north coast tours

Thanks for visiting nordicvisitor.com! For the very best browsing experience on our website, we urge you to upgrade to the most recent version of your browser . Some of our site features may not function properly on older versions.

Scotland travel update | New tours of the UK!

• Search Suggested Results View All Results
• EUR (€)
• GBP (£)
• Self-Drive i
• Guided Small Groups i
• Privately Guided i
• Multi-Day i
• Scotland & Ireland i
• Scotland, England & Wales i
• Honeymoon i
• Highlands i
• Solo Travel i
• All types & themes
• All Scotland Tours
• Best Sellers
• Special Offers
• Book With Confidence i
• Scotland Travel Update i
• Why book with us i
• Travel Update
• Booking Terms i
• Sustainability Policy i
• Scotland at a Glance i
• Useful Information i
• Scotland Attractions i
• Scotland Blog i
• Scandinavia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Manage Booking
• Privacy policy

Iceland Bíldshöfði 20 110 Reykjavík +354 578 20 80 View Map

Sweden Scotland View Details

North Coast 500 Packages

Soak up breathtaking views on a Scottish Highlands and North Coast 500 tour, which includes highlights of this iconic route. Your personal travel consultant at Nordic Visitor will plan and book your road trip for you. Plus, you’ll have 24/7 local support during your getaway for peace of mind.

Discover the highlights of the NC500 and beyond

Thinking about a North Coast 500 self-drive tour? We can help!

Explore golden beaches, ancient castles, and towering mountains on the North Coast 500, an exhilarating driving route in Scotland. You’ll soon see why it’s such a renowned road trip in the UK.

When you book a self-drive tour of Scotland with Nordic Visitor, our Edinburgh-based travel consultants will organise your getaway for you. They’ll book your accommodation, plan your route, and be there for you during the planning process and via the 24/7 helpline while you’re away.

Plus, you can Book With Confidence knowing your money is safeguarded with our Cancellation Protection.

Get in touch and we'll happily plan your tour. You can call us on +44 (0)131 344 4630 or our toll-free numbers . Alternatively, reach us via our contact form or live chat.

— WHY US?

Why book with nordic visitor.

• Hassle-free & seamless travel experience
• Flexible tour options
• Access our 24/7 helpline during your tour
• All bookings are protected by our Cancellation Protection
• Professional service from local experts

Experience Highlights of the North Coast 500

Uncover the Highlands on a stunning road trip through northern Scotland. Tour packages include handpicked accommodation, rental car and daily breakfast.

Grand Tour of Scotland

Scottish highlands & north coast 500, complete scotland at leisure, scottish highlands, north coast 500 & outer hebrides, complete scotland, classic scotland & the orkney islands, explore more scottish road trips.

Experience other stunning spots in Scotland on a self-drive tour designed by local travel experts. Your accommodation, rental car, and daily breakfast is included.

Classic Scotland

Scottish highlands & isle of skye, scottish highlands & isle of skye - winter, express scotland - winter, the outlander trail, express scotland, classic scotland & outer hebrides, express scotland & ireland, classic scotland & ireland, complete scotland & ireland, grand tour of scotland & ireland, scottish highlands, isle of skye & wild atlantic way, ultimate tour of scotland & ireland, scottish highlands, north coast 500 & wild atlantic way, experience scotland your way.

We have tours for all varieties of travel styles and interests. See our options for exploring Scotland below.

Guided Small Groups

Honeymoon & romance, solo travel, the scottish highlands, off the beaten path, about north coast 500 tours.

If you’ve got questions about the North Coast 500, read on. We’ve compiled expert tips about this incredible driving route to help you plan your tour. Here’s everything you need to know about enjoying a trip along Scotland’s North Coast 500 and beyond.

What is the North Coast 500?

The North Coast 500, or NC500, is one of the best road trips in the UK. The NC500 route takes you through striking scenery in the Scottish Highlands, encompassing just over 500 miles (516 miles or 830 kilometres, to be exact).

Where is the North Coast 500?

You’ll find the NC500 in the northernmost part of the British mainland in Scotland. Usually, you’d start your road trip in Inverness in northeastern Scotland and follow the coast as it heads north, before looping west and south to Applecross. Overall, you’d travel across 6 regions: Inverness-shire, the Black Isle, Easter Ross, Caithness, Sutherland and Wester Ross.

How long does the North Coast 500 take?

To allow yourself enough time to explore this part of Scotland, we highly recommend choosing a North Coast 500 itinerary of at least 7 or 10 days. This way you could get to know each region well and take your time to drive the route.

Choose a Nordic Visitor tour, and you’ll see the best of the NC500, plus other unmissable spots. These tours take anywhere between 12 and 17 days, giving you a taste of island life with stops in Orkney and the Isle of Skye .

• Check out these self-drive tours of Scotland to start planning your holiday
• Uncover top things to see and do on the Isle of Skye

Which direction to do the North Coast 500?

Our travel experts suggest driving the NC500 anti-clockwise, with Inverness as your starting point. You’d then head north along the east coast before following the road towards John O'Groats. From this northerly point, travel west to Durness and drive south down the western side.

The reason is that the scenery becomes more and more dramatic in this direction, culminating with the mountainous landscapes of the west coast.

Book a road trip with Nordic Visitor and you can leave the trip planning to our Edinburgh-based experts who know the country inside out. You’ll get to see more top spots with day trips and overnight stays in places like the Isle of Skye and Fort William.

Our Scotland travel experts will design your route for you, book you into handpicked accommodation, and share all their insider tips with you. What’s more, you’ll have access to our 24/7 helpline during your trip. Should you need any support, we are only a call away.

• Let someone else take the wheel on a small group or privately guided tour of Scotland
• Unlock the best beaches in Scotland in this guide

Must-see places on the North Coast 500

There are so many breathtaking sights awaiting you on a North Coast 500 self-drive tour. With sandy beaches, grand castles and majestic mountains, you’ll be treated to some of Scotland’s top highlights on your road trip.

Add these must-see spots to your NC500 itinerary:

• The Black Isle
• Dunrobin Castle
• Durness Beach
• Ardvreck Castle
• Inverewe Garden
• Corrieshalloch Gorge

Beyond the North Coast 500, northern Scotland offers countless other attractions you won’t want to miss. You could stop off at Loch Ness , known worldwide for the legendary Loch Ness Monster. Take a boat tour of the loch before admiring the beautiful ruins of Urquhart Castle on its banks.

Continue your deep dive into Scotland’s dramatic landscapes by going island hopping. You could explore the Isle of Skye off the west coast to see the dreamy Fairy Pools and the epic Old Man of Storr .

Venture north to the Orkney Islands , and you could explore the prehistoric village of Skara Brae , the mysterious Ring of Brodgar stone circle and the chambered cairn of Maeshowe .

Top things to do on the NC500

There are plenty of things to do on your adventure through northern Scotland. Imagine exploring the ruins of Ardvreck Castle on the shores of Loch Assynt, or sampling freshly caught seafood in Ullapool.

Here are the best things to do on your road trip:

• Stroll along white and golden sand beaches
• Go hiking in the hills, forests and glens
• Taste fresh, local seafood at fishing villages
• Uncover ancient ruins and regal castles
• Take on the highest mountain pass in the country
• Sample heady whisky at Highland distilleries and pubs
• Stop by the northernmost tip of mainland Britain, John o’Groats
• Discover hidden coves and mysterious sea caves
• Spot dolphins and seabirds from the shore at places like Chanonry Point
• Admire views of rivers, lochs and waterfalls
• Enjoy island-hopping between Orkney, Harris, Lewis and Skye

While you’re visiting Scotland, take advantage of the country’s small size and spend a day or two exploring the capital city, Edinburgh . Stroll down the Royal Mile and take a tour of the historic Edinburgh Castle .

Where to stay on the NC500

In terms of where you should stay on your North Coast 500 journey, we recommend the following places:

Leave the arrangements to Nordic Visitor, and we’ll book all your stays for you, whether that’s a charming guesthouse or a cosy bed and breakfast. We have guaranteed beds in desirable locations, and we quality-check all the accommodation on your itinerary to make sure it’s up to our high standards.

• Experience even more Celtic culture on a tour of Scotland and Ireland
• For more inspiration, check out this guide to the North Coast 500

How to plan your NC500 trip?

The easiest way to plan your NC500 road trip is to have an expert organise it for you. By doing so, you can relax and look forward to your getaway without worrying about logistics and travel arrangements.

At Nordic Visitor, our Scotland travel consultants are based in Edinburgh. They’ll use their expertise to arrange a tour package that suits you.

When you book a North Coast 500 package with us, you can expect:

• A personal travel consultant based in Edinburgh who’ll arrange your trip
• Excellent accommodation at your chosen price point, with daily breakfast
• Car rental with CDW, unlimited mileage and authorisation for 2 drivers
• A hand-noted, personalised itinerary and route
• 24/7 phone support during your adventure for peace of mind
• Cancellation Protection available to protect your booking
• Discover more of the best Scottish road trips in this guide

Best time of year to do the NC500

The best time to drive the North Coast 500 is between April and October . You’ll have the most daylight hours, open attractions, and accommodation options at this time of year.

Compared to the winter months ( November to March ), the roads are generally more accessible between April and October. It’s also good to know that certain highlights, such as castles, are only open to the public during the high season.

One thing to be aware of about Scotland in summer – between June and August – is that it attracts the most visitors. To avoid missing out, make sure to book your trip early.

Consider visiting Scotland in spring or autumn to experience the NC500 when it’s quieter. As a bonus, you can enjoy gorgeous landscapes dotted with blossoming flowers or red and gold foliage.

• Check out these Scotland summer tour packages
• Read more advice about the best time to visit Scotland and the UK

Tips for driving the NC500

When packing for your NC500 tour, you should be ready for all weather and bring plenty of warm layers. Waterproofs are a must as it can be wet in the Scottish Highlands.

Here’s our recommended packing list for Scotland :

• Comfortable hiking shoes or boots
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Warm, insulated jacket
• Fleece or woollen jumper
• Cosy hat, scarf and gloves
• Light base layer tops
• Lightweight trousers or shorts
• Sunglasses, sun hat and sun cream
• Reusable water bottle
• UK plug adapter

If you’re visiting in the summer months, be sure to prepare for midges by bringing insect repellant. And we suggest you wear long sleeves and trousers, particularly at dusk when midges (small biting insects) are at their worst.

• Read about Scotland’s weather and daylight hours in these travel guides
• Get in touch and a local travel expert will start creating your dream getaway

Scroll down to learn more about Nordic Visitor’s services.

— LOCAL SUPPORT & KNOWLEDGE

Get the most out of your getaway.

• Relax knowing you can reach us 24/7 on our helpline
• Explore places handpicked for you by local experts
• Save time and effort with everything arranged for you
• Enjoy professional service from Edinburgh-based experts

What do our customers say?

The reviews speak for themselves. See what Nordic Visitor travellers said about their experience with us.

Highly recommend Nordic Visitor

This is our second tour with Nordic Visitor. Agents used before the tour were always very prompt with responses to our questions. During the tour, we found the accommodation perfect, guide very informative and friendly, and the driver got used to where we needed to go without any problems. We would definitely use Nordic Visitor again!

Smooth experience

Throughout the years we have travelled a lot, but never with a group tour. This trip was our first time and it did not disappoint. The tour guide, the bus driver, our fellow passengers, the weather, accommodation, variety of activities, and how smoothly everything went makes me question why we never toured like this before!

Amazing experience!

We had an amazing experience with Nordic Visitor! Our guides, Richard and Tim, were organised, knowledgeable, and very friendly! You can tell quality and customer satisfaction are very important. We will be back!

An unforgettable holiday

It was an unforgettable holiday. They took care of everything, and we got to wonder and explore with little hassle. If you want to visit Scotland (or anywhere else Nordic Visitor has tours) they are the way to do it. Already talking about our next adventure with Nordic Visitor.

An indescribably fantastic experience!

We are two middle-aged women who had never been to the UK before. My sister-in-law always wanted to go to Scotland, so I started researching and came upon Nordic Visitor through internet searches. I checked for reviews and found the company to be highly recommended. I started corresponding with Kirsten. She was extremely kind, very helpful and was able to put my nervous mind at ease. The package she put together for us was perfect! From my first email, the airport pick up and drop off service, and the tour with Dave, it was an indescribably fantastic experience!

I can't thank Nordic Visitor enough

This is our second trip in two years to Scotland with Nordic Visitor, and we are seriously thinking about another. I can't thank Chris enough for his patience and expertise when booking this trip.

The tour package materials were top notch. Spiral bound itinerary, recommended activities, restaurant recommendations and the large-scale road map of Scotland were a nice touch. Magdalena, our Nordic Visitor representative, responded promptly to our questions. Accomodation was all great.

Perfect vacation!

For our 50th wedding anniversary, we trusted Nordic Visitor to make our vacation a memorable one, and they made it beyond special. Chris, our tour planner, did everything to accommodate our needs and answered our questions quickly. It was an absolutely perfect vacation!

We booked a 4-day Christmas Tour of Edinburgh which included hotel accommodation, a walking tour of the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle, a day tour of the Highlands and Lowlands, castles, and lochs, and also a whisky distillery tour. The hotel was in an amazing location near the Christmas Markets and popular attractions. The day tours were such a wonderful way to experience the countryside outside of Edinburgh. We also added a driving service to drive us to and from the airport and the drivers were so lovely. The care package left at the hotel consisting of maps and suggested eateries was such a delightful bonus. We loved that every aspect of our trip was planned and ready for us once we arrived which diminished any travel stress that one may experience when travelling abroad.

We were in good hands

As first-time visitors to Edinburgh, and senior citizens, our choice to use Nordic Visitor was an excellent one. The welcome package we received at the hotel was really helpful, with our tour vouchers, maps and restaurant recommendations. We would not have known what hotel to select and the one selected for us was perfect. The choice of tours offered was perfect for a 5-day visit. So glad to learn about the Royal Mile and visit the castle. The trip through the Highlands and Loch Ness was beautiful. Our travel agent, Rebecca, always quickly responded to email questions prior to departure. Thank you! Nordic Visitor made our trip easy and rewarding. We were in good hands.

Highly professional service

Nordic Visitor is a highly professional tour company. From beginning to end, we have no complaints. Our travel consultant, Chris, was very quick to answer all our questions from start to finish. Could not be more pleased.

Absolutely wonderful!

Our trip was absolutely wonderful! Magda was great to work with and helped us through the whole process. Everyone we worked with from the beginning through the end of the trip was absolutely marvellous.

Scotland Travel Guide

Learn some conversation-starter facts and do some research before your Scottish adventure.

North Coast 500

The North Coast 500, or NC500, is one of the most scenic drives in Scotland. In fact, many say...

Regarded as the capital of the Highlands, Inverness is a city on Scotland’s northeastern coast,...

Nestled on the shores of Loch Broom between rugged mountains, the small fishing village of...

What to bring

Come prepared for all seasons and activities with ..

From single malt whisky to traditional delicacies,..

What kind of temperatures can you expect in Scotla..

Where to buy essentials and what to bring home as ..

Our Services

Whether you travel independently or with a guide in your Nordic Visitor package, you will receive personalised service from a designated travel consultant and high-quality travel documents. What's more, all self-drive clients receive a hand-marked map that outlines the driving route, overnights and highlights along the way. Travel with ease knowing that Nordic Visitor has close professional relationships with local service providers , which are carefully selected by our staff for their consistently high standards.

