NC500 - Which way round? Part 1
NC500 Anti-clockwise - East coast places to visit
This is the most debated question on many NC500 Facebook groups - which way should I go round? Clockwise or anti-clockwise?
Well, that is a matter of personal taste of course. Just be mindful that the North Coast 500 route is a guide for you to follow. It is designed so that you can stop along the way, take wee detours to activities or sightseeing and then rejoin when you are ready. It’s not a race - take your time, there is so much to see and do. As a local, personally I would say that I would opt to travel the route in an anti-clockwise direction. This seems to be the most favoured view on most forums too.
My reasoning for this is that the main A9 that runs up the east coast has got some spectaular views out to the north sea. Not only that, along this stretch of the road there are a ton of great places to stop. My favourites are:
Dolphin watching at Chanonry Point - best time to spot them is 1 hour after low tide according to my Brother! He is always lucky enough to see them when he follows this rule.
Keep an eye out for the seals on the way over the Cromarty Bridge - just north of it and before Foulis Ferry you can often see them bathing on the rocks in the water.
If you brought your bikes you can stop off at Learnie Red Rocks. They have recently upgraded the car park and there are a number of trails here for all abilities. Plenty of walking trails here too if you need to stretch the legs.
Dornoch beach - she’s a stunner.
Dunrobin Castle just north of Golspie. Just an awesome Scottish Castle!
Whaligoe steps - an insight into the historic Scottish fishing industry. I love this spot!
Duncansby Stacks - look out for the sheep and the poop when you walk to get the money shot.
John O’Groats is not technically the most northern point of the mainland but it does have the sign so you better stop there for that. Carry on round to Dunnet Head lighthouse though for the most northerly point. At the right time of year you can even see puffins!
After that it’s absolutely worth checking out Melvich beach - it’s a beauty.
So the east coast is most definitely not dull, there is a lot to see and do and that’s not even mentioning the distilleries, towns and golf courses. It makes for a busy few days at the start of your adventure. I love it and I’m pretty confident that you will too
Duncansby Stacks