By Gemma and Campbell @Highlands2hammocks
The North Coast 500, commonly known as the NC500 is the most popular road trip in Scotland, exploring a 500-mile route around the Scottish Highlands. The circular route starts and ends in Inverness, taking you to some of the most remote corners of the country where you can visit the most stunning white sandy beaches and historical castles.
Many people will explore this part of Scotland over 7-14 days, whether that is booking into some of the incredible accommodation around the route or making use of the campsites. The best way to see the beautiful parts of Scotland that are located on the North Coast 500 route is to take it slow and absorb the views that each area has to offer. One of our favourite regions is Wester Ross and, in this post, we will share some of the best sights that you can expect to see in this part of Scotland.
Ullapool
Ullapool is a vibrant town on the northwest coast of Scotland which sees a fairly constant footfall of tourists throughout the year. There are many small local shops in the town as well as some fantastic restaurants and cafes.
Ullapool Hill is a brilliant walk with stunning views across the town of Ullapool and Loch Broom. The walk is short, taking around one hour to get to the top and can be fairly steep in points. The route to the top follows a path through the woodland which emerges out into an open path with magnificent surrounding views. The highest point is 270m at the peak of Meall Mor.
There is a campsite called Broomfield Holiday Park, overlooking Loch Broom, which experiences the most incredible sunsets and is located in the town of Ullapool. The Essence of India is located on the doorstep of this campsite and is a great way to end the evening. Alternatively, The Caledonian Hotel offers a peaceful night’s stay in the heart of the town centre of Ullapool, a place to rejuvenate yourself ready for the next day’s adventure.
Gairloch
Gairloch is a beautiful area on the western coast of Scotland with beautiful views across to the Isle of Skye on a clear day. Gairloch Beach is a beautiful place for a swim or to enjoy the white sands on a clear sunny day. The sunsets from this beach are magical when the weather is right.
A short drive south west will take you to a small area called Badachro, which is one of the most beautiful and remote areas on the route. The Badachro Inn serves up a delicious meal and brilliant woodfired pizzas that will satisfy your stomach for the night.
Torridon
A rugged and rural landscape lies before you in the Torridon region where the mountains tower above you and the wildlife roams freely. If you enjoy walking or hiking, Torridon has plenty for you to enjoy where you can adventure without crossing another person’s footsteps. Follow the winding roads through the mountains and along to Lower Diabaig, where you will drive through more incredible scenery towards the small town.
Rest your head at the Tigh Brachen Bothies with stunning views across Loch Torridon, where you can feel disconnected with the world and re-connected with each other and nature.
For more recommendations on where to stop along the NC500, get a copy of North Coast 500: Britain’s Ultimate Road Trip. This beautiful guide what is unique about this dramatic route, with stunning images and recommendations on the best places to visit.
About the authors
Throughout their lives, both together and apart, Gemma and Campbell have been lucky enough to experience some truly incredible things. Highlands2hammocks was born as a way to share these adventures with the world. They hope to inspire and educate about just what is possible on a budget, and they will always strive to see, do, taste, smell and experience as much as they possibly can, as cheaply as they possibly can.
North Coast 500: Britain’s ultimate road trip by Emma Gibbs and Collins Maps is out now.