Book With Confidence

• Protect your money & plans with our  flexible booking terms    .
• 97% of customers say they’d recommend us to friends.
• We work closely with trusted, high-quality suppliers.
• Enjoy personal service from Scotland travel experts.
• Get peace of mind with a 24/7 helpline during your stay.
• We’re here for you in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Get in touch to have your dream holiday arranged by one of our local travel experts. As a travel agency based in Edinburgh, we know Scotland inside out and we’ll use our expertise to plan your perfect trip.

Our Scottish phone number is +44 (0)131 344 4630

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

Read About Scotland

Isle of skye: 9 top things to see & do, the best & most beautiful beaches in scotland, 5 best road trips in scotland : a local expert's view, scotland's nc500 - your guide to the north coast 500 route.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

LUXURY PRIVATE TOURS

The north coast 500, & its heartland.

JOURNEY WITH US FOR THE ULTIMATE NORTH HIGHLAND EXPERIENCE

Why choose a private guide.

Be inspired by an expert who will help you look below the surface of what you can see, bring to life the history of the area and take you off the beaten track to places others will not see.

WHICH TYPE OF TOUR IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Our website is designed to give you a flavour of what we offer and our expertise will help to tailor your unique experience.

NEW: OUR FAVOURITE EXPERIENCES

Discover what we love about the North Highlands, learn about some of our favourite places and enjoy some of the sights you will see when visiting the North Highlands and North Coast 500.

EXPLORERS' EXPERIENCES

Best choice for a NC500 tour

If you want a full appreciation of the Scottish Highlands, look no further than the extremely knowledgeable and passionate husband and wife team at NCE. We did extensive research of our options and NCE stood out as the best.

Madelaine, California

Stunning NC500 Tour Guide! 

If I had to pick just a few words for our North Coast Explorer tour it would be things like - luxury, bespoke, friendly, knowledgeable, personalized, well-research - and amazing! We wouldn't ever contact anyone else - and neither should you. North Coast Explorer is simply THE BEST!

Chris, Seattle

A highlight of our trip to Scotland

Anyone who is considering booking a tour, you should. It's so much better not to drive it, and just to sit back, and let Robert & Sally-Ann take over and show you the best of the best! They are expert planners, great communicators and just wonderful people.

David, Los Angeles

+34 684346338

+1 4158672124

[email protected]

Award winning tours

First off, a massive  thank you for considering taking your next tour with us! We began giving tours in San Francisco, California in 2010, and over the years we have created unforgettable memories for thousands of people. In 2021 we came back to San Sebastian happy and excited to show the Basque Country and the Rioja Wine region to all traveling and wine enthusiasts.

Our team includes Monica, General Manager, Alvaro and Iñaki, expert tour guides, and Anton the smiley guy on the right side of the picture!

Teamwork and Quality

We build close relationships with the region’s best wineries, and keep our tour groups small to ensure a relaxed, intimate and friendly experience. Our passionate guides and well-maintained fleet of transport ensures guests are comfortable, safe and well cared for.

Keeping it green

We are proud to be a sustainable, carbon neutral company. We incorporate green practices into our business like recycling and minimizing waste, and we purchase carbon offsets to balance our fuel use.

For questions, enquiries and further information

+34 684 346 338

+1 415 867 21 24

[email protected]

Contact us!

Stay in touch.

Privacy Policy

Cookies Policy

For full functionality of this site please enable JavaScript Here

• Map/Destinations
• Itineraries

Take a bite of the Oregon Coast

From Astoria, Seaside and Cannon Beach, and through the Tillamook Coast, this region is ripe for culinary exploration. Enter an area of unmatched beauty and adventure—defined by fresh flavors, natural bounty and a variety of unique food experiences. The North Coast Food Trail inspires you to explore with your senses as you travel along Oregon's north coast. Take a journey with us...

Photo by Sidney Pearce

Destination Categories

Artisan products.

Find harvested salt, grass-fed meats, glorious cheese

Bakeries and Cafés

Photo by Leonid Portnoy

Enjoy baked goods, ice cream, and savory lunches

Craft Beverages

Sip and sample, then scope out how it’s made.

Enjoy the flavors of the region.

Experiences

Explore the Coast, we’ll point the way.

Farmers Markets

Buy from local farms and vendors.

Farms and Seafood

Get fresh with farm-to-fork and dock-to-table

Find places to stay as you explore.

Video: Oregon's North Coast Food Trail

85 miles, 60 stops to savor. Get a taste of what you might find along the way.

Oregon's North Coast Food Trail

Lager Steamer Clams by Public Coast Brewing Company

Emblazoned on the wall in Public Coast Brewing Company is “Beaches Forever, Beer For Everyone.” This isn’t just a motto for... [MORE]

Salmon Cakes by Offshore Grill and Coffee House

Jake and Michelle Burden have created a cozy space and vibrant menu at Offshore Grill and Coffee House in Manzanita. With... [MORE]

Coming soon...

Stay tuned for exciting events.

Video: Chef Bob Neroni on Oregon's North Coast Food Trail

See how the bounty of the North Coast makes this a food region that's worth digging into.

Learn, Taste & Trek: Take Your First Step on the Food Trail.

Out here, there’s a world of wonders good enough to eat. On the North Coast Food Trail, you’ll find an abundance of producers, shops, vendors and restaurants, who share a passion for bringing out the region’s flavors. Follow wild seafood from the fisherman’s net to the chef’s block; learn how to forage the woods for rare mushrooms; tour the farms—and meet the cows—supplying dairy for Oregon-made cheese. Get a taste of fresh coast-to-table fare as you explore foodways and check out the “roots” of your meal.

2018 Travel Oregon Award Winner

The North Coast Food Trail received the 2018 Travel Oregon award for Best Niche Tourism project. This is a cooperative program between the Cannon Beach Chamber of Commerce, Visit Tillamook Coast and the Lincoln City Visitors Association.

No products in the basket.

Return to shop

• Isle of Skye
• North East 250
• North Coast 500
• Glencoe and West Highlands
• Outlander Tours
• Whisky Tours
• Custom Tour
• Invergordon Shore Excursions
• Ullapool Shore Excursions
• Edinburgh Shore Excursions
• Greenock Shore Excursions
• from Inverness
• from Edinburgh & Glasgow

North Coast 500 Tours from Inverness – 2024

Take a road trip on the world famous North Coast 500 in 2024 with our tours from Inverness. The North Coast 500 as a route was launched in 2014 drawing people in with the amazing beauty of the journey. We, at Inverness Tours have a much longer association with the route however. We have been leading tours around the North Coast 500 since 2003 and Hugh Allison’s grandfather established the first bus service on the route a century ago.

Four Day North Coast 500 Tour from Inverness

NC500 – Applecross and Eilean Donan Castle Tour (February to October)

NC500 – Magical Wester Ross Tour

NC500 the North West day Tour (February to October)

NC500 the North East day Tour (February to October)

Rosamunde Pilcher Winter Solstice Tour

What is North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 is the acclaimed circular touring route round the north of Scotland. It has already been likened to American Route 66 in terms of iconic status. At just over 500 miles, it is one of the most spectacularly memorable coastal routes in the world.

North Coast 500 Scenery

North Coast 500 Scenery is unforgettable. The firthlands of the east coast are rich in agriculture and populated with trim little towns. The north coast is more rugged, with little coves and beaches. When we reach Tongue we are entering the country of the Inselbergs. These are great solitary mountains, each with their own distinctive shape and character. Down the west are a chain of beaches, scattered crofting communities and views out to the islands. The Applecross Pass (Bealach na Ba) will take your breath away. After which an eastern turn takes you through the wide moors of the empty heartland, and back to the city of Inverness. The tie that binds, for the North Coast 500, is the ever-changing constant of the sea. Coastal views – bays, headlands, coves, magnificent deserted beaches, vistas to remote and scattered islands and of course the sunsets!

Four Day North Coast 500 Tour

We think our four day complete North Coast 500 Tour from Inverness is the very best way to experience the fabulous country in the north of Scotland. Our three overnight locations are Wick, Durness and Gairloch. The four days are filled with fantastic choices for every taste and interest. Examples of the wide range of attractions for all might include the Rock Rose Distillery, the royal Castle Of Mey, the Eagle Zip-line, Smoo Cave, the Falls of Measach, Inverewe Gardens and the Bealach na Ba road. Most stops can even be tweaked on the day, to suit the weather and your preferences. One or two attractions – like distilleries – require to be reserved in advance, but we can arrange all that for you, once you are booked with us.

North Coast 500 Day Tours from Inverness

Inverness is the perfect base that allows us the opportunity of conducting a series of truly stunning day tours that cover all the different sections of the North Coast 500. These tours are great for those with less time or perfect for weekend breaks on the North Coast 500. These tours include day trips to the furthest North West and furthest North East corners of the UK Mainland. To supplement this we have two tours that cover the more westerly parts of the North Coast 500. Our Rosamunde Pilcher Tour is also a great day tour covering the part of North Coast 500 just to the north of Inverness.

NC500 the North East day tour

For the North East day tour on the North Coast 500 we head north through the Struie Hills. Great views of the Dornoch Firth from a mountain location. Next we make a stop at the beautiful Falls of Shin, because of the short but lovely walk to a viewing platform. Heading due north from Lairg we pass Ben Loyal, Loch Loyal and some wonderful bog scenery. Eventually we arrive at the coast at Tongue. Following the coast eastwards along the far north of Scotland we visit John O’Groats, the most northerly point on the public road in the UK. There are fabulous views of the Orkney Islands. We then travel down the dramatic east coast road back towards Inverness making time to visit the pretty town of Dornoch en route.

NC500 the North West day tour

The North West day tour on the North Coast 500 also goes north to Lairg via the Shin Falls. But this is where these two tours diverge. This tour goes northwest through beautiful and rugged scenery before reaching the beaches of the far north west of Scotland. In Durness we visit Smoo Cave and take some lunch before heading eastwards along some of the finest scenery of the north coast. Branching south at Tongue we see Ben Hope and Ben Loyal and then pass Loch Loyal. We can stop at The Crask on our way south, the most remote Inn in the country, and we end by crossing the Cromarty Firth and the Black Isle to Inverness.

NC500 – Magical Wester Ross Tour

It is we who think that the Wester Ross Tour on the North Coast 500 is magical. Leaving Inverness we head west up Strath Braan to lonely Achnasheen, and thereafter follow the Wester Ross Coastal Trail. Looking towards Loch Maree we see one of the last fragments of the “Great Wood of Caledon” – the original forest that once covered so much of Scotland. Whether your passion is great mountains or fantastic seascapes the far west will deliver. Gairloch Beach, followed by sub-tropical Inverewe Gardens are two of the major stops on this tour. We return by Gruinard Bay, a location used by many thriller writers, and there’ll be time for a waterfall visit, before arriving in Inverness.

NC500 – Applecross and Eilean Donan Castle Tour

Applecross is the most southerly portion of any North Coast 500 tour and, as a result, it makes sense to couple it with Eilean Donan Castle. We travel along Loch Ness, and then west past the mountain range called the Five Sisters of Kintail. Our Eilean Donan Castle stop is for your choice of visit or photos. Some time later we take the famous, exhilarating and spectacular Bealach na Ba to Applecross. This road has its own name because it is, by far and away, the most extraordinary road in the UK. Our return takes us through the fantastic mountain scenery of Torridon and the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve.

Our Rosamunde Pilcher Winter Solstice tour finds us exploring the locations and revisiting the story in her last novel. Rosamunde was also kind enough to agree to check and endorse our tour content. This tour is also perfect for people who have never read the book, and know nothing about it. This is because it offers much of the very best of the scenery, history and wildlife of the Scottish Highlands, including visits to ancient church, castle, cathedral and the pretty little towns of Tain and Dornoch. If you just want those places, then we are happy to deliver this tour without mention of the book.

North Coast 500 or Isle of Skye?

The answer is both. Adding just one more day to the tour gives time for an overnight in Portree; pretty island capital of Skye. And that extra day can be used to access and enjoy all of the most scenic areas on the island.

North Coast 500 Custom Tours from Inverness

We are happy to arrange a wide range of North Coast 500 Custom Tours from Inverness. As mentioned above, probably the commonest add-on that is requested is one or more of the island groups. As a result, we developed the four-day tour so that it comes complete with bolt-on options. These still ensure that you do every mile of NC500, but while doing so you can also visit the Orkney Islands, the Isle of Skye, or the Western Isles. This can be accommodated by increasing the tour length to five days. Or why not go for adding all three Island Archipelagos to the North Coast 500, and achieve it all, within our six-day extravaganza!

Your Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Your Message

Why Inverness Tours

Local knowledge.

Inverness Tours has been taking visitors on world-class tours for more than fifteen years. We have been working to make our exclusive tour business the finest of its kind available in Scotland. Our solid (but constantly updated) knowledge is a tool for your use. As a result, you will enjoy the best eating places, the most rewarding visits, and the locals’ choice of “off the beaten track” walks and vistas. We strive to enthral, excite and entertain as we show you the real Scotland. 

Inverness Tour Guides

Our Inverness Tour Guides are a hand-picked team. As well as being accredited members of the Highlands of Scotland Tour Guide Association, they are all well-recognised as being at the top of their fields. We chose them because they are great storytellers, fun to be with, and uniquely qualified to do what they do well. We know you deserve the best team of guides available. See their individual profiles here

Track Record

We have a fabulous back-catalogue of reviews. Over 98% of our hundreds of TripAdvisor reviews are five-star, so we have received their Certificate of Excellence every year, and a placement in their Hall of Fame!

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

• Tour Planner
• Private Custom Tours
• Private Golf Tours
• Private Whisky Tours
• Private British & Irish Tours
• Private Family Tours
• Private Castle Tours
• Private Luxury Coach Tours
• Private Heritage Tours
• Private Honeymoon Tours
• (011-44)-131-510-9424

[email protected]

A Sensational Scottish Tour

The north coast 500 & isle of skye package.

Visit the majestic North Coast in this 500+ mile route. Luxury chauffeur service and guide, luxury accommodation, excursions, fine dining, the full package, tailored to suit your requirements.

Enquire Today:

A member of our team will respond right away.

Your Message* Please specify preferred travel dates and any additional information, room arrangements, hobbies and interests, etc.

All of our tours are fully customisable to suit your tastes and requirements. 

Tour Summary

Day 1 Stay: Ness Walk Hotel, Inverness (1 Night)

Day 2 Stay: Links House, Dornoch (1 Night) Visit: Dolphin Spirit Cruise, Rogie Falls, Lunch at The Storehouse, Fyrish Monument Walk

Day 3 Stay: Forss House, Thurso (2 Nights) Visit: Dunrobin Castle, Clynelish Journey of Flavour Tour, Lunch at the Coastal Tasting Room, Brora Beach

Day 4 Stay: Forss House Visit: John O’Groats, Duncansby Stacks, Lunch at Puldagon Farm, Castle of Mey

Day 5 Stay: Inver Lodge Hotel (2 Nights) Visit: Sangobeg Beach, Smoo Cave, Balnakeil, Kylesku Bridge

Day 6 Stay: Inver Lodge Hotel Visit: Scourie Bay, Handa Island Ferry, Lunch at Shorehouse, Achmelvich and Clachtoll Beach

Day 7 Stay: Shieldaig Lodge, Gairloch (1 Night) Visit: Ardvreck Castle, Ullapool, Lunch at Inverewe Gardens and Gairloch

Day 8 Stay: Marmadale Hotel, Portree, Skye (3 nights) Visit: Torridon, Eilean Donan Castle, Plockton, Sligachan, Portree

Day 9 Stay: Marmalade Hotel, Portree Visit: Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, Neist Point, Lunch at The Three Chimneys, Skye Weavers

Day 10 Stay: The Marmalade Hotel, Portree Visit: Old Man Storr, Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls, Quiraing, Fairy Glen, Lunch at the Oyster Shed, Talisker

Day 11 Stay: Ness Walk Hotel, Inverness Visit: Fairy Pools Hike, Private Boat Tour of Loch Ness, Mustard Seed Restaurant

Day 12 Transfer to airport and departure

ACCOMMODATION: Ness Walk Hotel, Inverness Inverness Airport – Inverness

Upon arrival at Inverness airport you will be met by your private driver who will be looking after you for the duration of your trip.

