Destination NC500

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However, you are likely going to be causing frustration to those behind you wanting to drive at a normal speed, especially those not on vacation.

Since the NC500 route forms a loop, you have the option of driving it either clockwise or counterclockwise. The most popular way to experience the North Coast 500 is by car, but it is also a popular route for motorcyclists and cyclists. You can also join a seasonal tour to visit more of the inside of the cave that includes a geological tour on foot and a raft ride to reach the inner chambers. If you are bringing your own car or renting, most of the things you need should already be in it, but it is important to check before you go.Yes, as of 2016, there are now enough electrical charging points around the route for those with fully electric cars to drive the route safely.

Rock Stop (has a small interactive indoor exhibition plus cafe) at Unapool and Knockan Crag stop (outdoors) are both good places to teach the kids a bit about the North West Highlands Geo Park and the amazing local geology. However, in recent years, they have added North Coast 500 brown tourist signs along the route to help people stay on the route. Driving responsibly – read the Highway Code before you depart and our road safety guidelines for the NC500, including driving on single track roads. Here is a guide to driving on singe-track roads in Scotlandwith a relevant infographic explaining how to use passing places.In some ways they are similar in that they are great routes for a road trip and both offer some great scenery and attractions along the way. But even right along the route, few people get out of their cars to hike around lochs, hills, beaches, or fields so if you get out into nature you’ll probably find yourself relatively alone. g., October to March) just note that many businesses (including hotels, restaurants, tourist information offices, and attractions) in the Scottish Highlands are seasonal or have reduced winter hours. Many thanks again for all the wonderful information and links and in advance for whtever advice you may have for us.

You may need to reverse to get into the nearest passing space which is why it is important to know how to safely reverse your vehicle which can be a problem for those in caravans or with rental vehicles. Castles:There are a number of castles along the route, ranging from crumbled ruins to the former home of Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother to picturesque Disney-like castles. Some of the official NC500 materials discuss the route as going counterclockwise and others clockwise, so there appears to be no “official” direction. In terms of budgeting for lodging, it will depend a lot on your accommodation type and time of year. The largest city (by far) is Inverness with a population of close to 50,000 people and the next biggest places are towns and villages like Ullapool, Durness, Dornoch, Wick, Thurso, and Lochinver which each have a population of under 2,000 people!Camping– Camping can be a fun family activity and allows you to prepare some of your own meals along the route. If you are staying at a dog-friendly hotel or campsite, someone there can probably give you recs for the best places to eat or get a drink with your dog. Remember that people live and work along the NC500 route, so be a courteous driver and don’t hold them up. Lodging options cover just about every budget and lodging type, but don’t expect to find hotel chains or massive resort-style properties.