A short run now, around 71 miles and just over 2 hours, without stops ! The trip to Thurso is a photographer’s dream trip; an enchanting mix of wild charm and peaceful scenery which you will surely recall it if you lingered a bit in Durness. Next, you follow the northern shoreline, skirting the periphery of the Flow Country passing by tiny lochs and lochans where the light tends to be otherworldly. Then, the final stretch to Thurso, where the terrain softens with broader fields and dispersed crofts, all of which offer a glimpse into the past, human stories and strength. The experience is simply unforgettable. Each twist and turn reveals more spectacular sights, so, have camera ready.
From Durness to Hope – the journey is a visual feast, offering many and varied dramatic landscapes. Of course it gives you that final opportunity to explore Smoo Cave, if you haven’t soaked in enough snaps of the waterfall and the striking contrast between the shadowy cave and the dazzling brightness outside! Then, it’s off to Loch Eriboll, where the shifting light and numerous viewpoints create endless chances for capturing stunning photos! Keep an eye out for the tiny headland of Ard Neackie and its ancient lime kilns. As you near the village of Hope, the unique cone shape of Ben Hope, Scotland’s most northern Munro, stands tall against the sky. Don’t hesitate to stop and seize the magnificent scale of the scenery, it’s totally worth it. After that, the journey winds through the edge of the Flow Country, one of Europe’s most expansive peat bogs. The wild, open moorland gives you perfect opportunities for wide-angle landscape snaps that really express a sense of isolation and grandeur—absolutely breathtaking. Get ready for an adventure full of photo-worthy moments. Every turn reveals something new and exciting. The allure of nature beckons, so grab your camera, venture forth and let the landscape speak for itself, it’s magical !
From Hope to Bettyhill – The route from Hope to Bettyhill is a spectacular part of the North Coast 500, moving from dramatic loch-side scenery to the rugged north coast. This part of the journey is all about capturing a sense of scale, history, and the untamed beauty of the Scottish Highlands. After leaving Hope, you’ll reach the stunning Kyle of Tongue, a large sea loch with a causeway cutting across it. The views of Ben Hope and Ben Loyal from here are magnificent. Look for their reflections in the calm waters, especially at sunrise or sunset. Just before reaching the Strathnaver a short detour inland leads you to Borgie Glen home to “The Unknown,” a striking, skeletal sculpture by artist Kenny Hunter. The final part of the this section takes you along the scenic Strathnaver, a valley steeped in the history of the Highland Clearances. Then, as you approach Bettyhill, you’ll be treated to views of the beautiful, white sandy beaches of Farr and Torrisdale with turquoise waters and dramatic headlands that are perfect for capturing classic coastal landscape shots.
Bettyhill to Thurso – offers a mix of dramatic coastal views and gentle, rolling landscapes. Farr & Torrisdale Bays immediately east of Bettyhill are two stunning sandy beaches with the turquoise water and white sand contrasting the rugged cliffs. At low tide, you can often find interesting rock formations and reflections in the wet sand. Strathy Bay is another beautiful beach nestled between cliffs. A single-track road leads down to a small car park. The area is known for its dramatic seas, making it ideal for capturing powerful long-exposure images of waves crashing against the shore. Now for a short detour, head to Strathy Point – the walk to the lighthouse offers incredible cliff top views. The lighthouse itself is a striking white building, Be sure to look for seabirds like puffins and guillemots during the nesting season.
Another worthwhile detour from the main road is to Dunnet Head, the true most northerly point of mainland Britain (John O’ Groats is not). The lighthouse and cliffs provide incredible photographic opportunities, with dramatic views across the Pentland Firth to the Orkney Islands. Finally as we approach Thurso, it’s Castle ruins and beach provide a compelling sight. The sea here is often popular with surfers !
So here we are in Thurso for a 4 day stay – keep an eye out for Part 9.