Why Winter is the best time for the ultimate Scottish Road Trip

Lonely Planet has released a new series of pocket-sized, dedicated guides to the world's greatest adventures. Including Journey: Scotland North Coast 500, which provides advice on how to experience the stunning, scenic road trip and get closer to the culture, history and landscapes encountered along the way.

Launched a decade ago by the North Highland Initiative to boost tourism in the region, the North Coast 500 (NC500), spanning 516 miles in a circular route from Inverness, has become a global phenomenon. The NC500 winds along some of Scotland's most remote and spectacular roads, weaving through landscapes rich with castles, whisky distilleries, rolling grain fields, dramatic cliffs, and even UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Lonely Planet is passionate about responsible travel and Journey North Coast 500's top tip is to explore outside of the peak summer season, with winter being an unexpectedly rewarding time to visit the region. Offering a more peaceful experience, with quieter roads, empty beaches, vibrant heather-covered moorlands, snow-dusted mountain scenes and the bonus of fewer midges!

With a little planning, a winter road trip can be enchanting and means supporting the local communities, and the people who call this region home, by visiting the local owned accommodations, restaurants and attractions all year round.

Lonely Planet's top tips for where to stay and what to do on a spectacular winter NC500 road trip:

When to go:

• Between October and February can be a fantastic alternative to the busier summer months, offering a quieter, more serene experience with fewer visitors on the roads and at popular attractions, as well as enjoy the dramatic landscapes, rugged coastlines, and charming villages without the crowds. The cooler months also bring a unique beauty to the route with the chance to witness the Northern Lights on clear nights. Accommodation and attractions are also often more affordable and easier to book, and the slower pace of travel lets you truly connect with the wild, untamed character of the Highlands.

What to do:

• The route is dotted fascinating attractions, from the fairytale-like Dunrobin Castle and the world-renowned Glenmorangie Distillery to the towering Duncansby Stacks, mystical Smoo Cave, and the geologically significant Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve. To an array of small businesses and community-driven attractions providing a deeper connection to Highland life.

• Food enthusiasts will find no shortage of memorable stops, starting with Invernesses newest wine bar the Walrus and Corkscrew a cosy, independent bar that showcases 250 varieties from across the global, alternatively sample a glass of craft ale at Black Isle Brewing Co., before picking up seasonal local produce at The Storehouse, a beloved farm shop and restaurant near Evanton. Coastal dining is a highlight of the NC500, whether you're indulging in freshly caught seafood at Platform 1864, in Tain or enjoying wood-fired pizzas and local shellfish at Sutor Creek in Cromarty. For an intimate farm-to-table experience, Crofter's Kitchen in Scourie serves superb dishes crafted from homegrown and foraged ingredients, whereas Cocoa Mountain in Durness is a must-visit for its handmade artisan chocolates and their legendary hot chocolate.

• Along the way, travellers can pair their culinary adventures with cultural and historical stops. The Tain & District Museum and Clan Ross Centre offers fascinating insights into local heritage, while a visit to Clynelish Distillery provides a taste of one of Scotland's most characterful single malts.

Where to stay:

• The NC500 offers countless ways to stay local and immerse yourself in Highland hospitality. The elegant Royal Marine Hotel in Brora combines Edwardian charm with luxurious comfort, while Castlecraig Clifftops in Nigg offers stylish, eco-friendly lodges with panoramic sea views. For a truly indulgent escape, The Torridon, Britain's most northerly five-star hotel is set against a dramatic mountain backdrop and provides world-class dining and outdoor adventures right on its doorstep.

For more information, check out Lonely Planet's Journey North Coast 500, packed with expert tips, detailed maps, and insider recommendations to help make the most of a road trip around Scotland's breathtaking northern coastline.

The NEW Journey series helps travellers bring to life three iconic road trip and hiking adventures. In addition to Scotland Coast 500, Journey Route 66 has just been released ahead of the legendary road trip route's 100th anniversary in 2026. As well as Journey: Camino de Santiago, the historic hiking pilgrimage trail across Spain.

The Journey guides are available from £17.99 at shop.lonelyplanet.com or where all good books are sold.  

ENDS 

Media enquiries please contact: LonelyPlanet@goshpr.co.uk

Notes to Media:

• Images and extracts are available on request
• Interviews & comment: Authors Mike MacEacheran is available is available upon request

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