By Campbell Kerr and Gemma Spence from @Highlands2hammocks
The North Coast 500 is a popular road trip in Scotland that starts and ends in Scoland’s most northern city, Inverness. Following the coast around the northeast, northern coast and northwest of Scotland, this route features some of the most beautiful scenery you will find in Scotland. Not only will the views take your breath away, this part of Scotland also features some fantastic food and drink that you can enjoy on your trip and try out the local delicacies and feel involved in the local culture. If you are looking for somewhere unique to stay on your trip to Scotland, the North Coast 500 is home to a number of great accommodations that you can book to suit your needs. In this post we are sharing a few of our favourite places to eat and stay on the North Coast 500.
Ness Lodge is your cost home from home located on Ness River in the city centre of Inverness. Zoe and Billy are your friendly hosts who will welcome you to Ness Lodge with open arms. This accommodation on the North Coast 500 features everything you could need, including a self-catering kitchen, dishwasher, washing machine and a fully stocked minibar for your stay. Not to mention the very comfortable corner sofa in front of the fireplace. With many restaurants and bars within a short walking distance, your stay at Ness Lodge will be a very comfortable one.
A visit to MacGregors is a must during your North Coast 500 trip. The friendly atmosphere from the moment you step foot through the door to the traditional live music are just a couple of reasons why you should visit this fantastic bar. MacGregors is popular for a Sunday roast as well as the other options
on their extensive menu. Inside the bar and restaurant is dog friendly and during the summer months, they have a large beer garden which the glass doors open up to.
If you are looking for high quality baking on the northeast coast of Scotland, make sure you plan to stop off at Annie’s wee Bakery. This dog friendly, family-run tearoom is open for light lunches during the day, as well as coffee and cake.
FIONN CROFT LODGE AND SHEPHERDS HUT, Melvaig
Fionn Croft Shepherds Hut is one of the more unique accommodations you will find on the North Coast 500, located around a 15-minute drive from the small town of Gairloch on the west coast. This small Shepherd’s hut is remote with incredible views of the North Atlantic and surrounded by rolling green hills.
If you are looking for some good food with a great view, The Badachro Inn will give you that and more. This friendly bar has an extensive menu and a cosy indoor seating area. There is also an extended conservatory area overlooking the beautiful Loch Gairloch and a decking area outside where you can enjoy the fantastic wood-fired pizzas from their Stag and Dough pizza van.
The North Coast 500 is incredibly popular, especially throughout the peak season so we would recommend booking ahead and checking opening hours to avoid disappointment.
All of these places and many more can be found in North Coast 500 Where to Eat and Stay.
Images credit: Campbell Kerr and Gemma Spence
North Coast 500: Where to Eat and Stay is a unique guide to the North Coast 500 that will ensure you find the best hotels, the most delicious local foods, the cosiest pubs and the most acclaimed destinations. Get your copy today!