7 nights: 1 night Loch Lomond / Glasgow area, 2 nights Skye, 1 night Gairloch, 2 nights Thurso, 1 night Perthshire
“I have the utmost respect for Classic’s team and have nothing but praise for the work they do”. UK Coach Operator
Scotland’s North Coast 500
Regarded as a trip of a lifetime. Discover Route 500 - Scotland’s Route 66 – a jaw-dropping journey skirting the very top of the UK’s Northwest coastline, passing deserted beaches and ancient castles. 430 miles of some of the most unspoilt and picturesque scenery in Europe, with its diverse array of wildlife and a culture which has changed little in generations. Top it all off with a wonderful, guided day tour of Orkney. Coach hire can be arranged for the transfer to the ferry.
The NC500 has reached a global audience of over 11.2 billion and ranked by so many independent sources as the best road trip on the planet.
Castle of Mey closes for about 6 weeks in July and August for Royal visitors. On dates where the castle is closed, we have arranged a visit to Wick Heritage Museum, depicting the harsh Highland life over 100 years ago.
7 nights: 1 night Loch Lomond / Glasgow area, 2 nights Skye, 1 night Gairloch, 2 nights Thurso, 1 night Perthshire
“I have the utmost respect for Classic’s team and have nothing but praise for the work they do”. UK Coach Operator
Day 1: Overnight in Glasgow / Loch Lomond Area
Minimum 3-star hotel
Day 2: West Highlands & to Skye
Along the shores of Loch Lomond, “The Queen of Lochs”. Then Glencoe “The Weeping Glen”. Free time in Fort William. After lunch, along the Great Glen with loch & mountain scenery all the way. Stop for photos at Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most photographed castles, before reaching your Skye hotel for 2 nights.
Day 3: Isle of Skye
Skye has a wealth of history, from Jacobite battles to feuding clans, with evidence of the Highland clearances still seen. Abundant in wildlife and ever-changing scenery from the patchwork of velvet moors to jagged mountains and towering sea cliffs, today’s tour makes the most of Skye. You’ll visit Portree, the island's capital & Dunvegan Castle – home of the Macleod Clan for over 800 years, sweeping back around the west coast with clear coastal views of The Cuillin. An experienced guide has been arranged to make the most of the area.
Day 4: Coastal drive to Gairloch
From Skye head Northwards to the vast region of Wester Ross, along the shores of Loch Maree, regarded as one of Scotland’s bonniest lochs. Time free to take in the Highland air in Gairloch with its pretty harbour, where the next night will be spent before embarking on the true beginnings of the NC500. Overnight Gairloch
Day 5: Caithness & Sutherland on Route 500
Today’s tour makes up a large part of the North Coast 500 and will leave a lasting memory, too. Mile upon mile of crumbling cliffs, sheer rocky headlands, picturesque lochs, sheltered bays & perfect deserted white beaches to rival those abroad. It is here you will feel Scotland in an entirely different way – it’s not all about tartan and bagpipes! Included is lunch at Smoo Cave Hotel, Durness. Arrive in Thurso for 2 nights.
Day 6: John O' Groats and Distillery Visit
A relaxing morning free in Thurso. Around midday, take the short drive to the historic Castle of Mey, once a cherished refuge of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother (limited dates). Roaming through its regal rooms and grand gardens, offering a glimpse into royal history and Scottish elegance. Later in the afternoon, take a spirited turn at Wolfburn Distillery, where the art of crafting Scotch whisky comes alive. The air is rich with the scent of malted barley as you witness the meticulous process. Time at John O' Groats for photos if time permits.
Day 7: Inverness, Spey Valley & Pitlochry
The coastal road between Wick and Inverness passes many interesting places - historical Helmsdale, the white sands at Brora, and a stop for photos at fairytale Dunrobin Castle. Take in the sights of the Highland capital, Inverness, before continuing through the Spey Valley, over the Drumochter Pass and into Perthshire. Or, if desired, head further south for your final night’s stay in a minimum 3-star hotel.