Are you dreaming of a trip to the Scottish Highlands? Have you always wanted to drive the legendary North Coast 500? In episode 140 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, we embark on a journey through Scotland’s breathtaking North Highlands, uncovering everything you need to know before setting out on this iconic route.
With me is Robert James from North Coast Explorer Tours, sharing practical tips and local insights drawn from years of exploring this magnificent region.
Whether you’re in the planning stages or simply dreaming of the adventure, join us as we discuss route details, driving challenges, and must-see spots along the 516-mile odyssey.
Get ready to navigate this spectacular drive safely and make the most of your Highland adventure.
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Summary of Episode 140
Discover the ins and outs of driving the North Coast 500 in the Scottish Highlands with expert guest Robert James of North Coast Explorer Tours.
The episode provides invaluable insights into mastering this iconic 516-mile route, exploring the breathtaking landscapes, and ensuring a safe and enriching journey.
Tracy and Robert discuss the route’s highlights, practical advice for driving, including handling challenging single-track roads, and the best direction to travel for maximum scenic impact.
Listeners will also learn about local road etiquette, tips for staying safe and prepared, and Robert’s anecdotes from exploring over 50,000 miles on this stunning route.
What you’ll learn in this episode
- 🚗 Explore the iconic North Coast 500, a 516-mile scenic driving route in the Scottish Highlands, ideal for those considering a visit to Scotland.
- 🏞️ Discover the breathtaking landscapes of the North Highlands, characterized by its low population density, stunning wilderness, mountains, lochs, and rivers.
- 🛣️ Learn about the North Coast 500’s road conditions, including the challenging yet rewarding single-track roads that require careful planning and awareness.
- 🔄 Get expert advice on driving the route, with a recommendation to travel anticlockwise for a visually dramatic experience and to avoid early challenging roads.
- ⛽ Assured on the availability of fuel stations and electric charging points throughout the journey, eliminating travel anxiety.
- 📱 Learn the importance of the What3words app for location assistance, which is crucial for emergencies and breakdowns in remote areas.
- 🚗 Tips on avoiding driving in convoys to navigate single-track roads smoothly and prevent roadside mishaps.
- 🚗 Insight into the Ascent Peninsula as a potentially more challenging area than the renowned Balach Na Bar, emphasizing cautious driving.
- 🚗 Robert stresses the significance of requesting the right vehicle transmission (manual or automatic) when renting a vehicle for your journey.
UK places, foods and words/concepts mentioned
Places
- Scottish Highlands – a mountainous region in Scotland, known for its stunning natural beauty
- North Coast – located in the North Highland Region of Scotland
- Inverness – city in the North Highlands and starting/ending point of the North Coast 500 route
- East Coast – part of the North Coast 500 route showcasing beaches and coastline
- West Coast – known for mountainous landscapes along the North Coast 500
- Assynt Peninsula – a challenging section of the North Coast 500 drive with twisty roads
- Balach Na Bà – a notable and challenging switchback section on the North Coast 500
Words/Concepts
- North Coast 500 – a 516-mile scenic driving route around the North Highlands of Scotland
- Single track roads – roads with one lane serving traffic in both directions, featuring passing places
- Passing places – small paved indentations on single track roads to help vehicles pass each other
Related content on UK Travel Planning and London Travel Planning
Podcasts
- Episode 35 – An introduction to Far North Scotland with Sally-Ann of North Coast Explorer Tours
- Episode 36 – Exploring Far North Scotland with North Coast Explorer Tours
- Episode 42 – Discovering the treasures of Far North Scotland with North Coast Explorer Tours
- Episode 118 – Exploring Scotland’s North Coast with Victoria Greig: Highlights and Tips
- Episode 12 – Driving in the UK: Prepare for your trip with Tripiamo
- Episode 112 – Driving the UK Like a Local: Expert Tips from Tripiamo’s John Cortese
Articles
- Scottish Highlands Travel Guide
- Scotland Driving Itinerary
- Scotland Travel Guide
- Guide to renting a car in the UK
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