Our own route

Loop the Loop

Everyone drives the NC500. We’d rather send you round two smaller loops — east and west — that take in the bits the coaches miss, at a pace that lets you actually stop.

East loop – Glens, whisky and the quiet coast

Inland first, then back along the firth. Farm shops, a couple of distilleries and beaches you’ll have to yourself even in July. Easy driving, mostly two lanes.

[XX] miles2 daysEasy driving

See the East route

West loop – Sea lochs, single track and big skies

The dramatic one. Passing places, hairpins and views that stop conversation. Take an extra day and don’t plan your evenings too tightly.

[XX] miles3 daysSingle track

See the West route

Where we fit in

Both loops pass the door. We’re the shop with the purple sign on [street] — pull in, stretch your legs and ask us what’s worth the detour. Free parking outside.

Where to stop

The cafés, viewpoints and bakeries we send people to, and the two we’d skip.

Best time to go

May and September, if you’re asking. What the roads are like in between, honestly.

Doing it by bus

No car? Our own Westerbus covers most of the west loop. Timetables and how to plan it.

Take a bit of it home

Prints, candles and food from along both loops — wrapped free, or posted home so you don’t have to pack it.