achnahaird Beach boasts a sandy plain and rock pools to explore, along with stunning views of Stac Pollaidh and other nearby mountains. Most of the surrounding landscape is part of the Inverpolly Nature Reserve, so keep your eyes peeled for wild cats, pine martens, golden eagles and more – a perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Make sure you make a stop to the see the historic ruin of Ardvreck Castle. This 15th century castle stands on the shores of Loch Assynt and is famous for its role in the turbulent events of 1650 involving the Marquis of Montrose.

Sitting on the banks of the Dornoch Firth, next up is Balblair Distillery – one of the oldest the world. Enjoy a tour and learn about the history of the distillery, how the vintage malt whiskies are produced and see why all the casks are ‘timed to perfection’.

Venture along the winding road to Kinlochewe through Glen Docherty for mesmerising views and a captivating atmosphere that will leave you in awe. Looking down the glen, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Loch Maree where you can see black-throated divers by the lochside. Loch Maree is the fourth largest fresh water loch in Scotland and features a series of scattered islands boasting natural woodlands of original Caledonian Pine Forest.

Dunrobin Castle is the most northerly of Scotland’s great houses and is the largest in the Northern Highlands. Admire its French chateau appearance and learn about the centuries of historic events that the castle has lived through.

Making the journey extra special, is venturing over Kylesku Bridge. This distinctively curved concrete bridge crosses the Loch a’ Chairn Bhain in Sutherland giving extraordinary views of the surrounding landscapes on the way.

Suilven, one of the most distinctive mountains in Scotland, is a real sight to see. Rising almost vertically from the bogs, lochs and moorlands of the Inverpolly Nature Reserve, it is a bold natural feature that you can see from miles away.

If you want to be stunned by a white sandy beach complete with unparalleled views, then make sure you pay a visit to Mellon Udrigle Beach. Back by dunes, framed by rocky headlands, featuring clear water, sparkling white sand and surrounded by stunning scenery, it’s a no-brainer that this beach is a must-visit, so get packing your bucket and spade!

Located in the north east near Portmahomack, the Tarbat Ness Lighthouse was engineered by Robert Stevenson in 1830 and overlooks the Dornoch Firth and out to sea – giving extraordinary panoramic views and the chance to spot some playful dolphins.
Explore the sheltered, sandy dunes and heather covered grasslands of Gairloch Beach. Venture on the surrounding walks and footpaths and keep your eye out for local wildlife, or visit the local town for a bite to eat in Gairloch.

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