Image / Hippopx
Start from a nearby coastal base, then set out to explore trails that suit every pace. Walk the John o' Groats Trail for sea stacks and headland views, follow the River Shin Trail for riverside calm, or pedal quiet forestry tracks through Blingery Forest. For a gentler day, paddle Loch Brora or stroll Brora Cove at low tide. Venture further to RSPB Forsinard Flows to cross its boardwalks and spot specialist wildlife, or climb Ben Bhraggie for a quick viewpoint over the Dornoch Firth. Practical routes, clear stops and varied terrain mean you can plan active days, then return to warm rooms, local food and a slow evening to recover.
Image / Paws Explore North
Gravel tracks, wind turbines and wide Highland skies.
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What to expect
Expect compacted gravel forestry tracks running beneath turbines and through mixed plantation. The path is straightforward underfoot but can be exposed to wind. You will find pedestrian and cycle bypasses at farm fences and gates, and the route opens out onto minor single-track roads near Tannach and Puldagon. Vegetation and undulating terrain give occasional views across moor and sea.
Plan your visit
Bring a bike with wider tyres or sturdy walking shoes, and pack waterproof layers, water and snacks. If you plan a loop, check your route before you set off, because some deer or farm gates may restrict certain exits. Start from the Camster wind-farm parking area or approach from minor roads near Tannach, and use a map app or paper map for navigation where signage is limited.
Image / Scotland Off the Beaten Track
Climb a classic Munro for wide Highland views.
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What to expect
Expect a firm climb with sections of loose stone and grassy, sometimes boggy ground near the bealach. The path to the top is not always waymarked, so navigation matters. There are long, exposed stretches where the weather can change quickly, but the summit views make the effort worthwhile. You may see red deer and grazing sheep, and the landscape feels wild and open rather than built up for visitors.
Plan your visit
Plan for changeable weather and bring navigation tools, either a map and compass or a handheld GPS. Wear sturdy boots and waterproof layers, and pack enough food and drink for a sustained walk. If you prefer quieter starts, aim to set off early. Trains serve Bridge of Orchy if you want to avoid parking, and local paths lead from the village onto the ascent.
Image / GPS Cycle and Walking Routes
Paddle, walk, pause, calm waters and wide skies.
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What to expect
You will find long, open views and changing skies, often with few other people. The shoreline offers simple paths and shallow bays for launching a board or wandering with a dog. Salmon and trout are present, and birds are common. The loch can feel exposed on windy days, so conditions change fast.
Plan your visit
Allow time to reach the loch, the last stretch is a single-track road with a shallow river crossing and limited parking. Bring layered, windproof clothing and sturdy footwear. If you plan to paddle, check the wind and water before you launch, take a buoyancy aid and a drybag, and keep an eye on changing conditions. Dogs are welcome, but keep them under control around livestock. Follow Leave No Trace principles and take all litter with you.
Image / North Highland Initiative
At the very tip of mainland Britain, where the coast opens out and the sea takes over.
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What to expect
You will find a mix of easy coastal paths and rougher cliff-top sections. The terrain is mostly clear underfoot, with some stony tracks and grass stretches. Wildlife sightings are common, from seabirds to occasional dolphins and seals. There are places to stop for coffee, toilets and small gift shops in the village, plus parking close to the shore. Strong winds and changeable weather shape the experience here, so scenery can feel dramatic and elemental.
Plan your visit
Dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes, the weather can change fast and wind is a constant. Plan a visit that includes a short walk along the headland and time for a coffee in the village afterwards. If you are tackling longer sections bring water and a map, and allow extra time for photo stops and wildlife watching. Combine this stop with other NC500 highlights or a ferry link to nearby islands if that fits your route.
Image / Venture North
A short riverside walk with a suspension bridge and woodland views.
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What to expect
Expect a well-defined trail with short stretches of uneven ground and tree roots. A narrow suspension bridge gives a close view of the river below. The path runs through pockets of conifer and broadleaf woodland and offers several lookout points over the river and nearby falls. The trail is family-friendly but includes short slopes and steps.
Plan your visit
Bring sturdy shoes and a windproof layer, as conditions can change quickly. Pack snacks and water: the riverside café is not always open. If you have a camera or binoculars, bring them for wildlife and river views. Keep dogs on a lead around the bridge and any livestock. Combine this stop with a drive along the NC500 or a visit to nearby viewpoints for a fuller day out.
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What to expect
A simple pull-over where the road gives way to an open outlook over the hills. The spot is calm and uncluttered, with good mobile signal for a quick call or to share a photo. Expect a short walk from your vehicle if you want a slightly better vantage point.
Plan your visit
Stop safely in the lay-by and leave space for other visitors. Wear sturdy footwear if you leave the roadside, and keep dogs on a lead near traffic. Bring a snack and water if you plan to linger, and take a few minutes to scan the horizon for local landmarks before moving on.
Image / RSPB
Roam the vast peatlands and listen for curlew on the wind.
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What to expect
Expect open, rolling peatland with long sightlines and few trees. Paths include a straightforward boardwalk and flagstone trails that lead to a raised viewing platform, where you can scan for birds and scan the horizon. The visitor centre offers interpretation and basic facilities, and there are information panels along the trails that explain peatland ecology. Wildlife is the focus: look for dragonflies, specialist bog plants, and ground‑nesting birds. Weather can change quickly, and insects can be noticeable on warm days.
Plan your visit
Wear sturdy footwear and waterproof layers, and bring binoculars and a camera with a telephoto option if you want close bird shots. Take insect repellent in summer and wear bright layers for visibility on open ground. Follow marked routes and keep to the boardwalk to protect the bog. Check RSPB or local listings before you travel for guided walks and seasonal visitor centre information. Consider combining the stop with other NC500 highlights to make the most of the journey.
Image / Golf Vacations UK
Wide sky, shingle and sand: a simple coastal stop on the NC500.
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What to expect
Expect a low-key, working-coast feel rather than a commercial beach. You will find areas of shingle that give way to sandy patches at low tide and pools full of small marine life. The shore is good for walking with dogs, looking for shells and watching seabirds. Facilities are in the village, so plan to pop into town for refreshments or supplies.
Plan your visit
Treat Brora Cove as a stop on a wider NC500 day. Check the tide if you want sand and rockpools, and bring a windproof layer for exposed conditions. Wear sturdy shoes for shingle, and take a small bag for any litter you find to support the local coastline. Combine your visit with a walk through Brora and a stop at a village café or local food producer.
Image / Go Golspie Development Trust
A short climb, wide Highland views
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What to expect
Expect a well-marked walk that changes quickly from gentle slopes to steeper, rockier ground near the top. There are two main approaches: a steeper front-face path for a quicker ascent, and a gentler track that loops round the back. At the summit you’ll find the 30m memorial and broad panoramas of sea, hills and farmland. Facilities are minimal, so plan accordingly.
Plan your visit
Wear sturdy footwear and bring a windproof layer, even on mild days. Pack water and a picnic if you want to stay on the summit, there are no public toilets. If you’re with children pick the back route for an easier gradient. Combine this stop with other NC500 sights near Golspie to make the most of the drive. Check weather and local advice before attempting the steeper paths.
Image / www.highlandcoasthotels.com
Highland Coast Hotels is a collection of hotels across the Scottish Highlands, from Inverness to the far north coast. Each property sits within the landscape, with warm rooms, honest food and local knowledge at every stop on the North Coast 500. Choose your hotel and start planning your trip.
