{"id":7516,"date":"2024-06-17T06:40:00","date_gmt":"2024-06-17T06:40:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/justpaste.in\/blogs\/14-best-places-on-the-north-coast-500-route-in-scotland\/"},"modified":"2026-08-04T08:46:28","modified_gmt":"2026-08-04T08:46:28","slug":"14-best-places-on-the-north-coast-500-route-in-scotland","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/justpaste.in\/blogs\/14-best-places-on-the-north-coast-500-route-in-scotland\/","title":{"rendered":"14 Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route In Scotland"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>The Highlands of Scotland are incredible to visit! With towering mountain ranges, tranquil lochs and heaps of quaint villages, it&#8217;s the type of area that&#8217;s perfect for a road trip, especially around the North Coast 500 route. In fact, there are so many best places to see on the North Coast 500 route in Scotland that you&#8217;re going to be spoilt for choice.<\/p>\n<p>Over the years, we&#8217;ve visited countless times, following <a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">this<\/a> easy-to-follow and detailed <a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Scottish Highlands itinerary<\/a>. It takes in some of the best places on the North Coast 500 route, but also meanders (and slightly detours) just off the official route to find some total gems to explore.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"tiled-gallery type-rectangular tiled-gallery-unresized\" data-original-width=\"1000\" data-carousel-extra='null' itemscope itemtype=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/ImageGallery\" >\n<div class=\"gallery-row\" style=\"width: 1000px; height: 706px;\" data-original-width=\"1000\" data-original-height=\"706\" >\n<div class=\"gallery-group images-1\" style=\"width: 472px; height: 706px;\" data-original-width=\"472\" data-original-height=\"706\" >\n<div class=\"tiled-gallery-item tiled-gallery-item-large\" itemprop=\"associatedMedia\" itemscope itemtype=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/ImageObject\"> <meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"468\"> <meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"702\"> <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" data-attachment-id=\"46140\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8633.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1600,2400\" data-comments-opened=\"\" data-image-title=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (19)\" data-image-description=\"\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8633.jpg?fit=300%2C450&#038;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8633.jpg?fit=683%2C1024&#038;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8633.jpg?w=468&#038;h=702&#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8633.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8633.jpg?resize=300%2C450&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8633.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8633.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8633.jpg?resize=1140%2C1710&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" width=\"468\" height=\"702\" loading=\"lazy\" data-original-width=\"468\" data-original-height=\"702\" itemprop=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/image\" title=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (19)\" alt=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (19)\" style=\"width: 468px; height: 702px;\" \/> <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p> <!-- close group --> <\/p>\n<div class=\"gallery-group images-2\" style=\"width: 528px; height: 706px;\" data-original-width=\"528\" data-original-height=\"706\" >\n<div class=\"tiled-gallery-item tiled-gallery-item-large\" itemprop=\"associatedMedia\" itemscope itemtype=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/ImageObject\"> <meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"524\"> <meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"349\"> <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" data-attachment-id=\"46137\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8644.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1600,1067\" data-comments-opened=\"\" data-image-title=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (20)\" data-image-description=\"\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8644.jpg?fit=360%2C240&#038;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8644.jpg?fit=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8644.jpg?w=524&#038;h=349&#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8644.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8644.jpg?resize=360%2C240&amp;ssl=1 360w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8644.jpg?resize=680%2C453&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8644.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8644.jpg?resize=1140%2C760&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" width=\"524\" height=\"349\" loading=\"lazy\" data-original-width=\"524\" data-original-height=\"349\" itemprop=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/image\" title=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (20)\" alt=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (20)\" style=\"width: 524px; height: 349px;\" \/> <\/div>\n<div class=\"tiled-gallery-item tiled-gallery-item-large\" itemprop=\"associatedMedia\" itemscope itemtype=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/ImageObject\"> <meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"524\"> <meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"349\"> <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" data-attachment-id=\"46115\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8833.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1600,1067\" data-comments-opened=\"\" data-image-title=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (31)\" data-image-description=\"\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8833.jpg?fit=360%2C240&#038;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8833.jpg?fit=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8833.jpg?w=524&#038;h=349&#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8833.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8833.jpg?resize=360%2C240&amp;ssl=1 360w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8833.jpg?resize=680%2C453&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8833.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8833.jpg?resize=1140%2C760&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" width=\"524\" height=\"349\" loading=\"lazy\" data-original-width=\"524\" data-original-height=\"349\" itemprop=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/image\" title=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (31)\" alt=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (31)\" style=\"width: 524px; height: 349px;\" \/> <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p> <!-- close group --> <\/div>\n<p> <!-- close row --> <\/div>\n<p>It&#8217;s the most idyllic area and one of my favourite regions in all of the UK. Just be sure to plan ahead, book accommodation in plenty of time (the best spots fill up fast in summer), and consider that you might be driving on very narrow roads.<\/p>\n<p>The latter can always be a surprise for North American visitors!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Anyway, I don&#8217;t want to ramble too much! Following a route north of <a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/11-best-things-to-do-in-inverness-scotland\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Inverness<\/a> (anticlockwise), I want to share some of our favourite spots around and places on the North Coast 500 route in Scotland that you have to visit.<\/p>\n<p>Plus, a few other little detours that are total gems to see.&nbsp;Have the best time exploring Scotland!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><strong>1.) Inverness<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"attachment noopener wp-att-82415\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-82415\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-9.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route, Scotland\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-9.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-9.jpg?resize=333%2C500&amp;ssl=1 333w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-9.jpg?resize=853%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 853w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-9.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-9.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-9.jpg?resize=1365%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1365w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>In lots of ways, <a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/11-best-things-to-do-in-inverness-scotland\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Inverness<\/a> is basically the gateway to the North Coast 500 route. In fact, Inverness is likely to be the first point where you start your road trip; either arriving by air (to Inverness Airport) or via train.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Now, either at the start (or the end of your North Coast 500 road trip, make sure to take a little detour east towards the Cairngorms. It&#8217;s one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2016\/08\/31\/10-picturesque-national-parks-must-visit-uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">UK&#8217;s largest national parks<\/a> and totally idyllic.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-45939\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A7687.