How to see the Northern Lights on the NC500

If you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights on your NC500 road trip, then check out these top tips below!

• Autumn and winter is considered the best time of year to see the Northern Lights in the Scottish Highlands due to its long nights and clear skies.

• Generally the best chance to see them is typically between 10pm and 2am, though they can appear anytime it’s dark enough.

• Download the AuroraWatch UK app. This is a great free app that gives you notifications in the area you are in of Northern Light activity!

• Get away from light pollution and get out into the more remote areas.

• Find a place with an unobstructed view north. Coastlines or on the tops of hills are great spots for this!

• To capture the Northern Lights, try setting your camera or phone to ‘night mode’ or use a tripod with long exposure settings for the best shot!

• The lights might appear more as a faint green glow to the naked eye, but your camera can often pick up more intense colour and movement

• Even if the lights don’t make an appearance, you’ll still be treated to some of the clearest, darkest skies in the UK! Perfect for stargazing

• Great spots along the NC500 include Duncansby Head & Dunnet Head on the north coast. Applecross, Lochinver and north of Ullapool are great options on the west coast.

• Don't forget to wrap up warm as those winter nights can be SO cold!