Stay: Ness Walk Hotel, Inverness (1 Night) From the airport your driver will take you to the 5-star Ness Walk Hotel, which sits right on the banks of the River Ness and enjoys an oasis of calm in Inverness, an otherwise busy city, as it is surrounded by a huge canopy of trees. Here, beautiful period features combine with sleek modern features to deliver an ambiance that oozes sophistication.

Dine: Torrish Restaurant You will dine in the luxurious Torrish Restaurant at Ness Walk this evening, where you will be warmly welcomed and have the chance to try some Isle of Lewis mussels, Orkney hand-dived scallops, Speyside lamb, as well as many other delicious dishes. There is also a vegan à la carte menu, so there will be something for everyone.

ACCOMMODATION: Links House Hotel, Dornoch Dolphin Spirit Cruise, Rogie Falls, Lunch at The Storehouse, Fyrish Monument Walk

Visit: Dolphin Spirit Cruise You are in for a very special treat this morning as you will be heading out on a Dolphin Spirit cruise out across the Moray Firth in search of dolphins and other amazing wildlife. Have your camera at the ready for a chance to snap these magnificent creatures.

Visit: Rogie Falls As you travel onwards you will then stop at Rogie Falls, a beautiful spot just above the village of Contin. Enjoy a short walk to the suspension bridge to view the waterfalls and the Black Water River in all their glory. Watch the water as it flows down from the nearby Ben Wyvis Mountain.  Rogie Falls are a sight to behold and famous for viewing leaping Atlantic salmon.

Lunch Reservation: The Storehouse After a busy morning you will recharge with some lunch at The Storehouse. This well-loved restaurant, with adjoining food hall and farm shop, has a menu that changes daily to incorporate the freshest local produce. On a nice sunny day you can even sit outside and bask in the heat as you enjoy your lunch.

Visit: Fyrish Monument As you reach the West Highlands you will be taken to view the Fyrish Monument, near Alness, Easter Ross. Built on Fyrish Hill in 1782, these imposing pillars stand proudly overlooking the Cromarty Firth. You will make the short walk up the ‘jubilee path’, through the woodland before arriving at the summit to enjoy the breath-taking views.

Stay: Links House (1 Night) Having enjoyed a fabulous dinner at Links House, you will get the pleasure of experiencing the luxurious and comfortable rooms here too. The elegance and grandeur of the furnishings are second to none and we guarantee a memorable stay at Links House.

Dine: MARA restaurant, Links House You are in for a treat this evening as you will be dining in the MARA Restaurant at Links House. Offering one of the finest dining experiences in the Highlands, MARA will be sure to provide a meal to remember. Their menu includes hogget, pork cheek, sea trout, and they have an entire plant-based menu.

ACCOMMODATION: Forss House, Thurso Dunrobin Castle, Clynelish Journey of Flavour Tour, Lunch at the Coastal Tasting Room, Brora Beach

Visit: Dunrobin Castle and Gardens Dunrobin Castle and Gardens is a true highland gem as it’s the most northerly of Scotland’s large houses. It is also one of the UK’s oldest continuously inhabited houses, having occupants since the 1300’s. You will get the chance to marvel at the huge conical spires before exploring the gardens, which were inspired by the gardens of Versailles. There are also lovely views across the Moray Firth to the Cairngorm mountains in the distance.

Visit: Clynelish Journey of Flavour Tour On this fantastic tour of Johnnie Walker’s highland home, you will get to experience a world of different flavours with a full sensory tour and tutored whisky tasting. This is a whisky tour like no other, using lights, music, and special effects to transport you on a fun-filled flavour journey.

Lunch Reservation: The Coastal Tasting Room You will also be having lunch at Clynelish where they offer tasting platters which pair the very best whisky with premium Scottish produce for a taste sensation like no other. There are a range of Highland antipasto, cheeses, and chocolates, as well as hot smoked duck and Great Glen salami. Tasting platters can also be tailored for your individual preferences.

Visit: Brora Beach Your next stop is Brora beach, a gorgeous golden sandy beach offering the chance for a relaxing stroll. You may also want to pack a pair of binoculars for the day as there is a good chance of spotting minke whales, dolphins, and seals.

Stay and Dine: Forss House, Thurso (2 Nights) For the next two nights, the delightful Forss House will be your home as they will be sure to give you a warm highland welcome. This grand country house was built in 1810 and proudly sits within 20 acres of pristine countryside, including woodlands, waterfalls, and the gentle river Forss. You are guaranteed to feel a deep sense of calm and relaxation while staying here.

Forss House has an enviable reputation as having one of the best restaurants in the highlands. Indeed, it is the only 2 AA Rosette restaurant in Caithness. Dishes include Scrabster scallops, Scottish beef fillet, and spring onion and truffle risotto. Why not round the evening off with a selection of premium Scottish cheeses.

ACCOMMODATION: Forss House, Thurso John O’Groats, Duncansby Stacks, Lunch at Puldagon Farm, Castle of Mey

Visit: John O’Groats Your first stop today will be John O’Groats, the world famous village, which represents one end of the longest distance between two inhabited places in the UK, the other being, of course, Land’s End all the way down in Cornwall. While it is famous for being exactly that, John O’Groats really deserves a visit in its own right, with its glorious beaches and bays, plentiful wildlife, and dramatic coastline.

Visit: Duncansby Stacks Speaking of dramatic coastlines, you will make the very short journey to Duncansby Stacks near John O’Groats, where you can marvel at these incredibly jagged and towering peaks that thrust up out of the wild North Sea around them. There is also the Duncansby Lighthouse 500m away which to this day keeps sailors safe from the rocks around this dangerous area known as “Hell’s Mouth”.

Lunch Reservation: Puldagon Farm Puldagon Farm offers a lovely experience. You can dine in their recently renovated restaurant, which was previously a working barn, and offers a huge range of hearty dishes. After lunch you can browse the farm shop, perhaps picking up a gift or two for loved ones back home, before having a wander around outside and seeing some of the adorable animals they have on the farm.

Visit: Castle of Mey With full bellies your journey continues to Castle of Mey, which dates back to the 16 th century. Castle of Mey has changed hands many times over the years but is now owned by the Royal Family after the Queen Mother bought the castle in 1952 and committed a lot of time and effort into renovating both the castle and gardens, which are also exquisite and well worth exploring. There is also an animal centre where you can see Alice the donkey, various rare breeds of sheep and poultry, pigs, rabbits, and chipmunks.

Stay and Dine: Forss House After a fantastic day of touring, you will return to Forss House for an evening of relaxation and fine dining before yet another adventure in the morning.

ACCOMMODATION: Inver Lodge Hotel, Lairg Kyle of Tongue Bridge, Sangobeg Beach, Smoo Cave Tour, Balnakeil Beach, Kylesku Bridge

Visit: Kyle of Tongue Bridge and Sangobeg Beach This morning you will travel over the impressive Kyle of Tongue Bridge, which was first built in 1971 but was fully refurbished in 2011. The bridge forms part of the Kyle of Tongue Causeway which allows the road to continue right across the loch, crossing Tongue Island as it does so.

From there it’s on to Sangobeg Beach, a relaxing, secluded spot with beautiful white sands. This is an excellent opportunity to stretch your legs with a walk along the beach, before getting some pictures of the marvellous scenery.

Visit: Smoo Cave Tour This is a truly amazing opportunity to explore the Smoo Caves on a guided tour. Your experienced and knowledgeable tour guide will keep you safe (they are also a member of the Scottish Cave Rescue team) and tell you all about the history and formation of the caves.

Visit: Balnakeil Church In the northwest of Scotland sits the ruined Balnakeil Church, the earliest site of which was developed in the 8 th century by St Maelrubha. This church grew to be a highly significant Celtic monastery. However, when a new church was built in the 19 th century, it was left to ruin. That being said, trees and bushes have grown all over it now, adding an air of ancient charm. Look out for the monument to Gaelic poet Rob Donn which stands in the churchyard.

Lunch Reservation: Picnic on Balnakeil Beach Lunch today is a special treat as you will be tucking into a luxurious picnic which has been prepared by the hotel staff. Sit back on Balnakeil Beach and enjoy a selection of tasty treats while taking in the magnificent views of this impressive stretch of white sandy beach.

On your way to your accommodation for the evening you will pass over the Kylesku Bridge which has a wonderful gentle curve in it and spans across the Loch a’ Chairn Bhain in Sutherland.

Stay and Dine: Inver Lodge Hotel (2 nights) Home for the next two nights is Inver Lodge Hotel, a family-owned hotel with proud links to its surrounding area. The surroundings are immense here, one of Scotland’s last unspoiled wild areas, and enjoys regular sightings of deer and birds of prey. Staff make every effort to make you feel right at home, and the huge log fire in the foyer will help with that as well.

You will be dining at the Inver Lodge Hotel, which places a huge emphasis on supporting local producers and suppliers. The owner also has private estates which provide the steaks, salmon, and game not only for Inver Lodge, but for His Majesty The King, too.

ACCOMMODATION: Inver Lodge Hotel, Lairg Scourie Bay, Handa Island Ferry, Lunch at Shorehouse Seafood Restaurant, Achmelvich and Clachtoll Beach

Visit: Scourie Bay and Handa Island Ferry Scourie Bay is a wonderous little bay set against some very rugged surrounding countryside. Take some time just absorbing the peace and tranquillity of this unspoilt location. From there you will then take a ferry ride out to Handa Island, a relatively small island by size but a very important island as a home for seabirds and many other creatures. It is actually run as a nature reserve by the Scottish Wildlife Trust. We highly recommend you bring your camera and a good pair of binoculars to get the best snaps and views of this very special island.

Lunch Reservation: Shorehouse Seafood Restaurant Having spent some time travelling over the sea, it’s time for some seafood at Shorehouse Seafood Restaurant. Opening in 1977, this family run business has plenty of experience in looking after their many happy customers. This really is a seafood lover’s paradise, with the menu changing each day depending on what’s been freshly landed that day. Whole lobsters are available if you pre-order.

Visit: Achmelvich and Clachtoll beach You will then visit a couple of the most impressive beaches in Scotland. Firstly, Achmelvich is a brilliant location for spotting some more wildlife, including black- and red-throated divers, porpoises, and dolphins. The gentle curve of the bay echoes the gentle feeling of satisfaction you’ll feel as you look out over the waves crashing endlessly on the shore in this little bit of heaven. Secondly, Clachtoll beach, just north of Lochinver, is equally as impressive and is also home to “Split Rock”, a giant sloping rock which rises out of the sea but looks to have had a giant slice cut out of it by a giant. The Assynt mountains surrounding this area add another layer of magic to the scenery found here.

Stay and Dine: Inver Lodge Hotel After another day of visiting some of the splendid sights Scotland has to offer, you will return to the Inver Lodge Hotel for the evening, dining once more in the excellent in-house restaurant.

ACCOMMODATION: Shieldaig Lodge, Gairloch Ardvreck Castle, Ullapool, Lunch at Inverewe Gardens and Gairloch

Visit: Ardvreck Castle On today’s first stop you will visit Ardvreck Castle, a ruined old castle built in the late 15 th century but which has sadly been left to ruin since the middle of the 18 th century, hence its current state. You can enjoy a pleasant short walk to the castle, which is not quite on an island but it very much feels that way. Some recently added information boards provide a great overview of the castle’s turbulent history.

Drive through: Ullapool Your onward journey will then take through Ullapool, a very popular tourist destination. An infinitely photogenic place, you can easily see why people often return here year after year.

Visit and Lunch: Inverewe Gardens Here you will get the chance to view some rare species from all around the world as you wander round this heritage garden. First created in the 19 th century, this oasis of flora in an otherwise rather barren landscape continues to wow visitors after all these years. There is also a small museum within Inverewe House, including an exhibition to tell you more about Inverewe’s Underwater Garden.

You will also get something to eat here from their very own café, Osgood’s. Newly refurbished and boasting an award-winning menu, this is the perfect spot for refuelling before carrying on your adventure.

Visit: Gairloch You will then have the privilege to drive through two of the most picturesque and awe-inspiring places in the UK, Gairloch. It really does feel like time has stood still in these areas of Scotland; there is something about the immensity and vastness of the mountains which just fills you with a revitalising energy. In fact, we suspect visiting these places may just inspire you to plan your next trip to Scotland.

Stay & Dine: The Shieldaig Lodge Hotel (1 Night) Your accommodation for this evening is Shieldaig Lodge in Gairloch. This former hunting lodge is perched perfectly on the waterside, bursting with charm and character.

Dine at their stunning Loch View Restaurant, enjoying panoramic views of the loch as well as exquisite dishes, locally sourced ingredients, and an incredible selection of wines and whiskies.

ACCOMMODATION: Marmadale Hotel, Portree Torridon, Eilean Donan Castle, Plockton, Skye and Sligachan Bridge, Portree

In the morning you will transcend through the majestic Torridon countryside en-route to the Isle of Skye.

Visit: Eilean Donan Castle Your first stop today is a visit to Eilean Donan Castle, which wouldn’t look out of place in a Game of Thrones scene! This ancient castle was built in the 13 th  century and survives remarkably well to this day. The tiny bridge across the water to its own little island really gets your imagination running wild as to what it must have been like living there all those hundreds of years ago. You will also be able to enjoy some stunning views out over Loch Duich. A coffee and gift shop are also available. Eilean Donan is widely considered as the most beautiful castle in Scotland, due to the idyllic setting at the junction of three different lochs (Loch Long, Loch Duich, and Loch Alsh).

Visit: Plockton You will then head to the delightful village of Plockton, lovingly known as the “the jewel of the highlands”. A peaceful walk around the bay, looking out over the views of Loch Carron, will certainly hit the spot.

After leaving Plockton you will head southwest until you travel over the engineering masterpiece that is the gently curving Skye Bridge and onto Skye.

Photo Stop: Sligachan Bridge Built in 1818, the old Sligachan Bridge is a perfect example of excellent engineering standing the test of time. Set against the backdrop of the Black Cuillin Mountains, enjoy the manmade and natural wonders together. You will have the opportunity to stop and take a few pictures of this wonderful scene.

Visit: Portree You will then stop and explore Portree, the main town on the Isle of Skye. With local craft shops and a bustling fishing port, you will have the opportunity to interact with friendly locals and experience Portree’s thriving culture.  Have your camera at the ready as you will want to grab a picture of the brightly coloured, cottage lined harbour.

Stay and Dine: Marmalade Hotel, Portree (3 nights) Having explored the charming town of Portree you will make your way to your accommodation, Marmalade Hotel. This stunning hotel is in a perfect location, just five minutes from the centre of Portree but far enough away and up high enough to enjoy a world of seclusion, with views looking over Portree, the coast below, and the Cuillin Mountains beyond.

