The best time to road trip the NC500

The NC500 can be completed at any time of year, however, there are lots of things to consider before choosing the time of year you visit!

High Season: Summer (June - August)

Summer is the most popular time to road trip the NC500! This is your best chance for good weather and there is so much light at this time of year! However, it can also be the busiest time, especially if visiting during school holidays (which we would recommend avoiding if you can!). We have travelled during June and it was a lovely time to be there, but you will need to book accommodation and campsites in advance and get to the popular spots early to avoid the crowds!

Pros:

• This is the best chance for the best weather and if you hit one of the beaches on a sunny day with those beautiful white sand beaches and blue waters, you'll find it hard to believe you're in the UK

• Great time for outdoor activities

• It's a great time to see Scotland's wildlife, including the puffins!

• The long daylight hours in summer means you can enjoy evening walks or beach time late into the day.

Cons:

• this is the busiest time and with that comes crowds and lots of vehicles on the road - not so clever when you're trying to navigate single track roads! Be prepared for traffic jams.

• Accommodation will be more expensive and sell out months in advance

• Campsites will be full - you will need to book months ahead!

• Midges will be a nightmare, so be prepared!

• Parking can be super challenging at this time

• Book restaurants well in advance, as popular spots get busy!

Shoulder Season: Spring & Autumn

(April & May, September & October)

Shoulder season is such an underrated time to visit the NC500. The crowds are fewer and the colours are SO stunning, particularly in the autumn! Yes, there is a chance the weather could turn, but if you're happy to go with the flow, the vibe can be absolutely magical! We also visited during April and absolutely loved this time of year - we were often on our own at many of the popular spots!

Pros:

• Fewer crowds & quieter roads

• Fewer midges during this time of year (we didn't see any when we visited in April)

• Campsites are still open

• Attractions are usually open

• Stunning colours if travelling during autumn

• Often offers better value on accommodation and attractions compared to summer

• Spring brings stunning wildflowers and nesting birds - a beautiful time for nature lovers and photographers

Cons:

• The weather could be a bit more unpredictable

• Limited outdoor activities. They may not open until late spring and they may close early autumn.

  

Low Season: Winter (November - March)

Winter is often overlooked due to it's harsh weather, but if you are looking for a really wild, quiet experience then this could be the best time for you to visit. You'll need to feel very confident behind the wheel though.

Pros:

• You won't see any midges at this time of year!

• The roads will be very empty and quiet

• Less crowds & cheaper accommodation

• Gorgeous sunrises and sunsets (and you don't have to be up at the crack of dawn!)

• Wildlife spotting - deer during the rutting season are more active

Cons:

• The weather can be brutal. It will be very cold, likely lots of rain and there could be snow which will make driving conditions pretty tough. Be prepared for strong winds and icy conditions.

• Less light, so shorter days and less time to explore

• Some attractions close for the winter season

• Some campsites will not be open during the season

• Some remote roads might be temporarily closed or difficult in severe weather, so checking conditions and having contingency plans is so important.