So, you’ve got in your Demon Leisure, stocked the fridge with Irn-Bru, and you’re ready to conquer the North Coast 500. But wait—before you just follow the tail lights of the motorhome in front of you, we’ve got the inside scoop.
We’re talking about the spots that make your Instagram followers weep with envy and your soul do a little happy dance. Check out our latest You Tube video below, and read on for the lowdown on the 5 hidden gems that’ll make your Scottish road trip legendary.
1. Bealach na Bà: The “Pass of the Cattle” (And Your Nerves!) 🏔️
First up is a road that’s basically a roller coaster for grown-ups. Bealach na Bà is one of the steepest mountain passes in the UK.
The Vibe: Hairpin turns, single-track drama, and views of Skye that will literally take your breath away.
Fun Fact: Its name is Gaelic for “Pass of the Cattle.” Historically, drovers used to walk their herds over these peaks. (Luckily, your Demon Leisure has a few more horsepower than a cow).
Pro Tip: Reward your driving skills with a pint and some world-class seafood at the Applecross Inn once you reach the bottom!
2. Whaligoe Steps: The Ultimate Leg Day 🦵
Tucked away on the east coast is a staircase that defies gravity. The Whaligoe Steps consist of 330 flagstone steps zigzagging down a cliff to a hidden harbor.
The History: Back in the day, local fisherwomen would carry heavy baskets of herring up these steps to sell them in Wick. Talk about a workout!
Don’t Miss: After you climb back up (and catch your breath), head into Wick for a dram at the Old Pulteney Distillery. You’ve earned it.
3. Smoo Cave: The Giant’s Hiding Place 🦇
Located near Durness, Smoo Cave is a geological masterpiece. It’s a massive sea cave with a freshwater secret inside.
The Experience: You can walk into the main chamber for free, but do yourself a favor and take the boat tour. It leads you into an inner chamber with a thundering 20-meter waterfall.
Fun Fact: The name comes from the Old Norse word smjugg, meaning “hiding place.” Vikings? Hidden waterfalls? It’s basically a movie set.
4. Corrieshalloch Gorge: Don’t Look Down! 🌉
This is a mile-long box canyon that drops a dizzying 200 feet.
The Thrill: You’ll walk across a Victorian suspension bridge designed by Sir John Fowler (the same genius behind the Forth Rail Bridge). The Falls of Measach roar right beneath your feet.
Nearby: It’s just a stone’s throw from Ullapool, the perfect place to grab some fish and chips before heading off to hike Stac Pollaidh.
5. Clachtoll Beach: Snorkels & Ancient Stones 🌊
Finally, we have Clachtoll. Sure, the NC500 has lots of beaches, but this one is special.
The Highlight: It features Scotland’s first-ever snorkel trail. Yes, you can actually see marine life in the crystal-clear (and very chilly!) Highland waters.
Oldest of the Old: The rocks here, known as Lewisian Gneiss, are over three billion years old. That makes them some of the oldest rocks in Europe!
The “Must-Eat”: You cannot leave the area without a famous pie from Lochinver Larder. It’s a road trip law.
