Image / PxHere
Start with a short walk, then get back on the road. This guide gathers the best roadside stops and gentle walks along the east Sutherland coast, from the Hairpin Viewpoint that frames the road on the cliffs to Berriedale Braes with its moving war memorial and harbour. Expect Brora Harbour for a quick stretch, the Wee Hoose on its loch for a brief, photogenic pause, and the River Shin Trail for a riverside stroll. Each stop is chosen for clear views and low-effort access, perfect for day trips or sections of a longer drive. Return to your hotel each evening knowing you have seen real Highland coastline and quiet, local places.
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What to expect
A compact pull-off with an open outlook over the ocean and neighbouring headlands. Expect wind, changing light and the occasional passing cyclist or coach from the NC500. There are no formal facilities, so come prepared with warm layers and sturdy footwear.
Plan your visit
Treat this as a short photo and stretch stop while you travel the NC500. Allow 15 to 30 minutes to take pictures, scan the horizon for seabirds and enjoy the light. Combine it with a walk around Helmsdale or other nearby coastal points, and leave no trace: take your litter with you and keep dogs under control near cliffs.
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.
Image / The Scotsman
A wee house on the loch, a quick stop with a story.
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What to expect
Calm water, a diminutive wooden house framed by trees, and clear views across the loch when the weather is kind. The site is mostly for looking and photographing rather than exploring the island. There are carved wooden sculptures along the path and open space suitable for families and dogs on a leash.
Plan your visit
Drive as part of an NC500 leg and allow time to park and take the short walk to the viewpoint. Wear sturdy footwear for uneven woodland paths. Bring binoculars or a telephoto lens for close-up views of the house on the island. Keep dogs on a lead and take any litter away with you. Pair this stop with other nearby viewpoints around Lairg for a fuller stretch of the legs.
Image / Ground Engineering
A sharp coastal view and a quiet piece of history on the NC500.
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What to expect
Expect a short, upward path from the lay-by that leads to a grassy viewpoint and a small graveyard with a Neoclassical war memorial. The view opens across the coastal sweep to the harbour and inland toward Scaraben. Wind and changeable light shape the scene, so layers and steady footwear help. The stop suits a quick leg stretch, a photo break and a moment at the memorial.
Plan your visit
Pull into the lay-by and follow the marked path to the viewpoint and graveyard. Take a few minutes to read the memorial plaque, then walk to the clifftop for unobstructed views. Wear shoes with grip, keep to the path and take care near cliff edges. Dogs should be under control near livestock and the memorial. This stop fits easily into an NC500 day, paired with nearby coastal viewpoints and village stops.
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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 / Caithness and Sutherland
A small working harbour with a wide stretch of beach and open sea views.
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What to expect
Expect a modest quayside with moored fishing boats, simple slipways and a sandy beach that runs alongside the harbour. The place feels local rather than touristy, with seabirds and the occasional working vessel on the water. Facilities are limited, so plan for a brief outdoor visit rather than a long day out.
Plan your visit
Pack layers and sensible shoes for uneven quayside stones. Combine the harbour with a stroll through Brora village or a visit to the nearby beach. Bring a small picnic to enjoy on the sand, and give working boats space when they’re coming and going. If you want a quick stop on a longer drive, the harbour is an easy short detour.
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.
