Highland Salmon Fishing & North Coast 500 Tour
Package Overview
The North Coast 500 (NC500) is one of the UK’s most spectacular road trips, stretching 516 miles through Scotland’s rugged Northern Highlands. Along the route, travellers can enjoy dramatic mountains, sweeping coastlines, charming Highland towns, and picturesque fishing villages. For those passionate about both adventure and angling, this journey offers the perfect combination of scenic exploration and world-class salmon fishing on two iconic Highland rivers.
Our carefully designed NC500 salmon fishing package includes one day’s fishing on the River Alness and one on the famous River Thurso, paired with seven nights’ accommodation. The Alness, just north of Inverness, is a classic Highland spate river, while the Thurso, one of Scotland’s most northerly rivers, is among the country’s most productive. After fishing, guests can enjoy the freedom of the NC500, with highlights including Ullapool, Caithness, and the dramatic Isle of Skye, before returning along the west coast to Inverness. Best experienced between June and September, this trip blends thrilling fishing with unforgettable Highland scenery, and can be tailored to suit individual preferences.
Package Highlights
- Single day’s salmon fishing on the River Alness and River Thurso
- 7 nights accommodation
- Fishing Tackle
- Expert Fishing Guide
Day by Day Itinerary
Arrival Day
Welcome to the tranquil Highlands of Scotland ready to commence your mixed north coast 500 tour and highland salmon fishing package! Upon arrival check-in to the Kincriag Castle Hotel and spend the rest of your day at leisure. Please note standard check-in time at the hotel is 15:00hrs.
Kincriag Castle is nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands and is a hidden gem that promises a serene getaway. The Kincraig Hotel is ideally situated for salmon fishing on the Alness being just a stone's throw away. As you meander along the captivating tree-lined driveway, prepare to be mesmerised by the sheer grandeur of Kincraig Castle. Surrounded by vast farmland and enchanting woodland, this remarkable hotel treats its guests to breathtaking views over the Cromarty Firth and Black Isle. With a rich history dating back centuries, the Mackenzie Clan once called this castle their home. Today, as an esteemed 4-star country house hotel, Kincraig Castle offers a luxurious retreat, complete with exceptional dining options and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Guided Salmon Fishing On The Tranquil River Alness
Today you will be salmon fishing on the tranquil River Alness! Your Salmon Fishing Holidays Scotland guide will be waiting to meet and greet you at the meeting point on beat 2. (Private transfers can be arranged if required.)
Your guide will be with you throughout your fishing day on the River Alness, providing you with a unique service. He will give you advice on what tackle to use, point out the best salmon fishing spots, help you with your fishing techniques if required and fly casting. When you hook a wild Atlantic salmon, your guide will be there to advise you during the long and exciting fight, ensuring that you have the best chance of landing that unforgettable River Alness salmon.
Travel From the River Alness To Caithness
Today you will travel north to the banks of the River Thurso and the beautiful village of Halkirk. Check-in to the Ulbster Arms Hotel and enjoy a scenic walk along the banks of the river or alternatively enjoy a little tipple in the hotels fishing themed bar. Please note that standard check-in time at the hotel is 15:00hrs.
The North Coast 500 offers a picturesque journey from Alness to Thurso, allowing you to witness the enchanting views of Scotland's northeast coast. As you venture north towards the River Thurso in Caithness, immerse yourself in the breathtaking views and attractions in Brora, Helmsdale, Berriedale, Wick and the most northerly point on Scotland’s mainland John o’ Groats.
Located in the picturesque highland village of Halkirk, right by the tranquil banks of the Thurso River, lies the Ulbster Arms Hotel. Once the cherished home of the Sinclair family, this hotel has been a haven for shooting, fishing, and tourists for more than 150 years. Despite its modern amenities, the Ulbster Arms Hotel has managed to preserve the traditional character of the building. Each of the deluxe bedrooms is distinct in its own way, with large sash windows that offer breathtaking views of the historic village and the Thurso River, creating a bright and airy ambiance.
Please note standard check-in time at the hotel is 15:00hrs.
Guided Salmon Fishing On the Prolific River Thurso
Today you will be fishing on one of the most productive highland river, the River Thurso. After a traditional Scottish Breakfast your guide will be waiting at the rear of the Ulbster Arms Hotel ready to meet and greet you.
Your guide will be with you throughout your day on the River Thurso, providing you with a unique service. He will give you advice on what tackle to use, point out the best salmon fishing spots, help you with your fishing techniques if required and fly casting. When you hook a wild Atlantic salmon, your guide will be there to advise you during the long and exciting fight, ensuring that you have the best chance of landing that unforgettable River Thurso salmon
NC500 Caithness To Durness
Today, following a delightful traditional Scottish breakfast, continue your NC500 tour from Thurso to Durness. Take pleasure in a leisurely walk along the sandy Strathnaver beach en route and make a brief stop at the captivating Smoo Cave before reaching your destination in Durness.
The Tongue Hotel is a former Victorian sporting lodge boasting stunning views over the Kyle of Tongue, Ben hope, Ben Loyal and the ruin of Castle Varrich. The hotel offers luxurious rooms which are all individually designed but retains period features and antique furnishings. The Tongue hotel offers a cosy bar and restaurant serving both formal and informal dining. Please note standard check-in time at the hotel is 15:00hrs.
NC500 Durness To Skye
As part of your NC500 itinerary, you will be making your way from Durness to the Isle of Skye today. This stretch of your journey is notably brief, making it one of the quickest routes you'll encounter.
Begin your journey by visiting Sandywood Bay, a secluded beach in Scotland before visiting Hander Island, one of Scotland’s leading observation points for viewing wild birds. After which follow the NC500 route to reach Lochinver, where you can enjoy a delicious lunch seafood lunch. After lunch choose between the A837 or B869 route to reach the stunning Isle of Skye.
Bosville Hotel offers stunning views over Portree’e Harbour. The hotel is a contemporary hotel with modern designed rooms. The Dulse & Brose restaurant boasts a wide variety of meal options including seafood and shellfish which come straight from the Minch waters and served within a matter of hours. Please note standard check-in time at the hotel is 15:00hrs.
NC500 Isle Of Skye To Inverness
After breakfast embark on your final leg of your NC500 trip. Today you will be travelling from the Isle of Skye to Inverness. This leg of your NC500 trip will be a firm favourite for any member of party interested in history.
Your first stop en route to the City of Inverness will be Eilean Donan Castle before visiting Random Highland Pit Stop then Culloden Battlefield.
The Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel is a chic, informal, stylish hotel which is situated on the banks of the River Ness and is ideally located just a stone’s throw away from the city centre. The hotel offers luxury accommodation and boasts an award winning restaurant and modern cocktail bar.
Departure
After a fun-filled week touring the North Coast 500 and fishing on two of Scotland’s premier highland rivers, enjoy a traditional Scottish breakfast before embarking on your onward journey.
Contact Our Team
Contact Us
Our Location
Taymount House, Caputh, Perthshire, PH1 4JJ
Email Us
info@salmonfishingholidaysscotland.com
Call Us
01738 850 607
USA Toll-Free Number
1 (800) 917-0840
Working Hours
Monday-Saturday: 9AM - 7PM