Where To Stay on Loch Ewe: And if you do decide to stop in Loch Ewe, and you have a big group, consider staying at the absolutely GORGEOUS, Poolewe Beach House (sleeps 9). Need a few tips and inspiration before you go? We’ve put together this comprehensive North Coast 500 guide to help you plan the perfect North Coast 500 road trip … If you get peckish, you can visit the Whaligoe Steps Café and Restaurant, perched on a clifftop overlooking the North Sea. Enjoy the fantastic scenery as you drive along the A832 road that snakes through the valley at Kinlochewe. The Ultimate North Coast 500 Itinerary – Route, Accommodation, Travel Tips and more.. How Long Does it Take to Drive the NC500? There are a number of taxis/private drivers in the area who can take you around. Rock Rose Gin is made at the Dunnet Bay Distillers if you want to pick up a bottle whilst you’re passing, although it’s also sold in quite a few of the big supermarkets too! Often, rooms need to be booked months in advance. Driving Scotland’s North Coast 500 is just wow! This is a very popular stop as it’s close to Glasgow, so don’t be alarmed by all the tourists – you’re not on the NC500 now! If you’re doing the opposite, and cruising do… When we drove into the free parking area we could see why most people say it’s a bit of a tourist trap. With so much to see, we spent the majority of the time driving, doing a few little hikes and taking pictures, and not really ‘doing’ much. Route at a Glance. ✨ INTRODUCING ✨ Africa & Wild The Old Pulteney distillery is also in the area if you have the time for a tour or just a stop at the shop! These days, it’s just a lonely ruin, but worth seeing all the same. Another gorgeous beach on the route is Clachtoll Beach – great for hiking, walking, and fishing. By the time we got to Inverness, it was just time to check into our hotel and have a shower before dinner. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Families or groups will also like the Scandanavian Village Aviemore which has apartments, suites, and villas. If you’re from the UK, you have certainly heard of the North Coast 500 by now. Then now’s your chance as you’ll be passing through. Edinburgh also has great nightlife too, and tons of great bars and restaurants. So why not take advantage of the off-season, with fewer crowds, no midgies (tiny biting flies that descend in the summer), and the incredible photo opportunities the colder weather brings? Try North Star Glamping or the Camster luxury glamping pod. So in total, our trip was 7 nights, 8 days in total. You can find it all. Thinking of taking a North Coast 500 road trip? The Cairngorms is also home to 6 of the UK’s highest mountains (the highest is Ben Nevis near to Fort William) and in the winter, snow permitting, you can go skiing and even husky sledding. For camping, try Broomfield Holiday Park or nearby Badrallach Campsite, Bothy and Holiday Cottage. I’ll need to go back again and hopefully write about the Isle of Skye in the future. Stop and take a dip in the clear turquoise waters of Achmelvich Bay. North Coast 500 route map. Brenna’s from Canada, and she loved it too. Plan Your Adventure. In the surrounding area, you can take part in things like kayaking, gorge walking, hiking, visiting the beaches, and photography tours. Inverness has an airport which has regular flights to other parts of the UK, as well as Amsterdam. So you have planned your dream North Coast 500 route, decided on your basic itinerary – Dundrobin Castle! Whilst in the area, visit the Inverewe Garden and take a walk along some of their nature trails, including the Poetry Trail, which was inspired by the beauty of the place and created by their resident poet. We have created ten itineraries to help you plan your ideal North Coast 500 trip. This 500 mile coastal route spans the north coast of the Highlands taking in the best bits of this glorious region. The capital Portree was also used as a main filming location for the film Made of Honour. Discover 13 of Scotland’s most spectacular driving routes, from the Fife Coastal Route to the epic North Coast 500. It is said that the castle is haunted and there are plenty of spooky stories of mermaids, ghosts, and the devil himself! We ate at the lively Johnny Foxes Pub & Restaurant, followed by drinks and a live Ceilidh band (traditional Scottish music) at the famous Hootenanny Inverness… where we bumped into explorer Levison Wood (and also Don Lawson, the owner of Johnny Foxes). Bringing together a route of just over 500 miles of stunning coastal scenery in the far north of Scotland, the North Coast 500 is one of the world’s most beautiful road trips. These itineraries are based on the minimum amount of time we recommend to allocate for your journey. Our last stop on today’s itinerary is Dunnet Head. Following the A82, you’ll drive right through Glencoe and to see the most famous view, you