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Exploring The Natural Beauty Of The Scottish Highlands... (12)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A7687.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A7687.jpg?resize=300%2C450&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A7687.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A7687.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A7687.jpg?resize=1140%2C1710&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>We had the best time exploring the Cairngorms, and it&#8217;s well worth popping over to Aviemore, where you&#8217;ll find loads of trails, bike rental points and Loch an Eilein, which is gorgeous.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-45925\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A7795.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Exploring The Natural Beauty Of The Scottish Highlands... (25)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A7795.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A7795.jpg?resize=300%2C450&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A7795.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A7795.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A7795.jpg?resize=1140%2C1710&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Plus, you&#8217;ve got the tasty Kinrara Distillery that&#8217;s so close by. Their gin is so good and uses foraged herbs to create their blend.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-45923\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A7831.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Exploring The Natural Beauty Of The Scottish Highlands... (27)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A7831.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A7831.jpg?resize=300%2C450&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A7831.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A7831.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A7831.jpg?resize=1140%2C1710&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>After arriving back in <a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/11-best-things-to-do-in-inverness-scotland\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Inverness<\/a>&nbsp;and before heading onto the NC500 route, make sure to see some of the city&#8217;s best spots. Be sure to check out Botanic Gardens, <a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/11-best-things-to-do-in-inverness-scotland\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Inverness Castle<\/a> and the Highlanders\u2019 Museum, too.<\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re short on time, you can also book this amazing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/inverness-l1935\/isle-of-skye-and-eilean-donan-castle-tour-from-inverness-t190023\/?partner_id=C2KTAI8&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;placement=content-middle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">guided tour from Inverness<\/a> that drives you to Eilean Donan Castle and the <a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/13-best-things-to-do-on-the-isle-of-skye-scotland\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Isle of Skye<\/a> for a full-day trip. It&#8217;s great if you don&#8217;t fancy driving and don&#8217;t want to head off the wider North Coast 500 route.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Looking for the <a href=\"https:\/\/booking.stay22.com\/handluggageonly\/0fVgAYXHAX\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">best hotel in Inverness<\/a>? Make sure to <a href=\"https:\/\/booking.stay22.com\/handluggageonly\/0fVgAYXHAX\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">book this room at Ness Walk<\/a>. It&#8217;s one of the newer and chic hotels in Inverness and one that&#8217;s perfect for a few nights&#8217; stay. Plus, they <a href=\"https:\/\/booking.stay22.com\/handluggageonly\/0fVgAYXHAX\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">have the nicest rooms<\/a>!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div data-gyg-href=\"https:\/\/widget.getyourguide.com\/default\/activities.frame\" data-gyg-location-id=\"1935\" data-gyg-locale-code=\"en-US\" data-gyg-widget=\"activities\" data-gyg-number-of-items=\"3\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"C2KTAI8\">Powered by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/inverness-l1935\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener sponsored\">GetYourGuide<\/a><\/div>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/11-best-things-to-do-in-inverness-scotland\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Read more: Best things to do in Inverness<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><strong>2.) Glenmorangie, Dornoch and Dunrobin Castle<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"attachment noopener wp-att-82420\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-82420\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-14.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route, Scotland\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-14.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-14.jpg?resize=333%2C500&amp;ssl=1 333w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-14.jpg?resize=853%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 853w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-14.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-14.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-14.jpg?resize=1365%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1365w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>The whole area around Dornoch is well worth visiting as you drive from Inverness. You see, it&#8217;s got heaps of little (and big) places to see in the Scottish Highlands.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;ve crossed the Dornoch Firth, make sure to stop off at Dornoch Beach. It&#8217;s a huge white-sandy stretch that&#8217;s perfect for a stroll.<\/p>\n<p>Though always remember that the Scottish Haar (sea fog) can be thick and come in fast on the east coast route. So, be prepared that you might not see too much if that happens.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Whilst in the wider area, be sure to stop off at the <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/oT5VKvH7hnH8bsaw8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Glenmorangie Distillery Whisky<\/a> (on the other side of Dornoch Firth), too. You can learn most about the distilling process and have a wee sample of their amber nectar that&#8217;s known the world over.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Also, about a 20-minute drive north of Dornoch is the gorgeous&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/Ncp5DEnivLJ1PVXd7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Dunrobin Castle<\/a>. It&#8217;s still on the North Coast 500 route and easy to see as you head further north.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>You&#8217;ll get to see so much of the castle whilst exploring the 189 rooms (or at least a fair few of them). Plus, the gardens are stunning. It&#8217;s a totally unique castle in Scotland and almost looks like it belongs in the countryside in France.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s all quite different to the towering brick castles you tend to see in Great Britain. We love it here.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-46048\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8012.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Driving The Incredible North Coast 500 Road In The Scottish Highlands... (4)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8012.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8012.jpg?resize=300%2C450&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8012.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8012.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8012.jpg?resize=1140%2C1710&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Afterwards, continue driving north and stop off at the quaint little tearoom of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theriverbothy.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The River Bothy<\/a>. We had the best homemade soup and haggis toasty.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div data-gyg-href=\"https:\/\/widget.getyourguide.com\/default\/activities.frame\" data-gyg-location-id=\"189109\" data-gyg-locale-code=\"en-US\" data-gyg-widget=\"activities\" data-gyg-number-of-items=\"3\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"C2KTAI8\">Powered by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/glenmorangie-distillery-tain-l189109\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener sponsored\">GetYourGuide<\/a><\/div>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2020\/05\/07\/12-best-places-in-the-scottish-islands-to-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Read more: Best islands in Scotland to visit<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><strong>3.) Old Wick, Old Keiss and Sinclair Girnigoe Castles<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"attachment noopener wp-att-82427\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-82427\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-21.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route, Scotland\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-21.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-21.jpg?resize=333%2C500&amp;ssl=1 333w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-21.jpg?resize=853%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 853w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-21.