{"id":1215,"date":"2022-08-15T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-08-15T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/guides\/10-best-nc500-walks\/"},"modified":"2024-04-15T08:46:55","modified_gmt":"2024-04-15T08:46:55","slug":"10-best-nc500-walks","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/guides\/10-best-nc500-walks\/","title":{"rendered":"10 best NC500 walks"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\t\t<header id=\"block_29ef36af66afae4e5e61d371842daf3e\" class=\"SingleHero skip-lazy default\">\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"container\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul class=\"SingleHero__categories\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/activities\/walking\/\" class=\"category\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWalking\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"SingleHero__title\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\t10 best NC500 walks\t\t\t\t\t<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row justify-content-center align-items-center SingleHero__author\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col-auto name\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBy OS Team\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<p class=\"SingleHero__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tPublished on \t\t\t\t\t\t<time datetime=\"2022-08-15T00:00:00+00:00\" itemprop=\"datePublished\">August 15, 2022<\/time>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"dot\"><\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t8 min read\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"SingleHero__thumbnail\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1920\" height=\"485\" src=\"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/nc500_best_walks_hero2.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0.jpg\" class=\"attachment-hd size-hd wp-post-image\" alt=\"nc500_best_walks_hero2.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0\" srcset=\"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/nc500_best_walks_hero2.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/nc500_best_walks_hero2.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0-300x76.jpg 300w, https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/nc500_best_walks_hero2.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0-1024x259.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/nc500_best_walks_hero2.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0-768x194.jpg 768w, https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/nc500_best_walks_hero2.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0-1536x388.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/nc500_best_walks_hero2.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0-1376x348.jpg 1376w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" \/>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/header>\n\n\t\n\n\n\t\t<article id=\"block_a1dba1beb16b4222ff708c9f08b92ba0\" class=\"Universal Universal--post c-small default pt-default pb-default mt-none mb-none    \" >\n\t\t\t<div class=\"container\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"InnerBlocks\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"lead\"><\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Circular walks along Scotland&#8217;s North Coast 500<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Northern Highlands of Scotland are home to the most remote and dramatic landscapes in Britain and there is one epic route which encapsulates it all, the North Coast 500 (NC500). Popular with both drivers and cycle tourists, we break this iconic journey up into sections and share our 10 best NC500 walks along the route for you to enjoy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"images-with-captions\">\n    <div class=\"image-with-caption\">\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/walks-in-north-coast-500-and-northern-highlands-pathfinder-guidebook-83\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow,noopener noopener\">\n        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/site\/uploads\/images\/2018champs\/Blog%20imagery\/NC500_best_walks_Kylesku_Bridge.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Kylesku Bridge\">\n        <\/a>\n        <p>Kylesku Bridge<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"> What\u2019s so special about the N500?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Named the \u2018Route 66 of Scotland\u2019, the NC500 is a jaw-dropping 500-mile\/800km (ish) road route that naturally follows the rugged coasts of the North Highlands \u2013 one of Scotland\u2019s best-kept secrets. This makes it the ultimate road trip for those wanting to experience the beauty of Scotland.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Along the NC500 you\u2019ll spot much of Scotland\u2019s iconic wildlife species: red deer, otter, pine marten, red squirrel, wildcat, golden eagle and white-tailed eagle. Numerous seabird colonies occur around the coast and the wet moorlands are important for waders, so wildlife watching is plentiful here. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"images-with-captions\">\n    <div class=\"image-with-caption\">\n        \n        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/site\/uploads\/images\/2018champs\/Blog%20imagery\/NC500_best_walks.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"NC500 in spring\">\n        \n        <p>NC500 in spring<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What\u2019s the best bit?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It all depends on what you\u2019re after! Think stunning coastal\nscenery, white sandy beaches, rugged mountains, remote fishing villages and\nplenty of unforgettable experiences. Some of our favourite places include Sheildaig,\nDuncansby Lighthouse and Stacks, Ullapool Harbour and Castle Varrich. All these\nplaces feature in our recommended walks below, taken from the <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/walks-in-north-coast-500-and-northern-highlands-pathfinder-guidebook-83\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">North Coast 500 and Northern Highlands Pathfinder Guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How long does it take to travel the NC500?