don’t even have to leave the main road. The traditional start and endpoint is Inverness. Loch Eriboll is a gorgeous sea lock, with a number of great stopping points. They also do a fabulous afternoon tea in their 1887 Restaurant and there are lots of activities on offer if you want to get outdoors. Dunnet Head is a great place for bird watchers as there are several different bird species in residence. We looked into getting tickets to the talk, but we didn’t have time to get there in time, so I tweeted him to say ‘Come to Hootenanny’s later’. During May and June, the wildflowers are out in bloom, making it a particularly pretty and photogenic time to visit. At the moment, travelling along the North Coast 500 is a bit different. See full article at: https://independenttravelcats.com/north-coast-500-hotels-where-to-stay-nc500/ If you are planning to road trip around this scenic area of the Scottish Highlands, you may be wanting to spend … We drove from Aberdeen to Inverness, although it is possible to arrive by plane, bus or train. We did the Gay Gordon’s, the Dashing White Sergeant, and a whole load of other traditional dances. The North Coast 500, the Route 66 of Scotland has been opened since 2015, to link the beautiful scenery of Northern Scotland. Whichever you choose, there are lots to see and do on the way! This was one of my highlights of the NC500 and not to be missed. The next stop is Strathy Bay, one of the most gorgeous beaches on the North Coast 500, with views over the Pentland Firth. Built by Clan MacLeod, it was later taken over by Clan Mackenzie. The History, Heritage and Archaeology and the Luxury itinerary are available to view fully, however to unlock the full NC500 itineraries, you will need to become a member. However, they offer free camping with limited availability in the offseason. The name itself means ‘end of the mountains’. One of the most popular experiences in Scotland is the And if you were really making a tour of the UK’s most dramatic, untouched scenery, you could continue down to England’s beautiful Lake District region, which sits in the north, just below Scotland. Choose between two idyllic holiday cottages located half a mile off the NC500 route. These itineraries are based on the minimum amount of time we recommend to allocate for your journey. You can tour the distilleries and learn about the whiskey-making process – as well as doing a little bit of tasting too. North Coast 500 accommodation is definitely varied. If they don’t have space, there are lots of highly-rated hotels in the area. The perfect trip for any major golfing fan! Fancy a bit of wild swimming? I love to share travel tips on my blog, and whilst I love to travel all over the world, it’s Africa that holds a special place in my heart! WELL HERE WE GO! Which he did. I always thought it was THE most northerly place of the British mainland, but it isn’t… it’s actually Dunnet Head, a few miles down the road and the actual place that is furthest from Lands End is Duncansby Head. Stop for a photo at Gairloch Harbour, and if you’re thirsty, pick up a cuppa at the highly recommended Coast Coffee Company. The Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition lies in the middle of the loch, near to Drumnadrochit and from there you can take boat tours, with sonar to help you try and spot Nessie herself. Leaving Ullapool, your next destination could be the fantastic Corrieshalloch Gorge Nature Reserve. The Grey Cairns of Camster are man-made structures (thought to be burial tombs) built around 5000 years ago. The North Coast 500 (NC500) was created in 2014 by the North Highland Initiative to highlight some of Scotland’s magnificence to the world. Our North Coast 500 Itinerary was as follows: 5 days on the NC500 was fine, however, I would definitely recommend taking a little longer if you can. If you’re very lucky, you may also see dolphins off the coast. Inverness … There’s a nice, but short walk you can take from the car park. Good quality roads everywhere except the climb up and over to Glen Loth, but even that is fine on a 25mm tyre road bike. Although a little bit out of the way, you could take a trip to the famous Eilean Donan Castle (see below) near to Lochcarron. Edinburgh to Inverness. There are 3 pink sand beaches to visit and on a clear day, you can see across to the island. Day 2 Highlights: Wick Heritage Museum, Castle of Mey, most northerly part of mainland UK. John O’Groats! With hills all around and winding roads, this area makes for a fab photo stop. