There are many ways you can enjoy the 500-mile route that is the NC500.
You can put your best foot forward and go on a walking holiday, feel the breeze on your face with two wheels or explore the Highlands in the ultimate dream car.
The NC500 route begins in Inverness, follows the A835 towards the west coast, and snakes along the coastline upwards through the north west Highlands, across the north edge of mainland Britain and finally down the east coast on the A9 from Britain’s most northerly village, John O’Groats, completing the loop back in Inverness.
Key photographic locations include spectacular beaches such as Achmelvich and Dornoch, stunning mountain ranges such as Ben Hope and Suilven, and grand castles such as the fairytale Dunrobin.
To save you some time, we’ve found the best ways to experience all that is great about the north of Scotland.
1) Find your dream car at Mountains Glens and Sports Cars
James Bond brought Hollywood to the Highlands when they filmed some scenes at Glencoe for the 2012 instalment, Skyfall.
But you don’t have to be Daniel Craig to experience what it’s like to be the man of mystery.
Hire this Aston Martin V8 from Mountains Glens and Sports Cars and create your own adventure with a tour on the NC500.
Mountains Glens and Sports Cars is a specialist sports car hire company run by car enthusiasts who are passionate about the Highlands of Scotland and the incredible landscapes, mystical castles and an abundance of wildlife as well as some of the best roads in Britain to drive.
As well as driving the NC500 the cars – a Porsche Cayman is among them- can be used in all areas of the Highlands from a single days hire to full week.
For more information visit their website or phone 01463 831320.
2) Make it a holiday to remember and hire a mighty motorbike
There’s a reason that there is an increase in riders spotted in the Highlands in the summer months – and it’s because it’s an unforgettable way to experience the north of Scotland.
You might think, ‘I don’t own a motorcycle’ – but that doesn’t need to stop you.
Highland Motorcycle Hire have a range of bikes that you can experience, from superbikes to tourers.
They are available for as long as you require them, be it a day or a week. Staff at Highland Motorcycle Hire, which is based in Muir of Ord, near Inverness, will do everything they can to make sure your experience with them is one you’ll remember.
Jump on a plane or a train, get to Inverness and they’ll do their best to make your trip an unforgettable, unique motorbike experience.
Visit their website to find the right bike for you.
3) Go classic with a Mazda MX5
The Mazda MX5 had a great start to 2017 – its latest iteration bagged the title of Best Convertible at the annual What Car? Awards.
It’s the not the first time this car has attracted accolades – and I’m sure it won’t the last either.
Since its introduction to the world in the late 80s, it has remained a favourite with sports car lovers around the world.
Highland MX5 hire specialises in the self drive hire of classic Mazda MX5 sports cars – meaning you don’t have to own one to find out why it is so popular.
The firm is based on the Black Isle, only 10 miles from Inverness and the start of the NC500.
So whether its a one day hire or more give them a call or text on 07950029435.
You can also find them on Facebook or visit their website.
4) Go iconic with a Caterham
What’s the perfect way to experience the NC500? Customers at Highland Caterham Hire believe it’s in the driving seat of a Caterham.
Highland Caterham Hire, based near Elgin, have a fleet of Caterhams available on a self-drive hire basis. These lightweight iconic British sports cars offer a driving experience in its purest form.
Unique in their ability to thrill, while being remarkably comfortable, they are very practical for longer multi-day trips – and yes, there is good luggage space and equipment for any weather.
For more information visit their website.
5) If you prefer two wheels to four
Ullapool Motorcycles is based in the Highlands of North West Scotland approximately midway between Inverness and Durness.
It provide spares, repairs, accessories, tyres and puncture repairs, amongst other things, to suit all types of bikes, trikes and quads. More than just a shop, Ullapool Motorcycles aims to be a destination.
You can find it opposite Tesco and next to the laundry. For more information visit their website or phone 07501 643238.