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Every bend in the road opens up a new view to take your breath away. Although <a href=\"https:\/\/www.visitscotland.com\/see-do\/tours\/driving-road-trips\/north-coast-500\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">VisitScotland<\/a> recommend at least 5 to 7 days to tour the NC500, nearer 10 days are needed if you are going to have time for short walks and stop-off to look at sights along the way \u2013 which we highly recommend doing! There\u2019s no need to tackle the whole thing in one go and it\u2019s often nicer to explore in-depth a section at the time, stopping off for a few days in one or two villages on route. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Naturally, the roads are far from straight and many are single-track, including main A-roads in the west and north. Those factors mean that driving and cycling times are much longer than might be expected. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"images-with-captions\">\n    <div class=\"image-with-caption\">\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/walks-in-north-coast-500-and-northern-highlands-pathfinder-guidebook-83\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow,noopener noopener\">\n        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/site\/uploads\/images\/2018champs\/Blog%20imagery\/NC500_best_walks_Bealach_na_Ba_viewpoint.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Scenic sight near Bealach na Ba viewpoint\">\n        <\/a>\n        <p>Scenic sight near Bealach na Ba viewpoint<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10 best NC500 walks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you\u2019re sitting in a vehicle or on a bike, it\u2019s a good idea to stop regularly to admire the view, get some fresh air and stretch your legs. We\u2019ve picked 10 great circular walks from the North Coast 500 and Northern Highlands Pathfinder Guide for you to enjoy whilst exploring the NC500. Most of these routes are on well-surfaced paths and can be completed in one hour to half a day, allowing time for travelling or sightseeing. More information, including turn-by-turn directions for each walk, can be found in the <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/walks-in-north-coast-500-and-northern-highlands-pathfinder-guidebook-83\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">North Coast 500 and Northern Highlands Pathfinder Guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Shieldaig Peninsula walk<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">South section: Inverness to Braemore Junction<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6km)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Height gain: 560 feet (170m)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Start\/finish: Shieldaig (car park at the far end of the waterfront, by the public toilets)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>OS Maps: <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-raasay-applecross\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Landranger 24<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-kyle-of-lochalsh-plockton-applecross\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer 428<\/a> <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"images-with-captions\">\n    <div class=\"image-with-caption\">\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-kyle-of-lochalsh-plockton-applecross\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow,noopener noopener\">\n        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/site\/uploads\/images\/2018champs\/Blog%20imagery\/NC500_best_walks_Shieldaig.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Shieldaig&nbsp;\">\n        <\/a>\n        <p>Shieldaig <\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Starting in the charming seafront village of Shieldaig, this walk explores the rugged peninsula that extends northwards into Loch Torridon. Parts of the route are rough walking, but can be avoided by staying on the track that weaves between rocky knolls to the tip of the peninsula. Here the view extends over Upper Loch Torridon to the dramatic Torridon mountains. Seals, otters and seabirds use the bay and white-tailed eagles nest in the treetops of Shieldaig Island, which is covered in native woodland of mature Scots pine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"blog-buttons\">\n    <a class=\"btn second map\" href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-kyle-of-lochalsh-plockton-applecross\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer map for Shieldaig Peninsula <i class=\"fa fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Beinn Eighe Mountain Trail<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">South section: Inverness to Braemore Junction<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Distance: 4 miles (6.4km)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Height gain: 1,900 feet (580m)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Start\/finish: Car park, signed from the A832, on the shore of Loch Maree<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>OS Maps: <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-gairloch-ullapool\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Landranger 19<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-ben-klibreck-ben-armine\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer 433<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"images-with-captions\">\n    <div class=\"image-with-caption\">\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-ben-klibreck-ben-armine\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow,noopener noopener\">\n        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/site\/uploads\/images\/2018champs\/Blog%20imagery\/NC500_best_walks_Beinn_Eighe.