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-21.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-21.jpg?resize=1365%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1365w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>With thousands of years of history, the Scottish Highlands have loads of gems you can&#8217;t miss as you drive the North Coast 500.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>In fact, I&#8217;d go as far as saying that the East Coast has some of the best places to see on the North Coast 500 route in Scotland if you&#8217;re into your historical castles.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Around a 35-minute drive, north of The River Bothy tearoom, you&#8217;ll get to visit <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/7dppxLxm78Mo5LLW6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Old Wick Castle<\/a>. Now in ruins, it towers over the rugged coastline, dating back to the 1300s. It&#8217;s well worth parking up and walking the coast to see &#8211; it really is incredible to see.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Afterwards, follow the North Coast 500 route further north and stop off at <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/EwWGxHTynp9hLwwM8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sinclair Girnigoe Castle<\/a>. It&#8217;s another gem and dates back almost 800 years.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Oh, and don&#8217;t forget about Old Keiss Castle, too. It&#8217;s on your route towards John o&#8217; Groats and totally easy to find as you follow the North Coast 500 route in Scotland.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2020\/05\/10\/23-best-places-in-scotland-to-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Read more: Best places in Scotland to visit<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><strong>4.) John o&#8217;Groats and Duncansby Head<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"tiled-gallery type-rectangular tiled-gallery-unresized\" data-original-width=\"1000\" data-carousel-extra='null' itemscope itemtype=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/ImageGallery\" >\n<div class=\"gallery-row\" style=\"width: 1000px; height: 748px;\" data-original-width=\"1000\" data-original-height=\"748\" >\n<div class=\"gallery-group images-1\" style=\"width: 500px; height: 748px;\" data-original-width=\"500\" data-original-height=\"748\" >\n<div class=\"tiled-gallery-item tiled-gallery-item-large\" itemprop=\"associatedMedia\" itemscope itemtype=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/ImageObject\"> <meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"496\"> <meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"744\"> <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" data-attachment-id=\"86370\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-3-1.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1600,2400\" data-comments-opened=\"\" data-image-title=\"Best Things To Do In Scotland Highlands NC500 John o&amp;#8217; Groats\" data-image-description=\"\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-3-1.jpg?fit=333%2C500&#038;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-3-1.jpg?fit=853%2C1280&#038;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-3-1.jpg?w=496&#038;h=744&#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-3-1.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-3-1.jpg?resize=333%2C500&amp;ssl=1 333w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-3-1.jpg?resize=853%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 853w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-3-1.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-3-1.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-3-1.jpg?resize=1365%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1365w\" width=\"496\" height=\"744\" loading=\"lazy\" data-original-width=\"496\" data-original-height=\"744\" itemprop=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/image\" title=\"Best Things To Do In Scotland Highlands NC500 John o&#039; Groats\" alt=\"Best Things To Do In Scotland Highlands NC500 John o&#039; Groats\" style=\"width: 496px; height: 744px;\" \/> <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p> <!-- close group --> <\/p>\n<div class=\"gallery-group images-1\" style=\"width: 500px; height: 748px;\" data-original-width=\"500\" data-original-height=\"748\" >\n<div class=\"tiled-gallery-item tiled-gallery-item-large\" itemprop=\"associatedMedia\" itemscope itemtype=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/ImageObject\"> <meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"496\"> <meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"744\"> <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" data-attachment-id=\"82410\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-4.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1600,2401\" data-comments-opened=\"\" data-image-title=\"Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route, Scotland\" data-image-description=\"\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-4.jpg?fit=333%2C500&#038;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-4.jpg?fit=853%2C1280&#038;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-4.jpg?w=496&#038;h=744&#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-4.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-4.jpg?resize=333%2C500&amp;ssl=1 333w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-4.jpg?resize=853%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 853w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-4.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-4.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-4.jpg?resize=1365%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1365w\" width=\"496\" height=\"744\" loading=\"lazy\" data-original-width=\"496\" data-original-height=\"744\" itemprop=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/image\" title=\"Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route, Scotland\" alt=\"Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route, Scotland\" style=\"width: 496px; height: 744px;\" \/> <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p> <!-- close group --> <\/div>\n<p> <!-- close row --> <\/div>\n<p>Okay, for me, John o&#8217;Groats is a little bit of a letdown. It&#8217;s often thought of as one of the best places to see on the North Coast 500 route in Scotland &#8211; but I&#8217;d beg to differ.<\/p>\n<p>Still, you&#8217;re passing by, so you really should stop.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>There&#8217;s nothing <em>really<\/em> here other than a sign pointing to other destinations across the world. Famed as being one end of the longest distance between two inhabited points in Great Britain, John o&#8217;Groats has become a photo spot for people who have also visited the other spot (Lands End, Cornwall).&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"attachment noopener wp-att-82424\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-82424\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-18.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route, Scotland\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-18.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-18.jpg?resize=333%2C500&amp;ssl=1 333w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-18.jpg?resize=853%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 853w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-18.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-18.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-18.jpg?resize=1365%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1365w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>I&#8217;d say we spent about 15 minutes here before heading for the views at Duncansby Head. Which is known as the UK\u2019s most northeasterly point and not too far from John o&#8217; Groats.<\/p>\n<p>Here, you can see the power of the North Sea\u2019s waves, which have carved the rugged coastline over thousands of years.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"attachment noopener wp-att-82426\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-82426\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-20.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route, Scotland\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-20.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-20.jpg?resize=333%2C500&amp;ssl=1 333w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-20.jpg?resize=853%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 853w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-20.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-20.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-20.jpg?resize=1365%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1365w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Though it&#8217;s a fleeting stop, the views facing south, down the coast, are gorgeous.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Oh, and don&#8217;t forget you can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/john-o-groats-l97186\/from-john-o-groats-orkney-islands-day-trip-t305413\/?partner_id=C2KTAI8&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;placement=content-middle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">book this Orkney Islands day trip<\/a> from John o&#8217; Groats, too. It&#8217;s so good and well worth joining if you want to visit the Orkney Islands.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><strong>5.) Driving to Loch Eriboll<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"attachment noopener wp-att-82422\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-82422\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-16.