Scotland’s NC 500 route holds secrets that most travelers overlook ! This stunning drive is not just about the scenery (though that is terrific); it’s a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered, yet very few venture beyond the surface to discover the hidden gems that make this 500-mile drive truly unforgettable, rather they just ‘tick the bucket list box’.
With over 500 miles of breathtaking landscapes, you’ll find waterfalls, ancient castles, and incredible wildlife that could transform your holiday (vacation) photos; few tourists venture beyond the surface to discover those that make this 500-mile drive truly unforgettable. On this breathtaking journey, you’ll encounter an array of waterfalls, ancient castles, and incredible wildlife that will elevate your vacation photos from ordinary to extraordinary.
Unveiling Hidden Treasures:
Exploring the Uncharted Gems of a Breathtaking Landscape
As you venture into this stunning landscape, you’re likely to wonder: what kind of secrets lie hidden, waiting to be discovered by intrepid travelers? The answer lies in the lesser-known destinations that pepper this scenic terrain. Imagine stumbling upon secluded waterfalls, historic castles, rugged coastlines, and picturesque villages – a treasure trove of surprises that will leave fellow travelers green with envy.
The following pages serve as your compass, providing an insider’s guide to get you oriented and acquainted with the basics; They are NOT an exhaustive index of must-see spots, consider this your key to unlocking the region’s best-kept secrets. Chart your own course, uncovering the hidden gems that will make your journey truly unforgettable.
But here are some of the treasures, beyond its most famous landmarks just to get you started. BUT NOTE – Many of these are slightly off the main route and require a short walk.
East Coast: History and folklore
- Whaligoe Steps: Near Lybster in Caithness, a historic and stunning set of over 330 man-made steps zig-zags down a steep cliff face to a small, secluded harbor. The steps were used by fisherwomen in the 18th and 19th centuries to haul baskets of herring up from the boats.
- Staxigoe Barometer Pole: A detour from the main road near Wick leads to this unusual mid-19th-century barometer pole. It was used by local fishermen to predict the weather at sea.
- Mermaid of the North: Located on a large rock in the sea at Balintore, this striking bronze statue is inspired by local folklore. Her tail is submerged at high tide, and she is part of a larger Seaboard Sculpture Trail.
- Fyrish Monument: A hike from the outskirts of Alness leads to this impressive structure commissioned by Sir Hector Munro in 1783. The design, inspired by his time in India offers spectacular views from the top.
North Coast: Wildlife and geology
- Puffin Cove: Between Thurso and Tongue, this is home to one of the UK mainland’s largest puffin colonies. The secluded spot is an excellent detour for wildlife enthusiasts and is reached via a short hike.
- Strathy Bay Caves: The sandy beach at Strathy Bay is less busy than other north coast beaches and features several caves and slot canyons, accessible at low tide.
- Bone Caves, Inchnadamph: A 2-hour walk leads to a series of natural limestone caves where the remains of animals like polar bears, lynx, and arctic foxes have been found. It’s a fascinating spot for geology and history lovers.
- Coldbackie Beach: This hidden beach near the village of Tongue is concealed from the road and requires a steep path to access. Your reward is a quiet, pristine stretch of golden sand with views of the Rabbit Islands.
West Coast: Hiking and remote landscapes
- The Hermit’s Castle: A tiny, one-man concrete castle hidden on the cliffs behind the Achmelvich Bay caravan park. Built in the 1950s by an Englishman, it was abandoned shortly after completion.
- Assynt Coastal Loop: While the main route passes Lochinver, the longer coastal loop offers jaw-dropping scenery of ancient rock formations and dramatic views of mountains like Suilven and Canisp.
- Wailing Widow Falls: A detour off the main road in Assynt leads to a viewpoint for this spectacular 50-foot waterfall. The name is rooted in a local legend of a grieving mother.
- WWII American Bomber Wreckage: A walk from Shieldaig Lodge leads to the remote site of a crashed WWII bomber.
Inland detours
- Big Burn Walk, Golspie: An enjoyable woodland walk crisscrossing bridges over a scenic gorge, ending with a spectacular waterfall. It’s a great short detour near the east coast.
- Clava Cairns: Just outside Inverness, this well-preserved Bronze Age cemetery is a historic gem. For
Outlanderfans, it’s known as the inspiration for the Craigh Na Dun stone circle. - Black Rock Gorge: Near Evanton, this surprisingly dramatic and narrow gorge offers a short woodland walk. It was famously featured in the movie Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.