What is the North Coast 500?

The North Coast 500 is Britain’s most beautiful road, an incredibly scenic route around the Scottish coast that covers 500 miles along the northern coastline of the United Kingdom. Often referred to as Scotland's answer to Route 66, the NC500 takes travellers on a circular journey starting and ending in the city of Inverness while showcasing the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, clear-water beaches, picturesque villages, and historic castles. It has become increasingly popular among road trip enthusiasts and nature lovers from all around the world looking to explore the stunning beauty of Scotland.

How long does it take to do the North Coast 500?

The North Coast 500 (NC500) can vary depending on individual preferences and the pace of travel.

Typically, the route is completed within 5 to 7 days, allowing for a comfortable exploration of the key highlights along the way. However, some travellers choose to extend their journey and take more time, ranging from 10 days to 2 or 3 weeks, to fully immerse themselves in the scenic landscapes, visit additional attractions, and indulge in leisurely activities such as hiking, wildlife spotting, and cultural experiences. Ultimately, the duration of the NC500 is flexible and can be tailored to suit individual preferences and available travel time.

Best time to travel the North Coast 500?

The best time to travel the North Coast 500 (NC500) in Scotland is typically during the late spring to early autumn months, specifically May to September. During these months, you can expect milder temperatures, longer daylight hours, and generally more favourable weather conditions, making it ideal for driving and exploring the stunning landscapes along the route.

May and September are considered shoulder seasons, offering a balance between fewer crowds and pleasant weather. The landscapes are vibrant, with blooming flowers in May, and the autumn colours start to appear in September. We travelled during the second week of May and it was perfect. Whether was a mix of light showers, sun and wind, but that is to be expected in Scotland. At most locations, there were very few people, and the roads were managble with some stretches completely empty. Some campsites were busy, yet we managed to get a space on the day without a booking.

June, July, and August are the peak summer months when the NC500 sees the highest number of visitors. While these months offer longer daylight hours and the warmest temperatures, popular attractions and accommodations may be busier, so it's advisable to book in advance. It is also worth noting that these months are peak midgie months…which isn’t fun.

It's important to note that weather in Scotland can be unpredictable at any time of year, and it's advisable to pack layers, including waterproof clothing, to be prepared for changing conditions. If you prefer quieter roads and don't mind cooler temperatures, travelling the NC500 in the shoulder seasons can offer a more serene and unique experience.

Parts of the NC500 are doable in the winter months, however some roads will be closed due to snow.

Is there mobile phone signal on the North Coast 500?

While mobile phone signal coverage along the North Coast 500 (NC500) has improved in recent years, there are still areas with limited or no signal, particularly in more remote and rural sections of the route. Along the coastal areas and major towns, you can generally expect to have decent mobile phone reception. We are on O2 and 3. O2 seemed to have more of a stronger signal throughout the trip compared to 3.

However, it's important to be prepared for potential gaps in coverage, especially in more isolated areas or when venturing inland. I recommend you download offline Google Maps or download OS Maps with the Ordnance Survey mobile app. This way, you can still navigate the route even if you encounter areas with limited or no signal.