For dinner this evening you will dine in the hotel’s Chargrill Restaurant . Enjoy fantastic views over a dinner of fresh seafood or premium Scottish beef cooked to perfection on the grill. There are also options to have grilled tofu or watermelon if you fancy something a bit different.

ACCOMMODATION: Marmadale Hotel, Portree Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, Neist Point, Lunch at The Three Chimneys

Visit: Dunvegan Castle and Gardens Today you will first of all head to Dunvegan Castle. Dating back to the 13 th century, this castle has had many additions over the centuries and is now registered as a category A listed building. There are also five acres of gardens for you to explore, including the Water Garden, Rose Garden, and Walled Garden, as well as woodland walks and nearby waterfalls.

Visit: Neist Point Your driver will then take you to Neist Point and the most westerly point of Skye, at the tip of the Duirinish peninsula. Here you will see one of the most famous lighthouses in all of Scotland, that was first lit back in 1909. As well as the stunning scenery, keep an eye out for whales and dolphins below.  As you are on the cliffs there will be lots of common seabirds to view too.

Lunch Reservation: The Three Chimneys You will then enjoy some lunch at The Three Chimneys which sits on the shores of Loch Dunvegan and takes pride in providing the best Skye and Scotland has to offer, including cured salmon, scorched langoustine, Black Isle beef, and Gigha halibut.

Visit: Skye Weavers Next you will travel to nearby Glendale to watch some uniquely skilled weavers at work. Explore their woven woollen textiles inspired by the island, and woven by pedal-power! Watch them work on their bicycle pedal-powered loom that weaves woollen products including scarves, throws, tweed, homewares, accessories and more.

Dine: Scorrybreac Restaurant After your day of exploring, you will head back to the Marmalade Hotel to relax and freshen up before heading to dinner at the Scorrybreac Restaurant. “Scorrybreac” means “speckled rock”, a tribute to the cliffs close to the restaurant. Combining Scottish produce with French influence, the team here produce food which may just blow your mind.

ACCOMMODATION: Marmadale Hotel, Portree Old Man Storr, Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls, Quiraing, Fairy Glen, Lunch at the Oyster Shed, Talisker Distillery Tour

Visit: The Old Man of Storr Get ready for some famous walks and jaw dropping scenery as your driver takes you on a mesmerising drive north of the town of Portree. You will first stop at The Old Man of Storr, a monumental rock pinnacle that can be seen from far and wide. A staggering sight to behold, be sure to have plenty of battery left in your camera as there are photo opportunities aplenty here.

Visit: Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls Continue North to Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls. You will notice that these ancient 90 metre cliffs resemble a pleated kilt, hence the name ‘Kilt Rock’. You will witness both of these spectacular sights, Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls, from the same viewpoint on the Trotternish Peninsula. The other beautiful sight here is Mealt waterfall which, flows from the nearby Mealt Loch, with the water plunging from the cliff tops to the rocky coast below.

Visit: The Quiraing Next you will continue north to the most northerly point of the Trotternish ridge, The Quiraing. As the ancient landscapes begin to unfold before your eyes, your driver will take you on a stunning drive down the narrow road and hairpin bends. With rolling hills and cliffs surrounding you, there are opportunities here for a brief walk or hike. Be sure to have your camera ready to snap the gigantic pinnacles of rock as they bask in their glorious surroundings.

Visit: The Fairy Glen Next stop, The Fairy Glen, on the west side of Trotternish. An otherworldly experience awaits as you approach this supernatural looking landscape. A short hike from the road, these rich and vibrant colours and fairy-tale views all around are a photographer’s paradise. Be sure to keep a look out as legend has it that fairies live deep within this magical Glen…

Lunch Reservation: The Oyster Shed This special spot in the village of Carbost is the ideal place to enjoy a seafood lunch, with crab, scallop, salmon, and so much more on offer. All as fresh as can be.

Visit: Talisker Distillery You will then visit Talisker Distillery, the oldest working distillery on Skye located in the picturesque village of Carbost on the shores of Loch Harport. You will enjoy a guided tour of the distillery, learn about the casks in their warehouse, see their 5 copper pot stills that give Talisker Whisky its unique taste. And, of course, enjoy a dram of their full-bodied whisky and the only Single Malt Whisky from Skye.

Stay and Dine: The Marmalade Hotel, Portree In the evening you will once again retire to The Marmalade Hotel for a chance to reflect on yet another fantastic day of touring.

ACCOMMODATION: Ness Walk Hotel, Inverness Fairy Pools Hike, Private Boat Tour of Loch Ness, Mustard Seed Restaurant

Visit: The Fairy Pools After a delicious breakfast it is onwards to Glenbrittle and the magical Fairy Pools, Skye’s most popular attraction. With their crystal clear waters and beautiful waterfalls, it is easy to see why. You will walk 20 minutes to the fairy pools themselves, an easy hike, allowing you to soak in the magnificent scenery all around you. Ancient folklore says that fairies swim in these pools and if you are feeling brave, you may wish to do so as well. After that you will depart Skye, once again passing over the delightful Skye Bridge.

Visit: Private Boat Tour of Loch Ness You will then make your way to the village of Drumnadrochit, on the shores of Loch Ness. Here you will join your private boat, the “Cluaran Dubh”, meet your skipper Gordon and embark on your Private Boat Tour of Loch Ness which lasts for around an hour. You will enjoy stunning views of Loch Ness, The Great Glen, and Urquhart Castle.  Gordon, your skipper, was born, raised, and still lives on the Loch Ness shores. He will enlighten you with anecdotes such as witches casting spells to protect Nessie ‘The Loch Ness Monster’ from cryptozoologists. A charming and entertaining journey with awe-inspiring scenery throughout.

Dine: The Mustard Seed A firm favourite in Inverness, The Mustard Seed offers top class food in a relaxed atmosphere, exactly what you’re looking for on your last evening in Scotland. Located in a converted church, this allows for some excellent features, such as the double height ceiling and large open fire, all of which add to a sense of The Mustard Seed being truly special. On the menu you will find such delights as breast of wood pigeon, Cajun halloumi fries, Scottish salmon, and sweet and sour tofu.

Stay: Ness Walk Hotel After dinner you will spend one more night in The Ness Walk Hotel, getting what we are sure will be a restful sleep before departing in the morning.

DEPARTURE Your driver will meet you at your hotel and transport you to Inverness International Airport, where we must bid you a fond farewell.

The Best of Scotland Tour

The ultimate lux tour, the iconic scotland & ireland tour, spirit of scotland tour, scottish romance tour, the 14 day scottish luxury tour, the luxury scotland family tour, malt whisky indulgence tour, the highland whisky experience tour, the water of life tour, the ultimate scottish golf tour, legends of golf tour, st andrews golf tour, iconic east coast golf tour, north coast 500 & isle of skye road trip, photography inspired drive tour, the luxury coast & waters tour, taste of scotland tour.

Featured In:

• Private Coach Tours

Explore More:

• Terms & Conditions
• Package Travel & Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018
• Privacy Policy
• GDPR Policy

Call from US: 011-44-131-510-9424

Call from UK: 0131-510-9424

Luxury Scotland Tours, 1 St Colme Street, Edinburgh, EH3 6AA.

North Coast Travel Service

Motor Coach Tours

North Coast Travel Service is a former full service travel agency established in 1978 that began filling a demand for motor coach tours in 1982. They have carried on that practice ever since. Attracting  folks from all around the Northeast Ohio area and beyond, they offer professionally escorted tours by it’s president, Jeff A. Brown, on multi day tours ranging from 2-6 nights.

Upcoming Tours

*Please note that any date marked in red are currently sold out but those interested can still be added to the waitlist for those dates.

Historic Savannah, GA with Charleston, SC

April 7 – 13.

• 3 Nights at the Hampton Inn – Savannah Historic District
• 1 Night at the Hampton Inn – Mt. Pleasant/Charleston
• 2 Nights enroute – Country Inn & Suites, Huntersville, NC
• Guided tours of historic Savannah, GA & Charleston, SC
• Group dinners at The Pirates’ House and Lady & Sons
• Tuesday evening live performance at the Savannah Theatre
• Visits to Mercer-Williams House, Savannah and Joseph Manigault House, Charleston
• Self-guided tour of the USS Yorktown, Charleston
• Tybee Island Lighthouse/Museum and Bonaventure Cemetery Walk (optional)
• Charleston – “Spirit of Carolina” Dinner Cruise Thursday evening
• Magnolia Plantation – Gardens and Tram Tour with boxed lunch
• Daily breakfast at each hotel

Reservations accepted beginning December 1, 2023

(Single +600.00 / Triple -40.00)

Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort

May 15 – 17 | october 23 – 25 | november 6 – 8*.

• 2 Nights at Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort located in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 
• Bonus package totals $120 per person with the best give back in Michigan ($60 in free play & $60+ in food)
• Optional half day trip to Frankenmuth for shopping and lunch on your own. Free to those wanting a break 

(Single +140.00 / Triple -10.00) 

Still popular each year!

Mackinac Island 

June 23 – 26*.

Plus Sault Ste. Marie and Frankenmuth

Features: 

• 3 Nights at the popular BW Harbour Pointe Lakefront Lodge in St. Ignace 
• Arrival night dinner at Mackinac Grille
• Ferry ride to Mackinac Island with horse drawn carriage tour 
• Buffet lunch & free time at the fabulous Grand Hotel 
• Day trip to Sault Ste. Marie with 2 hour Soo Locks Boat Ride
• Tuesday lunch at Antlers Restaurant 
• Evening visits to nearby Kewadin Casino with free play ($10 daily) 
• Deluxe continental breakfast each morning 
• Frankenmuth stop over with family style chicken and sauerbraten dinner at the Bavarian Inn and shopping time 

(Single +260.00 / Triple -30.00) 

“Our longest running get away… this 25th annual tour to upper Michigan is our most popular trip!”

Niagara Falls, NY

July 7 – 9* | august 4 – 6.

Sights & Casinos

• 2 Nights at the Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino with $100 Free slot play and $40 food
• Presque Isle Downs & Casino short visit with no bonus
• Free time to enjoy the falls area and casino facilities
• Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino with $15 free slot play/$5 food (Optional day trip)
• Visit to the Made in America Store in Elma, NY with catered lunch

(Single + 190.00 / Triple -10.00) 

No Passports required for this trip 

Follow the Guardians on the road in 2024

August 16 – 18*.

Baseball in Milwaukee vs the Brewers

• 2 nights at the Fairfield Inn Milwaukee West with daily hot breakfast
• Tickets for Friday (Sec. 109) and Saturday (Sec. 213) for the Guardians/Brewers games
• Guided 2 hour city highlights tour with time after in the Old World 3rd Street District
• Visit to the Lakefront Brewery with guided tour and four product samples

(Single + 225.00 / Triple – 20.00)

Cooperstown, NY with Turning Stone Resort

September 11 – 13*.

• 2 nights at Turning Stone Casino & Resort in the better tower rooms with $60 free slot play and $45 in food credit
• Optional day trip on Thursday to Cooperstown, NY National Baseball Hall of Fame (add $23.50 adult / $18.00 senior / $15.25 military)
• Fenimore Art Museum and Farmers’ Museum (add $25.00 adult / $22.00 for 65+)
• Visit the Made in America store in Elma, NY

$459.00 + daytrip option

(Single + 260.00 / Triple – 10.00)

Nashville Highlights Getaway

September 29 – october 3*.

• 4 nights at the Drury Inn Nashville Airport with evening kickback and daily hot breakfast
• Guided Nashville Highlight Tour on our bus
• Meals at Nashville Nitelife Dinner Theater and lunch at Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen
• Performance at the Grand Old Opry with orchestra center seats on Tuesday night – See important update below*
• Visits and admission to RCA Studio B, Ryman Auditorium, Country Music Hall of Fame, and Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage
• Belle Meade Historic Site with a tour, three course lunch and optional wine tasting
• Final night river cruise on the General Jackson with dinner and entertainment

Important update*:

Opry Entertainment has advised our office that all Grand Ole Opry performances have been cancelled for this week due to filming projects in the Opry House by the People’s Choice Awards organization. The $100 ticket price has been noted below making the tour cost $969.00 per person rather than the original $1069.00 per person. All other aspects of this tour remain and are not affected.

(Single +375.00 / Triple – 30.00)

Previous Tours

Upstate new york & erie canal, #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails { width: 904px; justify-content: center; margin:0 auto important; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.00); padding-left: 4px; padding-top: 4px; max-width: 100%; } #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-item { justify-content: flex-start; max-width: 180px; width: 180px important; } #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-item a { margin-right: 4px; margin-bottom: 4px; } #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-item0 { padding: 0px; background-color:rgba(255,255,255, 0.30); border: 0px none #cccccc; opacity: 1.00; border-radius: 0; box-shadow: 0px 0px 0px #888888; } #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-item1 img { max-height: none; max-width: none; padding: 0 important; } @media only screen and (min-width: 480px) { #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-item0 { transition: all 0.3s ease 0s;-webkit-transition: all 0.3s ease 0s; } #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-item0:hover { -ms-transform: scale(1.1); -webkit-transform: scale(1.1); transform: scale(1.1); } } #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-item1 { padding-top: 50%; } #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-title2, #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-ecommerce2 { color: #cccccc; font-family: segoe ui; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; padding: 2px; text-shadow: 0px 0px 0px #888888; max-height: 100%; } #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-thumb-description span { color: #323a45; font-family: ubuntu; font-size: 12px; max-height: 100%; word-wrap: break-word; } #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-play-icon2 { font-size: 32px; } #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-ecommerce2 { font-size: 19.2px; color: #cccccc; } #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 #spider_popup_overlay_0 { background-color: #000000; opacity: 0.70; } if (document.readystate === 'complete') { if( typeof bwg_main_ready == 'function' ) { if ( jquery("#bwg_container1_0").height() ) { bwg_main_ready(jquery("#bwg_container1_0")); } } } else { document.addeventlistener('domcontentloaded', function() { if( typeof bwg_main_ready == 'function' ) { if ( jquery("#bwg_container1_0").height() ) { bwg_main_ready(jquery("#bwg_container1_0")); } } }); }, nashville & memphis tennessee.

Hudson River Valley

Savannah & Charleston Tour

Cape Cod Explorer Tour

Registration

If you are interested in registering for any of our tours please print and mail in our reservation form. make sure to deposit early to ensure your space, tour reservation form, please note: the east side pickup location has changed.

Reservations: A deposit of $100 is required to confirm your reservation. Full payment is due 45 days prior to departure. Rates are per person/double occupancy. Unfortunately, to keep costs down, we currently do not accept credit cards for our motor coach tours.

Cancellations: Full refund will be given if cancelled 45 days prior. 44-30 days prior will result in a 25% penalty and no refunds within 30 days, however it is transferable to another person. The purchase of cancellation insurance is suggested. Call for our assistance and recommendations.

Hotels: All accommodations used with our tours are rated first class to superior. Our clients satisfaction is of the utmost importance. Date of birth is required for all casino trips. Bed type preference is subject to availability. King beds are sometimes limited.

Documents: Full itinerary along with any other pertinent information will be mailed to you two weeks prior to departure.

Gratuities: During our return trip, a collection will be taken for our driver, if you feel he/she is deserving. All other gratuities are included.

Motorcoach Pickup: All departures on the West Side will meet at the Red Robin Grille in North Olmsted and on the East Side at the Drury Inn, Orange Village, located off I-271 & Harvard Road. Seats are assigned as deposits are received so book early! Please note any special requests on the reservation form.

