The Perfect 2-Night NC500 Itinerary: What toSee, Do & Eat During Your Stay at Beyond North
If you’re planning a short breakon the NC500 or stopping over before catching the ferry to Orkney, Beyond Northoffers the perfect luxury cabin base for exploring dramatic scenery, richheritage, and unforgettable local food. This 2-night itinerary highlights thebest things to do near John O’Groats, Duncansby Stacks, Castle of Mey, CastleSinclair Girnigoe, and Thurso — with plenty of time to relax, unwind, and watchfor the Northern Lights from the comfort of your cabin.
Day 1: Arrive at Beyond North, Explore JohnO’Groats & Discover Duncansby Stacks
Settle Into Your Beyond North Cabin
Arrive, switch off, and breathein the wild northern air. Your cosy cabin at Beyond North offers everything youneed after a long journey — warmth, comfort, and uninterrupted views thatinstantly invite you to slow down.
Visit John O’Groats: A Classic NC500 Stop
Just minutes from Beyond North,John O’Groats is the ideal first stop. Visit the famous signpost, stroll thecolourful harbour, and enjoy views stretching toward Orkney. It’s an essentialNC500 experience.
Walk (or Drive) to Duncansby Stacks
One of the most iconic naturallandmarks in Scotland, the Duncansby Stacks never disappoint:
- Walk the 3 km coastal path from John O’Groats, or
- Drive to Duncansby Head Lighthouse for an easy clifftop ramble.
The dramatic cliffs, seabirds,and towering stacks make this an unforgettable outing.
Dinner in Your Cabin: Slow Down & Soothe
Head back to Beyond North for arelaxed evening of cooking, getting cosy, and enjoying the peaceful stillnessthat defines this stretch of coastline — the perfect place where adventurerests.
Watch for the Northern Lights
Keep an eye on your Auroratracker. Beyond North sits directly under the Aurora Oval, giving you some ofthe best chances in Scotland to witness the Northern Lights dancing across thesky.
Day 2: Explore Royal History, Enjoy Local Food& Visit Castle Sinclair Girnigoe
Morning: Visit the Castle of Mey
Start your day with a trip tothe Castle of Mey, once home to Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. Explorebeautifully preserved rooms, gardens, and sweeping sea views, a must-seeheritage stop near Beyond North.
Lunch Options: Annie’s Bakery or Olive (Thurso)
Two fantastic local spots tochoose from:
Annie’s Bakery (near JohnO’Groats):
A friendly, relaxed stop known for its fresh bakes, soups, and heartysandwiches. Perfect after a morning of exploring! Even better, it’s only a 3minute drive from Beyond North.
Open Wed, Thurs, Fri & Sun from 10am–2pm.
Olive (Thurso):
Ideal for brunch lovers and coffee fans. Expect artisan coffee, fresh plates,and a warm, welcoming atmosphere — a favourite among locals.
Afternoon: Explore Castle Sinclair Girnigoe
Head towards Wick to visit thedramatic ruins of Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, perched on rugged cliffsoverlooking the North Sea. The walk from the car park is gentle and incrediblyscenic, offering wide coastal views and fantastic photo opportunities.
Evening: A Warm & Cosy Night at Beyond North
Return to your cabin for a slowevening. Cook dinner, enjoy the peaceful glow of sunset, and settle intocomfort as the night sky deepens.
And once again — stay ready. The Aurora might appear at any moment
Day 3: A Slow Morning Before Continuing Your NC500Adventure
Before setting off, enjoy afinal slow morning at Beyond North — a hot coffee, a stroll along the shore, orsimply taking in the quiet beauty outside your window. It’s the kind of placethat stays with you long after you leave.