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route, Scotland\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-16.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-16.jpg?resize=333%2C500&amp;ssl=1 333w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-16.jpg?resize=853%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 853w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-16.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-16.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-16.jpg?resize=1365%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1365w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>After departing John o&#8217;Groats, head east on the North Coast 500 route towards Loch Eriboll. It&#8217;s about a 2-hour drive and you can easily stop off at places like Castletown Beach, Dunnet Head and <a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2022\/11\/02\/11-very-best-places-in-wisconsin-to-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Drumhollistan<\/a> for their rugged coastal beauty.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"tiled-gallery type-rectangular tiled-gallery-unresized\" data-original-width=\"1000\" data-carousel-extra='null' itemscope itemtype=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/ImageGallery\" >\n<div class=\"gallery-row\" style=\"width: 1000px; height: 748px;\" data-original-width=\"1000\" data-original-height=\"748\" >\n<div class=\"gallery-group images-1\" style=\"width: 500px; height: 748px;\" data-original-width=\"500\" data-original-height=\"748\" >\n<div class=\"tiled-gallery-item tiled-gallery-item-large\" itemprop=\"associatedMedia\" itemscope itemtype=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/ImageObject\"> <meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"496\"> <meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"744\"> <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" data-attachment-id=\"86371\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-2-1.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1600,2400\" data-comments-opened=\"\" data-image-title=\"Best Things To Do In Scotland Highlands NC500 Ard Neakie Lime Kilns Loch Eriboll\" data-image-description=\"\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-2-1.jpg?fit=333%2C500&#038;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-2-1.jpg?fit=853%2C1280&#038;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-2-1.jpg?w=496&#038;h=744&#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-2-1.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-2-1.jpg?resize=333%2C500&amp;ssl=1 333w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-2-1.jpg?resize=853%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 853w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-2-1.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-2-1.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-2-1.jpg?resize=1365%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1365w\" width=\"496\" height=\"744\" loading=\"lazy\" data-original-width=\"496\" data-original-height=\"744\" itemprop=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/image\" title=\"Best Things To Do In Scotland Highlands NC500 Ard Neakie Lime Kilns Loch Eriboll\" alt=\"Best Things To Do In Scotland Highlands NC500 Ard Neakie Lime Kilns Loch Eriboll\" style=\"width: 496px; height: 744px;\" \/> <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p> <!-- close group --> <\/p>\n<div class=\"gallery-group images-1\" style=\"width: 500px; height: 748px;\" data-original-width=\"500\" data-original-height=\"748\" >\n<div class=\"tiled-gallery-item tiled-gallery-item-large\" itemprop=\"associatedMedia\" itemscope itemtype=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/ImageObject\"> <meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"496\"> <meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"744\"> <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" data-attachment-id=\"85990\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-Inverness-Scotland-2.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1600,2400\" data-comments-opened=\"\" data-image-title=\"Best Things To Do In Inverness Scotland visit Best Things To Do In Inverness Scotland Cairngorms National Park\" data-image-description=\"\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-Inverness-Scotland-2.jpg?fit=333%2C500&#038;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-Inverness-Scotland-2.jpg?fit=853%2C1280&#038;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-Inverness-Scotland-2.jpg?w=496&#038;h=744&#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-Inverness-Scotland-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-Inverness-Scotland-2.jpg?resize=333%2C500&amp;ssl=1 333w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-Inverness-Scotland-2.jpg?resize=853%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 853w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-Inverness-Scotland-2.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-Inverness-Scotland-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Best-Things-To-Do-In-Inverness-Scotland-2.jpg?resize=1365%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1365w\" width=\"496\" height=\"744\" loading=\"lazy\" data-original-width=\"496\" data-original-height=\"744\" itemprop=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/image\" title=\"Best Things To Do In Inverness Scotland visit Best Things To Do In Inverness Scotland Cairngorms National Park\" alt=\"Best Things To Do In Inverness Scotland Cairngorms National Park\" style=\"width: 496px; height: 744px;\" \/> <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p> <!-- close group --> <\/div>\n<p> <!-- close row --> <\/div>\n<p>Plus, you can grab a bite to eat at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cotedunord.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">C\u00f4te Du Nord<\/a>, a lovely fine-dining restaurant on the north coast.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Anyway, once you get to Loch Eriboll, make sure to stop off to see the Neakie Lime Kilns, which you can spot from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Viewpoint+Heilam+Lairg\/@58.489766,-4.6914275,13.66z\/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x48903c9a238be7ab:0x85ee518d1b1708a2!8m2!3d58.4999427!4d-4.6579799!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p7z4pg?coh=164777&amp;entry=tt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">this viewpoint<\/a>. It&#8217;s a totally gorgeous area of Scotland.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>For a great <a href=\"https:\/\/booking.stay22.com\/handluggageonly\/_zMUnoOEKF\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">hotel en route along the NC500<\/a>. Check into <a href=\"https:\/\/booking.stay22.com\/handluggageonly\/_zMUnoOEKF\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">this small, family-run hotel<\/a>. It&#8217;s called <a href=\"https:\/\/booking.stay22.com\/handluggageonly\/_zMUnoOEKF\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Eddrachilles Hotel<\/a>, and situated within Scourie. It&#8217;s a great stopping point as you head further on your NC500 trip!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2016\/03\/24\/10-pretty-towns-and-cities-you-must-visit-in-scotland\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Read more: Best towns in Scotland to visit<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><strong>6.) Durness, Balnakeil and Ceannabeinne Beaches<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"attachment noopener wp-att-82421\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-82421\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-15.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route, Scotland\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-15.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-15.jpg?resize=333%2C500&amp;ssl=1 333w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-15.jpg?resize=853%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 853w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-15.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-15.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-15.jpg?resize=1365%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1365w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>One of the most north-westerly coastal areas you&#8217;ll visit in the Scottish Highlands, <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/j3E8R8o8NNumeLHo6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Durness Beach<\/a> is well worth a visit as you drive the North Coast 500.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Once here, be sure to take some time to chill on the gorgeous sandy beach and head over to the nearby Smoo Cave, which is Scotland\u2019s largest cave to see.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"attachment noopener wp-att-82428\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-82428\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-22.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route, Scotland\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-22.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-22.jpg?resize=333%2C500&amp;ssl=1 333w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-22.jpg?resize=853%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 853w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-22.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-22.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-22.jpg?resize=1365%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1365w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Oh, and don&#8217;t forget to drive a few more minutes west to <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/D5gfM6Rwz5t7TDUq9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Balnakeil Beach<\/a> and Ceannabeinne Beach (a little east).