North Coast 500 Fly-drive

We’ll remove the complications of flight bookings and car rental reservation by arranging these for you – so all you need do is take your flight to Inverness and a short shuttle to collect your rental car. Soon, you’ll be driving along the shores of the Beauly Firth and onwards to the spectacular west coast, perhaps tackling the famous “Bealach na Bà” (“Pass of the cattle”) on the way to your first stop at picturesque Shieldaig.

Your Hotel in Wester Ross

Few hotels in Scotland boast a setting as picturesque as this family owned gem. By the shores of a shimmering loch, overlooking its island namesake, this is a longstanding favourite of ours. Unfussy bedrooms give way to a charming honesty bar and peaceful restaurant, while a lively public bar features more dining space upstairs, serving terrific pizza from the wood-fired oven and seafood caught on the doorstep.

While Scotland can lay rightful claim to some of the finest driving routes in Europe, few come close to those you’ll experience today. Pitching, twisting and undulating its way north, your route takes in some of the very finest scenery the UK has to offer.

Your Hotel in Ullapool

Set just back from the colourful harbour in Ullapool, this unique hotel offers visitors a genuinely warm welcome, and is a particularly interesting place to rest awhile. Behind a traditional row of whitewashed fishermen’s cottages lies an assorted collection of coffee bar, book shop, arts venue, restaurant and hotel – plays, poetry readings, and local artists’ exhibitions are frequent events.

This area of Scotland is one of our favourites and you’d do well to take the time to discover some of the hidden villages, coves and harbours all along the way, finding isolated spots you’ll be convinced only you have seen, before arriving at your next base in Thurso.

Your Guest House in Thurso

Locally owned and conveniently located a short walk from the historic town centre, your guest house in Thurso is a welcoming property where guests are made to feel at home the moment they arrive.

Passing through John o’ Groats, as well as some of our favourite historical sites along the way, meander down Scotland’s north east coast on another of the country’s superb touring roads. Views out across the North Sea to your left, the undulating countryside to your right, you’re in for another unforgettable day on the road.

Your Accommodation on the North East Coast

You may stay in a traditional hotel right in the centre of Dornoch, extended from the sixteenth century castle. Most rooms are in the modern garden wing, but ask us if you wish to upgrade to a room in the castle fortress itself. A wealth of amenities are on your doorstep, with Royal Dornoch golf course and the superb neighbouring beach just a short stroll away.

Alternatively, a little further on in the peaceful village of Cromarty, lies a charming and exceptionally well-appointed guest house. We’ll provide insights and information to help you uncover the local area in this often-overlooked corner of Scotland.

Please let us know when enquiring if you have a strong preference for Dornoch or Cromarty – otherwise we will respond dependent on availability in either location.

It’s a fairly short hop from Dornoch or Cromarty to Inverness. Perhaps take the long way around the Beauly Firth, with several interesting stops to make along the way. Then you can drop off your rental car and catch your homeward flight at Inverness airport.