The ultimate road trip driving Scotland’s North Coast 500 in a Motorhome and explore some of the most amazing and spectacular scenery in the world.

After only a couple of years of a strong but controversial marketing strategy, the North Coast 500 is already right up there as one of the world’s best road trips.

It’s not new though. The north coast of Scotland has always been there.

Now it’s firmly on the map and visitors flock to the north of the United Kingdom to take on Scotland’s answer to Route 66.

WHAT IS THE NC500?

The official route is a little over 500 miles but in reality, you’re bound to add a few more miles with diversions you take along the way.The route heads north from Inverness, hugging Scotland’s east coast to John O’Groats before taking the high road through spectacular scenery to Durness on the northwestern tip of the mainland.

From here, the road winds around mountains, lochs and white sand beaches south to Applecross before returning to Inverness via the fabulous Bealach na Bà. You can drive the North Coast 500 route in either direction. In hindsight, I’d say the anti-clockwise route is best for those who want to drive into the best of the dramatic scenery rather than leaving it behind.

Why choose a motorhome to explore the NC500

Traveling the North Coast 500 by motorhome is by far the best way to explore it. With no need to book accommodation, you have no fixed itinerary. It’s difficult, if not impossible, to match the freedom this gives you.

When you find an amazing secluded spot (and you will) perfect for a spot of lunch, you simply pull up and put the kettle on. No need to look for a café or tea shop. If you decide to spend a little more time in one place, there’s nothing to hold you back.

Since the NC500 marketing strategy has been so successful, accommodation is in high demand on the North Coast 500 route. Often, rooms need to be booked months in advance. Explore the route by motorhome or camper van and you’ll have no such problems.

Because you can park overnight almost anywhere and there are loads of campsites on the route, your only challenge is choosing which idyllic spot to sleep at. No packing and unpacking your suitcase at every guesthouse or hotel en route. Surely that’s got to be reason enough?

When is the best time to drive the NC500?

• The most favorable time of year in Scotland are April – May and September.
• June and August can be wet months in Scotland.
• July is busy with UK school holidays – particularly campsites on the west and north coasts.
• Most attractions (from the National Trust or Historic Scotland) close from October to Easter. Many of the grounds are still open.
• There is always a risk of snow in winter months inland from the coasts.

Whenever you drive the route, Scotland’s NC500 will take you on an incredible road trip around Scotland you won’t ever forget…