Hopstead
About this trip
This is a classic NC500 loop through the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, taking in rugged coastlines, ancient castles, and remote wild stops along the way. Starting and finishing in Inverness, you'll travel at a relaxed pace — one night per stop — sweeping up the west coast, across the far north, and back down the east. It's a trip that blends history, wilderness, and the open road in equal measure.
The route
1. Inverness
Navigate ↗1 night
You'll kick off the adventure in Inverness, the gateway to the Highlands, with a visit to the haunting Culloden Battlefield and the atmospheric ruins of Fortrose Cathedral on the nearby Black Isle. It's a historically rich start that sets the tone for the journey ahead.
🏕 Staying at Bunchrew Caravan Park · Showers, Toilets, Power
3. Applecross Campsite
Navigate ↗1 night
Applecross Campsite is a wonderfully remote spot on the west coast, tucked away on a peaceful peninsula with big views across the water. With nothing planned, this is a night to simply settle in, breathe the sea air, and enjoy the stillness.
4. Ardvreck Castle
Navigate ↗1 night
Travelling via Gairloch, you'll make your way to Ardvreck Castle, the evocative lochside ruins of a 16th-century tower house in the heart of Sutherland. It's a magical place to spend a night, with the castle right on your doorstep.
🏕 Staying at Scourie Caravan and Campsite
On the way: Via, Via Gairloch
5. Smoo Cave
Navigate ↗1 night
On the wild far north coast, Smoo Cave is a dramatic highlight of the route — a vast sea cave carved into the limestone cliffs that you'll get to explore up close. It's one of those stops that genuinely surprises and impresses in equal measure.
🏕 Staying at Sango Sands · Showers, Toilets, Water, Power, Dump station
Things to do
Smoo Cave map ↗
6. John o' Groats
Navigate ↗1 night
John o' Groats is one of Britain's most famous landmarks, sitting at the very northeastern tip of the mainland. With nothing specific planned, it's a great spot to soak up the sense of achievement, watch the sea, and enjoy the unique end-of-the-road atmosphere.
🏕 Staying at John O'Groats Caravan and Camping Site
7. Dunrobin Castle
Navigate ↗1 night
Dunrobin Castle is one of the most striking stately homes in Scotland, and spending a night nearby makes for a memorable stop as you head south down the east coast. Even without a plan, the setting alone is well worth the stay.
🏕 Staying at Golspie Links Caravan Park
8. Inverness
Navigate ↗1 night
You'll roll back into Inverness to close the loop on a fantastic Highland adventure. A final night in the city is the perfect chance to rest, reflect, and perhaps celebrate completing the NC500.
Make this trip your own
Import this route into Hopstead and tweak the stays, days and pace to fit you.
Route & parking guidance is advisory - verify current restrictions for your vehicle before travelling.