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is on the way back to Glasgow and Edinburgh, in case you fancy extending your trip for another night or two. https://www.spendlifetraveling.com/north-coast-500-itinerary A bit further on is Cape Wrath, Scotland’s most North Westerly point (in case you’re on a mission to see all the ‘most’ northerly points). Whilst not on the North Coast 500, Edinburgh is a great place to stop if you are travelling up from other parts of the UK, either by car or train, or if you’re flying in from abroad. From there, you'll venture to some of the most northerly coastal points in Scotland, passing by Caithness and John o' Groats before heading south again through Dingwall and finally back to Inverness. I love the great outdoors, going on epic trips around the world and helping others travel! Hopefully, you enjoyed your first taste of the North Coast 500 yesterday and are … Since the NC500 marketing strategy has been so successful, accommodation is in high demand on the North Coast 500 route. The main season runs from May to October, but each time of year has its advantages and disadvantages, so just go with whatever suits you best – I’m sure you’ll have a great time either way! Savour some of Scotland's best seafood, local produce & distilleries. Explore the route by motorhome or camper van and you’ll have no such problems. Sunshine is never guaranteed, even in summer. Please Note: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. If I could live in one of these, I would. Enjoy some of the top highlights along the North Coast 500! Just outside of Inverness, ACE Adventures & Hideaways can organise white water rafting trips and other outdoor adventures. The NC500 route. Ever wanted to climb the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis? Want the ultimate Scottish cycling challenge? Save money with a Clan Membership for up to 4 people. These itineraries are based on the minimum amount of time we recommend to allocate for your journey. Starting and ending in the Highland Capital of Inverness, the 500mi/800km route around Scotland’s North Coast offers an unforgettable trip of a lifetime. We recommend driving the route clockwise to always drive directly alongside the coast. Alternatively, I love Tigh na Mara for a romantic getaway. Where to Stay Near Dunnet Head & John o’Groats: There are a few great places to stay in the area, but the ones that I love the most are The Old Tea Shop,  Dunnet B&B Escapes, and Braeside Retreats. The official North Coast 500 route begins in Inverness and heads west towards Kyle of Lochalsh. North Coast 500 Route Map. You can check out some other great options here. Itineraries. ... Read More The Castle & Gardens of Mey The Castle of Mey, located on the NC500 route near Thurso, was the only home The Queen Mother ever owned. Private houses are less common on the NC500 route but privates rooms with breakfast are popular. The village of Luss makes for a lovely stop and Loch Lomond is also part of the West Highland Way, one of Scotland’s best-loved hikes (which I’m hoping to do very soon). Where To Stay in Clachtoll or Lochinver: There’s a lovely campsite overlooking Clachtoll Beach or you want to stay somewhere super cosy and romantic (and with a hot tub), check out the gorgeous Suilven view glamping pod. We spent the first day driving up from Edinburgh to Inverness. From an overview of the route, tips on driving and sights you can't miss, we'll help you plan perfectly for the NC500 - Scotland’s answer to Route 66. On the way to Clachtoll, swing by the Assynt Aromas Candle Shop & The Secret Garden Tea Garden for some sustenance. The NC500 route is just over 500 miles and begins in the capital of the Highlands- Inverness. You’ll also get to see Am Buachaille, a sea stack out in the water. We have created ten itineraries to help you plan your ideal North Coast 500 trip. Enjoy it, the two variants from the 'official' 500 route are far better for … The ever-changing landscape will take your breath away, leaving you eager to get back in the saddle wanting more every day. There’s no shortage of things to do in Edinburgh, including walking tours of the city (with different themes – historical, haunted, underground, Harry Potter), open-top bus tours, visiting the castle, or climbing to the top of Arthur’s Seat. Loch Ness by Jacobite has a couple of highly-rated cruises with various departure points (including Inverness Bus Station) in case you can’t get down to the visitor centre. Twice the size of England’s Lake District, the Cairngorms is a great place to explore with tons of hiking/biking trails, rivers, lochs (lakes), waterfalls, wildlife, and villages to see. This is the best road trip in Britain. A short drive (or a 45-minute hike) from Dunsnsby is John O’Groats., one of the most northerly points on the British mainland. You can also take a look at the ‘official’ North Coast 500 map (also linked at the bottom of the page). Vacationers with relaxation on their mind probably would want to give it some extra time and plan in some golfing, fishing or a nice hike. I love both sides! Like everywhere else in the world, Scotland is currently under restrictions due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Here you can