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Beinn Eighe\">\n        <\/a>\n        <p>Wiews from Beinn Eighe<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>This unique walk is around the only waymarked mountain trail in Scotland. It explores Britain\u2019s first National Nature Reserve, created in 1951 to protect the largest remnant of Scots pine forest in the west Highlands. Above the trees it climbs through heath onto bare mountain terraces with superb views of the surrounding landscape. Loch Maree lies far below with another mountain, castle-like Slioch, on the far shore. The top of the trail is a wild and eerily bleak place, contrasting with Kinlochewe set in green fields below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"blog-buttons\">\n    <a class=\"btn second map\" href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-ben-klibreck-ben-armine\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer map for Beinn Eighe Mountain Trail <i class=\"fa fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Ullapool Hill and Loch Achall walk<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">North West section: Braemore Junction to Durness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Distance: 7.2 miles (12km)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Height gain: 1,000 feet (305m)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Start\/finish: Latheron car park, in the centre of Ullapool<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>OS Maps: <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-gairloch-ullapool\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Landranger 19<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-beinn-dearg-loch-broom\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">20<\/a>. <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-coigach-summer-isles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer 439<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"images-with-captions\">\n    <div class=\"image-with-caption\">\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-coigach-summer-isles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow,noopener noopener\">\n        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/site\/uploads\/images\/2018champs\/Blog%20imagery\/NC500_best_walks_Ullapool_Hill.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Views over Ullapool\">\n        <\/a>\n        <p>Views over Ullapool<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Ullapool is a busy fishing and ferry port, and the main tourist hub on the north-west coast. After a short but steep climb, Cnoc na Croiche offers a bird\u2019s-eye view of the village and a fabulous prospect up and down Loch Broom, the sea loch on which it sits. Further inland Meall M\u00f2r, known locally as Ullapool Hill, has a 360-degree view, with mountains ringing the horizon. It looks down on the route ahead across Rhidorrich Estate to Loch Achall. The estate has remnants of Caledonian pine forest and the walk leads through regenerating woodland.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"blog-buttons\">\n    <a class=\"btn second map\" href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-coigach-summer-isles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer map for Ullapool Hill and Loch Achall <i class=\"fa fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Knockan Crag walk<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">North West section: Braemore Junction to Durness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Distance: 1\u00bd miles (2.4km)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Height gain: 450 feet (135m)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Start\/finish: Knockan Crag car park, signed off the A835<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>OS Maps: <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-purbeck-and-south-dorset\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Landranger 15<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-coigach-summer-isles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer 439<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"images-with-captions\">\n    <div class=\"image-with-caption\">\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-coigach-summer-isles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow,noopener noopener\">\n        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/site\/uploads\/images\/2018champs\/Blog%20imagery\/NC500_best_walks_Knockan_Crag.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Road to Knockan Crag\">\n        <\/a>\n        <p>Road to Knockan Crag<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The Crag Trail is the longest of three waymarked walks around Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve, which is notable for its geology. It is set in an astounding landscape where primeval looking mountains rear out of a landscape of bare moorland and scattered lochs. Here you meet some of the world\u2019s oldest rocks and see evidence of the huge upheavals that have created Scotland.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"blog-buttons\">\n    <a class=\"btn second map\" href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-coigach-summer-isles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer map for Knockan Crag <i class=\"fa fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Little Assynt walk<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">North West section: Braemore Junction to Durness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Distance: 1\u00be miles (2.8km) <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Height gain: 65 feet (20m)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Start\/finish: Leitir Easaidh car park, on the A837 at the north-west end of Loch Assynt<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>OS Maps: <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-purbeck-and-south-dorset\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Landranger 15<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-assynt-lochinver\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer 442<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"images-with-captions\">\n    <div class=\"image-with-caption\">\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-assynt-lochinver\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow,noopener noopener\">\n        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/site\/uploads\/images\/2018champs\/Blog%20imagery\/NC500_best_walks_Little_Assynt.