Our advice is to allow at least 5 days to drive the full route round-trip, although more days will obviously allow you to see more.
How long does it take to do the Highland 500?
The launch was supported by Visit Scotland and the Highlands & Islands Enterprise. At over 500 miles long, it is advised that the NC500 journey should be spread across 5 to 7 days – with multiple stops along the way to take in the local scenery, culture, food, and activities.
How long does it take to do the Route 500?
7 to 10 days
But the North Coast 500 is designed for touring, sightseeing, and taking things slowly. The minimum number of days we’d recommend to drive the North Coast 500 is 5 days, but 7 to 10 days would be ideal. If you plan to speed around, you could do it with 3 full days and night, but we’d recommend more time.
How many hours does it take to drive the North Coast 500?
Today those same roads are described as ‘The Ultimate Road Trip’. But what do people expect when they say “how many days do I need to travel the North Coast 500?” In simple terms the route is 516 miles. At an average of 60 mph, it will take you just over 8/1/2 hours.
Can you drive the NC500 in 3 days?
Although it is possible to race around the North Coast 500 in 3 days, this is not recommended as you’ll see little and spend a lot of time driving in your car. You’ll want to take time to stop and explore and appreciate the scenery. We recommend at least 5 days to drive the full NC500.
Is the NC500 a difficult drive?
The North Coast 500 is not a route to be driven quickly. Not only would it be unsafe to race along it, but you’ll want to drive it at a relaxed pace to take in the wonderful scenery! Our advice is to allow at least 5 days to drive the full route round-trip, although more days will obviously allow you to see more.
Is the NC500 worth doing?
Is the NC500 really worth it? In one word, yes! The longer answer involves a few more adjectives. As previously mentioned, explore the North Coast 500 route and enjoy some of the most iconic Scottish sights and activities.
How much of NC500 is single track?
around 200 miles
Narrow, winding, single track country roads are all that you’ll be travelling for around 200 miles across various sections of the route.
Is the NC500 signposted?
Is the NC500 signposted? Yes! There are many brown tourist signs that direct the traffic around the North Coast 500. Besides, the route is straightforward as it runs along the coastline of North Scotland.
What is the best way round the NC500?
Anti-clockwise is best for that single trip. And for the full North Coast 500 experience, remember, every section has its merits. However, one final thought – don’t be satisfied with one trip (you won’t see it all however hard you try!), come back and this time tackle it the other way round!
Can you sleep in your car on the North Coast 500?
This North Coast 500 camping itinerary will work if you are driving the route in a motorhome or packing a tent in your car. You could also do it towing a caravan. although some of the sections of single track road will need to be skipped as they aren’t suitable for caravans.
Is the North Coast 500 suitable for motorhomes?
Touring the NC500 by motorhome or campervan is becoming increasingly popular as it allows you the freedom to enjoy all the North of Scotland has to offer at your own pace.
Should you book campsites for NC500?
Booking campsites is not always necessary. But, we would always encourage our customers to book ahead where possible. Booking is recommended in the summer as some campsites can get busy. This is especially so for sites like Sango sands, Applecross and Fortrose Bay.
If you’re visiting between June and September, midge repellent is advised. An NC500 Map, GPS, or satnav system, is also really handy for navigation. Make sure your phone is prepared, too: the North Coast 500 app is available as a free download from the App Store and Google Play.
Do you get midges on NC500?
Unfortunately, midges also thrive in these conditions, and small though they may be, a swarm of them can cast a cloud over even the best-planned day out. There are plenty of ways, however, to prepare for midge season, so follow our five top tips below for dealing with midges on the NC500 and keep the beasties at bay.
Is the NC500 windy?
Take the Right Stuff
If you do decide to camp – make sure you’re taking the right kind of tent. It is super WINDY in Northern Scotland.
Are there speed cameras on the NC500?
North Coast 500: New speed cameras set to be added along popular Highlands driving route. NEW speed cameras are set to be added along the popular North Coast 500 route. Mobile speed cameras are to be rolled out across the north and north-east this summer as tourists return to Scotland in large numbers.
Is the NC500 hilly?
Is the NC500 hilly (and what NC500 bike is best)? Overall, the route takes in just under 10,000 metres in elevation gain. However, most of this is on the western coast line, hence why many people ride this way first! It isn’t exactly flat the rest of the way, but the bulk of the climbing is in this section.
Are there campsites on the NC500?
The North Coast 500 is home to many awe-inspiring, remote campsites – in some sites, you’ll feel as though you’re wild camping, although you’ll have all the facilities of a fully maintained camp site. Whether you are looking to keep things minimal or stay at sites with full facilities – there is something for everyone.
How expensive is it to do the NC500?
Our North Coast 500 trip was 8 days in total (one day driving up to Inverness, and 7 days doing the actual North Coast 500). This ended up being a cost of just £30.50 per person, per day, of our North Coast 500 trip.
Which part of NC500 is best?
Shieldaig. Take a string of whitewashed cottages, place them next to a gorgeous loch with a backdrop of imposing mountains and you have Shieldaig. This delightful village sits along the shore of Loch Shieldaig and Loch Torridon and might be the most picturesque you will come across on the NC500.