Looking for that next motorcycle tour and the thrill of the adventure that comes with it? Look no further than Scotland’s North Coast 500.

Whether it is a peaceful cruise along the coast, exploring the breathtaking Highlands scenery or even soaking up the rich history you desire, the North Coast 500 truly has it all. So, what should you expect to see along the way and how should you prepare when undertaking the NC500?

North Coast 500 Route

There is no doubting the name North Coast 500 has a nice ring to it but as a matter of fact, the route itself is actually 516 miles long and while the name could be up for debate, there is no debating the sheer beauty on show.

Often described as ‘Scotland’s Route 66’, the NC500 starts and ends at the famous Inverness Castle and runs through the traditional counties of Inverness-shire, Ross and Cromarty, Sutherland and Caithness, offering everything from coastal scenery and white sandy beaches to rugged mountains, remote fishing villages and many other hidden gems along the way.

It was launched in 2015 by the Tourism Project Board of the North Highland Initiative in conjunction with Visit Scotland and was named amongst the top 5 coastal routes in the world by New Travel Magazine within the first year of its conception.

When Is Best To Go?

As with any trip you may have planned, whether it is relaxing on a beach, exploring a new city or even hitting the slopes, there are peak times to go and a motorcycle adventure around Scotland’s north coast is no different. Sure, you could go at any time if the year (if you are brave enough), but there are particular months when this trip is at its very best.

March to October is considered prime time for the NC500 and that is for good reason. Before March and after October, attractions may be closed or limited while the weather is most unpredictable. In fact, during the winter months, temperatures dip below zero and snow is more or less inevitable in the Highlands. Besides, Spring and Autumn produce perhaps the most stunning landscapes of the four seasons and Summer comes with the bonus of longer days.

It is worth noting that the plus side to embarking on this tour from March to October has not gone unnoticed and let’s just say you won’t be short of company throughout these months with the Easter period being the busiest of all.

What Should You Expect To See?

The NC500 is arguably one of the world’s best road trips and while most countries have areas of outstanding natural beauty, this is an entire coast of postcard-worthy sights. From vast landscapes and ancient fortresses to towering mountains and even a furry creature or two, here is what the Scottish north coast has to offer:

Best Things To Do Along The Way

If you are someone seeking an action-packed trip as well as taking in the sights then fear not, the NC500 has got that covered too. There is plenty to immerse yourself in along the way and we have handpicked a few activities worth considering:

Glenmorangie Distillery

Based in Tain in the county of Ross-shire, this Distillery produces one of Scotland's most famous single-malt whiskys. It is open and welcome to visitors with tours priced at just £23.

Hiking

One for the thrill-seekers! Take your pick of one of the north coast's many hills and mountains for a challenging trek and unique views.

Dolphin Spotting

Situated on the Black Isle, north-west of Inverness, Chanonry Point is one of the best points in the UK to spot bottlenose dolphins.

Culloden Battlefield

The site of the final battle of the 1745 Jacobite Rising, Culloden Battlefield is a must-see for any history lovers and features weapons, artefacts and a 360-degree battle immersion theatre.

Inverewe Gardens

Located in Wester Ross in the Highlands, Inverewe Gardens is a botanical garden that was created from barren land in 1862 and has become renowned for its collection.

Sample Local Seafood

 Of course, no trip would be complete without food to write home about and with seafood so fresh it practically swam into the kitchen, the NC500 is no different. 

How To Prepare For NC500

It is recommended to spend at least five days but preferably a week on a NC500 motorcycle tour and therefore it is key to ensure you are properly prepared for the trip.

Firstly, Scotland is famed for its weather but for all the wrong reasons. Scottish weather is unpredictable at the best of times and it is likely a trip around the north coast and the Highlands will feature what the locals refer to as ‘dreich days’. These dull, dreary and often wet days are commonplace around the country and are going to warrant wearing multiple layers of clothing while both waterproof clothes and motorcycle luggage are advisable to say the least.

If camping is on the cards for your NC500 journey then pack with that in mind and ensure you have enough cargo space to carry it all as well as lockable motorbike luggage cases since you will be parking out in the open. Meanwhile, if you are riding with a pillion, you may want to consider a top box with the capacity for two helmets with the addition of a backrest for passenger comfort.

If you had not considered venturing on a North Coast 500 trip before now then you may well be doing so.

The important thing to keep in mind is to ensure you are fully prepared for all that is in store, setting aside enough time to become fully immersed in the journey and all it has to offer. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and enjoy what could well be one of the rides of your life.