North Coast 500 (NC 500)

[Rambo]

For anyone coming to Scotland this year post Covid and wantimg to do the NC 500, here are the new rules from Herr Sturgeon (with effect from Friday 16 April)

North 500 – Permitted Campervan Travel Times (COVID Reopening)
http://dailygael.com/north-500-permitte ... vel-times/

[JusNoGood]

Hi Mark,

thanks. Finally doing my nc500 tour this May’22. Very excited. Really do hope those restrictions still apply.

Contemplating doing the trip in the m100, well the mrs is! She got drenched coming home from Italy in 2019. Monsoon weather and the Elan dumped gallons of water on her legs, feet and DSLR! Turns out she’s not quite got over it.

Justin

[Rambo]

At least in May you should avoid the majority of the tourists and camper vans. And the dreaded Scottish midge !! Bring plenty of midge repellent, particularly if you are thinking of camping anywhere near a damp forest.

think Steve A might be planning to do the NC500 this year too

[JusNoGood]

It may have been you who advised me to go in May, you or John.

[KenCarson]

I believe the rules for campervans have been lifted ie no restrictions. Also, Calmac have significantly increased fares for bigger campervans which might mean more stay on the mainland. Chap I met who has a Winnebego is planning to do the 500 in May/early June, I did suggest he might find the Bealach Na Ba rather interesting.... Midgies shouldn't be bad in May, I used Avon's Skin So Soft last time I was there, it's quite effective but I also took a midge hood. I'd also suggest taking a tick remover if you are thinking of walking off the road and don't wear shorts! Have fun.

[dapinky]

Whilst everyone is offering "suggestions" based on stuff that is unimportant (like bloody big caravans blocking your view and holding you up, bugs which are annoying as hell and eat into your flesh, and other stuff like that).....

.... my best advice is to find a route via Crieff on the way up and drop into the Glenturret distillery.

(I went whilst I was up at COP26 in November and it is some of the best I've tasted... I'm no expert, but have been guided by some!)

[Rambo]

This is the sign at Tornapress just past Kishorn https://www.scotlandinfo.eu/applecross- ... shieldaig/ at the start of the Bealach na Ba (Pass of the Cattle) It clearly states it is unsuitable for large vehicles or caravans but for some reason the drivers cannot read and often get into troble, particularly at the hairpins