Ultimate NC 500 Road Trip Itinerary: Scotland's Scenic North Coast

Day 1: Explore Inverness

Inverness, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Mustard Seed

Fuel up for the day with a delicious Scottish breakfast featuring local produce in a cozy riverside setting.
Walk 10 minutes from your accommodation to the restaurant.
GBP10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Inverness Castle

After breakfast, head to Inverness Castle to enjoy panoramic views of the city and the River Ness.
Drive 5 minutes from The Mustard Seed.
GBP5, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Culloden Battlefield

Dive into Scottish history at the Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last battle fought on British soil.
Drive 15 minutes from Inverness Castle.
GBP12, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Café 1

Savor a midday meal at this popular local cafe known for its creative dishes and relaxed atmosphere.
Drive back to Inverness for about 15 minutes.
GBP15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Drive to Loch Ness

Experience the beauty of Loch Ness, where you have the option to take a boat tour or explore the surrounding area.
Drive 30 minutes from Café 1 to Loch Ness.
GBP15 (if taking a boat tour), 2 hours

5:30PM

Head to Ullapool

Continue your journey by driving along the scenic route to Ullapool, taking in breathtaking Highland landscapes.
Drive 1 hour and 30 minutes to Ullapool.
GBP0, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Seafood Shack

Wind down the day with fresh seafood at this street food style eatery, renowned for its tasty dishes.
Walking distance from your accommodation in Ullapool.
GBP20, 1 hour

8:30PM

Check into Accommodation

Relax at a cozy inn or B&B in Ullapool and prepare for tomorrow's adventures.
Walk to your accommodation.
GBP80, 1 hour
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Day 2: The Beauty of Ullapool

Ullapool, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Arch Inn

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at The Arch Inn, overlooking Loch Broom.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
GBP12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kayaking at Ullapool Harbor

Explore the stunning coastline by taking a guided kayaking tour from Ullapool Harbor.
Short walk to the harbor.
GBP50, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Caledonian Café

Enjoy a light lunch at this friendly café known for its vegetarian options and local sandwiches.
Return to the town center, about a 5-minute walk.
GBP10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiking at Stac Pollaidh

Embark on a hike at the iconic Stac Pollaidh for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Drive 30 minutes from Ullapool.
GBP0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Ullapool Museum

Get a deeper insight into the town's history at this friendly local museum.
Drive back to Ullapool for about 30 minutes.
GBP5, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Scenic Drive to Thurso

Set off for Thurso, enjoying the rugged beauty of the coastline along the way.
Drive 1 hour and 30 minutes.
GBP0, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Castletown Hotel

Enjoy dinner in a lovely local hotel known for its warm hospitality and traditional dishes.
Walking distance from your accommodation in Thurso.
GBP20, 1 hour

8:30PM

Check into Accommodation

Settle into a comfortable accommodation in Thurso to recharge for the next day.
Walk to your accommodation.
GBP90, 1 hour
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Day 3: Discover Thurso

Thurso, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Newmarket

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before a day of exploration at this popular local spot.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
GBP10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Caithness Horizons

Visit this award-winning museum that showcases local history and the natural environment of Caithness.
Short walk from breakfast.
GBP5, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Old St. Peter’s Church

Explore this historic church which has been a part of Thurso's history since the 12th century.
Walking distance, about 15 minutes.
GBP0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Blue Door

Savor a locally-sourced lunch at this cozy café known for its homemade pies.
Walk back to town, about 15 minutes.
GBP12, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Dunnet Head

Visit the northernmost point of mainland Scotland for breathtaking views and coastal walks.
Drive 30 minutes from The Blue Door.
GBP0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Thurso for Leisure

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coastline or explore more of Thurso's local shops.
Drive back to Thurso for about 30 minutes.
GBP0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Final Dinner at The Pentland Hotel

End your road trip with a relaxing dinner at this local hotel boasting a wonderful menu and ambiance.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
GBP20, 1 hour

7:30PM

Prepare for Departure

Conclude your unforgettable NC 500 journey and prepare to head back or continue to your next destination.
Walk to your car.
GBP0, 1 hour
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