Scottish Highlands · Scotland
North Coast 500
The North Coast 500 is a 516-mile loop from Inverness around the north of Scotland via John o' Groats, Durness, Ullapool and Applecross. It is the UK's most famous road trip and best done over five to seven days.
- Distance
- ≈ 516 miles
- Twistiness
- 4/5
- Best season
- May – September
- Best for
- Cars & bikes
Why go
What makes North Coast 500 special
- Single-track coast roads in Sutherland
- Bealach na Bà to Applecross
- White-sand beaches and mountains from Durness to Ullapool
Watch out for
- Single-track roads — use passing places properly
- Fuel stations can be far apart
- Accommodation fills up in peak season
Road conditions change. Check closures, weather and local restrictions before you set off, and always ride and drive within the limit.
As a group
Taking a group over North Coast 500
At around 516 miles, plan North Coast 500 as one or more days with regroup and fuel stops every 45–75 minutes. Assign a sweep and share the route so nobody relies on keeping the rider in front in sight.
One shared route
Everyone on the same line from the start.
Lead and sweep
Sweep sees exactly who's behind.
Planned regroups
Stop at Durness.
FAQ
North Coast 500: common questions
How long is North Coast 500?+
North Coast 500 runs for about 516 miles from Inverness to Inverness in Scottish Highlands.
When is the best time to drive or ride North Coast 500?+
The best season is May – September. Go early in the day to avoid traffic, and check for closures in poor weather.
Is North Coast 500 good for motorcycles?+
Yes — North Coast 500 is a popular motorcycle road with a twistiness rating of 4 out of 5. Single-track roads — use passing places properly.
Can I ride North Coast 500 as a group?+
At around 516 miles, plan North Coast 500 as one or more days with regroup and fuel stops every 45–75 minutes. Assign a sweep and share the route so nobody relies on keeping the rider in front in sight.
Keep riding
More roads you'll like
Bealach na Bà
The Bealach na Bà, or Pass of the Cattle, climbs from sea level to around 626 metres with Alpine-style hairpins. It is one of the greatest roads in Britain and a highlight of the North Coast 500.
Glencoe & Rannoch Moor
The A82 from Tyndrum crosses the vast emptiness of Rannoch Moor, passes Buachaille Etive Mòr and drops through Glencoe. It is the grandest main road in Britain.
Torridon Road
The A896 runs through Glen Torridon beneath some of Scotland's most dramatic mountains, including Liathach and Beinn Eighe. Mostly single track in places, it is wild, beautiful and part of the NC500.