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Loch Assynt\">\n        <\/a>\n        <p>Loch Assynt<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>This all-abilities path, suitable for prams and wheelchairs, gives easy access to wonderful scenery of small lochs, heather moorland and young pine trees, with spectacular mountains rising on the horizon. It explores part of Little Assynt, a community-owned estate of over 2,900 acres (1,175 hectares) where locals are restoring the native woodland. Take a picnic to eat while enjoying the views.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"blog-buttons\">\n    <a class=\"btn second map\" href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-assynt-lochinver\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer map for Little Assynt <i class=\"fa fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Balnakeil Bay and Faraid Head walk<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">North section: Durness to Wick<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Distance: 8 miles (12.8km)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Height gain: 850 feet (260m)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Start\/finish: Balnakeil Bay car park, 1 mile (1.6km) northwest of Durness<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>OS Maps: <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-exmoor\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Landranger 9<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-durness-cape-wrath\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer 446<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"images-with-captions\">\n    <div class=\"image-with-caption\">\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-durness-cape-wrath\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow,noopener noopener\">\n        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/site\/uploads\/images\/2018champs\/Blog%20imagery\/NC500_best_walks_Balnakeil_Bay.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Balnakeil Beach\">\n        <\/a>\n        <p>Balnakeil beach<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Faraid Head points northwards from Durness, just east of Cape Wrath. A mile (1.6km) of pristine sand, Balnakeil beach, stretches down its west side. The base of the peninsula is lowlying grassland, its middle part contains some of the finest sand dunes in the Highlands and its tip rises to impressive cliffs. The highest point is inaccessible, as it is occupied by Ministry of Defence buildings used to monitor naval gunnery and aerial bombardment exercises over Cape Wrath. Don\u2019t worry if you hear explosions!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/highperformanceben\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><\/a>\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"blog-buttons\">\n    <a class=\"btn second map\" href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-durness-cape-wrath\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer map for Balnakeil Bay and Faraid Head <i class=\"fa fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Duncansby Head walk<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">North section: Durness to Wick<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Distance: 2 to 3\u00bd miles (3.2 to 5.6km)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Height gain: 260 to 705 feet (80 to 215m)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Start\/finish: Duncansby Head car park<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>OS Maps: <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-thurso-wick\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Landranger 12<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-thurso-john-ogroats\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer 451<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"images-with-captions\">\n    <div class=\"image-with-caption\">\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-thurso-john-ogroats\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow,noopener noopener\">\n        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/site\/uploads\/images\/2018champs\/Blog%20imagery\/NC500_best_walks_Duncansby_Head.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Views to Duncansby Head\">\n        <\/a>\n        <p>Views to Duncansby Head<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Escape the tourist infrastructure of busy John O\u2019 Groats on this spectacular cliff walk at the extreme north-east tip of Scotland. Easy walking on short maritime turf leads to a view of the two Stacks of Duncansby, looking like sharply-pointed pyramids. Continuing further, on to the wilder Hill of Crogodale, provides new perspectives. This makes an excellent late afternoon walk when the sun is shining from landward onto the stacks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"blog-buttons\">\n    <a class=\"btn second map\" href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-thurso-john-ogroats\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer map for Duncansby Head <i class=\"fa fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Castle Varrich walk<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">North section: Durness to Wick<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Distance: 2 miles (3.2km)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Height gain: 395 feet (120m)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Start\/finish: Public car parking opposite the Ben Loyal Hotel<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>OS Maps: <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-strath-naver\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Landranger 10<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-ben-hope-ben-loyal-kyle-of-tongue\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer 447<\/a> <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"images-with-captions\">\n    <div class=\"image-with-caption\">\n        <a href=\"http:\/\/ttps:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-ben-hope-ben-loyal-kyle-of-tongue\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow,noopener noopener\">\n        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/site\/uploads\/images\/2018champs\/Blog%20imagery\/NC500_best_walks_Castle_Varrich.