take a walk to the lighthouse, see the coastline and brag that you’ve been to the most northerly point on the British mainland. From an overview of the route, tips on driving and sights you can't miss, we'll help you plan perfectly for the NC500 - Scotland’s answer to Route 66. Alternatively, you can travel down to Oban. If you’re on a budget, or in a big group, the Ullapool Youth Hostel is a cheap and cheerful place to stay! I'm a travel blogger and tour operator with a passion for Africa travel. Things To Know Before You Drive Scotland’s North Coast 500, Inver Coille glamping pods & camping site, Assynt Aromas Candle Shop & The Secret Garden Tea Garden, lovely campsite overlooking Clachtoll Beach, boat trips to Loch Broom and the Summer Isles, Badrallach Campsite, Bothy and Holiday Cottage, 10 Incredible Books to Inspire You to Visit Africa, California Road Trip Itinerary: San Diego, LA, San Francisco & the Pacific Coast Highway, 15 Things to Know Before You Visit Benin: Voodoo's and Voodon'ts, 30 Things To Know Before You Drive Scotland's NC500, My Top Africa Travel Tips (After 11 Years of Travelling the Continent), 25 Awesome Things to Do in Nairobi, Kenya, An Epic (and Affordable) Two-Week Hawaii Itinerary: Oahu, Maui & the Big Island, 39 Things You Need To Know Before Backpacking Africa, How To Plan Your Dream Trip To Africa (in 18 easy steps). There are tons of things to do in Ullapool, including boat trips to Loch Broom and the Summer Isles, sea kayaking, hiking, and visiting the Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve. I recently took an incredible road trip driving around the Outer Hebrides in North West Scotland. Discover 13 of Scotland’s most spectacular driving routes, from the Fife Coastal Route to the epic North Coast 500. The North Coast 500 (NC500) was created in 2014 by the North Highland Initiative to highlight some of Scotland's magnificence to the world. At Duncansby Head, you’ll see the Duncansby Lighthouse, but the real attraction is the incredible Duncansby Stacks, just off the coast. When you get the weather (which we didn’t), the Isle of Skye is a great place to visit and also a good place to start exploring both the Inner and Outer Hebrides. The Castle & Gardens of Mey, previously owned by the Queen Mother, are also nearby, you’ll just need to ensure you book your tickets in advance as they often sell out. See planning guide: https://independenttravelcats.com/north-coast-500-road-trip-planning-guide-nc500-route/ But John o’Groats to Lands End has a better ring to it, don’t you think? Search our map to find things to see and do along the NC500. From Oban you can catch the ferry to the islands of Mull, Coll, Colonsay, Islay, and Tiree in the Inner Hebrides, Barra and South Uist in the Outer Hebrides, as well as Kennacraig and Mallaig on the mainland. One of the most visited cities in Europe is Rome. The History, Heritage and Archaeology and the Luxury itinerary are available to view fully, however to unlock the full NC500 itineraries, you will need to become a member. The North Coast 500 is a 516-mile scenic route along Scotland's northern coast, offering drivers rugged landscapes, sandy benches, wildlife, museums, castles, whisky distilleries, and so much more! After some beach time, stop by Cocoa Mountain Balnakeil, a famous shop/cafe offering a variety of locally made chocolates and hot chocolate. You could easily keep yourself occupied for 1 – 2 weeks! Hi, I'm Helen! We rarely get snow where I live in North West England, so this was a real treat for me. You can also hire bikes or take boat trips from nearby Lochinver, as well as visit Scotland’s most remote bookshop, Achins Bookshop & Coffee Shop. Known alternatively as the Scottish The drive between Lochcarron and Inverness is super pretty, but particularly at Rogie Falls where you can walk across a small suspension bridge to get a good look at this natural phenomenon. The route begins in Inverness, Capital City of the Highlands, and snakes along the rugged coastal edges of northern Scotland, taking in breath-taking castles, mesmerising mountain tops and glistening beaches. Sandwood Bay Beach is one of the most remote in Europe and it takes around an hour and a half to walk from the car park in Blairmore to the stunning 1-mile long sandy beach, so give yourself a good few hours here to take it all in and hike around the loch as well. Another extremely photogenic stop on your journey is The Torridon, a luxury hotel, flanked by mountains and forest and lying right on the lakeside – this would be a great place to rest your head for the night if time permits. You can visit the Torridon Countryside Centre where you can see red deer and the famous highland coo’s – although you will see them throughout your journey. Leaving Applecross, we drove across Bealach na Bà, one of the highest roads in the UK. Bealach Na Ba! The penultimate stop on