Explore the coast, culture and character of the far north.

The North Coast 500 has drawn visitors to this remarkable corner of Scotland. Authentic Caithness invites you to slow down and discover more of what makes it special.

This itinerary is a starting point, shaped around your interests by a guide who knows the area first-hand. Follow a family connection, explore ancient sites, discover local food and drink, or head out on the water. There’s time, too, for the unexpected: a quiet coastal stop, a story you hadn’t heard, or a glimpse of wildlife along the way.

Whatever your taste, Authentic Caithness is about finding peace in one of the last unspoilt wildernesses of Scotland.

Come with your curiosity. We’ll take care of the journey.

Our tour begins in the vibrant town of Thurso, where the river and historic streets offer an introduction to Caithness’s Norse and Scottish heritage.

From there, travel to Castletown, a village shaped by the flagstone industry, and discover the story of this distinctive local stone at the Flagstone Heritage Centre.

Continue to Dunnet Head, the most northerly point of mainland Britain, for sweeping views across the Pentland Firth towards Orkney.

At the Castle of Mey, explore the Queen Mother’s former Highland home and gardens, subject to seasonal opening.

Then visit John O’Groats for the famous signpost, local shops and views across the water.

Nearby Duncansby Head reveals an even wilder coastline, with a walk out towards its striking sea stacks.

Below is a small selection of popular add-ons:

Castle Sinclair Girnigoe
Explore the ruins of a Sinclair stronghold perched above the sea, where centuries of Caithness history meet a dramatic coastal setting.

Wick
Discover the stories of this historic harbour town, from its herring fishing past to the people and photographs preserved at Wick Heritage Centre.

Grey Cairns of Camster
Step back more than 5,000 years at these Neolithic chambered tombs, set in the open Caithness landscape.

Caithness Seacoast Tours
See the coastline from the water on a boat trip from Wick, passing sea cliffs, caves and stacks. Routes depend on conditions on the day.

Local food and drink
Make time to taste Caithness, whether that means a distillery visit, a memorable meal or a stop for something made locally.

Cross the Pentland Firth for a privately hosted day exploring Orkney.

Even the journey across the water feels like the beginning of somewhere different.

Travel across the Churchill Barriers, built during the Second World War, and visit the Italian Chapel, created by prisoners of war. Look out over Scapa Flow and hear how this natural harbour shaped Orkney’s wartime story.

Then journey thousands of years into the past at the Stones of Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar and Skara Brae, where the remains of a Neolithic village offer an extraordinary glimpse of everyday life.

If time allows, there’s also the pleasure of exploring Kirkwall, with its independent shops, island food and magnificent St Magnus Cathedral.

We’ll arrange the ferries and travel, then shape the route around opening times and what most interests you.

Leave the wide horizons of Caithness behind and watch the landscape change as you travel west.

Around Tongue, Ben Loyal rises above the Kyle; further on, the road follows the shores of Loch Eriboll towards Durness, where pale sands and clear water meet a rugged coastline.

There’s time to stop when a view catches your eye, take a short walk, and hear the stories held in this remote part of the Highlands.

Depending on the route you choose, the journey can also take you through the Flow Country, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of vast peatlands, scattered pools and remarkable wildlife.

Your guide will shape the day around the weather and your interests, leaving space for the moments you couldn’t have planned.