<\/p>\n<p>The former is a vast open, and westerly-facing beach that is stunning at sunset. The latter has a <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/5cuZbJH9bFAy5aWv7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">huge zipline<\/a> where you can glide over the beach area itself.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>You can easily visit all three in a day, and they&#8217;re all perfect stopping spots on your NC500 drive.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2018\/06\/10\/17-of-the-best-things-to-do-in-edinburgh-scotland\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Read more: Best things to do in Edinburgh<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><strong>7.) Sandwood Bay<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"attachment noopener wp-att-82411\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-82411\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-5.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route, Scotland\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-5.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-5.jpg?resize=333%2C500&amp;ssl=1 333w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-5.jpg?resize=853%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 853w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-5.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-5.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-5.jpg?resize=1365%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1365w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Sandwood Bay is another gem to see whilst driving the west coast of the NC500 route in Scotland. Over the years, it&#8217;s even been voted as one of Britain\u2019s most beautiful beaches.<\/p>\n<p>This being said, it does require a pretty hefty hike to get to; it&#8217;s around an eight-mile round-trip hike to this place. Most people driving the North Coast 500 route in Scotland end up not visiting this bay, which means it&#8217;s mostly deserted.<\/p>\n<p>Perfect if that&#8217;s the vibe you&#8217;re going for. You can have the place to yourself and enjoy the white sands and towering cliffs as long as you like.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s perfect if you want a day hike, but if not, head to nearby Oldshoremore Beach instead. For the latter, you can park right at <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/TGwiTS99znDpEXUH8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Oldshoremore Car Park,<\/a> which is really easy to get to if you&#8217;re short on time.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><strong>8.) Achmelvich Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"attachment noopener wp-att-82409\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-82409\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-3.jpg?resize=1000%2C1506&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route, Scotland\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1506\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-3.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-3.jpg?resize=332%2C500&amp;ssl=1 332w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-3.jpg?resize=850%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 850w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-3.jpg?resize=680%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-3.jpg?resize=1020%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1020w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-3.jpg?resize=1360%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1360w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Following the B869 road, you&#8217;ll get to stop off at the utterly gorgeous Achmelvich Beach. It&#8217;s a totally beautiful beach that&#8217;s well worth visiting if you&#8217;re going to chill out or stroll for a few hours on a sunny day.<\/p>\n<p>Trust me, it has a perfect combination of turquoise waters and white sand, which is beautiful.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"attachment noopener wp-att-82414\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-82414\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-8.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route, Scotland\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-8.jpg?w=1333&amp;ssl=1 1333w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-8.jpg?resize=333%2C500&amp;ssl=1 333w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-8.jpg?resize=853%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 853w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-8.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-8.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Along the road (and before you get to the beach), you&#8217;ll also find Clashnessie Falls and Clachtoll Beach.<\/p>\n<p>Clachtoll Beach is perfect if you want to spend some time alone, since this is a little quieter than some of the larger beaches close by. Though, saying that, none are busy!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Oh, and don&#8217;t forget to stop off at <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/z2A5UvR4KFSnGGsU9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lochinver Larde,r<\/a> that&#8217;s past Achmelvich. It&#8217;s well worth stopping for one of the famous pies.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"attachment noopener wp-att-82408\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-82408\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-2.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route, Scotland\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-2.jpg?resize=333%2C500&amp;ssl=1 333w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-2.jpg?resize=853%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 853w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-2.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-2.jpg?resize=1365%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1365w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Finally, as you reach Loch Assynt, be sure to stop off at <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/awYMZXBZpFgBEB926\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ardvreck Castle<\/a>. It&#8217;s one of our favourite castle ruins in Scotland and is well worth visiting as it&#8217;s only a few minutes walk from the roadside.<\/p>\n<p>Dating back to the 1400s, you can now walk around the castle and its old grounds. It&#8217;s so incredible to see.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Read more: Our day-to-day Scottish Highlands itinerary<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><strong>9.) Ullapool<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"attachment noopener wp-att-82423\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-82423\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-17.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route, Scotland\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-17.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-17.jpg?resize=333%2C500&amp;ssl=1 333w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-17.jpg?resize=853%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 853w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-17.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-17.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-17.jpg?resize=1365%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1365w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Although small, the village of Ullapool will likely be one of the largest settlements you come across on the northwest coast and is well worth making a stop.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Not only that, there are several ferries from Ullapool, too. This means it&#8217;s the perfect stopping point if you want a detour from the NC500 and head over to some of the <a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2015\/08\/12\/10-secret-scottish-islands-that-every-traveller-must-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">prettiest Scottish islands<\/a>. You&#8217;ll be able to catch the boat over to Stornoway and head further down Lewis and Harris (which are stunning, by the way).&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>If that&#8217;s not your jam, be sure to check out the nearby Corrieshalloch Gorge (About 10 miles south). It has the gorgeous Falls of Measach and the Corrieshalloch bridge with trails and viewpoints galore. A great place if you want to stretch your legs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Oh, and don&#8217;t forget to head to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.seafoodshack.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Seafood Shack<\/a> for dinner. Open in the summer months, they have some of the best seafood on the West Coast; all of which is cooked fresh to order. We ate so much here.<\/p>\n<p>Just make sure to take a coat, the seating is outside, and it can get chilly if a westerly wind comes in.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Also, nearby, you can book this <a href=\"https:\/\/booking.stay22.com\/handluggageonly\/OFwCATAq8R\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">amazing stone cottage with a grass roof<\/a> that&#8217;s so quaint and historic. It&#8217;s right on the shores of Loch Broom, and the views are spectacular. <a href=\"https:\/\/booking.stay22.com\/handluggageonly\/OFwCATAq8R\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Take a look at how cute this cottage is<\/a>!