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North Coast 500 - accommodation for Scotland's ultimate road trip

The North Coast 500 is a world-famous driving route around northern Scotland. It stretches 516 miles around the Highlands and takes you from Inverness to Caithness and back again. The route runs through rugged coastlines, castles, and small fishing villages, and the full road trip takes 5 to 7 days to complete at a leisurely rate. So, planning your accommodation in advance is essential.

The Ulbster Arms Hotel is the perfect stopping point at the heart of the NC500’s northernmost stretch. A peaceful setting in Halkirk, Caithness, we offer a four-star hotel experience for guests seeking comfort, great food, and genuine Highland hospitality on this iconic driving route.

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Arched stone bridge over the river in winter at Thurso

Where to stay on the North Coast 500

If you’re wondering where to stay on the North Coast 500, look no further than Caithness. This is truly one of the most scenic and least crowded parts of the journey. Additionally, the region marks the northern tip of the NC500 route, with wide horizons, unspoiled beaches, and historic landmarks around every bend.

Staying in Ulbster Arms Hotel places you right in the middle of it all, near Thurso, Wick, and John O’Groats. Therefore, it’s an ideal stopover for travellers completing the North Coast 500 route.

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Dunnet Head Lighthouse aerial view

Explore the Caithness section of the NC500 route

This northern stretch of the North Coast 500 route runs from Dunbeath to Dounreay, weaving through dramatic cliffs, fishing harbours, and magnificent countryside.

Here are a few must-see highlights whilst staying at Ulbster Arms Hotel on the NC500:

  • Fishing and river walks: Start your day at the River Thurso, famous for salmon fishing and Highland scenery. Afterwards, take a gentle riverside stroll before heading back for dinner at the hotel.
  • Tee off at a local golf course: If golf is more your pace, Thurso and Wick boast clubs with fantastic fairways and sweeping coastal scenery. In addition, both welcome visitors throughout the seasons. However, planning is needed when golfing in the area.
  • Explore local history: Next, take time to uncover Caithness’ unique story. From Norse roots to royal connections, historic clans, and more, the region is full of hidden gems and fun things to do.
  • Discover nearby towns: Halkirk, Thurso, and Wick each offer something unique, from local shops and traditional pubs to charming harbours and photo ops. What’s more, all three are a quick drive from the Ulbster Arms. So, you can explore freely before returning to your NC500 adventure.
  • Relax and refuel: Finally, return to the Ulbster Arms for great food and a great night’s sleep. With a restaurant serving locally sourced dishes, we offer the perfect space to unwind. Furthermore, our friendly team is always on hand with local tips for the next leg of your NC500 route.

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Suggested NC500 itineraries

Whether you’re trackling the entire NC500 route or just part of it, planning helps makes the most of your trip. As such, here are a few North Coast 500 itinerary options:

Three days on the NC500: Inverness – Dornoch – Halkirk – Durness
This short but spectacular loop features Highland villages, coastal cliffs, and local food and drink.

Five days: Inverness – Wick – Halkirk – Tongue – Ullapool
This one adds more stops, scenic walks, and time to relax in Caithness before heading west.

Seven day grand tour: The full journey
Finally, we have the full journey around the North Coast 500, combining castles, beaches, and distilleries, with Ulbster as your perfect midpoint.

Travel tips for the NC500

Before you set off, here are a few travel tips to make the most of your NC500 accommodation and route:

  • The most popular direction is clockwise from Inverness. This offers stunning sunrise views on the east coast and sunset drives along the west.
  • Allow at least five to seven days for a relaxed journey and to reduce driving time per day.
  • Wick and Thurso are your best stops for fuel before remote stretches.
  • There are lots of single-track sections, so take your time and enjoy the scenery.
  • Weather conditions can change rapidly, so pack layers and waterproofs!
  • Bring a camera, snacks, and offline maps for those areas of the NC500 route where signal dips.
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Why stay at Ulbster Arms on the NC500 route?

Firstly, we enjoy a central in Halkirk, Caithness, which is just on the North Coast 500 route. Secondly, we have a choice of stylish hotel rooms and dog-friendly accommodation options. Just as you’d expect from a four star hotel like ours.

We also boast fresh, locally sourced dining in our restaurant and bar, perfect for relaxing after a day of driving and exploring. We’re also incredibly EV-friendly, with the most EV chargers in the Highlands available. This is ideal for those travelling the NC500 route sustainably.

Finally, our team offers vast local expertise and a warm Highland welcome. This is exactly what you want from your trip around the country.

Book your NC500 stay

Make Ulbster Arms Hotel your home from home on the North Coast 500 route. Here, you can stay in comfort, enjoy Highland cuisine, and discover why so many travellers call us one of the best hotels on the NC500.

Take a look at our hotel rooms and book your stay today. You can also call us on 01847 831 641 or contact us for more information.

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Ulbster Arms Hotel Map

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Testimonials

Jess and her staff can’t do enough for you nothing is ever a problem to them, excellent accommodation, the food is always superb would highly recommend staying here , The hotel caters for holiday makers and salmon fishers , with fishing available on one of the best salmon rivers in the UK

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