*North Coast Travel Service Inc., acts as agents for the owners or contractors providing means of transportation or other services, and all documents are issued subject to any and all terms and conditions under which such means of transportation or other services are offered or provided, and the issuance and acceptance of such documents shall be deemed to be consent to the further condition of The North Coast Travel Service, Inc. shall not be or become liable or responsible in any way in connection with such means of transportation or other services or for any loss, injury or damage to or in respect of any persons or property howsoever caused or arising.

North Coast 500

Nc500 – scotland’s answer to route 66.

Travel the popula r North Coast 500 Route around the Highlands right through Caithness in the far north – Scotland’s answer to Route 66. Awarded by many tourist organisations in 2018, 2019 and 2020 as one of the most popular touring routes in the world!!

Local knowledge makes a world of difference. RobbieMac travelled this route long before it became NC50.

Modify one of our existing NC500 tours – or ask us to build a private tour that meets your interests and timeframes.

The  North Coast 500  (NC500) our answer to Route 66, is a designated ‘tourist route’ using existing roads around the Northern Highlands. The route of 516 miles, with a dramatic fjord-like coastline of complex geography and geology and some amazing scenery with glistening sea lochs and many uninhabited Islands keeping watch.

The tour ‘Inverness – Inverness’ can be done clockwise or anticlockwise However we recommend clockwise so that you get to enjoy the tremendous views coming down the east via Caithness! Contact us to discuss alternative start and end pick up points for your tour.

• The official NC500 usually starts and ends at Inverness Castle, which guards the beautiful River Ness. However we are happy to discuss other locations.
• Weave past the dark waters of Loch Ness, keep a lookout for ‘Nessie’ our elusive monster.
• Applecross (but not if you’re in a coach or large vehicle) as the hairpin bends of Bealach na Ba are too challenging, but the views are dramatic. A photographers dream!
• Ullapool north is a feast of burns, land lochs and sea lochs.
• Watch wildlife along the way with circling birds, hairy heilan coos or sheep lazing on roadsides or wild deer coming down later in the day.
• Knockan Crag Reserve in the Assynt Geopark is truly ‘big country, big views’.
• Loch Assynt and ruins of Ardvreck Castle. 
• The roads bend and weave north besides breathtaking white sands, littered with inlets and sea lochs.
• World famous Flow Country aka Forsinard Flows.
• Keep following the coast to Thurso the largest town in west Caithness, with its’ busy Scrabster Harbour.
• Travel east along the Pentland Firth – great views of the Orkney Islands.
• Dunnet Beach and surf, swimming or learning to ride a surf board.
• Dunnet village with historic Loch St John,and a terrific wildlife sanctuary and bird hides.
• Castle and Gardens of Mey, once holiday home of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.
• Canisbay Kirk, and onto John o’Groats, a shopping and tourist mecca .
• Don’t forget the obligatory photograph of the John o’Groats sign!
• Wick, visit Old Pulteney Whisky Distillery or 8 Doors Distillery.
• Wick Harbour – a big contrast to the heydays of the herring industry.
• Jonn o’Groats and the dramatic Duncansby Stacks.
• Dunrobin Castle, on the Moray Firth on the east coast.
• Notable waterways on the way south are: Loch Fleet with its’ wildlife colony of grey and common seals and otters, and Dornoch with a special protection area for wildlife.
• Cromarty is a busy deep water port once used by naval shipping in WW1 and WW2 and now predominantly for cruise ships.
• Black Isle and Beauly Firth linking with the Moray Firth and extending to the east coast as a wildlife reserve.
• Return through farmlands and back into Inverness for the end of your NC500 tour!

• Scrabster,  Invergordon, Thurso, Mey, Gills Bay, John o’Groats or Wick or surrounding area – to be agreed when booking.
• Scrabster and Invergordon cruise ship passengers, and Gills Bay and John o’Groats Ferry passengers for private tours are met at the harbour entrances just a short walk from the gangway and parking/coach area.
• Office: +44 1955611542
• Mobiles: +44 7854638268 / +44 7799688379
• Email Enquiry: [email protected]
• Website: www.robbiemactours.co.uk

RobbieMac Tours & Ancestry © 2021

The North Coast 500 3 day tour

Scotland's 'Route 66' is a rollercoaster road of ruined castles, pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming villages.

Tour Highlights

Torridon Hills - These are arguably the most dramatic and spectacular mountains in Scotland.

Shieldaig - One of Scotland's most outrageously picturesque villages.

Applecross* - A remote village that was only accessible by boat until the early 20th century. Stop here and visit a pub that serves delicious seafood.

John o'Groats - Look out to the North Sea at the island of Britain's most northerly point.

Corrieshalloch Gorge - Take a walk through a beautiful forest and discover a gushing waterfall

Dunrobin Castle - Gaze upon this beautiful castle that boasts 189 rooms in 'Scottish Gothic' style architecture.

Your journey

You clamber through scattered boulders and spot a beach so white it makes you reach for your sunglasses. You ramble along cliffs and find a village so small you try to pack it in your suitcase. And you travel along tumbling roads and see castles so ancient you rub your eyes in disbelief.

This is the North Coast 500. And over every horizon, you find something surprising.

On this tour, your driver-guide takes you to the best spots to sample the sumptuous seafood, admire amazing landscapes, and learn the legendary tales.

So, take this famous route of twists and turns and explore one of the most beautifully wild parts of Scotland .

Tour Details

Students, seniors over 60, and children between 5 and 15 (unfortunately, we don't carry children under 5 years old)

• Pack your waterproof clothing and walking shoes
• Access to distillery production areas may not be possible
• Some distilleries offer tutored tastings instead of tours
• Distilleries may be substituted
• Attraction tickets may need to be purchased in advance. More information is provided in your booking confirmation e-mail
• Transport in a 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach
• Air conditioning as standard
• The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide
• Entry fees to visitor attractions
• Explore Scotland's very own 'Route 66', the North Coast 500
• Enjoy your evening in the port town of Ullapool

Set off from Inverness and begin your journey on Scotland’s ‘Route 66’. It’s an epic drive with loads to squeeze in. Just make sure you have plenty of space on your camera.

Heading for Ullapool, we spend the first day weaving through the North Coast 500’s winding roads. Your driver-guide will take you to towering mountains, banks of shimmering lochs, and the shores of beautiful beaches. We reach the scenic port town of Ullapool in the late afternoon.

*From November to March, Applecross may be inaccessible due to bad weather and daylight timings.

• Get to know Thurso, mainland Britain's most northerly town
• Journey along the NC500, discovering treasures along the way

Today, the scenery gets progressively more beautiful, rocky, and mountainous. As you travel north, your driver-guide will take you to some of the most stunning sights in Scotland.

Your itinerary depends on the weather and your guide’s expert tips, but you may have a chance to venture into the deep Smoo Cave, wander the ruins of Ardvreck Castle, and gaze at gorgeous white beaches. You stop for lunch in a Highland village and spend the evening in Thurso, the most northerly town on the British mainland.

• Explore the ruins of Cirnigeo Castle
• Enjoy coastal views on your drive today

Today you get plenty of time off the coach to explore cosy fishing villages, epic cliffs, and ancient Neolithic sights.

Your driver takes you to the northernmost point of mainland Great Britain where you might spot the Orkney Isles on the horizon.

Perched on the windswept cliff, Girnigeo Castle is your next stop. The location of this ruin is as dramatic as its history. Walk along this wild coast and listen to the chilling tales before you continue on the epic North Coast 500 route.

Travelling southwards, you enjoy the green valleys and sea views on the way to Dunrobin Castle. You have time to take a photo of the stately home before you drive along the coast and through land once inhabited by the Picts and Vikings.

Finally, we arrive in Inverness in the early evening.

Accommodation

Where does this tour stay overnight?

You stay one night in Ullapool* and one night in Thurso .

* Please be aware that Ullapool is busy. You may need to be flexible with rooms we're able to reserve for you here. If you'd prefer to find your own accommodation for this location, please choose the 'book your own accommodation' option when you book your tour.

How can I book accommodation?

Accommodation is not included in the price of your tour. To book accommodation, there are two options: either Rabbie’s Tours can book it for you, or you can book your own. For information on how to do this, please see the ‘Accommodation’ tab on FAQ page HERE .

Alternatively, please email us your questions at [email protected] or call us on +44(0)131 226 3133.

Information you can find on the FAQ page, under the ‘Accommodation’ tab : types of accommodation, room types, the booking process, getting to and from your accommodation, and cancellation terms.

How much will the accommodation cost?

We book accommodation with third-party providers on your behalf and each property sets their own rates. Rates vary considerably depending on the accommodation standard, facilities, location, and local demand. We therefore can’t tell you exactly how much your accommodation will cost until your request has been allocated to a specific property.

As a guide, you can expect to pay the following prices,  per person per night :

NOTE: Prices quoted are for guidance only and may be higher on some occasions, especially for last-minute bookings and when demand is high (E.g. peak season, weekends, holidays, special events etc)

Breakfast will be included unless otherwise noted. The type of breakfast provided will vary from place to place so you may receive either a full cooked breakfast, a continental style breakfast (E.g., toast, fruit, cereal), or a packed breakfast bag or tray (E.g., porridge pot, fruit, granola bar).

Do you offer hotel pickups in the departure cities?

The UK and Ireland's historic city centres are full of narrow streets and winding roads. So, to speed up your departure, we only pick up from our central meeting points. What's more is leaving the city using the most direct route also reduces the carbon footprint of our tours.

Is there parking close to the departure point?

We don't recommend bringing your car into the centre of our departure cities. It can be hard to find parking, and there are excellent public transportation services.

When should I get to the departure point?

Arrive 15 minutes before your departure time. Due to waiting restrictions, we can't wait for you if you're late.

What happens if I'm late or miss the tour?

If you're late for your tour, our cancellation policy applies. 100% charges are applicable, and you will not be entitled to a refund or alternative.

What are your cancellation policies?

For one-day tours: You'll receive a full refund if you cancel 24 hours or more before the tour departure

For tours of between two and nine days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 15 or more days before the tour departure

For tours of 10 or more days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 21 or more days before the tour departure

For all European packaged tours: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 42 days before the tour departure.

If you cancel inside these notice periods, full charges will apply and no refunds will be issued.

To cancel your booking, email [email protected] as soon as possible. The effective date of cancellation will be the date we receive written confirmation from you.

Click here to view terms and conditions

Can Itineraries change?

Your tour will always follow the itinerary as closely as possible. Your driver-guide will keep you up to date on the road, and we'll try to get in touch about any large changes prior to your departure.

Can I pre-book a specific seat?

Due to logistical reasons, we're unable to let you pre-book a seat on the bus. But our comfortable 16-seat mini-coaches have huge windows. So, you'll always get a good view.

Are there toilets on the bus?

Unfortunately, we have no on-board toilet facilities, but you'll have regular comfort breaks.

How do you cater for people with accessibility needs?

We aim to accommodate everyone. To read more information on how we do this, click here to go to our accessibility guide.

Do you take children on your tours?

We regret we don't carry children under the age of five on our scheduled tours.

You can ask us about the tours we recommend for younger children. And if your child is less than 1.35m tall, you should let us know, so we can provide them with a suitable booster seat.

How much time do I get off the bus?

We want you to enjoy Britain and Ireland. And we believe the best way to do this is to get you off the mini-coach and out exploring. So, we give you plenty of time to take photos, go walking, and explore ancient ruins.

Why do you exclude visitor attractions?

We exclude visitor attractions in your tour price because it lets you travel your way. It means you can pamper yourself with a luxury lunch or skip an attraction whenever you feel like it.

Do we need to bring our own lunch?

You don't need to. We stop in small towns, villages, and rural eateries where you can choose whatever meal pleases both your taste buds and your budget.

Should I tip the driver-guide?

Let's be honest, our driver-guides would never refuse a cheeky bonus. But it's up to you, and the amount is entirely at your discretion.

What about travel insurance?

We advise you take out travel insurance.

What is ABTOT?

You're protected by ABTOT when you chose to let us reserve your accommodation on a multi-day tour. This means you can claim back anything you've paid us if we become bankrupt. Read our terms and conditions for more information.

I have more questions, who can help me?

If you have any more questions, call us on +44(0)131 226 3133, email [email protected] , or check out our full FAQs .

Customer reviews

Please enable JavaScript to book your tour

Prices from £179.00

• Wildlife Boat Tour
• Sunset Boat Tour
• Sea Angling Charters
• Private Charter Boat Tour
• Essential Info

Discover North West Scotland By Sea

Boat tours from lochinver on the north coast 500, join us aboard to see the north west coast as you’ve ever seen it before. lively wildlife, stunning mountains, pristine beaches, the north west highlands has it all, and there’s no better way to experience it than from the sea., our crew are local, friendly and knowledgeable and our boats are comfortable, safe and spacious. all our boat tours are accessible to people with reduced mobility, and well-behaved dogs are welcome., wildlife cruises.

Come and discover wildlife and visit the seal colonies. We also have sightings of porpoises, dolphins, basking sharks, whales, and lots of species of seabirds including sea eagles.

You’ll also see the most amazing scenery with fantastic views of Assynt’s stunning mountains as well as beautiful beaches and the amazing Split Rock.

Wildlife cruises last for an hour and a half and depart every day, from April until October, at the following times: 10 am, 12 noon, 2 pm and 4 pm.

Sunset Cruises

Why not join us on one of our sunset cruises? See the sun set over our beautiful mountains and beaches, creating forever memories. Enjoy a wee glass of wine or beer onboard.

Sunset cruises last for an hour and a half and depart every evening, from April until October, at 7 pm.

Sea Angling Trips

We offer sea angling trips from Lochinver or Kinlochbervie. We get regular catches of cod, haddock, pollock, ling, spurdog, mackerel and much more.

Private Charters

You can also hire our boat and crew for private bespoke trips for recreation or for business purposes.

Tour Information

We depart from Lochinver marina in Lochinver harbour, on the west coast of Scotland, on the famous North Coast 500 route.

Please note: Our stated journey plan and duration are approximate and can change due to weather, tides and unforeseen circumstances. There’s also a risk of cancellation in the event of unsuitable wind and sea conditions. Where possible we offer the opportunity to travel on day following a cancellation. Where possible, we offer travel on a day following a cancellation. More information and our cancellation policy are here: Essential information

All photos on this website were taken by crew aboard our vessels, with a few kindly contributed by our passengers.

We've noticed that you're using an out of date browser. We recommend that you update to the latest version to enhance your browsing experience.

We've refreshed our website design so things may look a little different if you've been here before. We'll be making more improvements soon so watch this space.

The North Coast 500 Explorer Tour

© North Coast Explorer

North Coast 500 Explorer Tour

Join us for a private bespoke guided tour of the North Highlands in a premium 4X4. Taking a maximum of 4 people, each tour provides an unrivalled personal experience & travelling no more than 100 miles per day leaves plenty of time for exploration.

Be reassured, in line with all Government and Public Health safety guidelines, we have completed a full Covid-19 Risk Assessment and been accredited with the UK-wide Tourism Industry Standard and Consumer Mark - We're Good to Go'.

Overview: This tour will show you the very best of the classic NC500 but as well as the iconic attractions, we will still spring enough surprises over the five hundred miles to make you think about the Highlands in an entirely different way.

The North Coast 500 is a staggeringly beautiful route. As well as deserted beaches, mighty mountains, picturesque lochs and iconic wildlife there are medieval castles, prehistoric burial chambers, historic golf courses and enough outdoor activities to tire even the most active of adventurers.

