NC500 Highlights & Itineraries

The North Coast 500 (NC500) is Scotland’s ultimate road trip—an unforgettable 500-mile loop around the dramatic northern Highlands and stunning coastlines. Often compared to Route 66 in the USA, the NC500 showcases some of the most spectacular landscapes in the UK, winding through rugged mountains, pristine beaches, remote fishing villages, and historic castles. Along the way, you’ll experience a rich mix of culture and history, from ancient ruins to traditional whisky distilleries all accompanied by our warm Highland hospitality. Whether you wind your way around it for a week or savour it over a longer journey, the NC500 offers freedom, adventure, and ever-changing views at every turn. Here at Freedom Motorhomes, our luxury motorhomes and camper vans offer the perfect way to explore the NC500 in comfort and style.

NC500 Top Tips

Don’t rush. Scotland is one of the most breathtaking places in the world—give yourself time to truly soak it in. We recommend a minimum of seven days to experience it properly.
Love local. Even during peak season, when shops and restaurants are busy, supporting local businesses whenever possible makes a meaningful difference to those communities.
Layers, layers, layers. Scottish weather can be beautiful yet unpredictable. With the right layers, you’ll be comfortable and ready for whatever the day brings.
Book campsites early. The NC500 is popular for good reason. Plan your overnight stops well in advance to make the most of your trip.
Kindness wins. Drive patiently and courteously on narrow roads, and never park in passing places—they’re essential for keeping traffic flowing.
Protect the environment. Remember the old adage: “Take only memories. Leave only footprints.” Let’s ensure Scotland’s natural beauty can be enjoyed for generations to come.

The NC500 has so much to offer, these are just a few of our favourite places.
Dive in to more detail about our NC500 Highlights in our itinerary blog below.

Inverness Castle
Chanonry Point
Dunrobin Castle
John O’Groats
Farr Beach
Sango Sands Oasis and Smoo Cave
Cape Wrath
Kylesku Bridge
Loch na Gainmhich Waterfall
Sands Caravan and Camping Site
Eilean Donan Castle
Loch Ness

Discover more about the NC500 route, iconic pit stops, and unforgettable places to visit:

North Coast 500 Itinerary:

Planning a trip around the infamous NC500? In this detailed 7- 9-day North Coast 500 road trip itinerary, we cover the basic details on the route you can take, an overview of the highlights along the way, and more.

NC500 Overview

This has to be Scotland’s most famous & epic road trip, it encompasses everything a road trip of the highlands should, starting and ending at Inverness castle (although you can start at any point you wish), it will not disappoint with its many scenic destinations along the way.

Every unforgettable road trip starts with a dependable vehicle and a comfortable place to stay.
Which of our fleet of luxury motorhomes will you choose to take on the NC500?

Models In Our Fleet

Skye

5 Berth Motorhome
Kingsize over cab bed
Double bunk at rear
Automatic transmission
Spacious design
Luxury Italian leather upholstery
From £139 / Night

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Arran

4 Berth Motorhome
Double Island bed at rear (with bedroom door)
Drop-down electric double bed
Automatic transmission
Popular “L-Shaped” living area
Luxury Italian leather upholstery
From £139 / Night

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Bute

4 Berth Motorhome
King-size transverse bed at the rear
Drop-down electric double bed
Automatic transmission
Large “U-Shaped” lounge
Luxury Italian leather upholstery
From £140 / Night

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Jura

4 Berth Motorhome
Rear twin beds
Drop-down electric double bed
Automatic transmission
Popular “L-Shaped” living area
Luxury Italian leather upholstery
From £139 / Night

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Rassay

4 Berth Motorhome
Drop-down electric double bed
Bunk beds at rear
Automatic transmission
Spacious central lounge
Luxury Italian leather upholstery
From £140 / Night

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Islay

4 Berth Motorhome
Transverse double bed at rear
Drop-down electric double bed
Automatic transmission
Smart technology
Luxury Italian leather upholstery
From £134 / Night

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Canna

2 Berth Motorhome
Roller Team Kronos 590 Compact
Drop-down electric double bed
Automatic transmission
Generous storage
Luxury upholstery
From £134 / Night

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Iona

2 Berth Camper Van
Auto-Trail Expedition 68
Transverse double at rear
Automatic transmission
Garage with pull-out trays
Kitchen complete with fridge-freezer
From £118.50 / Night

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Tiree

2 Berth Camper Van
Roller Team Livingstone 6
Adaptable twin/double at rear
Automatic transmission
Captain swivel seats in dining area
Kitchen complete with fridge-freezer
From £118.50 / Night

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