Inside North East 250 as road trip route rivals world-famous North Coast 500

Since it was launched almost a decade ago, the North Coast 500 has brought visitors from all across the globe to the Highlands to take on the epic road trip. It has featured in a number of travel bucket list articles, thanks to the sheer beauty on hand throughout the 500-mile tour.

But in recent years, a smaller, but no less stunning, road trip has started to come to the fore. While not as renowned as its bigger cousin, the North East 250 can offer just as much.

It has featured in Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Travel List as one of the top 500 unmissable global travel experiences, and boasts the rugged coastlines of the Moray Firth, the breathtaking wilderness of the Cairngorms, and the whisky enthusiast’s haven of Speyside, here’s all you need to know about this thrilling route.

The Route

This 250-mile circular road trip, which was first introduced in 2017, kicks off in the Cairngorms National Park before looping around the North East coast of Scotland, finishing down through the whisky region of Speyside.

Ideal for cars, campervans, and even cyclists, the route includes picturesque locations such as Peterhead, Banff, Buckie, Aberlour and Ballater Those keen to embark can start the route at three points – Glenshee, Aberdeen Airport and Ballindalloch.

Being a less travelled route compared to some of Scotland’s other road trips, it’s an excellent way to dodge the larger crowds now flocking to the NC500 while still savouring a road trip that’s equally rewarding in its own right.

When is best to go?

Given Scotland’s unpredictable weather, there’s ample opportunity to enjoy the route throughout most of the year. The only periods probably worth steering clear of would be during winter, when some of the roads may be closed due to heavy snowfall.

From spring to autumn, specifically early April to late September, is the ideal time to experience the beauty of this magnificent region.

How long does it take?

Depending on how much time you want to spend at some of the more captivating spots, you can complete the North East 250 in about 2-3 days. However, we recommend extending your trip to 3-4 days to make it even more rewarding.

The Highlights

With towering peaks, golden beaches lapped by turquoise waves, and historical treasures, the North East 250 offers peace and tranquillity. Here are a few of our favourite highlights from the North East 250.

Royal Deeside and the Cairngorms

Balmoral Castle and the nearby village of Ballater – The stunning Victorian Spa resort town of Ballater is full of charm, while the castle, which serves as the Royal family’s holiday home, is always worth a wee visit. You can even explore Scotland’s own pyramid at Crathie.

Aberdeen and the Coast

Bow Fiddle Rock – Breathe in the fresh coastal air near Portknockie and enjoy the views of the striking Bow Fiddle Rock. Keep an eye out for dolphins frolicking in the Firth.

Museum of Scottish Lighthouses – Discover the fascinating history of Scotland’s iconic lighthouses, with around 200 scattered across Scotland’s coasts.

Slains Castle – Rumoured to have inspired Dracula’s Castle in Bram Stoker’s famous novel, this deserted landmark is well worth a visit.

Speyside

Ballindalloch Castle and Distillery – Mix a bit of history with your whisky on a visit to the stunning Ballindalloch Castle and its neighbouring distillery en route to Speyside.

Glenfarclas Distillery – In the whisky heartland of Speyside, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to distilleries, but this family-owned site is one of our top picks for their informative tours and traditional production methods.

Linn falls and Aberlour – Not only can you indulge in a trip to the Walkers shortbread factory shop and the picturesque village of Aberlour, but a brief stroll will lead you to the popular site of this cascading waterfall.

Speyside Cooperage – Discover the intriguing journey of the world’s casks as they travel to Scotland to be expertly reassembled by the Speyside coopers.

Elgin Cathedral – Originally constructed in the 1200s, this breathtaking ruin was once one of Scotland’s most renowned cathedrals and was known as the ‘Lantern of the North’.

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