Accommodation options along the NC500

There are a lot of different options along the NC500. You do need to make sure you book ahead, especially during the summer months when availability can be very limited!

Hotels & B&Bs

If you're after a more traditional stay with home comforts, hotels and B&Bs are a popular choice along the route. There are some iconic hotels along this route.

Pros:

• Great for comfort and convenience

• Often locally-owned and full of Highland charm

• Breakfast is usually included

• Hosts can offer brilliant local tips

Cons:

• Can be pricey, especially during peak season

• Rural locations often mean limited availability - book well in advance!

• Not always dog-friendly

Good to know: Many B&Bs on the route are family-run and fill up fast. Look for places that have parking if you’re road tripping!

Hostels

Hostels are perfect for budget-conscious travellers or solo adventurers looking to meet people. They range from simple bunkhouses to more modern lodges.

Pros:

• Affordable

• Great for socialising and meeting other travellers

• Often have self-catering kitchens and drying rooms

Cons:

• Less privacy (shared dorms or bathrooms)

• Limited in rural stretches — hostels are more common in bigger towns like Ullapool and Inverness

• May not suit luxury or family travellers

Good to know: Some remote hostels can be very basic — check if towels, bedding or heating are provided.

Campsites

There’s nothing quite like waking up with views of the coast or mountains outside your tent or campervan! Campsites are a brilliant option if you love the outdoors and want to feel close to nature.

Pros:

• Usually the most scenic stays

• Affordable

• Great for campervans or motorhomes with facilities like electric hook-ups, showers and waste disposal

• A true Highland experience!

Cons:

• Facilities can be basic (especially in remote spots)

• Midges can be intense during summer!

• They can be fully-booked during peak season, so booking far in advance is recommended

Good to know: Always follow campsite rules, and if you're using free overnight parking instead, make sure it's done responsibly and legally.

Airbnbs

Airbnbs offer a great in-between. There is more space and privacy than a hotel, but often with a local, homely feel. You’ll find everything from tiny cabins and shepherd’s huts to croft houses and modern homes.

Pros:

• Ideal for groups, families, or longer stays

• Self-catering means you can cook your own meals (great in remote areas with fewer restaurants!)

• Often dog-friendly

Cons:

• Can be expensive and vary in quality

• Some areas have very limited options

• You’ll need to plan ahead for check-in times and communication with hosts

Good to know: Search in smaller villages rather than the main NC500 hubs, you might find more unique and better-value stays just off the route.