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><strong>10.) <\/strong><strong>Gruinard Bay and the Wester Ross region<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-46140\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8633.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (19)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8633.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8633.jpg?resize=300%2C450&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8633.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8633.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8633.jpg?resize=1140%2C1710&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Joining the A832 road, you&#8217;ll drive south from Ullapool to Loch Ewe and around the circular road until you get to Loch Maree and the start of the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s one of the best places to see on the North Coast 500 route in Scotland, especially for all the picturesque and quiet stopping points on your drive.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-46137\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8644.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (20)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8644.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8644.jpg?resize=360%2C240&amp;ssl=1 360w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8644.jpg?resize=680%2C453&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8644.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8644.jpg?resize=1140%2C760&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>As you meander the little roads, make sure to stop off at Gruinard Bay, which is totally lovely. Plus, you can also get some lovely views from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Gruinard+Bay+View+Point\/@57.8519487,-5.4662868,14.25z\/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x488e6a8f866e4bdf:0xbd952cbae17d4591!8m2!3d57.8530195!4d-5.4726527!16s%2Fg%2F11gf9p72zh?coh=164777&amp;entry=tt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">this viewpoint<\/a> on the side of the road.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"tiled-gallery type-rectangular tiled-gallery-unresized\" data-original-width=\"1000\" data-carousel-extra='null' itemscope itemtype=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/ImageGallery\" >\n<div class=\"gallery-row\" style=\"width: 1000px; height: 706px;\" data-original-width=\"1000\" data-original-height=\"706\" >\n<div class=\"gallery-group images-1\" style=\"width: 472px; height: 706px;\" data-original-width=\"472\" data-original-height=\"706\" >\n<div class=\"tiled-gallery-item tiled-gallery-item-large\" itemprop=\"associatedMedia\" itemscope itemtype=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/ImageObject\"> <meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"468\"> <meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"702\"> <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" data-attachment-id=\"46129\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8755.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1600,2400\" data-comments-opened=\"\" data-image-title=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (24)\" data-image-description=\"\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8755.jpg?fit=300%2C450&#038;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8755.jpg?fit=683%2C1024&#038;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8755.jpg?w=468&#038;h=702&#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8755.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8755.jpg?resize=300%2C450&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8755.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8755.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8755.jpg?resize=1140%2C1710&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" width=\"468\" height=\"702\" loading=\"lazy\" data-original-width=\"468\" data-original-height=\"702\" itemprop=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/image\" title=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (24)\" alt=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (24)\" style=\"width: 468px; height: 702px;\" \/> <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p> <!-- close group --> <\/p>\n<div class=\"gallery-group images-2\" style=\"width: 528px; height: 706px;\" data-original-width=\"528\" data-original-height=\"706\" >\n<div class=\"tiled-gallery-item tiled-gallery-item-large\" itemprop=\"associatedMedia\" itemscope itemtype=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/ImageObject\"> <meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"524\"> <meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"349\"> <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" data-attachment-id=\"46125\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8776.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1600,1067\" data-comments-opened=\"\" data-image-title=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (26)\" data-image-description=\"\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8776.jpg?fit=360%2C240&#038;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8776.jpg?fit=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8776.jpg?w=524&#038;h=349&#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8776.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8776.jpg?resize=360%2C240&amp;ssl=1 360w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8776.jpg?resize=680%2C453&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8776.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8776.jpg?resize=1140%2C760&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" width=\"524\" height=\"349\" loading=\"lazy\" data-original-width=\"524\" data-original-height=\"349\" itemprop=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/image\" title=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (26)\" alt=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (26)\" style=\"width: 524px; height: 349px;\" \/> <\/div>\n<div class=\"tiled-gallery-item tiled-gallery-item-large\" itemprop=\"associatedMedia\" itemscope itemtype=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/ImageObject\"> <meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"524\"> <meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"349\"> <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" data-attachment-id=\"46135\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8685.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1600,1067\" data-comments-opened=\"\" data-image-title=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (21)\" data-image-description=\"\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8685.jpg?fit=360%2C240&#038;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8685.jpg?fit=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8685.jpg?w=524&#038;h=349&#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8685.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8685.jpg?resize=360%2C240&amp;ssl=1 360w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8685.jpg?resize=680%2C453&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8685.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8685.jpg?resize=1140%2C760&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" width=\"524\" height=\"349\" loading=\"lazy\" data-original-width=\"524\" data-original-height=\"349\" itemprop=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/image\" title=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (21)\" alt=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (21)\" style=\"width: 524px; height: 349px;\" \/> <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p> <!-- close group --> <\/div>\n<p> <!-- close row --> <\/div>\n<p>On your drive to Gruindard Bay, be sure to stop off at Ardessie Falls, which is just off the roadside. Oh, and let&#8217;s not forget about Gairloch Beach or stopping off at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hebridean-whale-cruises.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Hebridean Whale Cruises<\/a> that depart from Gairloch. They even have orca cruises in the summer months.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><strong>11.) Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"attachment noopener wp-att-82413\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-82413\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-7.jpg?resize=1000%2C1510&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route, Scotland\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1510\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-7.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-7.jpg?resize=331%2C500&amp;ssl=1 331w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-7.jpg?resize=848%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 848w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-7.jpg?resize=680%2C1027&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-7.jpg?resize=1017%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1017w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-7.jpg?resize=1356%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1356w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Often thought of as the first National Nature Reserve in Britain, Beinn Eighe has heaps of unspoilt nature to explore via trails, which you can easily visit in the summer months.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-46041\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8087.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Driving The Incredible North Coast 500 Road In The Scottish Highlands... (11)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8087.