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Part of the North Coast 500 involves driving from Inverness to Thurso, or vice versa, depending on which direction you take. Since you’re probably only going to experience this route once in your life, you’ll want to make the absolute most of it — and that’s where I come in, ready to help you plan the most epic itinerary possible.
The stretch from Inverness to Thurso takes you along Scotland’s east coast, often described as less dramatic or impressive than the west coast. However, it’s still packed with charm and hidden gems, from centuries-old castles, quiet beaches, world-famous whisky distilleries, to friendly Highland towns. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot the Northern Lights overhead.
Years ago, I actually lived in one of the towns along this route, which gave me lots of insider knowledge of the best things to see, places to eat, and stay. In this guide, I’ll share all my local tips to help you create your own unforgettable North Coast 500 adventure.
Overview of the NC500 Route from Inverness to Thurso
Distance and Travel Time from Inverness to Thurso
Driving directly from Inverness to Thurso takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes without stops, covering 111 miles.
If you take a detour at Latheron onto the A99 — which I highly recommend — you’ll pass through Wick and up to John o’Groats before looping back to Thurso. This scenic route covers about 140 miles and takes just over 3 hours of driving time.
Of course, this is the North Coast 500, so you’ll probably spend much longer on the road — and that’s a good thing! With so many castles, viewpoints, and charming stops along the way, it’s worth taking your time and soaking in every mile of the journey.
To really enjoy this stretch of the NC500, I’d suggest taking two full days to explore everything it has to offer.
🚗 Alternative options: If you’re short on time, consider joining this 3-Day NC500 tour from Inverness or doing the North East 250 instead. This shorter road trip loops around beautiful Aberdeenshire and still delivers an adventure that’s every bit as epic.
Driving from Inverness to Thurso: Routes and Tips
The easiest way to get from Inverness to Thurso is by driving — whether that’s by car, campervan, or motorbike. If you don’t have your own vehicle, don’t worry — there are plenty of car hire options in Inverness to get you ready to hit the road.
Driving is by far the best way to explore the NC500 — it gives you complete freedom to go off the route, make spontaneous stops, and not have to worry about public transport schedules.
From Inverness to Thurso, you’ll be travelling mostly along the A9.. It’s a major route and generally well-maintained, with a mix of single and dual carriageways. If you take the detour at Latheron onto the A99 towards John o’Groats, you’ll notice the roads get a bit rougher – expect a few more potholes along that stretch! Although it’s not perfect, it’s still better than many of the roads on the NC500.
And don’t forget — in the UK, we drive on the left-hand side of the road! If you want more driving tips, make sure to check out my comprehensive guide to the NC500 as a whole.
🗺️ Join a tour: If you’d rather not drive, don’t want to rely on public transport, or are short on time, consider the John O’Groats and Far North Day Tour from Inverness — it covers all the highlights along the route from Inverness to Thurso.
Bus Options from Inverness to Thurso
If you’re not driving, you can take the X99 bus from Inverness to Thurso. The journey takes around three and a half hours, and a single ticket costs roughly £31.
Along the way, the bus stops at charming towns like Tain, Brora, Dunbeath, and Wick, giving you a taste of the Highlands without having to navigate the roads yourself.
You’ll also have the chance to explore highlights such as Dunrobin Castle, Whaligoe, Brora Beach, Glenmorangie Distillery, and even Dornoch Cathedral — so sightseeing is still very much on the menu, even by bus.
It’s a relaxed way to travel: sit back, enjoy the scenery, and watch the rugged coastline and rolling hills, all from the comfort of your seat.
Train Travel from Inverness to Thurso
It’s also possible to take the train from Inverness to Thurso. The journey takes around 3 hours and 50 minutes, with single tickets starting at about £16.
Along the way, the train makes 22 stops, including Alness, Golspie, and Brora. While it won’t drop you directly at specific sightseeing spots, you can easily take a taxi from the station to explore the highlights along the route.
