The North Coast 500 route is known as one of Scotland's best road trips with drivers able to catch a glimpse of extraordinary sights.

The route is home to dozens of beautiful locations loved by visitors which offer everything from peace and tranquility to excitement.

With so many places to see and so little time, here are some of the best-rated spots to check out.

NC500's best beaches and beauty spots according to Google Reviews

Clydebank Post: (Getty) The NC500 in Northern Scotland has dozens of beaches and beauty spots well worth a visit(Getty) The NC500 in Northern Scotland has dozens of beaches and beauty spots well worth a visit (Image: Getty)

Here are some of the best beaches and beauty spots on the NC500:

Chanonry Point

Location: Ness Rd, Fortrose IV10 8SD

Rating: 4.6 out of 4633

One visitor said: "Nice spot and is listed as one of best places to spot dolphins. We didn't get lucky but it's a nice beach. Not many facilities so if waiting around best to come with supplies."

Sandwood Bay Beach

Location: Sandwood Bay Beach, Lairg IV27 4RU

Rating: 4.8 out of 302 reviews

One visitor said: "Beautiful beach, well worth the walk. I'd give yourself 1.5 hours to walk there and probably 2 hours to walk back. The walk is nice but the star of the show is the stunning sand, dunes, and beautiful blue water."

Falls of Shin

Location: Lairg IV27 4ET

Rating: 4.4 out of 179 reviews

One visitor said: "Lovely spot to stop off and appreciate the beautiful and quaint nature. There is a big car park, a visitor centre and toilets available."

Bealach na Bà

Location: Strathcarron IV54 8ND

Rating: 4.8 out of 102 reviews

One visitor said: "Amazing road! Obviously quite dangerous but it’s the most amazing views, loved every second of this journey and this road will always be a highlight if anyone gets the chance to travel this road they should!"

 

Recommended Reading: 

Here is your comprehensive guide to Scotland's NC500 this spring and summer

Here are the best pubs and bars to visit on the NC500 in Scotland

Best places to spot whales, dolphins or porpoises on the NC500

The best and most breathtaking wild swimming spots on the NC500

Clachtoll Beach

Location: Lairg, IV27 4JD

Rating: 4.4 out of 189 reviews

One visitor said: "Beautiful beach to play in the water or take the dog for a run."

Smoo Cave

Location: Lairg IV27 4QA

Rating: 4.6 out of 300 reviews

One visitor said: "You'll drive right past Smoo Cave when you drive the NC500 from Thurso to Durness. It is a free attraction, including free car parking, and an easy "must do" as you pass."

Torrisdale Bay

Location: Campbeltown

Rating: 5 out of 5 reviews

One visitor said: "Peaceful and breathtakingly beautiful. We found a wee area to park in and enjoy a hot cup of tea, have a walk along the stony beach with our dog."