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8087.jpg?resize=300%2C450&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8087.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8087.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8087.jpg?resize=1140%2C1710&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Honestly, if you&#8217;re something of a rambler, you&#8217;ll easily find it to be one of the best places to see on the North Coast 500 route in Scotland. Now, don&#8217;t fret about walking routes before you arrive.<\/p>\n<p>There&#8217;s a really helpful visitor centre located outside Kinlochewe, which you can check out from the month of April to October. They&#8217;ll even advise you on the best spots to visit and get close to Beinn Eighe.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>If you don\u2019t want to stop, you can enjoy the scenic view as you drive east from Slattadale, on the shores of Loch Mare. You&#8217;ll even pass the nearby Victoria Falls, too. Just make sure to pull into <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/X6kT7SwLgdtEsyAi7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">this can parking area<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>There is a picnic site at Loch Maree, so that is one spot you can stop in. While you\u2019re here, you can experience Loch Maree\u2019s shore while admiring the Slioch mountain peak from afar.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><strong>12.) Shieldaig<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"attachment noopener wp-att-82419\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-82419\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-13.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route, Scotland\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-13.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-13.jpg?resize=333%2C500&amp;ssl=1 333w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-13.jpg?resize=853%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 853w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-13.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-13.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-13.jpg?resize=1365%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1365w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>On the shores of Loch Torridon, Shieldaig is easily one of the best places to see on the North Coast 500 route in Scotland. In fact, this area of Scotland is as much about the beautiful drive as it is about each pitstop you make.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>To get here, drive down the A896 road towards Shieldaig from Kinlochewe. We love this drive, and you might even spot deer, especially around <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/rqjwCZVC331pr3yK7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">this small parking spot<\/a> on Google Maps. We&#8217;ve seen a resident stag just there every time we&#8217;ve driven this road.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-46131\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8741.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (23)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8741.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8741.jpg?resize=300%2C450&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8741.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8741.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8741.jpg?resize=1140%2C1710&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Oh yeah, and while I&#8217;m at it, remember road numbers starting with &#8216;A&#8217; will be bigger, two-way roads with markings in the centre (these will be the largest roads you experience in the Scottish Highlands).<\/p>\n<p>Roads starting with &#8216;B&#8217; will typically be single-lane and narrow roads, which are more winding and much slower.<\/p>\n<p>You won&#8217;t be able to avoid either on your trip around the Scottish Highlands, but it&#8217;s worthwhile knowing what each road is when looking at the road signs.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-46020\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8279.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Driving The Incredible North Coast 500 Road In The Scottish Highlands... (32)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8279.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8279.jpg?resize=500%2C333&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8279.jpg?resize=800%2C534&amp;ssl=1 800w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8279.jpg?resize=1280%2C854&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8279.jpg?resize=320%2C213&amp;ssl=1 320w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8279.jpg?resize=560%2C373&amp;ssl=1 560w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8279.jpg?resize=1160%2C774&amp;ssl=1 1160w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8279.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8279.jpg?resize=1120%2C747&amp;ssl=1 1120w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8279.jpg?resize=360%2C240&amp;ssl=1 360w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8279.jpg?resize=680%2C453&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8279.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8279.jpg?resize=1140%2C760&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Not too far away, you&#8217;ll also find <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/4PNqP1yiV82XyYCG7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Torridon<\/a>, which is a great place to spend the night (or two) exploring the wider area. The hotel is gorgeous and one of our favourites along the NC500 wider region.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-46007\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8373.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Driving The Incredible North Coast 500 Road In The Scottish Highlands... (45)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8373.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8373.jpg?resize=300%2C450&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8373.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8373.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8373.jpg?resize=1140%2C1710&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Whilst in the area, be sure to drive across to the other side of Loch Torridon and explore the tiny hamlet of Lower Diabaig. We always stop for a tasty, homemade lunch at <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/LapwHZFaMggwyxqp8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gille Brighde<\/a>. It&#8217;s so good.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Read more: Our day-to-day Scottish Highlands itinerary<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><strong>13.) Bealach na Ba viewpoint<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-46451\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/DJI_0098.jpg?resize=1000%2C750&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (6)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"750\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/DJI_0098.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/DJI_0098.jpg?resize=360%2C270&amp;ssl=1 360w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/DJI_0098.jpg?resize=680%2C510&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/DJI_0098.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/DJI_0098.jpg?resize=1140%2C855&amp;ssl=1 1140w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/DJI_0098.jpg?resize=1376%2C1032&amp;ssl=1 1376w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/DJI_0098.jpg?resize=1044%2C783&amp;ssl=1 1044w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/DJI_0098.jpg?resize=632%2C474&amp;ssl=1 632w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/DJI_0098.jpg?resize=536%2C402&amp;ssl=1 536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Driving from the scenic route from Shieldaig, via Applecross and onto the Applecross Pass, make sure to stop off at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Bealach+na+Ba+Viewpoint\/@57.3453228,-5.7060697,11.18z\/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x488e8421539138a9:0xd5ac805aa449c0ec!8m2!3d57.4189142!4d-5.7085563!16s%2Fg%2F12hmz6x4n?coh=164777&amp;entry=tt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bealach na Ba<\/a> viewpoint.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-46157\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8577.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (12)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8577.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8577.jpg?resize=500%2C333&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8577.jpg?resize=800%2C534&amp;ssl=1 800w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8577.jpg?resize=1280%2C854&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8577.jpg?resize=320%2C213&amp;ssl=1 320w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8577.jpg?resize=560%2C373&amp;ssl=1 560w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8577.jpg?resize=1160%2C774&amp;ssl=1 1160w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8577.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8577.jpg?resize=1120%2C747&amp;ssl=1 1120w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8577.jpg?resize=360%2C240&amp;ssl=1 360w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8577.jpg?resize=680%2C453&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8577.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8577.jpg?resize=1140%2C760&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Although this steep incline road is only open in summer, it&#8217;s well worth driving for the dramatic views down the glacier valley that was carved out in the last ice age.