North Coast Touring Park

Caravan, Motorhome, Camping and Glamping in Melvich

Family-Friendly NC500 Touring Park Near Melvich Beach with Glamping Pods, Electric Pitches and an On-Site Bistro

North Coast Touring Park is a family-run caravan, motorhome, camping and glamping site in Melvich, Sutherland, positioned directly on the northern stretch of Scotland’s North Coast 500. The park accommodates touring caravans, motorhomes, campervans, rooftop tents and traditional tents, with a choice of electric hardstanding pitches, grass camping pitches and heated glamping pods sleeping up to seven guests. Overlooking the beautiful coastline around Melvich Bay and with The Halladale Inn café, bistro, bar and shop on the same site, it is ideal for couples, families, road-trippers, cyclists, motorcyclists and dog owners searching for an NC500 campsite near Thurso, caravan pitches in Sutherland or glamping accommodation on Scotland’s north coast.

The touring park is approximately 20 miles west of Thurso and is well placed for exploring both Caithness and northern Sutherland. Guests can walk to Melvich Beach, visit the small harbour at Portskerra, look for puffins along the coast or use the park as a base for day trips to Strathy Point, the Flow Country, Bettyhill, Dunnet Head and the wider north coast. The park operates seasonally from 1 March until 30 November.

Why Stay at North Coast Touring Park?

• Directly positioned on the northern section of the North Coast 500.

• Touring pitches for motorhomes, campervans, caravans and rooftop tents.

• Grass tent pitches with optional electric hook-up.

• Four-person and seven-person heated glamping pods.

• Hardstanding touring pitches with private adjoining grass areas.

• Licensed restaurant, café and bar on the same site.

• On-site shop selling essentials, gifts, toys and camping equipment.

• Spacious shower and toilet facilities.

• Laundry, washing-up and food-preparation facilities.

• Chemical waste, grey-water disposal and fresh-water points.

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the park.

• Children’s play area.

• Dog-friendly touring park and restaurant.

• Melvich Beach within walking distance.

• Strong base for exploring northern Sutherland and western Caithness.

One of the park’s biggest advantages is convenience. Visitors can arrive after a day on the NC500, set up their pitch and enjoy food and drinks at The Halladale Inn without needing to drive elsewhere that evening.

Accommodation at North Coast Touring Park

North Coast Touring Park offers several different ways to stay, making it suitable for traditional campers, touring vehicles and guests who prefer the comfort of a heated glamping pod.

Electric Hardstanding Motorhome and Campervan Pitches

The hardstanding touring pitches are suitable for motorhomes, campervans and rooftop tents. Each pitch includes electric hook-up and an adjoining grass area positioned either beside or behind the vehicle, providing additional space for outdoor seating or an awning. Pitches can accommodate up to six guests.

Best suited for

• Motorhome travellers following the NC500.

• Campervan road trips.

• Couples and families requiring electric hook-up.

• Guests carrying outdoor equipment.

• Visitors staying for more than one night.

Pitch features

• Hardstanding vehicle area.

• Electric hook-up.

• Private adjoining grass space.

• Access to fresh-water points.

• Chemical and grey-water disposal facilities.

• Shower and toilet block.

• Free Wi-Fi.

• Nearby café, restaurant and shop.

Electric Hardstanding Caravan Pitches

Touring caravans are accommodated on hardstanding pitches with electric hook-up and a grass section at the side for an awning or outdoor seating. The pitches are suitable for groups of up to six people and provide easy access to the central facilities.

Best suited for

• Touring caravan holidays.

• Families travelling the north coast.

• Longer stays in Melvich.

• Visitors needing space for an awning.

• Travellers using the site as a base for northern Sutherland.

Pitch features

• Hardstanding caravan pitch.

• Electric hook-up.

• Grass area for an awning.

• Fresh-water access.

• Waste-disposal facilities.

• Shower and toilet facilities.

• Laundry and washing-up areas.

• On-site food and drink.

Grass Tent Pitches

Traditional grass camping pitches are available with or without electric hook-up. The main family pitches accommodate tents up to approximately eight metres and groups of up to six people, while smaller pitches may also be available for solo travellers using compact tents.

Best suited for

• Tent camping on the NC500.

• Walkers and cyclists.

• Solo travellers.

• Families.