If all this seeing and doing is too much to contemplate then there are also the distilleries, wonderful seafood, artisans and the warm Highland hospitality to investigate and experience too!

What’s more, with your experienced guide by your side, you won’t have to concern yourself with navigating the miles of single track roads that you’ll encounter over long sections of the route.

Sit back, relax and allow us to lead you on an exploration of the North Coast 500.

Tours typically last 6 days and start at Inverness or anywhere along the route to suit your needs.

TYPICAL HIGHLIGHTS:

●  Dunrobin Castle  – ancestral home of the Duke of Sutherland

●  John O’Groats  – the end of the road with the famous sign

●  Dunnet Head  – the British mainland’s most northerly point

●  Lochinver  – the food capital of the Highlands

●  Inverewe Gardens  – coastal gardens with impressive California Redwoods

●  The Torridon Pass  – dominated by the mighty Beinn Eighe

●  Bealach Na Ba  – the twisty tortuous route to Applecross

Price on Request

Departure days.

• W Wednesday

March — October

Contact details

• 44 (01847) 851852
• View tour details
• [email protected]

Tour information

• Inverness Airport
• Driver guide
• Archaeology
• Food and drink
• Photography

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see this. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Tour gallery

Tour company information

North coast explorer tours.

Travel in luxury and style as you take one of our premier chauffeured tours covering the North Highlands & North Coast 500. Local knowledge gained from more than 14 years of exploration in the area enables us to create a customised tour itinerary which provides unique, immersive and unrivalled experiences for our guests. This is not a tour bus full of strangers on a predefined route. This is travelling in comfort, with no more than 4 people, in our top of the range Land Rover enjoying your own exclusive itinerary . Relax and discover the best of what the North Highlands has to offer.

Social Channels

Visit North Coast Explorer Tours

Opening times

March to October inclusive (other times by arrangement)

Other tours from this company

North Coast 500 Grand Explorer Tour

Departs: Inverness Airport, Dornoch, John o' Groats, Thurso, Wick, Lochinver, Applecross, Torridon,...

Join us for a private bespoke guided tour of the North Highlands in a premium 4X...

Price from:

North Highlands History Explorer Tour

Departs: Inverness Airport, Dornoch, Thurso, Wick, Inverness

Heart of the North Highlands Explorer Tour

Departs: Inverness Airport, Dornoch, Lochinver, Ullapool, Inverness

The Highland Explorer Single Day Tour

Departs: Dunbeath, Melvich, Thurso, Brora, Helmsdale

The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

• Trip Styles
• Destinations

• Trip Destinations
• Washington Hiking Tours
• Olympic Hiking Tours

Wild Olympic Coast Traverse

Seattle, wa, trip highlights.

• Coastal Thru-Hike
• Amazing Beach Camps
• Marine Wildlife
• Native Rock Art
• Towering Sea Stacks
• Lush Rainforests

Description

This Wild Olympic Coast backpacking trip in Olympic National Park offers an extremely unique opportunity to explore a dramatic coastal backcountry environment. It requires a flexible attitude and adventurous spirit and in return rewards guests with truly remarkable moments in stunning wilderness settings. We explore the edge of the United States on this rugged 4 day expedition through Washington’s coastal wilderness. We’ll hike past dramatic wave-carved rock spires, explore sea life in tidal pools, and traverse headlands at low tide.

This trip starts on the Makah Reservation in the furthest northwest corner of the continental US. We’ll weave our way through coastal forests until we reach the beach, and then traverse southward past ocean-carved arches, abundant sea-life, and rugged bluffs. These aren’t the sandy beaches of tropical dreams–these are the epic beaches of Washington. Driftwood fires will keep us warm at night, and we’ll let the tides dictate our schedule–sometimes we’ll scramble over boulders around the edge of a headland at low tide, other times we’ll take advantage of steep footpaths and ropes to climb up and over ridges in our way.

$1730 Per Person

DIFFICULTY LEVEL 4

Scale of 1-5. 1 is least difficult; 5 is most difficult

Hiking Distances:

Backpack Weight:

Extremely Rugged

Max Daily Elev. ↑↓:

Heights Exposure:

Significant

Please Note: Terrain, Elevation Gain and Heights Exposure ratings reflect the section or day of the trip with the maximum difficulty of each. Much of the trip is at easier levels. See the trip itinerary for more detailed information. Backpack Weight ratings are estimates that account for Wildland-provided gear, guest clothing, personal items and a share of group food. By packing light it’s often possible to stay on the lower end of the weight range. Pack weights also decrease during the trip.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THIS TRIP

• Hiking uphill or downhill with a 35-45 lb backpack for 6-8 hours
• Maintaining balance and footing on extremely rugged terrain
• Ascending steep slopes by hiking up while moving hand over hand up fixed ropes

SOLITUDE LEVEL 3

1 least solitude, 5 most solitude

We rate this Olympic National Park hike a solitude 3. You can expect hours of solitude at a time.

Private Trips

Travel in perfect company by booking a private trip exclusively for your group!

Our sliding scale for private trips is based on the final number of guests in your group. Rates are per person and do not include sales tax, national park fees or guide gratuity. The final rate is based on the actual number of guests on the trip and may adjust based on cancellations or additions.

Please Note: you can also enjoy a private trip at our normal scheduled rates by filling any empty tour to capacity. However, if group members drop from the tour those spots will automatically become available on our website for instant booking. By purchasing a private trip at the rates listed below, your trip will remain exclusive to your group regardless of cancellations. 

Private Rates FOr This Trip

• 2 People: Rate x 2.5
• 3 People: Rate x 1.75
• 4 People: Rate x 1.25
• 5+ People: Rate x 1.15

*all rates are per person

" * " indicates required fields

Learn About Our Private Trips

• Shuttle to the trailhead: 4.5 hours
• Hiking Mileage: 4 miles
• Elevation Loss: 200 feet

This multi-day  Olympic National Park hiking trip  begins with pick up at your hotel in Olympia and a scenic drive to the trailhead on the very tip of the Olympic Peninsula. We’ll drive alongside the scenic Hood Canal, and then get views of Vancouver Island across the Strait of Juan de Fuca. After a tasty picnic lunch we’ll put on packs and hike through a coastal forest for two miles before reaching Shi Shi Beach and our first dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean. We’ll hike south along the beach and set up camp with views of sea stacks, cliffs, and pounding waves. We’ll watch the sun set over the ocean, enjoy a hearty backcountry dinner, and then fall asleep to the gentle roar of the ocean.

• Hiking Mileage: 4.5 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1100 feet
• Elevation Loss: 1100 feet

Our second day will give us some of the best scenery – and the best challenges – that Washington’s coast has to offer. We’ll hike south along the beach, stopping to explore caves, sea-stacks, tidal pools, and forests along the way. We’ll ford small creeks, and when the tide is low we’ll traverse quickly along tidal flats around headlands obstructing our path. Sure footing is important—we’ll be crossing wet boulders covered with kelp and barnacles. When the tide is high we’ll scramble up and over steep overland routes, using handlines to assist our climb. After about 4 miles we’ll reach Seafield Creek and camp for the night. It’s a short mileage day, but packed full of challenges We’ll have some time to relax over another wonderful backcountry dinner and peaceful night’s rest.

• Hiking Mileage: 4.3 miles
• Elevation Gain: 500 feet
• Elevation Loss: 500 feet

On day three we’ll continue our coastal traverse with one more big headland, and then ford the Ozette River at low tide. We’ll be getting wet, so make sure to bring water shoes. After crossing the Ozette River we’ll leave our biggest challenges behind and travel south to Cape Alava, the westernmost edge of the contiguous United States. We’ll see Tskawahyah Island to the west of us, while keeping an eye out for sea life, and enjoy one last, dramatic sunset and evening on the beach.

• Hiking Mileage: 6.1 miles
• Elevation Gain: 400 feet
• Elevation Loss: 350 feet
• Shuttle to Olympia: 4.5 hours

On our last day we’ll head south past Wedding Rocks, and search for ancient Petroglyphs left from the Makah habitation of the area. Eventually we’ll reach Sand Point and turn inland. Boardwalks will take us back though coastal forests until we reach Ozette Lake, and our vehicle, where we’ll enjoy one last lunch together before driving back to Olympia.

Please Note : We always do everything in our power to follow the set itinerary, however it can change occasionally based on temporary access restrictions, weather, lodging/campground availability, guest ability/injury, natural events like fires and flooding, and other potential causes. Normal terms and conditions apply to trips with itinerary changes.

Trip Dates & Booking

Trip dates & booking.

Click on a date to register. You can also click here to request new dates or book through customer service.

AVAILABLE TO BOOK

This trip is available and bookable online! Click on the date to register now or contact us online to book through our award-winning customer service team!

This trip has 1 or 2 spots remaining and is bookable online! Click on the date to book now or contact us online to book through customer service.

REQUEST A RESERVATION

This trip is exclusively booked through customer service due to logistics with lodging, permits, staffing, availability, or something else. Please contact us online or call us at 800-715-HIKE (4453) to request a reservation.

Don't see your dates? Call us! We may be able to add new trip dates.

Trip details, what's included.

• Top-of-the-line tent, backcountry sleeping pad and multi-day backpack
• High quality, synthetic sleeping bag (professionally laundered after every use) – or  bring your own .
• Use of trekking poles
• All meals are included from breakfast the first day through lunch on the last day
• Trained hiking guide(s) with years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, medical certifications, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes. See  Guide Bios .
• Comprehensive, roundtrip transportation from your hotel in Olympia and back
• All entrance fees, permits and passes
• Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and communication device (InReach Explorer or satellite phone)
• Mandatory 3% national park fee that passes through directly to Olympic NP

What's Not Included

• Clothes, raingear, and footwear ( see recommendations )
• Sunscreen, toiletries and personal items
• Water bottles and a headlamp or flashlight
• Guide gratuity (industry recommendation is 10-20% of trip cost)

Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about what to pack.

Meals: What to Expect

All of our hiking and backpacking tours include a diversity of tasty meals packed full of critical carbohydrates, proteins and fats. We carry foods that travel well in the backcountry – rice, pastas, lentils, beans, couscous, packaged meats, nuts, breads, oatmeal, granola, and more.

For optimal taste and energy, we supplement all our meals with spices, herbs, oils, cheeses, butter, sugar, and fruits and vegetables (fresh and dried). In addition, we provide you with with an assortment of trail mix, snacks, and dried fruits to eat at your own discretion.

We regularly accommodate vegan, vegetarian, kosher and non-gluten diets and will make adjustments for food allergies. These and other special dietary requests may require an additional fee.

Gear We Provide

We provide all group gear which includes the following:

• Deuter or Osprey backpacks
• Sierra Designs, Kelty or Big Agnes tents
• Sierra Designs, Big Agnes and Mountain Hardware synthetic-fill sleeping bags (or  bring your own )
• Thermarest or Big Agnes sleeping pads
• Leki trekking poles
• Cooking stoves and cookware
• Company-issued first-aid kit
• Emergency communication device(s)

Guest Packing List

When you register for this tour you’ll receive access to a printable, downloadable trip information packet with a detailed packing list specific to this trip ( click here to see it now.) All trips require a sturdy pair of hiking shoes or hiking boots, rain gear, a recommended clothing system, a headlamp or flashlight, a hydration system (water bottles and/or bladder) and other items specific to each trip.

Additionally, some guests choose to bring their own sleeping bag. We supply high quality, synthetic fill bags that are professionally laundered after every trip. Synthetic fill is non-allergenic, insulates when damp and stands up well to repeated washings, but is heavier and bulkier than down. If you’re able to bring your own  down  sleeping bag, there are  multiple benefits . If not, we’ve got you covered!

Trip Logistics

How do i register.

Reserve your spot today! In the Trip Dates & Booking section of this page, the green and red dates are bookable online by simply clicking on the date, and blue dates must be booked through our customer service team for a variety of possible reasons. To email our customer service team, you can  click here  to get the ball rolling. Our adventure consultants will confirm availability, and if you’re ready to register we’ll email you a link to a registration profile. You’ll have 72 hours to complete your profile (and that of any dependents) and pay the deposit.

Feel free to call us for more info – we’re here 7 days a week!

Where Do We Meet?

Your guide will conduct a virtual orientation meeting (via conference call) at 5:00 PM the evening before your trip begins to review the packing list, communicate the first day’s logistics and answer any last minute questions you have. Your guide will give you the phone number for this call during the pre-trip contact approximately 10 days before your trip start date.

Early on the morning of Day 1 your guide will pick you up from your accommodations in Olympia, WA.

Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about flights, shuttles, recommended lodging and more.

Travel to Olympia

The most common way to reach Olympia is by flying into Seattle and renting a vehicle or shuttling to Olympia (approximately 1 hour). SeaTac (Seattle-Tacoma) Airport is one of the most easily accessed destinations in the country. Many major cities in the United States and internationally offer direct flights into Seattle.

The shuttle to Olympia is provided by Premier Airport Shuttle. Go to https://premierairportshuttle.com/olympia/ or call 800-962-3579 to make reservations.

Start/End Times

Your guide will inform you of the first day’s pick-up time at the orientation meeting. Generally, you can expect it to be between 5 and 8 am, although the exact time will depend on current weather and road conditions. We will drop you off at your hotel on the final day normally before 5 PM (this time is not guaranteed, as a variety of circumstances can influence our exact return time).

Safety Precautions

Your safety is our top priority. Our hiking tours are led by professional hiking guides, all of whom are wilderness-certified first responders or EMT’s, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience. Guides adhere to standardized risk management protocols in case of any potential or actual incident, and all tours carry an emergency communication device and comprehensive first-aid kit. Additionally we have a “24/7” system through which guides or guests can reach Wildland support personnel at any time.

If you have any further questions about safety, please contact us at  1-800-715-HIKE (4453)  for more information.

Essential Eligibility Criteria

Essential Eligibility Criteria (“EEC”)  have been specifically identified to help you understand the skills and abilities necessary to participate on each Wildland trip, and they apply uniformly to all potential trip participants, irrespective of the presence or absence of any disability.

Once you identify a trip in which you may be interested, please carefully review the  EEC  and itinerary details. If after reviewing the EEC that apply to your desired trip, you determine you need an accommodation in order to meet the EEC, please  contact us  prior to registering to discuss your requested accommodation.

The EEC exist for your own safety and the safety and enjoyment of all participants. If you are unable to meet the EEC for the trip, with or without an accommodation, you are not eligible for that trip. If you register and arrive for a trip for which you do not meet the EEC, you will be disqualified from participation on the trip and will be dismissed or evacuated from the trip without a refund.

Guide Working Parameters

Guides are required to take 8 hours off each 24-hour period to sleep, recuperate, take personal/down time…etc. In addition, as part of the 8 hours off they must sleep/rest or be in their tents/rooms  uninterrupted  for a minimum of 5 hours each night. We ask guests to respect these requirements and to not interrupt guides’ off time and sleep time unless there is a true emergency.

Age Restrictions

Age restrictions on this trip are as follows:

• 12 and older to join scheduled tours (mixed groups)
• 5 and older to join private tours, with final approval and specific logistical requirements (such as porter or stock assist) determined on a case by case basis

Weather in Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park covers a dramatic diversity of terrain from seashores to rainforests to alpine peaks and glaciers. The weather will be largely dependent on which trip you sign up for and which ecosystem you will be hiking in. Read below for average high and low temperatures in different parts of Olympic National Park:

• Accommodations

Backcountry Sleeping

Tent camping.