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Looking out to Castle Varrich\">\n        <\/a>\n        <p>Looking out to Castle Varrich<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The stone tower of Castle Varrich (Caisteal Bharraich in Gaelic) stands prominently atop cliffs overlooking the Kyle of Tongue where turquoise water flows between sand bars as the tide ebbs and flows. A stronghold has occupied this prominent position for centuries and its origins are lost in the mists of time. The gentle approach crosses a bridge and runs through woodland full of birds and wildflowers. Take a picnic to enjoy the view from the grassy area at the top.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"blog-buttons\">\n    <a class=\"btn second map\" href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-ben-hope-ben-loyal-kyle-of-tongue\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer map for Castle Varrich <i class=\"fa fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Morven and Maiden Pap walk<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">East section: Wick to Inverness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Distance: 10\u00bd miles (16.8km)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Height gain: 3,035 feet (925m)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Start\/finish: Parking area at the end of the public road from Dunbeath to Braemore<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>OS Maps: <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-helmsdale-strath-of-kildonan\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Landranger 17<\/a>. <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-helmsdale-strath-of-kildonan-explorer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer 444<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-wick-the-flow-country\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">450<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"images-with-captions\">\n    <div class=\"image-with-caption\">\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-helmsdale-strath-of-kildonan-explorer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow,noopener noopener\">\n        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/site\/uploads\/images\/2018champs\/Blog%20imagery\/NC500_best_walks_Morven.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"View of Maiden Pap from the summit of Morven\">\n        <\/a>\n        <p>View of Maiden Pap from the summit of Morven<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Morven is the highest hill in Caithness. Like its lower neighbour, Maiden Pap, it is conical and rises sharply out of miles of empty moorland. Climbing Morven involves clambering up rough screes, but the reward is an incredible view all the way to the north coast over the low-lying Flow Country of peat, heather and lochs. Although even steeper, the summit of Maiden Pap can be reached by vegetated gullies. Either hill can be tackled on its own, or you can simply stroll along the good track to Corrichoich for a picnic near the remains of an Iron Age Aisled-house.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"blog-buttons\">\n    <a class=\"btn second map\" href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-helmsdale-strath-of-kildonan-explorer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer map for Morven and Maiden Pap <i class=\"fa fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Loch Fleet and Balblair Wood walk<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">East section: Wick to Inverness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Distance: 5 miles (8km)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Height gain: 100 feet (30m)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Start\/finish: Balblair Wood car park, 2 miles (3.2km) south of Golspie on the Little Ferry road<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>OS Maps: <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-south-pennines\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Landranger 21<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-lairg-bonar-bridge-golspie\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer 441<\/a> <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"images-with-captions\">\n    <div class=\"image-with-caption\">\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-lairg-bonar-bridge-golspie\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow,noopener noopener\">\n        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/site\/uploads\/images\/2018champs\/Blog%20imagery\/NC500_best_walks_Loch_Fleet.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Loch Fleet\">\n        <\/a>\n        <p>Aerial view of Loch Fleet <\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Loch Fleet is a large tidal basin that is the most northerly estuary on Scotland\u2019s east coast. The shallow bay is rich in fish, molluscs and salt marsh that provide food for ospreys, waterfowl and waders. On its shore, Balblair Wood is a Scots pine plantation with a wildlife hide. The wood is home to red squirrels, pine marten and Scottish crossbills, and contains rare wildflowers that are relics of the great Caledonian Forest: one-flowered wintergreen, twinflower and the tiny orchid creeping lady\u2019s-tresses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"blog-buttons\">\n    <a class=\"btn second map\" href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/map-of-lairg-bonar-bridge-golspie\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OS Explorer Map for Loch Fleet <i class=\"fa fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p>For more circular walks on the NC500, plus more information on the walks above, read the <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/walks-in-north-coast-500-and-northern-highlands-pathfinder-guidebook-83\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">North Coast 500 and Northern Highlands Pathfinder Guide<\/a>. This handy book contains detailed route descriptions and key information about each walk to ensure you find your way and don&#8217;t miss the best bits. