20 of the most popular NC500 Stops

Here are 20 of the most popular and unmissable stops along the NC500, mapped in anti-clockwise as if driving from Inverness!

1. Chanonry Point - Black Isle (East coast)
   Pro tip: Best time to spot dolphins is on a rising tide (check local tide times).

2. Dunrobin Castle - Golspie (East coast)
   Pro tip: Open seasonally (typically Apr–Oct). Arrive early for parking and to catch the falconry displays if on that day.

3. Dornoch Beach - Dornoch (East coast)
   Pro tip: Lovely at sunrise. Park in town or the top car park.

4. Whaligoe Steps - near Wick (East coast)
   Pro tip: Steep stone steps down to the old harbour; allow 30–45 minutes. A very small car park to access.

5. Duncansby Stacks - near John o’ Groats (North coast)
   Pro tip: Flat cliff-top walk to the stacks; sunset is especially dramatic. Allow 20–45 minutes.

6. John o’Groats - John o’Groats (North coast)
   Pro tip: Park at the main car park, grab the sign photo and then wander to quieter viewpoints nearby.

7. Dunnet Head - Dunnet (North coast)
   Pro tip: It can be very exposed and windy, but it's excellent for seabird viewing (puffins/razorbills). There is limited parking.

8. Castle of Mey - near Thurso (North coast)
   Pro tip: Seasonal opening; gardens and tearooms are the highlights if short on time. Check current opening times/ dates.

9. Smoo Cave - Durness (North coast)
   Pro tip: Free to visit; the inner waterfall is best after rain. Short walk from the car park.

10. Sandwood Bay - near Kinlochbervie (Far NW)
    Pro tip: Remote 4-mile each-way walk across dunes; allow a half-day and bring water.

11. Kylesku Bridge - North-West Highlands
    Pro tip: Best photos are from the viewing laybys either side of the bridge.

12. Ardvreck Castle - Lochinver area (West coast/Assynt)
    Pro tip: Best after rain on calm days when the loch reflects the ruins.

13. Achmelvich Beach - Assynt (North-West coast)
    Pro tip: White sand and turquoise water in good light. Visit on a sunny day for the best colours. Beach car park fills up fast in summer.

14. Ullapool (West coast)
    Pro tip: Harbour town with great seafood options; Seafood Shack is a popular local spot (expect queues at peak times).

15. Corrieshalloch Gorge - near Ullapool (West coast)
    Pro tip: Short walk to the suspension bridge viewpoint from the car park, allow 20–40 minutes.

16. Torridon - Torridon area (West Highlands)
    Pro tip: Roadside viewpoints are excellent if short on time; give a full hour or more if hiking.

17. Bealach na Bà - Applecross peninsula (West coast)
    Pro tip: Famous single-track mountain pass with hairpin bends. Check out our travel tip on this one!

18. Applecross + Applecross Inn - Applecross (West coast)
    Pro tip: Book the Inn if you want dinner as it's a popular spot. The village offers classic coastal views.

19. Glenmorangie Distillery or Glen Ord Distillery - Tain / Muir of Ord (East Highlands/Black Isle)
    Pro tip: Tours often sell out in summer so book ahead. (Glenmorangie is at Tain; Glen Ord is near Muir of Ord on approaches to Inverness.) Nominate a designated driver!

20. Rogie Falls - near Contin (on the return towards Inverness)
    Pro tip: Short woodland walk to viewing bridge; good for a final stretch before finishing.