Have you always wanted to plan an NC500 adventure, but dreamt of making it that little bit more luxurious? Look no further than our guide below, and make the most of the ideal locations of our retreats to kick off your adventure.
The Iconic NC500
Embark on a journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands with the iconic North Coast 500 (NC500) route. As you plan your adventure, consider our Highland Lodges and Cathedral House in Dornoch as your ultimate bases. These accommodations offer not only luxurious lodges but also a historic guest house, each providing the perfect sanctuary for your NC500 exploration. Let’s delve into why The Hollies Retreats and Cathedral House are the ideal choices for your Highland adventure.
Unravelling the NC500
The North Coast 500, spanning 516 miles, offers a mesmerizing blend of coastal panoramas, mountain vistas, and charming villages, showcasing the best of Scotland’s natural wonders. This epic road trip, starting and ending at Inverness Castle, promises unforgettable experiences, from exploring historic landmarks to immersing yourself in the region’s rich cultural heritage. The route has gained popularity among tourists and road-trippers for its breathtaking views and diverse attractions – it’s not hard to see why!
The Ideal Base: The Hollies Retreats and Cathedral House
Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of the Highlands, The Hollies Highland Lodges offer luxurious lodges with modern amenities and breathtaking views. Sat just outside of Grantown-on-Spey, our lodges make the perfect base to kick off your journey to your first stop, Inverness. Meanwhile, Cathedral House in Dornoch, steeped in history and charm, provides elegant accommodation in a historic guest house setting – located perfectly for a second stop off on your trop!
Nestled within the acres of pastureland in the Cairngorms National Park in Dulnain Bridge, just 3.8 miles from the heart of Grantown-on-Spey, 12 miles from Aviemore and 35 miles from Inverness, our Highland Lodges are in the ideal location to explore what the Highlands have to offer. The site lends itself to a plethora of outdoor activities; from hiking around or skiing down the Cairngorm Mountain, swimming at the UK’s highest beach at Loch Morlich, having adventure days at Rothiemurchus, fishing for Salmon in the Spey River, teeing off surrounded by natural beauty, seeing the fairy magic of An Lochan Uaine or the mystery of Loch Ness; you can choose to do it all, or nothing at all…
After a day of exploration along the NC500, returning to the comfort of The Hollies Retreats or Cathedral House is a welcome retreat. Relax in your private lodge, unwind in a hot tub under the starlit sky, or immerse yourself in the historic ambiance of Cathedral House’s elegant rooms. These sanctuaries provide the ideal space to recharge for the adventures that lie ahead.
Situated near the NC500 route, both The Hollies Retreats and Cathedral House offer easy access to key attractions and starting points. Whether you’re setting off on the eastern or western stretch of the route, you’ll find these accommodations to be convenient bases for your Highland explorations. From here, embark on day trips to iconic landmarks such as the mystical Loch Ness, the enchanting Isle of Skye, or the historic Dunrobin Castle.
Where to Next?
After experiencing the historic charm and warm hospitality of Cathedral House in Dornoch, guests are primed for the next leg of their North Coast 500 journey. As they bid farewell to this quaint town, they can continue their adventure by heading north towards the coastal village of Golspie. Here, they can visit the imposing Dunrobin Castle, a majestic stately home reminiscent of a French château, set amidst stunning gardens overlooking the sea. From Golspie, travelers can meander along the scenic coastal road, taking in panoramic views of the North Sea before reaching the picturesque village of Helmsdale, known for its rich fishing heritage and charming harbor.
As the NC500 route unfolds, guests can look forward to discovering more hidden gems, breathtaking landscapes, and captivating stories that make this journey an unforgettable Scottish Highland experience.
Travelers embarking on the North Coast 500 adventure should make their way towards the iconic John o’ Groats, the northernmost point of the British mainland. This legendary destination marks a significant milestone in the NC500 journey, offering stunning coastal views and the opportunity to capture that iconic photograph beside the famous signpost. From John o’ Groats, visitors can explore nearby attractions such as Duncansby Head with its dramatic sea stacks or take a ferry to the enchanting Orkney Islands, renowned for their ancient history and rugged beauty. The journey from Cathedral House to John o’ Groats promises to be filled with excitement and awe-inspiring moments, setting the stage for an unforgettable exploration of Scotland’s northern frontier.