Sleeping on backpacking trips is in premier 1-person, 2-person or 4-person backcountry tents. Solo travelers, and anyone else who requests it, are issued single tents. Top-of-the-line self-inflating sleeping pads and synthetic-fill sleeping bags (professionally laundered after every trip) are also provided.

Backcountry Cuisine

Fresh & delicious.

Meals from breakfast Day 1 through lunch the last day are fully included and prepared by your guide. We never use dehydrated backpacking meals, instead serving freshly prepared, delicious backcountry cuisine made with a variety of common and specialty ingredients that travel well in the wilderness.

Amazing Campsites

In the action.

Of course campsites vary tremendously by destination, trip and even by the individual day of a trip. However, you can expect to camp in beautiful areas that put you right in the action to make the most of your backpacking adventure. We carefully design our itineraries with campsites in mind.

Trip Reviews

Average customer ratings:.

• 5.0 (9 reviews)
• Most recent

Fantastic experience!

Fantastic experience! Office staff helped us select a trip that worked with our travel dates and location. Our guide was well qualified, friendly, competent, caring, and spent time getting to know us. We were very well fed, safe, and warm. All of the equipment we borrowed from Wildland was good quality and looked brand new. The route was challenging but appropriate for us. I would book with Wildland again!

Nothing but positive experiences

This was my third trip with Wildland Trekking. I've had nothing but positive experiences with them. The guides on this trip were Darrek and Kyle, both whom were terrific guides and great cooks. Both were very knowledgeable about local flora and fauna and the history of the region. I would note that while the distances and elevation gains on this trip were not great, the terrain is mostly off trail, and quite rugged at times.

Beyond Excellent!

Highly recommend!

See All Guest Reviews!

Related trips, you might also like....

Olympic Rainforest to Glacier Trek

North Cascades Classic

Valleys and Glaciers of the North Cascades

• Similar Trips
• day by day itinerary
• logistical and travel information
• gear and clothing lists and more

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

First Name & Last Initial *

Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment.

wildland Wires

Sign up to receive our exclusive Wildland Wire emails and stay up to date with Wildland Trekking's promotions, discounts, contests, outdoor tips and tricks, trip reports and more!

• New Adventure!

NORTH COAST OFF-ROAD AND SNORKELING SAFARI

EXPLORE ARUBA'S NORTH COAST AND SNORKEL AT TRES TRAPI

Quick Details

• Users Ages: Ages 4+
• Clock Duration: 4 Hours
• Tachometer Activity Level: Moderate
• Calendar Departure Time: 8:30 am, 2:15 pm

Off-Road and Snorkel Tour of Aruba’s North Coast Treasures!

If you’re looking for an exciting adventure in Aruba, an off-road tour is the perfect way to experience the island’s natural beauty and rich history.

First up, the Casibari Rock Formation , located in the middle of the island. These ancient boulders are a natural wonder, shaped by wind and water over thousands of years. You can climb to the top for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Next, we’ll head to the Natural Bridge , another impressive natural formation that was once one of Aruba’s most popular attractions before it collapsed in 2005. Despite its current state, it’s still a breathtaking sight, and you can learn about its history and geology from your guide.

After that, we’ll visit the Alto Vista Chapel , one of the oldest buildings on the island and a symbol of Aruba’s strong Catholic heritage. The simple white structure stands on a hill overlooking the sea, and its peaceful atmosphere is a welcome respite from the rugged terrain.

From there, we’ll make our way to the California Lighthouse , located on the northern tip of the island. This historic lighthouse was built in 1914 to help guide ships through the treacherous waters around Aruba. Today, it’s a popular spot for photos and offers stunning views of the coastline.

Finally, we’ll end the tour with some underwater exploration at Tres Trapi , one of Aruba’s best snorkeling spots. This secluded cove is home to a vibrant array of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even octopuses. With crystal-clear water and a beautiful beach, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the island’s natural beauty.

Overall, an off-road tour in Aruba is an unforgettable experience that will take you off the beaten path and show you a side of the island that few tourists get to see. With its rugged landscapes, historic sites, and stunning beaches, Aruba is a true paradise for adventurers.

• Chevron down What's Included
• Snorkel gear
• Chevron down Recommended Attire

Wear your swimsuit! Pack a towel, sunblock, sunglasses, a hat or visor, a camera, and shoes that will allow you to comfortably walk on rocky terrain.

• Chevron down Transportation

Round-trip transportation from most hotels is included. To confirm your pick-up time, visit one of our Activities Desks or Guest Services Desks in your hotel.

• Chevron down Important Information

This tour is not allowed for guests with back or kidney problems, who are pregnant, or children younger than 4 years of age (ID required).

All tours are subject to our Terms of Sale which can be found here

We recommend you to bring extra cash for restroom usage and other activities as most locations only accept cash.

RELATED TOURS

• Skip Taxi Lines
• Clock Varies by drop-off location
• Users All Ages

Aruba Airport Transfers

Embark on your Aruba adventure instantly upon landing! De Palm Tours ensures stress-free Aruba Airport Transportation, letting you skip taxi lines for seamless airport arrivals and departures.

• Bucket List Experience
• Clock 2 Hours
• Users Ages 3+

Palm Pleasure Catamaran – Sunset Sail

Sunsets are not only enjoyable on the beach — they’re even more spectacular when viewed the Palm Pleasure way, aboard our luxurious catamaran!

• Most Popular
• Clock 6 Hours

De Palm Island Aruba

De Palm Island is Aruba’s premiere attraction offering something for everyone! We have exciting body drop slides, elegant flamingos, kids waterpark, snorkel tours, underwater helmet walk, unlimited banana boat rides, beaches, and more!

• Aruba's Premier Attraction
• ECO-FRIENDLY
• Clock 1 Hour & 45 Minutes
• Users Ages 4+

Aruba Atlantis Submarine Tour

Take an exciting voyage to depths of 130 feet below the Caribbean Sea! Take an unforgettable guided tour aboard the largest passenger submarine fleet in the world. Voted Aruba’s most outstanding attraction!

Protect Your Trip »

The 25 best beaches on the east coast for 2024.

Plan the perfect summer getaway at these picture-perfect seaside locations.

Getty Images |

Even if you only have one day to spare, these stretches of sand guarantee a relaxing getaway.

Bethany Beach, Delaware

Canaveral National Seashore: Titusville, Florida

Cape Cod National Seashore: Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape May, New Jersey

Courtesy of Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority |

Delray Beach, Florida

Folly Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City, New Jersey

Old Orchard Beach, Maine

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Virginia Beach, Virginia

South Beach: Miami, Florida

Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Amelia Island, Florida

Cocoa Beach, Florida

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Fire Island, New York

Tybee Island, Georgia

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Acadia National Park, Maine

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Stuart Beach, Florida

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

• The Top Gulf Coast Beaches
• The Top Beach Resorts Around the World
• Beach Packing List
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Top things to do in new hampshire.

Timothy J. Forster and Mariya Greeley June 14, 2024

The Best Scotland Tours

Marisa Méndez June 13, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross June 13, 2024

How to Renew a Passport Online

The Best Small Group Tours of Italy

John Rodwan and Ann Henson June 12, 2024

Crystal Symphony Review

Jill Schildhouse June 12, 2024

Fall in New England

Amanda Norcross June 11, 2024

Fun Things to Do in New Mexico

Alissa Grisler and Ashley M. Biggers June 11, 2024

Travel During Hurricane Season

Top Orlando Theme Parks

Lyn Mettler and Timothy J. Forster June 11, 2024

8 North Cascades National Park adventures for this summer

Despite growing pains and staffing challenges, North Cascades National Park remains one of the most rewarding places to explore the mountains in Washington , if not the entire country. The superlative stretch of peaks motivated Bellingham-based nature photographer John D’Onofrio to pen the newly published guidebook, “ Hiking Mt. Baker & the North Cascades .”

“Sure, nowadays there are some places in the North Cascades that attract a crowd and require advance planning to secure a permit,” D’Onofrio said. “But there are also lots of places that are empty of people, where solitude can still be found and where serendipity holds sway. Hikers can experience true wilderness and — with a little effort — the increasingly rare experience of being alone.”

With a lower-than-typical snow year, many of the park’s hikes might melt out sooner than normal, potentially affording a longer-than-average hiking season. Nevertheless, check wta.org for trip reports (and submit your own!) and be prepared for snow travel at higher elevations. Boaters be advised, however, that those same conditions have led to lower-than-normal water levels in Diablo and Ross lakes.

Here are eight ways to explore the park this summer.

Stay at the North Cascades Institute

The North Cascades Institute maintains a world-class environmental learning center on the shores of glacial blue Lake Diablo. It offers spartan but clean and comfortable overnight accommodations in lodge rooms with bunk beds, three healthy cafeteria-style meals included (from $100 per person ; see ncascades.org ). The center is the closest North Cascades National Park has to a grand hotel — just don’t expect anything approaching the white tablecloth ambience of the Paradise Inn Dining Room or Roosevelt Dining Room at Lake Quinault Lodge. Rather, the experience is what my colleague Tan Vinh once called “ nature camp for grown-ups .”

Take a tour of Lake Diablo on a glass-roofed boat

Lake Diablo and neighboring Ross Lake, home to the coveted floating cabins at Ross Lake Resort and boat-in campsites along the lake’s 23-mile serpentine sprawl, are the result of Seattle City Light dams on the Skagit River. Much of the electricity that powers Seattle comes from water draining out of the national park, while tribes are challenging the dams’ future due to their environmental impact. You can ponder those issues on a lake tour aboard the Alice Ross IV , a glass roof boat, offered jointly by the institute and City Light on Wednesdays through Sundays starting July 3 ($50 for adults, $45 for seniors age 62-plus, $30 for youth ages 3-12). Reserve lodging and boat tours at ncascades.org .

Related outdoors

• 6 Mount Rainier hikes that won’t require a reservation this summer
• Youngest climber to complete WA’s Bulger List featured in new movie
• 5 WA beginner backpacking trips for this summer
• Forget the long drive home: Here are 5 great hike-campground combos in WA
• Top tips for first-time campers in WA
• Whitewater rafting is a springtime rush for WA adventurers

Swim in a “sea of peaks”

If there is one classic hike in the park, with the crowds to match, it’s Cascade Pass/Sahale Arm . Start at the end of Cascade River Road (unpaved for the final 16 miles, but suitable for low-clearance vehicles) and switchback up 1,700 feet across 3.6 miles to Cascade Pass. The view here is stunning as you immerse yourself in the North Cascades “sea of peaks,” as the collection of jagged summits is sometimes described, but it’s worth pushing another 2.5 miles and 2,400 feet up the rocky outcropping of Sahale Arm until you reach the Sahale Glacier Camp. The lucky few campers here (maybe you, if you snagged a lottery spot or a walk-up permit) are perched at the park’s highest-elevation trail-accessible camp.

Climb to an alpine lookout

For another dip into the sea of peaks, perhaps with fewer crowds, try the hike to Hidden Lake Lookout . The trailhead starts after a rutted 5-mile forest road — high clearance recommended — then ascends 3,300 feet over 4.5 miles to one of the most panoramic fire lookouts in the state, cabled to the side of a rock pile. The 360-degree views are spectacular, and you can even spend the night on a first-come, first-serve basis. Consider a donation to Friends of Hidden Lake Lookout to defray maintenance costs. Only a sliver of the trail just before the lookout enters the national park, but the lake itself down below is squarely inside the park — permit required for overnight camping.

Beat the crowds while hiding in plain sight

You wouldn’t know cars are zooming above you on North Cascades Highway while you meander along the cacophony of Ruby Creek . Starting from either the East Bank Trailhead or the Canyon Creek Trailhead, it’s a 6.5-mile round-trip walk through mossy forest and along the occasional sandy riverfront beach. If you’re driving over Highway 20 without plans to otherwise visit North Cascades National Park, consider this forest stroll a worthy pit stop.

Get way off the grid — then ride a cable car

There are many options for plunging deep into the North Cascades for days on end. But only Copper Ridge and the Chilliwack River trails offer you a chance to live an Indiana Jones-style moment, hauling yourself by hand over a raging river on a rickety cable car. Start at the Hannengan Trailhead off Highway 542 (the road to Mt. Baker Ski Area) and head 5.1 miles to Hannegan Pass. From here, you have a choice. Fork right and you’ll reach the cable car crossing at 10.7 miles. Fork left and you’ll reach Copper Lake at 11.2 miles, after passing the Copper Ridge Lookout and some spectacular views of surrounding, rarely seen high peaks like Mount Redoubt. Unfortunately, the trails east of the lake and the cable car are closed due to the 2021 Bear Creek and 2022 Chilliwack fires, so you cannot currently complete this loop hike. This is nevertheless a popular backpacking destination, so overnight permits may be limited.

Wing it below Black Peak

While crowds flock to Rainy Pass Trailhead during larch season for the way-too-popular Heather-Maple Pass Loop, take the offshoot trail west out of the basin and toward towering Black Peak, the 16th highest mountain in Washington. Cross a difficult talus field and ascend above Lewis Lake until you reach the alpine gem that is Wing Lake . This is a rugged 8-mile hike with off-trail sections — you’ll be following cairns or your GPS through the boulder field — but the lake is a stunner, especially if you stay the night for sunrise and sunset. On Labor Day weekend a few years back, my wife and I shared the area with just one other tent. We also got snowed on. That’s the North Cascades for you.

Take an easy stroll through ancient forest

Colonial Creek Campground may be full of families around the campfire, but the longer you stroll up the Thunder Creek Trail , the fewer people you’ll see. This aptly named waterway makes quite the roar when in earshot, a pleasant soundtrack to the old-growth forest setting. With campsites at regular intervals, backpackers of any level will find something they like. Families can start out little ones on a short 1.5-mile jaunt to Thunder Camp, while scenery seekers can press on 10.2 miles to Junction Camp for views out to the Boston Glacier.

Most Read Life Stories

• Mount Rainier National Park rolls out summer reservation system
• The Wildrose, Seattle’s only lesbian bar, toasts 40 years
• At 5 new Seattle bars, find cocktails, natural wine and good food
• 7 tips for visiting Mount Rainier this summer
• It’s heat wave season. That’s bad news for your flights

The opinions expressed in reader comments are those of the author only and do not reflect the opinions of The Seattle Times.

Where and when to see the northern lights in 2024

Now is the perfect time to plan a northern lights trip

• North America
• Viewing from home

When to see the northern lights

Northern lights forecasts.

Nothing quite beats seeing the northern lights, or aurora borealis, in all their glory. But where and when can you see them? 

Lucky for us the next few years are going to be the best for seeing the northern lights due to heightened solar activity as we approach "solar maximum" in the current solar cycle.

So if you are planning a trip to see the northern lights now is the time to do it. Not sure where to go? Here we have rounded up some of the best places to see auroras around the world. 

Related: Aurora colors: What causes them and why do they vary?  

The northern lights are created when energized particles from the sun slam into Earth's upper atmosphere at speeds of up to 45 million mph (72 million kph), but our planet's magnetic field protects us from energetic assault.

As Earth's magnetic field redirects the particles toward the poles the dramatic process transforms into a cinematic atmospheric phenomenon that dazzles and fascinates scientists and skywatchers alike. The southern lights, or aurora australis, are produced in the same way. 

We asked Tom Kerss, astronomy, author and northern lights expert what three pieces of advice he would give to someone wanting to see the northern lights. 

