7 luxury hotels to visit on the North Coast 500

Despite northern Scotland's wild reputation there's ample choice of luxury hotels for those who decide to take on the North Coast 500.

Ackergill Tower Hotel is a wonderful stop on the NC500 (Photo: contributed)

The Torridon, Torridon

The warm and inviting facilities of this luxury resort is in stark contract to the rugged and intimidating mountain scenery of Torridon. Situated on the banks of Upper Loch Torridon and opposite the imposing rock fortresses of Liathach and Beinn Alligin, you are unlikely to find a Scottish hotel in a more stunning situation.

Cost: Rooms from £265 per night for 2 adults

Visit: thetorridon.comShieldaig Lodge Hotel, Gairloch

This recently refurbished hunting lodge is set on the tranquil Loch Gairloch. Boasting whisky and gin bars, snug lounges and painstakingly detailed bedrooms, the Shieldaig Lodge Hotel is an excellent hotel to retire to after a long day on the road.

Cost: Rooms from £200 per night for two adults

Visit:shieldaiglodge.comDrumbeg Hotel, Drumbeg

In an area where you're more likely to spot a red deer than a fellow human, this pocket of civilisation in the wild north offers a warm welcome to weary travellers. Outdoor enthusiasts would be well advised to use this stay as an opportunity to stretch their legs and explore the jagged peaks of Assynt.

Cost: Rooms from £90 per night for two adults

Visit: drumbeghotel.co.ukAckergill Tower Castle, Wick

Straight out of a Scottish fairytale, Ackergill Tower Castle is a wonderful blend of history drenched intrigue and 21st century comfort. Set above Sinclair Bay on a 3,000 acre estate, the grounds of this castle also boast Europe's largest tree house, featuring a bedroom.

Cost: Rooms from £135 per night for two adults

Visit:ackergilltower.comDornoch Castle Hotel, Dornoch

Set in beautiful Dornoch, opposite the towns 12th century cathedral, this history steeped hotel is resident to 22 unique rooms, each with their own charm. Visitors can enjoy a gourmet dining experience following a stint on the NC500.

Cost: Rooms from £135 per night for two adults

Visit:dornochcastlehotel.comThe Royal Highland Hotel, Inverness

Situated in the centre of Inverness, The Royal Highland Hotel is a great place to start or finish a tour of the highlands. The luxury and tradiaitonal hotel has served travellers sfor over 150 years and continues to do so.

Cost: Rooms from £144 per night for two adults

Visit:royalhighlandhotel.co.ukCoul House Hotel, Strathpeffer

This gorgeous gothic house has stood since 1821 and posseses a unique charm. Temporary residents will be reluctant to leave this stay which commands remarkable views of the surrounding countryside, as well as a restaurant renowned for its mouth-watering cuisine.

Cost: Rooms from £95 per night for two adults

Visit: coulhousehotel.com