10 Sights on the NC500

SMOO CAVES

Geologists get excited because one chamber was carved by the sea while two were carved by the river. Affy bonny though.

THE STEADING, DORNOCH

If there is a better B&B in all of the UK, then it will have to go some to beat this. Beautiful layout, incredible service.

JOHN O’ GROATS

The nearest thing you’ll see to a commercialised tourist attraction up here. But it’s a must-stop on the route.

THURSO

The biggest town you’ll find on the route has a thriving and interesting centre for those all-important souvenirs.

ARDVRECK CASTLE

Seat of Clan McLeod has a bloody history and a stunning setting on the shore of Loch Assynt.

DUNNETT HEAD

It gets so windy at mainland Britain’s most northerly point that they have to tie the information shed down with ropes.

CEANNABEINNE BEACH, DURNESS

Postcard-pretty, a little bit wild and totally deserted. It has that on-the-edge-of-the-world feel.

CASTLE OF MEY TEAROOM

The Queen Mother’s favourite place, now the holiday home of Prince Charles. Watch, though, it isn’t open all year round.

CASTLE SINCLAIR

A few miles from Wick, this ruin (it is really two castles) has a lonely but romantic windswept majesty to it.

LOCH COUL

One of the most beautiful vistas is best viewed if you are going clockwise. Make sure to look behind if going the other way.