Castles, Wildlife & North Coast 500 Explorer
The Experience
Itinerary
Get set for a North Coast 500 day trip from Inverness that hits the far north of Scotland. We roll out of Inverness and make our way to Dunrobin Castle, a grand Highland castle with rooms so fancy you will swear the nobility only just stepped out. Wander the impressive interiors and gardens before we blaze further north.
Next up is the wee village of Brora for a bite to eat, then it is onwards along the rugged coastline. Keep your eyes open for seabirds as we cruise toward John O’Groats, the famous end of the road spot that every traveller wants a photo with. Keep an eye out for the cute puffins nesting in little burrows along the coastline. We reach the dramatic sea stacks at Duncansby Head, where cliffs, waves and more wildlife all fight for the spotlight.
On the journey south we swing through the fishing village of Helmsdale, a proper slice of coastal charm, before arriving back into Inverness in the evening with salty hair, big stories and even bigger grins.
Inverness → Inverness
Tour Highlights
What's Included
Optional Experiences
These experiences can be added at checkout and are operated by independent local providers.
Dunrobin Castle is the most northerly of Scotland’s grand historic houses and the largest in the Northern Highlands, boasting an impressive 189 rooms. It is also one of Britain’s oldest continuously inhabited homes, with origins dating back to the early 1300s, and has long been the residence of the Earls and, later, the Dukes of Sutherland.
In the Moment
Frequently Asked Questions
Your North Coast 500 day trip departs from Inverness city centre. Check out our departure info page for more details on your pick-up location.
Your North Coast 500 day trip from Inverness is approximately 11.5 hours. You’ll have ample time to explore fishing villages, the northern most tip of Scotland and Dunrobin Castle. There’s a good mix of time on the coach and off for exploring and breaks.
*Tour duration might change based on traffic and weather.
The North Coast 500 has risen to fame thanks to the many incredible landmarks along Scotland’s north Highlands. We’ve combined some of the most scenic spots in this day trip so you can see them all in a short amount of time.
The trip doesn’t cover the whole North Coast 500 route but we’ll drive about 120 miles along its eastern stretch. Along the way we’ll explore amazing highlights like Dunrobin Castle, John O’Groats, Duncansby Head, Helmsdale, and get a chance spotting wildlife like puffins.
Puffins typically nest during the summer months, however, encounters aren’t guaranteed. Don’t’ worry though, on your North Coast 500 day trip you can except to spot a variety of wildlife around.
You’ll be travelling on a comfy midi-coach.