Top 10 must-see places on the NC500 in 2026

Your must do list for your 2025 Scottish road trip

Planning your dream NC500 road trip adventure? With over 500 miles of jaw-dropping coastline, castles and beaches, choosing where to stop can be overwhelming. Here's my handpicked list of 10 unmissable locations for your North Coast 500 road trip in 2025 - from the best beaches to my favourite viewpoints.

1. Bealach na Bà

The famous Bealach na Ba is a must when traveling along the NC500. The road twists it’s way up into the mountains with incredible views overlooking the Isle of Skye and the surrounding mountains. It is one of Scotland's most dramatic mountain drives, featuring hairpin bends and panoramic views as you ascend to over 2,000 feet. If you’re driving in a big vehicle (I’d say anything over 6m), it may be wise to scout the route out on Google Maps before taking on the road as there are few passing places available. Alternatively, I’d suggest giving this one a miss. If you’re traveling in a motorhome, checkout my motorhome guide here for the best route.

Start of the climb from Applecross:

• Postcode: IV54 8LN

• what3words: ///retraced.spend.probable

• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9edMBDuY8s5uiigt8

2. Smoo Cave

Smoo cave is one of the great free stops along the North Coast 500 road trip. You can walk down the cliff to explore the impressive sea cave, one of the largest in the UK, with a hidden waterfall inside (this part is only accessible via boat and wooden walkway) but you can still explore a large portion of the cave.​ Parking is provided at the top of the hill along with toilets. Visit the village of Durness for coffee and lunch, a short drive down the road.

• Postcode: IV27 4QA

• what3words: ///gift.amazed.extremely

• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MrsTEzNq9H8tn7Qo6

3. Whaligoe Steps

Descend the 365 steps carved into cliffs to reach a historic harbour once used by fisherman. On a clear day, you can spot hundreds of seabirds landing on the cliff edges. Just remember, the way you go down is also the way you come up, so prepare yourself for a short plod.

• Postcode: KW2 6AB

• what3words: ///bitter.troubles.afflicted

• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ey1PD2LejcNk9aks9

4. Ardvreck Castle

Discover the ruins of the 16th-century castle sat on the shores of Loch Assynt, one of the most beautiful in Scotland

• Postcode: IV27 4HL

• what3words: ///overgrown.eased.novelist

• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3KTvipsPPu4Hf9YV9

5. Rhue Lighthouse

One of my favourite places to stop on the West coast of the NC500. A short walk from the carpark leads to this stunning lighthouse offering beautiful views looking over Loch Broom and the Summer Isles. This was one of my favourite places to read a book and enjoy the peace and quiet as boats sailed passed the harbour

• Postcode: IV26 2TJ

• what3words: ///starlight.crawling.rejoined

• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Lgm27BaK4mDbsP1TA

6. Wailing Widow Falls

A must-see on the NC500 route, this hidden waterfall cascades dramatically from Loch na Gainmhich, creating a breathtaking scene against the wild and rugged Highland backdrop. Parking can be limited, especially for larger vehicles, you may need to park at the top of the pass and walk down to reach the falls.

• Postcode: IV27 4HW

• what3words: ///talent.hamper.solicitor

• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rJHFDSMpCM5NZzqs7

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👋🏻 Hey, while you’re here, why not check out my downloadable North Coast 500 Guide & Digital Map

I’m really excited to share my latest NC500 guide and digital interactive map which I’ve spent the last few months working hard on.

It contains all the information you need to plan your own NC500 adventure, including tips, must-visit north coast 500 spots, affordable NC500 accommodation, and the fun activities we enjoyed on our North Coast 500 adventures.

It comes with a free digital Google map with over 100+ recommended locations including attractions, cafes, campsites, beaches plus much more! You can access this map from your phone and plan your route accordingly.

If you prefer, you can also buy the physical hard copy which comes bounded and with a cover.

And if you’re driving in a motorhome, you can get the dedicated motorhome version which includes all the best routes for large vehicles.

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7. Kylesku Bridge

The curved Kylesku bridge offers breathtaking views over Loch a' Chàirn Bhàin and is a great place to stop for lunch on the way down the west coast. There is often a coffee van serving a mix of food and drinks in the car park. There are no loo facilities here.

• Postcode: IV27 4HW

• what3words: ///haven.wept.roosters

• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/RxaqLMZyyxVLEGb67

8. Dunrobin Castle

One of the first stops along the East coast of the Scotland 500, Dunrobin Castle resembles a French château, the stately home boasts exquisite gardens overlooking the sea and a fantastic turreted castle. This is a great place to stop for coffee on the way up or down the East Coast.

• Postcode: KW10 6SF

• what3words: ///velocity.giants.sits

• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/pD6hsRp6xomF3tw2A

9. Falls of Measach

The Corrieshalloch Gorge is one of the more interest places to explore along the NC500 with its dramatic 46-meter waterfall plunging into the Gorge, accessible via a small suspension bridge.​ There are several short walks available around the park all offering a scenic wonder through the forest and along side the waterfalls and is a great place to visit after a lunch stop in Ullapool.

• Postcode: IV23 2PJ

• what3words: ///drummers.fame.tracking

• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/4rgkzxbvT9RP4oTN9

10. Strathy Beach 🏝️

This is one of the most beautiful beachs along the entire North Coast 500 with rolling sand dunes, caves, white sand and blue water, perfect for a peaceful stroll, a refreshing dip or picnic by the beach. The best bit it, you often have it to yourself as many just drive on to the village of Durness. For all the best beaches along the NC500, view my full beach blog here.

• Postcode: KW14 7RZ

• what3words: ///collides.concerned.proves

• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BsHfw2fnGYF9tu1G8

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Have a read of my other North Coast 500 guides and resources

Have a read of Lake District hiking guides