North Coast 500: The ultimate camping road trip through Scotland

The North Coast 500 (NC500) is one of the most spectacular coastal roads in Europe. It takes you through the rugged Highlands of northern Scotland for approximately 830 kilometers. Wild nature, stunning beaches, historic castles, charming villages, and breathtaking panoramas await you. Whether in a campervan, with the family, as a vanlifer, or overlander: the NC500 is a true adventure. Here you'll find everything you need for perfect planning!

Why is the North Coast 500 so special?

The NC500 is more than just a road – it's a window into one of Europe's most pristine and wildest landscapes. You'll drive along rugged coastlines, through mystical moors, past secluded sandy beaches and mirror-like lakes. Each stretch of road offers new views and contrasts. As a camper, you have the freedom to stay wherever you like best: standing on a clifftop at sunset, waking up with a view of the sea, or making a morning coffee by the river. The people of the Highlands are warm and proud of their culture. In small villages, you'll encounter genuine hospitality, traditional music in quaint pubs, and stories that tell of a long history. Especially for vanlifers, the route offers a perfect combination of freedom, nature experiences, and infrastructure – with plenty of spots to stop, hike, observe, and slow down. The NC500 isn't just a road trip; it's a way of life.

1. Route & Planning

The NC500 starts and ends in Inverness. From there, you can start clockwise or counterclockwise. Both directions have their appeal – many choose to do the east coast first, then experience the spectacular west coast at the end.

Suggested itinerary for 7 days:

Day 1: Inverness – Wick (via Dunrobin Castle)
Day 2: Wick – Durness (John O'Groats, Dunnet Head, Duncansby Stacks)
Day 3: Durness – Lochinver (Smoo Cave, Balnakeil Beach)
Day 4: Lochinver – Ullapool (Ardvreck Castle, Assynt Mountains)
Day 5: Ullapool – Gairloch (Corrieshalloch Gorge, Inverewe Garden)
Day 6: Gairloch – Applecross (via Bealach na Bà Pass)
Day 7: Applecross – Inverness

Tip:Allow plenty of time. The single-track roads are narrow, winding, and require careful driving.

2. Best time to travel

The best months are May, June, and September: long days, few midges, and fewer tourists than in midsummer. July and August are the peak season, with heavy traffic and high mosquito density. In spring, nature blooms, and in autumn, you can enjoy spectacular colors. Winter travel is possible, but challenging.

3. Highlights & Sights

Dunrobin Castle : Scotland's largest French-style castle boasts 189 rooms, magnificent gardens, and daily falconry demonstrations. A must-see for architecture lovers and families.
John O'Groats & Dunnet Head : The iconic John O'Groats signpost marks the "end of the island." Just a few kilometers further on, Dunnet Head is the true northernmost point of mainland Britain—with magnificent views of the Orkney Islands.
Smoo Cave : This huge sea and river cave is free to enter and features a waterfall inside. Guided boat tours deeper into the cave system are available during the summer months.
Beaches near Durness : Sango Sands and Balnakeil Beach offer white sand and crystal-clear water like the Caribbean—only colder. Perfect for strolls, photos, or picnics overlooking the sea.
Ardvreck Castle : The ruins of this ancient castle sit mystically on a peninsula in Loch Assynt. A photogenic and historic site, it's a perfect place for short hikes.
Ullapool : This charming harbor town with white houses and colorful boats is a perfect stopover. It features supermarkets, live music, and local artists' studios.
Corrieshalloch Gorge : A spectacular 60-meter-deep gorge with a suspension bridge for pure thrills. Ideal for a short hiking stop with a wow factor.
Bealach na Bà Pass : One of Scotland's steepest roads, with hairpin bends and an alpine feel. In good weather, the pass offers breathtaking views of the Highlands and the sea.
Applecross : Remote, quiet, and beautiful, the village is known for its relaxed atmosphere and the popular Applecross Inn, serving regional cuisine.
Whisky distilleries : Pure Scotland! Visit Glenmorangie, Old Pulteney, or Dunnet Bay Distillers for tours, tastings, and background stories on Scotland's "liquid gold."

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4. Camping & Overnight Stay

Wild camping with a campervan is officially prohibited. Respect nature and local residents and use the many beautiful campsites instead:

Top campsites:

Tip:Apps like Park4Night help you find parking spaces. Booking early or arriving on time is a good idea.

5. Packing list for the NC500 road trip

The weather in Scotland is changeable – anything from sunshine to rain within an hour is possible. Therefore, weatherproof clothing, warm layers, and sturdy shoes are essential. Mosquito repellent is especially essential in summer, as midges can otherwise ruin any break. If you're traveling offline, be sure to bring maps and power backups, as there are often dead spots. A camping stove allows for self-contained meals in remote spots, and binoculars help you spot wildlife and landscape details you'd otherwise miss. In short: well-packed means more comfort, safety, and experiences.

Packing list:

Mosquito repellent (spray & net)
Weatherproof clothing (rain jacket, fleece, hat)
Hiking boots & warm clothing even in summer
Offline maps or atlas
Power bank & car charger
Camping stoves & cookware
First aid kit
Thermos flask & drinking bottles
Binoculars for wildlife observation

6. Costs & Budget

Camper rental : from approx. 80€/day
Fuel : approx. 150–250€ for the entire route
Campsites : Ø 20€/night
Food : Self-catering saves money; a pub evening costs about €40 for 2 people
Entrance fees : Dunrobin Castle ~12€, Distilleries ~10–20€

How expensive is Scotland compared to Germany?

Generally, prices in Scotland are similar to those in Germany. Supermarket prices and diesel are comparable, often slightly cheaper. Restaurant visits, campsites, and entry fees can be slightly more expensive, but with careful planning, they're absolutely manageable. Those who, like in Germany, pay attention to regional products, cook for themselves, and shop locally can also travel cost-effectively in Scotland. Furthermore, nature is free – and the experiences are priceless.

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