Tom Kerss is an astronomer and the author of numerous best-selling books about the night sky for both adults and children, including Northern Lights , Diamonds Everywhere and the Starry Stories Series .  

What are your top tips for seeing the northern lights?

1. Unless you're lucky enough to have the lights come to you, seeing auroras is a matter of being in the right place at the right time. Fortunately, we can forecast where and when they are likely to become visible, so you can increase your odds. Being in Norway between late September and mid-March, during the darkest, moonless nights, and being mobile will greatly improve your chances. 

2. It's important to persevere! The arctic nights can be extremely cold, but you'll need to push yourself and stay up late to make the most of the auroral zone. On good nights, the Lights are visible as soon as it gets dark, but you should try to stay up until after midnight.

3. Taking your own photographs of the Northern Lights is so alluring, and very rewarding. Today's cameras — including smartphones — capture super, colourful and clear shots. But try not to get too carried away. Make sure you absorb the luminosity, colour and subtle movement of the Lights with your own eyes. You'll make pictures in your mind that you can't share, but you can feel!

What is your favorite aurora fact?

My favorite fact about auroras is that they appear not only on Earth, but on many other worlds. Every planet in the Solar System (except Mercury) exhibits auroras, as do several moons and even a comet! Moreover, we've measured auroras on other stars, and possibly even exoplanets, and they can teach us about the environments and interiors of these remote worlds.  

Where to see the northern lights in Europe

If you live in Europe, the easiest thing to do is head to the far northern parts of Norway, Sweden, Iceland and Finland. Many local people speak English in those regions and there are lots of tours available.

Wherever you plan on going, bear in mind that cloudy skies may make it difficult to catch auroras on any one particular night. If possible, leave yourself extra time to accommodate inclement weather.

Here is a list of some possible European northern lights trips and tour providers:

Hurtigruten Coastal Express

Bergen — Kirkenes — Bergen 

Price: From £2942pp, includes breakfast, lunch and dinner + exclusive excursion to the Tromsø planetarium.

Duration: 12 days 

Northern Lights Promise :  If there is no recorded sighting of the northern lights while sailing, Hurtigruten will give guests a free 6- or 7-day Classic Voyage to redeem the following season. Terms and Conditions apply.

If you're interested in booking the Astronomy Voyage head over to Hurtigruten's official site .

If you're looking for the ultimate skywatching and cultural experience in Norway, we recommend taking the Hurtigruten Coastal Express along the stunning Norwegian Coast. 

There are a number of voyages available as well as specialized " Astronomy Voyages " that include additional astronomy lectures from an onboard astronomer and a visit to Tromsø's impressive planetarium and science center. 

You can read more about what it's like to experience the Hurtigruten Astronomy Voyage in our article . 

The Northern Lights Company

The Northern Lights Company based in stunning Vesterålen, Norway, offers various 4, 5 or 7-night northern lights trips between September and April. 

All tours include transport, accommodation, aurora chasing by night as well as daytime activities so guests not only get to see beautiful Norway but also experience it. 

From eagle safaris and visits to the local Sami Reindeer farm to aurora research at the Andøy Space Centre and photography trips. There is something for everyone with the Northern Lights Company.

Visit Tromsø

Visit Tromsø sells aurora-watching trips around the city of Tromsø in Norway. The largest urban area in Northern Norway and the world's third largest city above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø lies just within the Northern Lights Oval, the region above Earth's geomagnetic North Pole where aurora displays are most likely to occur.

Visit Tromsø sells 'aurora chases,' dynamic night hunts for aurora displays in the aurora season between September and April, and slower-paced 'experiences' such as dog-sled and boat trips and overnight stays at aurora hotspots. Tromsø can be accessed by plane from Norway's capital Oslo; adventure seekers are sometimes rewarded by an aurora display during their incoming flight.

Lights over Lapland

Lights over Lapland sells a range of aurora-watching packages that take skywatchers to Sweden's northernmost region, Lapland. Lapland straddles the border between Sweden and Finland, with both sides offering excellent aurora viewing opportunities in winter months and the midnight sun experience in summer. 

Lights over Lapland operates on the Swedish side of the border with most of its tours aiming for Abisko National Park (not far from the Esrange Space Center which runs rocket tests for ESA and is gearing up to perform the first satellite launches from continental Europe).

"Abisko has developed a reputation for being the No. 1 aurora-watching destination on the planet, due to the fact that it is located in a very special microclimate with less precipitation than any other location on Earth that is located within the aurora zone," photographer Chad Blakley, who is a co-founder of Lights over Lapland, told Space.com via email. 

If you want to see what it's like to chase auroras in Swedish Lapland check out our article on what it's like to put Abisko's "cloud-busting weapon" to the test . 

Guide to Iceland

Guide to Iceland sells a range of aurora-watching packages on the North Atlantic island, including bus tours, boat tours and hunting trips. Situated just below the Arctic Circle, Iceland provides a decent chance of catching the Northern Lights during winter months. If that doesn't work out, you can instead relax in the island's powerful natural hot springs and outdoor pools.

Viatour northern lights night tour from Reykjavik

Viatour operates evening aurora-watching trips from Iceland's capital Reykjavik. The bus tour takes tourists across the island to its most popular aurora spots. The operator says that those who don't get to see the northern lights during their trip can join again at no additional cost. 

Arctic Adventures

Arctic Adventures offers a large number of tours from day trips to multi-day excursions to experience the very best of Iceland. There is a range of northern lights tours available whether it be traveling by bus, boat, or multi-day hiking tours. Experience the majestic northern lights with Arctic Adventures and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Where to see the northern lights in North America

If you're interested in trying to photograph the northern lights check out our guides on how to photograph auroras , as well as the best equipment for aurora photography .

There are plenty of options for good aurora viewing in North America. While far-eastern Canada tends to be cloudy, the shore of the Hudson Bay, the northern Canadian towns of Yellowknife or Whitehorse, or the west coast of Alaska are usually good bets. (The city of Fairbanks itself can be a great choice for seeing northern lights without needing to go too far in the wilderness.)

Alaska Tours

Alaska Tours offers a range of packages from one-day trips to week-long tours that take visitors past the Arctic Circle to the heart of Alaska's wilderness, where the chance of catching the glowing auroras is among the best in the world. 

Aurora Borealis Yukon  

Aurora Borealis Yokon runs one-day to five-day aurora-watching trips in the Yukon territory in northwestern Canada. A direct neighbor of Alaska, Yukon offers pretty much the same aurora-observing conditions during the winter months.

Churchill Arctic Adventures

In the east, Churchill Arctic Adventures offers trips to Churchill, Manitoba, on the western shores of Hudson Bay. The company operates dedicated 'aurora domes,' heated cabins and other outposts in the boreal forest that allow visitors to observe the magnificent lights in perfect comfort. If the aurora doesn't show up, then perhaps some of the polar bears residing in this region may. 

Can I see the northern lights from my home?

If you capture an amazing photo of the northern lights and would like to share it with Space.com and our news partners for a story or gallery, send images to [email protected].  

The "standard" aurora borealis, observable in the Arctic regions, is generated by the solar wind , which constantly flows toward Earth. It manifests itself into a large "ring" above Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is known as the aurora oval. 

During times of heightened solar activity, the aurora oval can expand more southern latitudes. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center maintains a detailed 30-minute aurora forecast where you can see the predicted extent of the auroral oval and the probability of auroras. The aurora borealis is visible most nights, weather permitting, within a band several hundred miles wide that's centered at about 66 degrees north — about the same latitude as the Arctic Circle.

But geomagnetic storms, caused by coronal mass ejections (CME), can ramp up the northern lights considerably and make them visible over much wider areas. In early November 2023, for example, a powerful geomagnetic storm sparked auroras as far south as Greece and Turkey .

Related: Aurora myths, legends and misconceptions

As the solar cycle intensifies, such occurrences might become more common (or rather, slightly less rare). We recommend keeping an eye on Spaceweather.com for alerts of possible incoming geomagnetic storms as well as NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center . 

Yet even the most powerful geomagnetic storm will fail to deliver the experience unless other factors cooperate — a cloud-free sky, not too much moonlight, nighttime hours and absence of light pollution. (City-dwellers have to get out into the countryside for an aurora experience no matter how strong the geomagnetic storm supercharging the sky might be.)

But you can have an aurora experience without even leaving your house if you so choose. Our northern lights webcams article offers aurora views from some iconic locations from across Europe and North America, all in one place. 

If you're planning an aurora-viewing trip, the best time is throughout the winter months. Anytime between late September to late March is a good time for northern lights hunting as the long nights provide ample aurora viewing opportunities.

The good news is that the sun's approximately 11-year solar cycle of solar activity is ramping up as we approach solar maximum. This means that the next few years will be the perfect time to plan a northern lights adventure.

The northern lights can appear for long periods or short bursts lasting only a few minutes (if that!) so the best way to see them is to wrap up warm, and wait. I have been on several northern lights hunts and sometimes they can appear when you least expect, so unless you're already outside and ready, you'll miss them completely. For me, the wait is all part of the experience, especially when you're out aurora hunting with other like-minded individuals. It provides the perfect opportunity to share aurora stories, do a spot of stargazing and simply enjoy the shared experience of the night sky . 

You can get an idea of how active the northern lights are likely to be in your area by keeping tabs on a short-term aurora forecast, such as the one provided by the Geophysical Institute . One predicting the next half hour is available on NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Website . Also, a citizen science website called Aurorasaurus gives on-the-ground instant information from aurora enthusiasts wanting to alert the community to new sky shows.

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

Get the Space.com Newsletter

Breaking space news, the latest updates on rocket launches, skywatching events and more!

Daisy Dobrijevic joined Space.com in February 2022 having previously worked for our sister publication All About Space magazine as a staff writer. Before joining us, Daisy completed an editorial internship with the BBC Sky at Night Magazine and worked at the National Space Centre in Leicester, U.K., where she enjoyed communicating space science to the public. In 2021, Daisy completed a PhD in plant physiology and also holds a Master's in Environmental Science, she is currently based in Nottingham, U.K. Daisy is passionate about all things space, with a penchant for solar activity and space weather. She has a strong interest in astrotourism and loves nothing more than a good northern lights chase! 

• Elizabeth Howell Staff Writer, Spaceflight
• Mike Wall Senior Space Writer

The Unistellar eVscope 2 is $1160 off ahead of Prime Day

Save $400 on Unistellar smart binoculars: Early bird deal

Who is Dr. Kovich in 'Star Trek: Discovery'? The mystery explained

Most Popular

• 2 Where is the center of the universe?
• 3 Could nearby stars have habitable exoplanets? NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory hopes to find out
• 4 This Week In Space podcast: Episode 115 — Our Friendly Mr. Sun
• 5 Space weather forecasting needs an upgrade to protect future Artemis astronauts

How to watch the U.S. Open, Round 1: Leaderboard, live stream, broadcast, tee times

The 124th U.S. Open is set to take place from Pinehurst, North Carolina. (Getty Images)

Change Text Size

The 124th U.S. Open heads to Pinehurst, North Carolina, with historic Pinehurst No. 2 hosting for the fourth time. Wyndham Clark will go from coast-to-coast to try to successfully defend his win at Los Angeles Country Club from last year. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, coming off a win at the Memorial presented by Workplace, is looking for his second major triumph of the year after earning a second green jacket in April. Scheffler won THE PLAYERS earlier this year and has five TOUR titles so far this season.

The reigning FedExCup champion Viktor Hovland looks to claim his first major title after missing out to Xander Schauffele at the PGA Championship. Rory McIlroy is aiming for his third PGA Championship and fifth major.

HOW TO FOLLOW

NOTE: The USGA, who owns and operates the U.S. Open, controls all digital streaming and broadcast rights to this event. For more information on how to watch this week, please visit the U.S. Open’s website . PGA TOUR LIVE coverage will resume on Thursday, June 20 at the Travelers Championship.

Television:

• Thursday: 6:30 a.m.-5 p.m. (USA), 5-8 p.m. (Peacock)
• Friday: 6:30 a.m.-1 p.m. (Peacock), 1-7 p.m. (NBC), 7-8 p.m. (Peacock)
• Saturday: 10 a.m.-noon (USA), noon- 8 p.m. (NBC)
• Sunday: 9 a.m.-noon (USA), noon-7 p.m. (NBC)

Radio on SiriusXM 92/U.S. Open radio:

• Thursday-Friday: 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Sunday: 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Streaming: Various via USOpen.com . Featured Holes and Featured Groups to be announced.

For more live streaming information, click here for the official USGA Viewing Schedule .

Tiger Woods arrives Sunday at Pinehurst for U.S. Open preparation

Jason Gore looks back at unprecedented 2005 U.S. Open run at Pinehurst

U.S. Open: Nine things to know about Pinehurst No. 2

Retrospective: 25 years after Payne Stewart’s U.S. Open victory at Pinehurst, week’s echoes endure

Inside the Field: 124th U.S. Open

U.S. Open Final Qualifying: Scores, results, how it works

• Real Estate
• Things to Do
• Sponsored Columnists

San Diego Union-Tribune

Encinitas advocate | california wine festival comes to carlsbad june 28-29.

Encinitas Advocate Encinitas Advocate Things to Do

Encinitas Advocate | June 14 issue: Local and regional events

Encinitas Advocate | Rancho Coastal Humane Society to hold ‘Dink For Dogs Pickleball Tournament’

Encinitas advocate news.

Encinitas Advocate | San Dieguito wetlands restoration enters the home stretch

Encinitas advocate | the class of 2024, encinitas advocate | encinitas swimmer sammy walseth caps big year at speedo grand meet, encinitas advocate | encinitas coastal rotary donates $10,000 to support miracosta college tci scholarships, encinitas advocate | solana center hosts panel discussion about ‘climate crisis impact’, encinitas advocate things to do.

Encinitas Advocate | Cardiff Farmers Market and Volo Sports to host pickleball pop-up event

Encinitas advocate | everything you need to know about the 2024 san diego county fair, encinitas advocate | la jolla music society’s 66th season will feature emanuel ax, wynton marsalis, twyla tharp, terence blanchard and other greats, encinitas advocate | encinitas coastal rotary club’s golf ball drop raises $57,000 for at-risk youth charities, encinitas advocate | american legion post 416 hosts memorial day ceremony, encinitas advocate sports.

Encinitas Advocate | The Grauer School’s Chase Millikan takes division second place overall spot at Olympic Archery in Schools National Championship

Encinitas advocate | la costa’s chase budinger makes olympics in beach volleyball, encinitas advocate | regional champion san dieguito sea dragons are fired up for junior olympics, encinitas advocate | notebook: lcc wins socal regional final in boys volleyball; torrey falls in tennis final, encinitas advocate | la costa canyon upsets sage creek, heads to socal division 3 boys volleyball championship game.

2024 Total Eclipse: Where & When

Eclipse explorer.

For a mobile-friendly or full-screen version of this interactive map, visit go.nasa.gov/EclipseExplorer .

The Monday, April 8, 2024, total solar eclipse crossed North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The total solar eclipse began over the South Pacific Ocean. Weather permitting, the first location in continental North America that experienced totality is Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT.

The path of the eclipse continued from Mexico, entering the United States in Texas, and traveled through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse. The eclipse entered Canada in Southern Ontario, and continued through Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Cape Breton. The eclipse exited continental North America on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT.

This table provides the time that totality began in some U.S. cities in the path of totality. These areas also experienced a partial eclipse before and after these times.

Discover More Topics From NASA

Total Solar Eclipse Safety

2024 Total Eclipse

Helio Big Year