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If you’ve been considering completing the North Coast 500 in one day, it is not recommended
Ness Walk lies at the start and finishing point of the breath-taking NorthCoast 500 driving route… rugged winding coastal roads that hug the North of Scotland’s beautiful shores.
We are advocates of slow travel – taking time to experience as much as possible on each trip. A non-stop tour around the fishing villages and beautiful white sandy beaches would involve missing out on so many incredible experiences. So, pick a section of the route and explore all the highlights from that area in one day.
The route
Bringing together a route of just over 500 miles (516 to be exact…) of stunning coastal scenery. The route passes white sandy beaches, rugged mountains, remote fishing villages, hidden gems, and a wealth of unforgettable experiences. Undeniably one of the world’s most beautiful road trips!
Whether you’re looking for an action-packed day, a chance to relax or simply want to see more of the North Highlands’ breath-taking scenery, you will find it on the NC500.
Picking two or three spots from the North Coast 500
If you only have one day to spare, we would recommend picking one section of the route to conquer. Perfect if you’re staying at Ness Walk on a two-night offer and want to venture out during your stay.
Take your time, explore one area and leave plenty of sights for another time… the Highlands will have you yearning to return again soon!
Dunrobin Castle
To experience a flavour of the route, stay close to Inverness and discover the Black Isle and Easter Ross.
Dunrobin Castle stands as an icon of grandeur and history on Scotland’s stunning East Coast. Perched atop cliffs overlooking the North Sea, this magnificent castle is the northernmost of Scotland’s great houses. With its design resembling a French Château, Dunrobin Castle dates back to the 1800’s. Today, it offers visitors a glimpse into a bygone era of opulence and elegance. The meticulously manicured gardens, castle’s architecture and picturesque setting are truly breath-taking.
Sandwood Bay
One of the most remote and beautiful beaches in the UK, Sandwood Bay is a beautiful location on the North West coast of Scotland. Sprawling white sand sit between an impressive sea stack and dunes leading to a freshwater loch. The beach is approximately 4 miles on foot from the nearest hamlet so pack a lunch and follow the well-trodden flat path to the coast.
While following the NC500 driving route to Sandwood would take too long to complete in a day, a more direct route would take approximately 2.5 hours from Ness Walk.
Dunnet Head Nature Reserve
The most northerly tip of the mainland, Dunnet Head Nature reserve is home to stunning sea cliffs and coastal grasslands. Just under 3 hours following the North Coast 500 driving route North, you will arrive to abundant sea birds at this RSPB site. Look out for puffins, razorbills, guillemots, fulmars, kittiwakes, shags and cormorants!
Travel in style
Hitting the road in 5* style seems only fitting after staying in one of Ness Walk’s luxurious rooms. Travelling by EV offers the lowest impact option for exploring – charge your electric car at Ness Walk where we have 11 EV charging points, powered from renewable sources.
Fancy an exhilarating and fully immersive drive? Our partners at Highland Caterham Hire will have you ready to venture north in a two-seater roadster – available for day hire.
Or, fans of the ultimate in luxury can sign up to become a member of Auto Vivendi at Ness Walk. We’ve recently partnered with Auto Vivendi as one of the most northern Club Hub’s in the UK! In return for an annual membership fee, enjoy the latest models from Ferrari, Lamborghini, Aston Martin, McLaren, Rolls-Royce and Bentley delivered to your home. Or, indeed, delivered to Ness Walk!
Travel Responsibly
Drive slowly on the route and respect other road users. Respect the environment by disposing of waste properly, recycling whenever possible, and leaving no trace of your presence. Stay on designated paths to protect delicate ecosystems and wildlife habitats. Support local businesses and communities in the area.
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