North Coast 500 Road Cycling

Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Inverness, the gateway to the Scottish Highlands. Arrive and take some time to explore the city’s rich history, from the impressive Inverness Castle to the scenic banks of the River Ness. As you settle in, you can prepare for the thrilling days ahead, checking over your bike and soaking in the atmosphere of this cycling-friendly city.

Leaving Inverness behind, you’ll ease into your journey with a ride along well-paved roads that trace the shores of the Beauly Firth. The route quickly immerses you in the beauty of the Highlands, passing through quiet villages and a handful of lakes. As you push further west, the terrain begins to undulate, giving you a taste of the climbs ahead. Your final stretch takes you along the edge of Loch Carron, where dramatic coastal views signal the end of your first day in the saddle. 

Today, the road throws its first real challenge your way as you ascend the legendary Bealach na Bà, one of Britain’s most demanding climbs. Twisting hairpin bends and relentless gradients reward you with jaw-dropping views at the summit before a thrilling descent into the remote beauty of Applecross. From here, the coastal road hugs rugged cliffs and open moorlands, offering sweeping vistas of the Isle of Skye across the water. The day ends near Talladale, where the dramatic peaks of Torridon rise around you.

You’ll start the day weaving through the ancient landscapes of the Torridon Hills, where the mountains cast their reflections on glassy lochs. The route continues on well-maintained roads, but the steady climbs and twisting descents will keep your legs working. As you push north, you’ll pass through wild and remote landscapes, with little but open moorland and the occasional Highland cottage in sight. Your arrival in Ullapool brings a welcome change, with its charming harbor, seafood restaurants, and views over Loch Broom.

Setting out from Ullapool, you’ll follow a winding coastal route where the Atlantic Ocean is never far from sight. The road is smooth but undulating, with short, punchy climbs that test your legs before rewarding you with breathtaking views over the rugged coastline. As you ride deeper into the northwest Highlands, the landscape becomes more dramatic and the final stretch to Scourie takes you past secluded beaches and remote headlands.

Today’s route is a true showcase of Scotland’s wild beauty, with rolling roads that twist through an ever-changing landscape of moorlands, rocky headlands, and sweeping ocean views. You’ll pass through Kylesku, home to an iconic bridge that spans the deep sea loch below, before tackling a series of winding climbs that reveal breathtaking panoramas at every turn. As you head east, the terrain softens slightly, with stretches of open road leading you toward the golden sands of Bettyhill.

The route today follows the northern coastline, where the dramatic cliffs and windswept beaches make for a truly memorable ride. The road is fast and rolling, with sweeping descents that carry you past ancient castles, historic crofting villages, and stretches of untouched wilderness. As you approach John O’Groats, the northernmost point of mainland Britain, the sense of achievement is undeniable. The iconic signpost marking the end of the land is a must-stop for a celebratory photo.

Turning southward, you’ll begin the ride along Scotland’s rugged east coast, where the terrain shifts from wild cliffs to softer, rolling hills. The road conditions remain smooth, making for a fast and exhilarating day in the saddle. Along the way, you’ll pass the imposing ruins of Castle Sinclair Girnigoe and the historic town of Wick before continuing toward the picturesque village of Brora.

Your final day in the saddle takes you along some of the most scenic stretches of the east coast, with open roads that weave between sweeping farmland and sea views. You’ll ride past the famous Dunrobin Castle, its grand turrets standing tall against the coastal backdrop, before tackling a few final climbs that test your legs one last time. As you approach Inverness, the familiar sight of the River Ness welcomes you back to where your adventure began. 

With the ride complete, it’s time to say farewell to the Highlands. Whether you spend your final hours exploring the city, enjoying a well-earned meal, or simply resting those tired legs, the sense of accomplishment will stay with you.