today’s itinerary is Loch Assynt and Ardvreck Castle. The top was covered in snow which gave us a great opportunity to take lots of snow pictures! The weather was TERRIBLE when we drove through so I didn’t get many photos, but on a clear day, it’s stunning! If you’re on a budget, check out the Black Isle Bar & Rooms, which is a hostel as well as a premier craft beer bar and restaurant serving, wood-fired pizzas or the cosy and stylish Bazpackers. A paradise for camper or motorhome travel, miles of beautiful winding roads along the coast and an indefinite amount of small roads. Whoop whoop! We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Close by you can also visit the ruins of Urquhart Castle, which can also be seen from the boats if you want to kill two birds with one stone. It is important to plan ahead! This is a beginner’s North Coast 500 guide. Even if you don’t spend much time in the reserve itself, it’s fun to walk over the wobbly suspension bridge over the gorge, which has fantastic views of Falls of Measach. Where To Stay near to Loch Ness: Whilst I haven’t stayed there myself, the Inver Coille glamping pods & camping site looks like the coolest thing ever. Ardoch Bothy (sleeps 2) and Gracie’s Cottage (sleeps 4). “Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass. On a clear day, you may be lucky enough to see puffins and the Orkney Islands…. T. hen we had one final night in Edinburgh on the way back down. Along the way there are too many highlights, you’ll meet enchanting castles, white beaches and fairytale-like sceneries. When I’m not writing, you’ll find me teaching or leading adventure tours and yoga retreats in Africa with my tour company Rock My Adventure. On the way to Dunrobin, you can also take a little detour to the Falls of Shin, where you can spot jumping salmon (between May and late Autumn) – but it will add over an hour to your journey! Where to Stay in Ullapool: I’d definitely recommend the Silver Darlings B&B which is owned by one of my very good friends from uni. They’re free to visit and open to the public all year round, so definitely worth the visit. 21s, ✨ Put your hands up if you want to experienc. © 2018 North Coast 500 | All Rights Reserved | Design by, Luxury must be comfortable otherwise it is not luxury at all, Take a trip on the wild side and rest your weary head where you like. It was a little bit spooky as we were the only people there – literally, there wasn’t even any staff, but in high season I’m sure it would be great! The route is officially 516 miles, although if you want to do the route justice you are likely to do a lot more as you'll want to take detours to find those fantastic views and hidden beaches. Give yourself a good 3 hours if you want to walk the circuit from Duncansby Head/John o’Groats and to the Stacks and back. The popular adventure, with four seasons in one day, heading west from Inverness to the top of Scotland’s mainland, John O’Groats, and back down the east coast (or in reverse). They can be seen all year, but the best time is during the rising tide when the dolphins chase the fish into shore. Itineraries. You can also take a wildlife-spotting boat trip from the Inverewe Garden jetty to see eagles. This video details my planning for my upcoming trip to Scotland's North Coast 500 (NC500) with some additions. There are also a couple of great little cottages to hire if you’re not camping but would still like to stay right near the beach. Where to stay in Applecross: There are a few nice places to stay in Applecross. My friend Brenna (This Battered Suitcase) and I drove the NC500 in early March. Have a look at the options below! Or, if you want to make your trip super epic, you could head towards the Inner or Outer Hebrides. Then we had one final night in Edinburgh on the way back down. This got me thinking about the road trip I took driving Scotland’s North Coast 500 (aka the NC 500) route a little while back. Leaving Applecross, head towards Lochcarron, which makes a nice photo stop whichever which way you are headed after that. Join the revolution and become a member of the NC500 club to get access to exclusive deals and key benefits to get the most of your NC500 adventure. Then from there, you have a few choices as to which way to go to finish your trip. And ending in the middle of a tourist trap this Battered Suitcase ) and I had a of. Coast 500 route begins and ends in Inverness and heads West towards Kyle of.. Waiting for the next time I comment wildness, and Chakradance nc500 route planner driving the route is Clachtoll –... S a bit of a tourist trap you ready for a fab photo stop whichever way. Never get sick of these, but short walk you can opt-out if you need a few tips and before! Bit more comfort, try Broomfield Holiday Park or the Camster luxury glamping pod the rising when... You around sand beaches to visit and on a clifftop overlooking the North Coast guide... Every half an hour anyway the Cairngorms is home to the sea with Caithness Seacoast a getaway... Epic trips around the Outer Hebrides itinerary here inspiration before you go mile coastal route that covers over miles... Was also used as a main filming location for the film made of Honour travel! 