• Visitors looking for affordable accommodation near Melvich Beach.

Pitch features

• Grass camping area.

• Optional electric hook-up.

• Access to showers and toilets.

• Washing-up area.

• Shared fridge and freezer.

• Microwave and kettle.

• Free Wi-Fi.

• Children’s play area.

• On-site restaurant and shop.

Glamping Pods

The smaller glamping pods are designed for up to four guests and offer a warmer, more weatherproof alternative to tent camping. The Clansman-style pod is described as ideal for two adults and up to two small children.

Each pod includes heating, memory-foam mattresses, a fridge, kettle, crockery, cutlery, television, table and chairs and an outdoor bench. Guests should bring their own bedding, as it is not supplied. The pods are positioned close to the shower and toilet block.

Best suited for

• Couples.

• Small families.

• First-time glampers.

• Guests wanting a simple alternative to pitching a tent.

• NC500 travellers without a campervan.

Pod features

• Sleeps up to four.

• Heating.

• Memory-foam mattresses.

• Fridge.

• Kettle.

• Crockery and cutlery.

• Television.

• Indoor table and chairs.

• Outdoor seating.

• Shower and toilet facilities nearby.

• Bedding not included.

Seven-Person Mini Bunkhouse Pods

The larger mini bunkhouse pods can accommodate up to seven adults, making them particularly useful for families, groups of friends, walkers and cyclists travelling together. They offer the same core equipment as the smaller pods, including heating, mattresses, a fridge, kettle, crockery, cutlery, television and seating.

Best suited for

• Larger families.

• Groups travelling the NC500.

• Walking and cycling groups.

• Friends attending local events.

• Budget-conscious group trips.

Pod features

• Sleeps up to seven.

• Heated interior.

• Memory-foam mattresses.

• Fridge and kettle.

• Crockery and cutlery.

• Television.

• Table and chairs.

• Outdoor bench.

• Facilities block nearby.

• Bedding not provided.

The seven-person capacity makes these pods a particularly useful option in an area where affordable accommodation for larger groups can be limited.

Site Facilities

Shower and Toilet Block

The touring park provides a spacious shower and toilet block for campers, touring guests and pod visitors. The block is positioned close to the central accommodation areas and is designed to serve all types of guests staying on the park.

Washing-Up and Food-Preparation Area

The shared washing-up room includes two large sinks, a microwave, kettle, fridge, freezer, iron and ironing board. This is especially useful for tent campers and pod guests who do not have full cooking facilities inside their accommodation.

Laundry Facilities

A coin-operated launderette provides washing machines and tumble dryers. This is particularly helpful for families, long-distance road-trippers and visitors staying for several nights.

Motorhome and Caravan Services

The dedicated facilities area includes:

Chemical toilet disposal.

• Grey-water disposal.

• Fresh-water supply.

• Additional fresh-water points around the site.

• Electric hook-ups on touring pitches.

Children’s Play Area

A small play area with swings and a slide gives younger guests somewhere to play while remaining close to the touring pitches and central facilities.

Free Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is available across the site, helping guests check routes, weather forecasts and onward travel plans while touring the NC500.

The Halladale Inn, Café and Bistro

The Halladale Inn sits on the same site as North Coast Touring Park and provides a licensed café, bistro and bar. It occupies a former crofting house dating from 1882, which was later refurbished and extended. The restaurant serves both visitors and local residents, with advance booking recommended during the busy summer season.

Having food and drink available on site is a major benefit for NC500 travellers, particularly after a long day of driving, cycling or walking. Guests can eat at the bistro, enjoy a drink and return to their pitch or pod without using their vehicle.

The adjoining shop sells:

• Everyday essentials.

• Local gifts and souvenirs.

• Toys.

• Camping equipment.

• Drinks through its off-licence.

Nearby Landmarks and Attractions

Melvich Beach

Melvich Beach is a broad sandy beach backed by dunes and framed by the rugged north Sutherland coastline. It is popular with walkers, surfers and dog owners and can be reached from the touring park on foot in approximately 15–20 minutes.

Portskerra Harbour

Portskerra Harbour is a small, picturesque harbour east of Melvich. A walking route from the touring park takes approximately 40 minutes and offers a quieter look at the local coastline and the area’s fishing heritage.