Things to See and Do Along the Inverness to Thurso Route
Charming Towns Along the Inverness to Thurso Route
Your North Coast 500 journey begins in Inverness, heading north along the A9. As you hug the east coast, you’ll pass through a string of charming towns — Tain, Dornoch, Golspie, Brora, Helmsdale, Wick, and finally Thurso.
Each town has its own appeal — from quaint high streets and coastal views to cosy cafes and local restaurants. Don’t just drive through; pull over, stretch your legs, and take a wee wander.
Castles to Visit Between Inverness and Thurso
- Inverness Castle: Situated right in the heart of Inverness and overlooking the river Ness, Inverness Castle is regarded by some as the real starting point of the NC500. Built in the 1830s, it’s not open to the public, but the views and grounds are still worth a look around. If you’re short on time, join a guided tour of Inverness to make the most of the city and see all the main spots.
- Dunrobin Castle: This is my favourite castle along the entire NC500 route. Just north of Golspie, it looks straight out of a fairytale with its French Renaissance design and beautifully landscaped gardens. With 189 rooms, it’s the largest stately home in the Northern Highlands, and the site has been occupied since the 1300s. You can explore the interior from 1st April to 31st October, with adult tickets priced at £15.50, which includes access to the castle, museum, and gardens. Outside of these months, the grounds are still open for wandering — and trust me, it’s worth a visit any time of year.
- Castle Sinclair Girnigoe: Three miles north of Wick, this dramatic cliffside ruin tells the story of the Sinclair clan. Park at the nearby lighthouse, follow the coastal path, and enjoy the rugged scenery. Entry is free, and there are plenty of interesting information boards on-site that tell you about the history.
- Castle of Mey: Scotland’s most northerly inhabited castle lies just west of John o’Groats. Once the Queen Mother’s autumn retreat, it’s been beautifully restored and is open to visitors from 1st May–30th September. To explore the castle, gardens and grounds costs £17.60 for an adult ticket. For a unique experience, spend the night at The Granary Lodge on the grounds.
Distilleries on the Inverness to Thurso Route
- Dalmore distillery: Overlooking the Cromarty Firth, Dalmore has been perfecting whisky since 1839. The visitor centre is currently under renovation (reopening in 2026), so keep an eye on the Dalmore website for updates.
- Glenmorangie distillery: One of Scotland’s whisky icons. Glenmorangie tours range from £25 to £80, depending on how deep you want to dive into the drams. For a luxury twist, stay overnight at Glenmorangie House.
- Dunnet Bay Distillery: Home of Rock Rose Gin and Holy Grass Vodka, this family-run spot offers some wonderful tours from £15–£22 and even a summer cocktail workshop for £30.
- Old Pulteney distillery: Founded in 1826 and once only reachable by sea, it’s now famous for its maritime character. Old Pulteney tours start at £20 and finish with a dram of their smooth 12-year-old whisky. I went on this tour and I’d really recommend it, I found it really interesting and informative.
Beaches Between Inverness and Thurso
- Dornoch beach: A golden sandy beach with Seaside Award status, perfect for a stroll or a refreshing swim.
- Dunnet beach: My favourite! If you are in Dunnet and the weather is nice, you NEED to head to Dunnet beach for the sunset. The bay is also quite sheltered, which means it’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and even taking a surfing lesson!
- Golspie beach: An award-winning beach offering views over the Moray Firth. Grab a chippy from the Trawler’s Fish and Chip shop in Golspie, and then head to the beach to eat it whilst enjoying the sea views.
Monuments and Scenic Views
- Fyrish Monument: A quirky 18th-century structure built to provide work for locals during hard times. From the Fyrish Monument car park, it will take you about 2.5 hours to reach the monument, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views over the Cromarty Firth.
Waterfalls Along the Way
- Rogie Falls: A series of waterfalls on the river Blackwater. Only a short forest walk from the car park will lead you to a suspension bridge over the tumbling falls. Visit in late summer and you might spot wild salmon leaping upstream!