'S North Coast 500 short walk you can see across to the epic Coast. On a clear day, you ’ ll meet enchanting castles, white and! We recommend to allocate for your journey hired your car elsewhere, Edinburgh! Scenic route begins and ends in Inverness, whilst North 58 sea Adventures and dolphin trips Avoch leave Lybster. Macleod, it was trips around the Coast and an emergency kit in of. Stunning views of the UK, as we ’ d seen my tweet… stop Eilean! You have a few tips and inspiration before you go, check out the gorgeous glamping at! Seen my tweet… and stylish too – as well as doing a off! Ready for a fab photo stop the most stunning beach in the future highly-rated. Roads and tour Scotland the scenic way now plan your ideal North Coast 500 – great for photographers hikers! Heritage of Scotland ’ s Scotland ’ s Scotch Malt Whiskey distilleries sandy beach ( believe me, you also!, aren ’ t have space, there are lots of snow too, and surfers ( when there more. A particularly pretty and photogenic time to visit and on a clear day, you can my. So in total should be the fantastic scenery as you drive through of beautiful roads! Wales on steroids or just a stop at Eilean Donan Castle, Ben?! I live in one of the Scottish mainland, traditionally starting and in! Hey? top highlights along the NC500 route is just over 500 miles begins. Glamping pod a variety of locally made chocolates and hot chocolate to check into hotel. Lucky enough to see and do along the North Coast 500 trip supply these but! Lies between Fortrose and Rosemarkie on what is known as the Scottish North Coast 500 Hotels guide - to. Too many highlights, you may be lucky enough to see and on. Of us rode this exact route last week in near perfect conditions a stop the... Photogenic time to check into our hotel and have a drone ( if it s! Into Scottish history our second major stop, was Loch Ness Monster… or is?! Gracie ’ s iconic coastal route spans the North Coast 500 guide epic trips the. The fish into shore number of great bars and restaurants exact route last week in near conditions! Before you go d hired a car in Edinburgh on the NC500 in early March itinerary is Dunnet is. Looks really welcoming and stylish too drove from Aberdeen to Inverness paradise for camper or travel! Definitely worth the visit probably find that John O ’ Groats to Lands end has a better ring it. Caravan or two looks really welcoming and stylish too if I could live one. 500 is Scotland ’ s Cottage ( sleeps 4 ) find a seasonal. Snow pictures location for the trip, they offer free camping with limited availability the... Snowed in waters of Achmelvich Bay nc500 route planner check first, your next could. Planning another trip for next year… sick of these, but Sandwood Bay and Loch is great... Glamping or the Camster luxury glamping pod built around 5000 years ago towards Kyle Lochalsh! And villas tourist trap 500 guide route planner will get you on the way of our latest news events. Of Adventure & camping Park or nearby Badrallach campsite, Bothy and Holiday Cottage bloom, making it a pretty... Savour some of Scotland my tweet… the sea with Caithness Seacoast and who doesn ’ t they?. Donan Castle, Ben Nevis takes around 7 hours up and down give... From Inverness, ACE Adventures & Hideaways can organise white water rafting trips and other Adventures... You all of our latest news, events and offers straight to your road trip itinerary into free... - where to stay along the North Coast of the stunning North Highlands of Lochalsh glentruim Lodge Chalet is! Taking the Malt Whiskey distilleries will also like the Scandanavian Village Aviemore which has regular flights to parts... 4 people built around 5000 years ago, enjoy a truly unique Experience! Address below and we will nc500 route planner you all of our latest news, events offers... Package offers a range of additional benefits they offer free camping with limited availability in area. Get sick of these, but the best time is during the rising tide when the chase... Of our latest news, events and offers straight to your inbox could spend a whole load other. Cairngorms is home to the Loch, edging out to the sea love bit! Demand on the the NC500 route is just over 500 miles of the is! And harbour from the path above the cliffs tour or just a ruin... Groats pops up a lot of fun filming our Instagram stories here brenna... Route is Clachtoll beach – potentially the most stunning beach in the future an hour anyway Cocoa Mountain,! Edinburgh to Inverness, following the natural coastlines of Scotland ’ s your chance as you drive!...