the Highlands of Scotland are incredible to visit! With towering mountain ranges, tranquil lochs and heaps of quaint villages, it’s the type of area that’s perfect for a road trip; especially around the North Coast 500 route. In fact, there are so many best places to see on the North Coast 500 route in Scotland that you’re going to be spoilt for choice.
Over the years, we’ve visited countless times; following this easy-to-follow and detailed Scottish Highlands itinerary. It takes in some of the best places on the North Coast 500 route, but also meanders (and slightly detours) just off the official route to find some total gems to explore.
It’s the most idyllic area and one of my favourite regions in all of the UK. Just be sure to plan ahead, book accommodation in plenty of time (the best spots fill up fast in summer) and consider that you might be driving on very narrow roads.
The latter can always be a surprise for North American visitors!
Anyway, I don’t want to ramble too much! Following a route north of Inverness (anticlockwise) I want to share some of our favourite spots around and places on the North Coast 500 route in Scotland that you have to visit.
Plus, a few other little detours that are total gems to see. Have the best time exploring Scotland!
1.) Inverness
In lots of ways, Inverness is basically the gateway to the North Coast 500 route. In fact, Inverness is likely to be the first point where you start your road trip; either arriving by air (to Inverness Airport) or via train.
Now, either at the start (or the end of your North Coast 500 road trip, make sure to take a little detour east towards the Cairngorms. It’s one of the UK’s largest national parks and totally idyllic.
We had the best time exploring the Cairngorms, and it’s well worth popping over to Aviemore where you’ll find loads of trails, bike rental points and Loch an Eilein which is gorgeous.
Plus, you’ve got the tasty Kinrara Distillery that’s so close by. Their gin is so good and uses foraged herbs to create their blend.
After arriving back in Inverness, and before heading onto the NC500 route, make sure to see some of the city’s best spots. Be sure to check out Botanic Gardens, Inverness Castle and the Highlanders’ Museum, too.
If you’re short on time, you can also book this amazing guided tour from Inverness that drives you to Eilean Donan Castle and the Isle of Skye for a full-day trip….
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