The Most Northerly Points of the Route
- Dunnet Head: Don’t be fooled by the famous John o’Groats signpost — it’s not actually the northernmost point of mainland Britain. That honour goes to Dunnet Head! A long, remote road leads you there, but it’s worth it. At the end, you’ll find a lighthouse, a plaque marking the northernmost point, and old WWII army stations. Wander the walking trails for panoramic sea views, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot orcas!
- John o’Groats: Touristy but a must-visit. Snap a photo at the famous signpost, grab a coffee, and browse the souvenir shops. People often cycle from Land’s End (the most southerly point in the UK) to John o’Groats, so you might see some complete this amazing achievement when you are visiting.
Other Highlights on the Inverness to Thurso NC500 Route
- Whaligoe Steps: The Whaligoe steps are 330+ manmade steps, which zigzag down the cliffside to the natural harbour at the bottom. The harbour is surrounded on all 3 sides by 250ft cliffs. It was very popular during the 1800s, when fishing boats would arrive and drop off their catch. The fisherwomen would then carry the baskets of fish all the way back up the steps and walk 7-8 miles to Wick on foot to the fish market. Talk about a workout!
- Camster Cairns: Two Neolithic tombs dating back over 5,000 years, among the oldest stone monuments in Scotland. They are free to visit, though parking is limited.
- Duncansby Stacks: Rising from the sea near John o’Groats, these ancient sea stacks are a must-see. Park at Duncansby Head Lighthouse and follow the path for incredible views — and potential puffin sightings in spring! Just be careful, as at some points, there are no fences at the cliff edge. Explore these stacks on this 3-day Inverness to Orkney tour.
- Caithness Seacoast: An absolute must for all adventurous souls out there. See the cliffs, caves, and sea stacks from the water. Trips run from May–October, from £25 for 30 minutes or £40 for 90 minutes.
Bonus Detours from the Inverness to Thurso Route
- The Black Isle: Just a short hop from Inverness and the NC500 main route. Stop by Fairy Glen Falls or spot dolphins at Chanonry Point.
- Orkney and Shetland: Extend your trip north with a ferry to Orkney or connect onward to Shetland from Kirkwall. You can go on a day trip to Orkney from Scrabster – I went on this exact one and absolutely loved it!
Where to Stop for Food and Breaks Between Inverness and Thurso
Cosy Cafes and Local Bites
- Milk and Honey, Dornoch: A charming little spot perfect for breakfast, lunch, or just a coffee and cake. Definitely worth a stop!
- The Pier, Lairg: Slightly off the NC500 route, but the panoramic views over Loch Shin make it impossible to miss. That in itself is worth the visit!
- Thyme and Plaice, Helmsdale: Serving delicious, homemade dishes made with locally sourced produce. I’d recommend you check the opening hours for this restaurant; sometimes it’s open to 4pm, other days it’s open to 8pm.
- The River Bothy, Berriedale Bends: This lovely tearoom offers hearty lunches, cakes, and even afternoon tea. A perfect pit stop to recharge on your NC500 road trip!
- Wickers World, Wick: A local favourite of mine, I used to visit often. The food is simple, hearty, and reliably delicious — they even pride themselves on having the best food in town!
Delicious Restaurants Along the Route
- Luigi, Dornoch – A cosy cafe and restaurant serving lunch and dinner, from pizzas and burgers to fresh seafood dishes.
- Trawlers Fish and Chips, Golspie – You can’t do the NC500 and not have a chippy! I stopped off here many a night driving the A9 when I lived in the area. Cheap and cheerful!
- Bord De L’Eau, Wick – Delicious and authentic French restaurant in Wick. I went here a couple of times, and the food is incredible!
- Capilla Tapas, Scrabster – Housed in a charming little chapel, this spot serves up authentic Spanish tapas. Don’t miss the patatas bravas — seriously, thank me later!
