NC500

With our location in Dornoch, guests here are perfectly placed to experience one of the world’s most iconic drives – the NC500.

Stretching out over 500 miles through some of the Scottish Highlands’ most breathtaking coastal scenery, it’s an adventure not to be missed. Whether guests are setting out to explore the whole route, or instead curate an experience tailored to their own interests, our Guest Relations Team can create bespoke itineraries filled with hidden gems, which are ideal for travellers looking to make the most of their stays.

We have developed a selection of suggested itineraries which guests are welcome to follow during their stays. These routes have been inspired by our region, and encompass some of the finest golfing, hill walking, driving and foodie experiences available, ensuring our Links House guests can enjoy the very best of this magical region.

Eyes on stalks beautiful, breathtaking views and never have I driven so slowly. The sky was the colour of a Norwegian model’s eyes. Tendrils of cloud spilt over snow-capped mountains before being whipped into nothing by the wind. And it went on and on and on. Past turquoise water like you find in the Maldives and islands as weird and as enticing as those in Ha Long Bay. This was, and I will take no argument on the matter, by far the most beautiful place on Earth.”

Jeremy Clarkson

Driving Routes

The North Coast 500 incorporates some of the country’s most breathtaking coastal scenery. The stunning Rosemarkie Beach is just over an hour’s drive from our front door, whilst Strathy Bay is around a two hours’ drive north, and certainly worth the journey. With steep cliffs, and views stretching out over the Pentland Firth, it’s a destination which is sure to impress. Those venturing out in May and June can enjoy it surrounded by blooming wildflowers, whilst those visiting in winter months will be met with beautifully dramatic vistas.

Whisky

It wouldn’t be a trip to the Scottish Highlands without a dram or two, and we’re proud neighbours with a number of the world’s finest distilleries. Whether our guests are looking to experience Clynelish Distillery and Visitor Centre in Brora, or an intimate tour of the newly reopened Brora Distillery, a whisky-inspired tour of the NC500’s is not soon forgotten. It’s a wonderful opportunity to pick up some truly delicious souvenirs, or perhaps invest in a rare bottle or two. Transport can be arranged to allow guests to enjoy a tasting session at their chosen destinations, and here in Dornoch, there is also the opportunity to enjoy a tasting session at the Carnegie Whisky Cellars.

Golfing

For many, a trip to the Scottish Highlands isn’t complete without a round or two of world class golf. Whilst the lauded Royal Dornoch Golf Club is steps from our front door, the NC500 route encompasses several famed links courses which are ideal for guests looking to enjoy the best of the region. The courses at Golspie and Brora are just a short drive away and provide players with courses which are as challenging as they are beautiful. Further afield, there is opportunity to enjoy Reay Golf Club  - believed to be Scotland’s most northerly, and Durness whose dramatic, 9-hole cliff-top links which can be played twice with different tees.

Foodie

The Scottish Highlands is home to some of the UK’s finest producers, and there is no more delicious way to experience our region, than by enjoying a route which celebrates them. Our Guest Relations Team can recommend some hidden gems, and there is an opportunity to enjoy private cheese and whisky tastings in the comfort of our own Anteroom thanks to our partnership with Highland Fine Cheeses.

Historic Sites

The Highlands have played witness to some of Scotland’s most bloody battles, and with the battleground of Culloden just an hour away, it’s a popular destination for many of our guests. Closer to home, the fairy tale spires of Dunrobin Castle are just a ten-minute drive away, and we are proud to offer exclusive owl and hawk experiences for Links House guests. There is a Pictish Trail in Easter Ross to explore, whilst guests looking to investigate their own Scottish heritage are well served by Timespan Heritage Centre & Museum in Helmsdale.

Active Explorers

With a route which encompasses so much of the Scottish Highlands, guests looking to enjoy an active getaway are spoiled for choice. Our Guest Relations Team can arrange for both loch and open water fishing experiences, and our Sporting Bothy provides secure storage for any equipment guests may wish to bring with them. There are wonderful biking routes which can stretch even the most ardent of cyclists, and those looking to enjoy breathtaking views are well served by the numerous hiking routes available. Guests can even ‘bag’ a Munro or two during their stay. Of course, after all that exertion, some r&r may be required – happily fatigued guests can recharge at the stunning Aspen Spa in Dornoch, or in nearby Tain.

DOWNLOAD THE NC500 MAP