Puffin Cove

Puffin Cove is a secluded coastal inlet known locally for nesting puffins during the summer months. The surrounding coast is also good for seabird watching and photography.

Strathy Point Lighthouse

Strathy Point Lighthouse stands on a dramatic headland west of Melvich. The surrounding coastline provides wide views over the Atlantic and opportunities to spot seabirds and marine wildlife. The lighthouse is reached by a walk from the nearest parking area.

Strathnaver Museum

Located in the former parish church at Clachan, Strathnaver Museum explores the history, archaeology and culture of the north Highlands, including the story of the Highland Clearances.

North Point Distillery

North Point Distillery produces small-batch spirits on Scotland’s north coast. It provides an additional food-and-drink experience for visitors exploring the area around Thurso and northern Sutherland.

Thurso

Thurso is the largest town on Scotland’s north coast and provides supermarkets, cafés, restaurants, shops, fuel, rail connections and ferry access from nearby Scrabster. It is also known for its surf break at Thurso East and views across the Pentland Firth towards Orkney.

Dunnet Head

Dunnet Head is the most northerly point on the British mainland. The headland provides expansive views across the Pentland Firth and is an important place for seabird watching, with puffins sometimes seen during the breeding season.

Castle of Mey

The Castle of Mey was the Caithness home of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. Visitors can explore the castle, gardens, animal centre, café and visitor facilities during its public opening season.

Best Walks Near North Coast Touring Park

Melvich Beach Walk

Distance: Approximately 3–5 km return, depending on the route
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Beach walks, dogs and sunsets

Walk from the touring park towards Melvich Beach and explore the sand, dunes and mouth of the River Halladale. The route can be shortened for a gentle evening walk or extended along the coastline.

Puffin Cove Coastal Walk

Distance: Approximately 4–6 km, depending on the starting point
Difficulty: Moderate
Best for: Puffins, seabirds and hidden coastline

Puffin Cove lies roughly two miles from the park. The route crosses rough coastal terrain and is best attempted in dry weather with suitable footwear. During summer, walkers may see nesting puffins and other seabirds.

Strathy Point Lighthouse Walk

Distance: Approximately 5 km return
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best for: Atlantic views, wildlife and lighthouse scenery

From the parking area near Strathy, follow the track across open moorland towards the lighthouse. The exposed headland offers extensive sea views and the chance to spot seals, dolphins, whales and seabirds.

Torrisdale Bay and Invernaver

Distance: Approximately 6–8 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Best for: Beaches, dunes and open Highland scenery

The walk to Torrisdale Bay passes through dunes and riverside scenery before reaching one of the north coast’s most impressive sandy beaches. Visitors can extend the route towards Invernaver National Nature Reserve.

Forsinard Flows Dubh Lochan Trail

Distance: Approximately 1.6 km
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Families, peatland scenery and wildlife

This short trail begins near Forsinard station and crosses the peatland on a boardwalk. It is a good introduction to the landscape and ecology of the Flow Country.

Strathnaver Trail

Distance: Flexible driving and walking route
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best for: History, archaeology and Highland Clearances heritage

The Strathnaver Trail links a series of historic sites throughout the valley, including abandoned settlements, memorials, brochs and archaeological remains. Visitors can combine short individual walks rather than completing the entire route at once.

Perfect For

NC500 Motorhome and Campervan Stops

The hardstanding pitches, electric hook-ups, waste disposal, fresh water and on-site restaurant make North Coast Touring Park a practical stopping point on the northern part of the route.

Caravan Holidays in Sutherland

Caravan pitches include electric hook-up and an adjoining grass area for an awning, while the park’s facilities support both short breaks and longer stays.

Tent Camping Near Melvich Beach

Grass pitches with optional electricity provide an accessible base for visitors wanting traditional camping close to one of Sutherland’s quieter beaches.

Family Glamping Breaks

Four-person and seven-person pods, a children’s play area and food on site make the park suitable for families who want an outdoor break without relying entirely on a tent.

Walking and Cycling Trips

The park welcomes cyclists and walkers, with beaches, coastal routes and local landmarks accessible from the site or within a short drive.

Dog-Friendly NC500 Holidays

Dogs are welcome on the touring park and in the restaurant. They should be kept on a lead while on site and exercised beyond the park boundaries. Dogs staying in pods must be included during booking.

