North Coast 500

Don't just drive the North Coast 500. Experience it.

Driving the North Coast 500? Good choice. Winding through Scotland's northern Highlands, this unforgettable route is one of the UK's greatest road trips. But driving it isn't about racing from one stop to the next - it's about slowing down and soaking it all in.

North Coast 500 helps you do just that. Written by Scotland expert Rachel Laidler, and published in association with (c) North Coast 500 Ltd, 2025, this refreshingly honest guide takes you beyond the road and into the heart of the Highlands. It's packed with local insights, epic landscapes and must-do experiences, such as hiking through the cinematic mountains of Assynt and Torridon; sipping on whiskey at the centuries-old Balblair distillery; and taking a sustainable fishing trip with Ian and his plucky dog Dubh.

Inside North Coast 500 you'll find:



100+ handpicked highlights, from the hairpin bends of the Bealach na Ba to historic Dunrobin Castle
the best places to eat, drink, shop and stay, like a smokehouse near Applecross and a woodland cabin close to Ullapool
off-the-beaten-track detours, so you can explore even more of the Scottish Highlands
practical tips to plan your trip, travel safely and tread lightly
what3words for every stop - so you'll never get lost


So what are you waiting for? Whether you're driving the full loop or dipping into a section, this is the only guide you need for a North Coast 500 road trip to remember.