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"images-with-captions\">\n    <div class=\"image-with-caption\">\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/walks-in-north-coast-500-and-northern-highlands-pathfinder-guidebook-83\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow,noopener noopener\">\n        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/site\/uploads\/images\/2018champs\/Blog%20imagery\/NC500_best_walks_pathfinder_guide.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"North Coast 500 and Northern Highlands Pathfinder Guide\">\n        <\/a>\n        <p>North Coast 500 and Northern Highlands Pathfinder Guide<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"blog-buttons\">\n    <a class=\"btn second map\" href=\"https:\/\/shop.osmaps.com\/walks-in-north-coast-500-and-northern-highlands-pathfinder-guidebook-83\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Buy the NC500 guide <i class=\"fa fa-arrow-right\"><\/i><\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"MetaShare\">\n\n\t\t\t<button id=\"likeButton\" data-nonce=\"26fcc9d63c\" data-postid=\"1215\" class=\"Button Button--default Button--icon likeButton\"><span class=\"likeButtonText\">Like this guide<\/span><svg width=\"21\" height=\"20\" viewBox=\"0 0 21 20\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n<path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M10.4947 3.09742C8.5448 1.39335 5.66108 1.04464 3.42166 2.95804C0.999337 5.02773 0.647396 8.5134 2.56291 10.9783C3.29002 11.9139 4.70917 13.3196 6.07302 14.6069C7.45283 15.9092 8.82946 17.1399 9.50834 17.7411C9.51258 17.7449 9.51691 17.7487 9.5213 17.7526C9.58512 17.8092 9.66457 17.8796 9.74074 17.937C9.83194 18.0057 9.96286 18.0909 10.1377 18.1431C10.3701 18.2124 10.62 18.2124 10.8524 18.1431C11.0272 18.0909 11.1581 18.0057 11.2493 17.937C11.3255 17.8796 11.405 17.8092 11.4688 17.7526C11.4732 17.7487 11.4775 17.7449 11.4817 17.7411C12.1606 17.1399 13.5373 15.9092 14.9171 14.6069C16.2809 13.3196 17.7001 11.9139 18.4272 10.9783C20.3353 8.52288 20.0377 5.01032 17.5597 2.95074C15.2954 1.06872 12.4424 1.3927 10.4947 3.09742Z\" fill=\"#186571\"\/>\n<\/svg>\n<\/button>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"row justify-content-center MetaShareSocial\" aria-label=\"Share\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col-auto\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"#\" role=\"button\" aria-label=\"X\" class=\"Button Button--default MetaShareSocial__button MetaShareSocial__button--x\" id=\"share-twitter\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\"><g transform=\"translate(-173 238)\"><path d=\"M18.9.75h3.68l-8.04,9.213L24,22.5H16.594l-5.8-7.6L4.156,22.5H.474l8.6-9.854L0,.75H7.594L12.837,7.7ZM17.61,20.291h2.039L6.486,2.843H4.3Z\" transform=\"translate(173 -237.625)\" fill=\"currentColor\"\/><\/g><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col-auto\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"#\" role=\"button\" aria-label=\"facebook\"  class=\"Button Button--default MetaShareSocial__button MetaShareSocial__button--f\" id=\"share-facebook\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\"><g transform=\"translate(-89 238)\"><path d=\"M14.186,24V13.2h3.279L18,8.4H14.186V6.062c0-1.236.032-2.462,1.759-2.462h1.749V.168A19.34,19.34,0,0,0,14.671,0C11.5,0,9.508,1.989,9.508,5.64V8.4H6v4.8H9.508V24Z\" transform=\"translate(89 -238)\" fill=\"currentColor\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"\/><\/g><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div id=\"likeCount\" class=\"likeCount\">Liked by <span id=\"likeCountValue\">1<\/span> users<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<hr class=\"MetaShare__hr\" \/>\n\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"MetaShareAuthor\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"MetaShareAuthor__name\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBy OS Team\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/article>\n\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Northern Highlands of Scotland are home to the most remote and dramatic landscapes in Britain and there is one epic route which encapsulates it all, the North Coast 500 (NC500). Popular with both drivers and cycle tourists, we break this iconic journey up into sections and share our 10 best NC500 walks along the route for you to enjoy. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1214,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"activities":[14],"locations":[24],"class_list":["post-1215","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized","activities-walking","locations-scotland"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Circular walks along Scotland&#039;s North Coast 500 | OS GetOutside<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"The Northern Highlands of Scotland are home to the most remote and dramatic landscapes in Britain and there is one epic route which encapsulates it all, the North Coast 500 (NC500). Popular with both drivers and cycle tourists, we break this iconic journey up into sections and share our 10 best NC500 walks along the route for you to enjoy.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/osmaps.com\/discover\/guides\/10-best-nc500-walks\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"10 best NC500 walks | OS GetOutside\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"The Northern Highlands of Scotland are home to the most remote and dramatic landscapes in Britain and there is one epic route which encapsulates it all, the North Coast 500 (NC500). 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