Cycling the North Coast 500

If you’re dreaming of a big Scottish cycling adventure, the North Coast 500 is as epic as it gets. This guidebook takes you around the full 850km loop from Inverness through Wester Ross, Sutherland, Caithness, Easter Ross and the Black Isle — a ride packed with wild coastline, rugged mountains, remote glens and classic Highland villages.
Designed for riders with a decent level of fitness, the NC500 can be tackled in about two weeks, making it perfect for a challenging holiday or a long, slow touring escape. The book breaks the route into 16 clear stages (24–89km each), with distance, ascent, descent, terrain, waymarking and elevation profiles to help you plan each day and manage the big climbs, including the legendary Bealach na Bà.
You’ll find detailed 1:150,000 mapping for every stage, GPX files for easy digital navigation, and plenty of practical info on accommodation, campsites, cafés, shops and local facilities. There are also alternative options to dodge the steepest sections or avoid busy roads, giving you the flexibility to tailor the ride to your experience and comfort level.
Along the way, you’ll pass highlights like Inverness, Ullapool, Thurso, Tain and the dramatic coastal scenery that makes the NC500 world‑famous. With this guidebook, you can plan your trip with confidence and enjoy one of the most spectacular cycling routes in the UK.