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Inverness, United Kingdom
The gateway to the NC500, Inverness is a great base to stock up and explore Loch Ness nearby. Visit Inverness Castle and the Victorian Market before hitting the road. Try cullen skink at a local pub before departing.
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Dornoch, United Kingdom
A charming royal burgh on the east coast with a stunning 13th-century cathedral. The wide sandy beach is perfect for a brisk walk and spotting seals. Don't miss a dram at a local whisky bar in the evening.
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Dunrobin, United Kingdom
Home to the fairy-tale Dunrobin Castle, the largest house in the northern Highlands with stunning French-style gardens. Falconry displays are held regularly in the castle grounds. A compact stop but visually one of the most memorable on the route.
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Wick, United Kingdom
A rugged fishing town at the northeast tip of the route, great for exploring the dramatic Caithness coastline. Visit the nearby Castle Sinclair Girnigoe perched dramatically on cliff edges. The Wick Heritage Museum tells the story of the herring fishing industry.
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Thurso, United Kingdom
Britain's most northerly mainland town is a surfer's paradise with world-class reef breaks. Take a day trip to Dunnet Head, the true northernmost point of mainland Britain. The town has a good selection of cafes and pubs for refuelling.
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Tongue, United Kingdom
A small village offering breathtaking views over the Kyle of Tongue and Ben Loyal. The causeway across the Kyle is one of the most scenic drives on the entire NC500. Stop at the ruins of Castle Varrich for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
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Durness, United Kingdom
One of the most remote and spectacular stops on the route, with the stunning Smoo Cave and pristine Balnakeil Beach nearby. Visit the quirky Balnakeil Craft Village housed in a former Cold War early warning station. The sunsets here over the Atlantic are absolutely unforgettable.
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Ullapool, United Kingdom
A picturesque fishing village on the shores of Loch Broom and one of the highlights of the west coast leg. The surrounding Assynt landscape with mountains like Stac Pollaidh is world-class hiking territory. Fresh seafood at the harbourside restaurants is an absolute must.
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Torridon, United Kingdom
One of Scotland's most dramatic mountain landscapes, dominated by ancient Torridonian sandstone peaks. Beinn Eighe was the UK's first national nature reserve and offers superb hiking trails. The village itself is tiny but the scenery is among the finest anywhere in Europe.
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Applecross, United Kingdom
Reached via the hair-raising Bealach na Bà pass, one of the highest and most dramatic roads in the UK. The remote Applecross Inn is legendary for its fresh seafood and warm Highland hospitality. On clear days, stunning views across to Skye and Raasay reward the adventurous driver.
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Inverness, United Kingdom
Return to Inverness to complete the loop, with time to reflect on an incredible journey through the Scottish Highlands. Pick up some local whisky or shortbread as souvenirs from the city's shops. Celebrate the end of the NC500 with a proper Scottish dinner in the city centre.