Budget and group Accommodations

The seven-person pods provide a practical option for groups, while grass pitches offer an affordable place to stay on the north coast.

Practical Information

• Location: Melvich, Sutherland, KW14 7YJ.

• Route: Directly on the northern section of the NC500.

• Opening season: 1 March to 30 November.

• Accommodation: Motorhome pitches, caravan pitches, campervan pitches, rooftop-tent pitches, grass camping pitches and glamping pods.

• Glamping capacity: Four-person and seven-person pods.

• Touring pitch capacity: Up to six guests on listed pitch types.

• Electric hook-up: Available on hardstanding touring pitches and selected grass camping pitches.

• Wi-Fi: Free across the park.

• Pets: Dogs welcome, subject to park rules.

• Food: Licensed café, bistro, restaurant and bar on site.

• Shop: Essentials, local gifts, toys, drinks and camping equipment.

• Laundry: Coin-operated washing machines and tumble dryers.

• Waste facilities: Chemical and grey-water disposal.

• Fresh water: Service point and additional taps throughout the park.

• Children: Small play area.

• Parking: Free on-site parking.

• Bedding: Not supplied in glamping pods.

• Check-in: Usually from 2pm to 7pm.

• Touring checkout: By 11am.

• Pod checkout: By 10.30am.

Opening dates, check-in arrangements and restaurant hours can change, so guests should confirm current information when booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is North Coast Touring Park?

North Coast Touring Park is in Melvich, Sutherland, on the north coast of Scotland. It sits directly beside the NC500 at postcode KW14 7YJ.

What types of accommodation are available?

Guests can book hardstanding motorhome and caravan pitches, campervan and rooftop-tent pitches, grass tent pitches and heated glamping pods.

Do the touring pitches have electric hook-up?

Yes. The motorhome and caravan pitches have electric hook-up and their own adjoining grass area.

Can tents use electric hook-up?

Yes. Both standard grass camping pitches and grass pitches with electricity are available.

How many people do the glamping pods sleep?

The park offers pods for up to four people and larger mini bunkhouse pods sleeping up to seven adults.

What is provided inside the glamping pods?

The pods include heating, memory-foam mattresses, a fridge, kettle, crockery, cutlery, television, table and chairs and outdoor seating.

Is bedding supplied in the pods?

No. Guests must bring their own bedding.

Are there showers and toilets?

Yes. There is a spacious shower and toilet block available to all touring, camping and glamping guests.

Are laundry facilities available?

Yes. The park has coin-operated washing machines and tumble dryers.

Is there somewhere to prepare food?

There is a shared washing-up area with sinks, a microwave, kettle, fridge and freezer. Guests can also eat at The Halladale Inn café and bistro.

Is North Coast Touring Park dog friendly?

Yes. Dogs are welcome on the touring park and in the restaurant. They must be kept on a lead while on site.

Is there food available on site?

Yes. The Halladale Inn provides a licensed café, bistro, bar and restaurant beside the touring park.

Is there a shop?

Yes. The on-site shop sells essentials, gifts, toys, camping equipment and drinks.

How close is Melvich Beach?

Melvich Beach can be reached on foot in approximately 15–20 minutes.

Is the site suitable for children?

Yes. Families are welcome, and there is a small children’s play area with swings and a slide.

Is Wi-Fi available?

Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available across the site.

When is North Coast Touring Park open?

The park normally opens from 1 March until 30 November each year.

Is it a good base for exploring the NC500?

Yes. Its position between Thurso and Bettyhill makes it suitable for exploring Melvich, Strathy, Strathnaver, the Flow Country and the wider north coast without needing to move accommodation every night.

Plan Your Stay

North Coast Touring Park is a practical and welcoming place to stay on the northern stretch of the NC500. Visitors can choose the simplicity of a grass tent pitch, the convenience of a serviced touring pitch or the extra comfort of a heated glamping pod.

Its location gives travellers more than an overnight stopping point. Melvich Beach, Portskerra Harbour and Puffin Cove can be explored locally, while Strathy Point, Strathnaver, Torrisdale and Forsinard are all within reach for day trips. Back at the park, the Halladale Inn provides food and drinks, while the showers, laundry, shop and service facilities make it easy to reset before continuing around the north coast.

Location