Introduction to the NC500 Route
We at TVGC luxury GT driving club are thrilled to share with you our expertise on the NC500, a 516-mile route that showcases the very best of Scotland's dramatic landscapes, picturesque towns, and vibrant culture. The NC500, also known as the North Coast 500, is a must-do road trip for any classic car enthusiast, offering a unique blend of stunning scenery, exciting driving roads, and warm Scottish hospitality.
The route begins and ends in the beautiful city of Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, and takes you on a journey through some of Scotland's most breathtaking landscapes, including the Cairngorms National Park, the North Coast, and the Kyle of Sutherland. With its diverse range of landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, the NC500 is the perfect destination for a classic car road trip.
As we embark on this incredible journey, we will share with you our insider knowledge on the best routes to take, the most scenic stops to make, and the top hotels to stay in. Whether you are driving a vintage sports car or a modern GT, the NC500 has something to offer every type of driver, from the thrill of the open road to the comfort of luxurious accommodation.
Day 1: Inverness to Ullapool
Our journey begins in Inverness, where we will meet at the luxurious Kingsmills Hotel, a 4-star hotel located in the heart of the city. From here, we will set off on the A9, one of Scotland's main trunk roads, and head north towards the town of Ullapool, a distance of approximately 57 miles. The drive takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic, and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
As we arrive in Ullapool, we will check into the beautifully located Lochside Bed and Breakfast, which offers stunning views of Loch Broom. The town itself is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with a range of activities including hiking, fishing, and sailing. We will spend the afternoon exploring the town, visiting the Ullapool Museum, and enjoying a spot of lunch at one of the local eateries.
In the evening, we will dine at the award-winning Seaforth Inn, which serves up delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Scottish dishes. With its warm atmosphere and stunning views of the loch, the Seaforth Inn is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day's driving.
Day 2: Ullapool to John o' Groats
The next morning, we will set off on the A835, a scenic road that takes us through some of Scotland's most breathtaking landscapes. Our first stop will be the stunning Corrimony Chambered Cairn, a Neolithic tomb that dates back over 4,000 years. From here, we will continue on to the picturesque town of Scourie, where we will stop for lunch and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
In the afternoon, we will drive to the iconic John o' Groats, a small coastal village located on the northeastern tip of Scotland. The village is famous for its stunning natural harbour, which offers breathtaking views of the Pentland Firth and the Orkney Islands. We will spend the afternoon exploring the village, visiting the John o' Groats Brewery, and taking a stroll along the coastal path.
We will stay overnight at the Seaview Hotel, a beautifully located hotel that offers stunning views of the sea. The hotel has a range of comfortable rooms, a delicious restaurant, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. As we relax in the evening, we can reflect on the day's driving and look forward to the next day's adventures.
Day 3: John o' Groats to Dornoch
The next morning, we will set off on the A99, a scenic road that takes us through some of Scotland's most stunning coastal landscapes. Our first stop will be the beautiful town of Wick, where we will visit the Wick Heritage Museum and take a stroll along the river. From here, we will continue on to the stunning Dunrobin Castle, the largest castle in the Northern Highlands, which dates back to the 14th century.
In the afternoon, we will drive to the picturesque town of Dornoch, where we will spend the night at the luxurious Dornoch Castle Hotel. The hotel is located in the heart of the town and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. We will spend the evening relaxing in the hotel's comfortable lounge, enjoying a glass of whisky, and reflecting on the day's driving.
As we look back on the day's adventures, we can appreciate the stunning scenery, the rich history, and the warm hospitality that Scotland has to offer. From the breathtaking landscapes of the NC500 to the luxurious accommodation and delicious local cuisine, this classic car road trip has something to offer every type of driver.
Day 4: Dornoch to Inverness
The final day of our journey takes us back to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. We will set off on the A9, one of Scotland's main trunk roads, and head south towards the city. Our first stop will be the stunning Culloden Battlefield, where we will learn about the history of the Jacobite risings and the final battle of the 1745 rebellion.
From here, we will continue on to the beautiful city of Inverness, where we will visit the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery and take a stroll along the river. We will spend the afternoon exploring the city, visiting the Inverness Castle, and taking in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
As we come to the end of our journey, we can reflect on the incredible scenery, the rich history, and the warm hospitality that we have experienced on the NC500. With its diverse range of landscapes, exciting driving roads, and luxurious accommodation, the NC500 is a must-do road trip for any classic car enthusiast. Whether you are driving a vintage sports car or a modern GT, the NC500 has something to offer every type of driver, from the thrill of the open road to the comfort of luxurious accommodation.
Conclusion
As we conclude our journey on the NC500, we can appreciate the incredible scenery, the rich history, and the warm hospitality that Scotland has to offer. From the breathtaking landscapes of the NC500 to the luxurious accommodation and delicious local cuisine, this classic car road trip has something to offer every type of driver. We at TVGC luxury GT driving club hope that you have enjoyed our guide to the NC500 and that you will join us on this incredible journey in the future.
With its stunning scenery, exciting driving roads, and luxurious accommodation, the NC500 is a must-do road trip for any classic car enthusiast. Whether you are driving a vintage sports car or a modern GT, the NC500 has something to offer every type of driver, from the thrill of the open road to the comfort of luxurious accommodation. So why not join us on this incredible journey and experience the very best of Scotland's dramatic landscapes, picturesque towns, and vibrant culture.
We look forward to welcoming you on our next classic car road trip adventure. ¡Hasta luego! ¡Buen viaje!