- Forss House, Thurso – The only 2 AA Rosette restaurant in Caithness. Fine dining at its best – perfect for a special meal out.
Accommodation Options Near Thurso and Along the Route
Budget Inverness to Thurso Accommodation (£0-£100 per night)
Nestled in the heart of Tain, the Shandwick House offers an ideal stop early in your journey. With comfortable en‑suite rooms, free WiFi, on‑site parking, and a hearty breakfast, it’s excellent value for NC500 road‑trippers.
Located in the lovely village of Golspie, the Ben Bhraggie Inn provides a great mid‑route base. With the coast and attractions like Dunrobin Castle nearby, it’s a smart budget‑friendly choice for exploring the Highlands.
Harbour Quay is a one‑bedroom holiday home in the heart of Wick, sitting right by the harbour and perfect for those looking for a self‑catered option. Highly rated by guests for location, comfort and facilities — it includes a full kitchen, washing machine and free parking. Being in Wick gives you a prime northern stop before reaching Thurso, while still keeping within a budget‑friendly bracket.
Mid-Range Inverness to Thurso Accommodation (£100-£200 per night)
Nestled just north of Inverness, the beautiful Kincraig Castle Hotel sits on acres of landscaped grounds with views across the Cromarty Firth. Retaining many of its original features from the 1800s, it perfectly balances comfort with traditional Highland charm — an ideal first stop to relax and prepare for your journey north
Tucked away just outside the charming village of Brora, Brora Escapes offers a peaceful retreat that feels super relaxing. With luxury self‑catering pods, you’ll have all the essentials — en‑suite bathrooms, kitchenettes, WiFi, and free parking. The location is ideal for exploring the NC500 route: you’re within easy reach of Brora Beach, the Clynelish Distillery and woodland walks.
Halfway between Wick and Thurso, Burnside Cottage offers a quiet overnight stay. Featuring spacious rooms, an on-site restaurant and bar, it is an excellent mid‑range stop in the far north.
High-End Inverness to Thurso Accommodation (£200+ per night)
The Links House at Royal Dornoch is the ultimate Highland luxury retreat. With exquisitely styled suites, each adorned with antiques and bespoke furnishings, it delivers refined country‑house elegance alongside modern comforts.
Located in the village of Brora, the Royal Marine Hotel blends period architecture with modern comfort and is ideally placed for exploring the east coast of the NC500. With newly refurbished bedrooms and access to on‑site dining and spa facilities, you’ll have a relaxing base after a day of driving.
Perched on the dramatic cliffs of Noss Head just outside Wick, the Lighthouse Keeper’s Cabin offers a truly unforgettable stay. With sea on three sides and sweeping North Sea views, it’s a luxurious retreat for couples or small groups. Ideal for those seeking a unique Highland escape along the NC500 route.
Tips for a Smooth Journey from Inverness to Thurso
I’ve put together a full, comprehensive guide to the entire North Coast 500, packed with insider tips and practical advice to help you make the most of your road trip.
Here are the key tips specifically for the Inverness to Thurso stretch:
- Pack for All Weather – Even in summer, the Scottish Highlands can surprise you with sudden rain or mist. Bring a waterproof jacket, warm layers, and good footwear if you plan to stop and explore.
- Stop and Enjoy the Views – The drive from Inverness to Thurso is stunning, with plenty of scenic pull-ins and photo opportunities along the way. Don’t rush — part of the journey’s charm is the landscape itself.
- Bring Snacks and Water – Everyone needs snacks for a road trip!
- Check for Roadworks or Closures – The A9 occasionally has maintenance work that can cause delays. A quick check before you leave can help you prepare or give you a detour to save time.
- Book Accommodation Early – If you’re planning to stay overnight anywhere along the route from Inverness to Thurso, book ahead — especially during summer when the accommodation on the North Coast 500 fills up super fast!
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Kirsty x