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-46109\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8867.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (34)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8867.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8867.jpg?resize=300%2C450&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8867.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8867.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8867.jpg?resize=1140%2C1710&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s so dramatic to see and one of the best places to see on the North Coast 500 route in Scotland.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><strong>14.) Plockton, Eilean Donan Castle and Loch Ness (and detouring off the NC500)<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-46093\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9009.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (46)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9009.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9009.jpg?resize=360%2C240&amp;ssl=1 360w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9009.jpg?resize=680%2C453&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9009.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9009.jpg?resize=1140%2C760&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Often called the Jewel of the Highlands, Plockton is a small town that&#8217;s well worth taking a detour off the North Coast 500 route and including the <a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/10\/22\/beautiful-road-scotland-youve-never-heard\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wester Ross Trail<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>You see, most people don&#8217;t head further south after reaching Strathcarron and start heading back to drive to Inverness.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>We always, if we have time, include a trip to Plockton and the wider peninsula here. Yes, it will add a few more days onto your trip, but it&#8217;s totally worth it.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-46102\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8926.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (38)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8926.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8926.jpg?resize=300%2C450&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8926.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8926.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A8926.jpg?resize=1140%2C1710&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Once here, join one of Calum&#8217;s Seal Trips that he runs along the coast (we loved it) and stop off at the Plockton Inn for some of the freshly caught local seafood. It&#8217;s delicious.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-46088\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9126.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (51)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9126.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9126.jpg?resize=300%2C450&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9126.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9126.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9126.jpg?resize=1140%2C1710&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Afterwards, you can either head over to the <a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/13-best-things-to-do-on-the-isle-of-skye-scotland\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Isle of Skye<\/a> by road (for a longer trip) or head around the coast to Ardelve to visit Eilean Donan Castle.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-46073\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9298.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (66)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9298.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9298.jpg?resize=300%2C450&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9298.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9298.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9298.jpg?resize=1140%2C1710&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s probably one of Scotland&#8217;s most famous castles and is well worth seeing whilst you&#8217;re in the Scottish Highlands.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-46075\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9262.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"The Most Beautiful Road In Scotland That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of! (64)\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9262.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9262.jpg?resize=300%2C450&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9262.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9262.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/6I9A9262.jpg?resize=1140%2C1710&amp;ssl=1 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Head inside and plan to be there for around two hours. Oh, and for some of the best views of the castle, pop to <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/NMdHHc1TmaAj6uJTA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">this spot<\/a> on Google Maps (it&#8217;s just before Loch Long Bridge).&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/2017\/11\/12\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"attachment noopener wp-att-82412\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-82412\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-6.jpg?resize=1000%2C1500&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Best Places On The North Coast 500 Route, Scotland\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-6.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-6.jpg?resize=333%2C500&amp;ssl=1 333w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-6.jpg?resize=853%2C1280&amp;ssl=1 853w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-6.jpg?resize=680%2C1020&amp;ssl=1 680w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-6.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Best-Places-On-The-North-Coast-500-Route-In-Scotland-6.jpg?resize=1365%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1365w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Finally, join the A87 road, taking you to Loch Ness to explore the little villages and Urquhart Castle.<\/p>\n<p>Also, you can easily <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/inverness-l1935\/loch-ness-inspiration-cruise-t45775\/?partner_id=C2KTAI8&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;placement=content-middle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">book this Loch Ness boat tour<\/a> from Clansman Harbour that shows you all the best spots on the loch, including<\/p>\n<p>Just keep your eyes peeled for the Loch Ness monster before heading back to Inverness!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Read more: Our day-to-day Scottish Highlands itinerary<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-embedded-content\" data-secret=\"0QypjVielu\">\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Your Essential Scottish Highlands Trip Itinerary (Castles, Lochs &#038; Mountains)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-embedded-content\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts\" security=\"restricted\" style=\"position: absolute; visibility: hidden;\" title=\"\u201cYour Essential Scottish Highlands Trip Itinerary (Castles, Lochs &amp; Mountains)\u201d \u2014 Hand Luggage Only\" src=\"https:\/\/handluggageonly.co.uk\/perfect-itinerary-see-hidden-spots-scottish-highlands\/embed\/#?secret=9fFC1paXGg#?secret=0QypjVielu\" data-secret=\"0QypjVielu\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" frameborder=\"0\" marginwidth=\"0\" marginheight=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Highlands of Scotland are incredible to visit! With towering mountain ranges, tranquil lochs and heaps of quaint villages, it&#8217;s the type of area that&#8217;s perfect for a road trip, especially around the North Coast 500 route. In fact, there are so many best places to see on the North Coast 500 route in Scotland &hellip; Continue Reading<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":7517,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[40,354],"tags":[355,422,361],"class_list":["post-7516","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel","category-travel-advice","tag-europe","tag-scotland","tag-united-kingdom"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/justpaste.in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7516","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/justpaste.in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/justpaste.in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/justpaste.in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/justpaste.in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7516"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/justpaste.in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7516\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/justpaste.in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/7517"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/justpaste.in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7516"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/justpaste.in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7516"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/justpaste.in\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7516"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}