This post is part of our NC500 road trip series – check them all out here!
Dramatic coastlines. White-sand beaches that feel like liquid gold underfoot. Roads that wind through landscapes so wild and cinematic you’ll wonder if you’ve accidentally driven into a BBC nature special.
If you’re thinking about tackling Scotland’s most iconic road trip – the North Coast 500 (NC500) – you’re in for something truly special. But with so much to see and do (and detour for), where do you even begin?
Here’s our personal NC500 Highlights Hitlist – everything we absolutely loved, plus a few can’t-miss stops from our 10-day van life adventure.
👉 (Want the full day-by-day breakdown instead? You’ll find that here.)
And now, in no particular order – because choosing would be cruel – let’s dive in.
1. Smoo Cave – a sea cave straight from a fantasy novel
An actual sea cave. It practically echoes with ancient sea-spray energy and you can absolutely imagine pirates stashing their treasure here. With options of walk-throughs and boat tours, you can choose your own way. Parking costs a bit, but it’s 100% worth it.
2. John O’Groats – a bucket list classic
It’s iconic, right? You can’t be in this part of the world and not grab the famous photo with the signpost. You can also fuel up with coffee, browse for souvenirs, or even do your festive shopping in the year-round Christmas shop.
3. Ceannabeinne Beach Zipline – coastal thrill ride
An absolute accident for us, but make sure you add this one to your itinerary! A zipline over a beautiful sandy beach was the perfect mix of adrenaline and gorgeous views.
4. Achmelvich Beach – Caribbean vibes, Scottish heart
White sand and crystal-clear waters… need I say more? We were lucky to see a lot of stunning beaches on the NC500, but this one took the win. Even on a cold and wet day, we lingered longer than planned and had to force ourselves to leave.
5. Fairy Glen waterfall – hidden gem energy
I’m sold whenever there’s a slightly whimsical note to a name… so this was already speaking to my soul. Not to be confused with the Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye, this waterfall near Rosemarkie is a short, family-friendly walk through beautiful woodland that feels like something out of a fairytale. Little Rick was convinced he saw mini magical Formula 1 cars – so, anything’s possible!
6. Cairn Liath — ancient and atmospheric
Only found in Scotland, Cairn Liath is an iron-age broch (yep, I had to Google it before we went as well – think roundhouse forts that were potentially used as houses…). Being surrounded by history with panoramic Highland views made this one of our favourite mysterious stops on the NC500.
7. Duncansby Stacks – nature showing off again
Towering sea stacks framed by dramatic coastline and crashing waves… the scenery was incredible. The wildlife here is insane too – we just missed puffin season, so puffin-spotting is definitely on our NC500 bucket list for next time!
8. Dunnet Head – technically the real “top” of mainland Britain
John O’Groats claims the fame, but Dunnet Head is actually the northernmost point of mainland UK. Take your coat – it’s wild, windswept, and far less touristy than its neighbour.
9. Corrieshalloch Gorge — gorge-ous views (sorry)
A narrow suspension bridge over a 60-metre-deep gorge with waterfalls thundering below. What’s not to love? Both the natural beauty and human history here blew us away. Definitely worth a stop on your NC500 adventure. Just, go – trust me.
10. Scenic drive: Smoo Cave to Lochinver
Every corner of this stretch made us pull over. Hairpin turns, mountain backdrops, lochs, and even Highland Cows! It’s not an “official” stop, but it was hands-down one of the best parts of the trip.
Final thoughts
Every day on the NC500 surprised us. Every beach, every rainstorm, every unplanned roadside coffee with a view. These were our top highlights, but in all honesty, the whole route felt like a highlight reel.
Thinking of going? Do it.
If you’re dreaming of the Highlands, do it. With a bit of planning, a van-life spirit, and a waterproof jacket or five, the North Coast 500 will absolutely blow you away — without blowing your budget.
Looking for more insider info? Check out our:
- Full NC500 itinerary – day-by-day guide, top stops, and hidden gems
- Budget breakdown – what we spent (and where we saved)
- Packing list – what we took, what we forgot, and what we’ll never travel without again
Planning your own NC500 trip? Or think I’ve missed off one of your favourites? Let me know in the comments below.
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