Creative writing submission from the Rest Less community – submit your entry here.
Cycling as a hobby has been growing more popular across the UK. Whether you’re like me and enjoy riding on the weekends or are part of a team or club, the cycling community is on a steady incline. Distance and challenge rides, such as the North Coast 500 (NC500), are often the next step up.
So far in my research, almost everyone I’ve read about who’s attempted the NC500 has said it was 100% worth it (despite the relentless ups and downs encountered across Scotland’s vast highlands). Cycling this route can be a great experience to share with like-minded people and is something I’m looking forward to completing.
What is the NC500?
Created in 2014 by the North Highland Initiative, the road trip’s goal was to stimulate the economy in the relatively unknown northern highlands. Often compared to Route 66 in America, the NC500 circles the northern highlands of Scotland from Inverness. This means that you can drive, cycle, or motorcycle your way around the highlands.
For those of us cycling, this can mean certain parts of the route are busy with traffic. Luckily, there’s a cyclist-friendly version that avoids major roads like the A9. This version avoids the east coast and travels inland.
Why should you cycle the NC500?
Your method of transport will depend entirely on your situation…On a family trip with teens or young adults? Perhaps a motorhome with Wi-Fi is best. Just you and your partner who isn’t an avid cyclist? 100% make it a road trip, stay in cabins on the lochs, and you can cycle whilst they enjoy the beauty of the local area. Travelling alone or with a group of fellow cycling enthusiasts? Now we can ride the full NC500.
Going from cycling on the weekend to conquering Scotland is quite the jump, however, I’d love to attempt such a challenging and beautiful ride. Getting to discover Scotland while experiencing an amazing adventure is one of my favourite reasons to travel.
I wanted to share some of the top spots I hope to visit and a few alternate routes which aren’t on the official cycle path that I’ve been tempted to explore – if you’re interested, join me, and see Scotland for yourself.
My top spots to visit
The Bealach na Ba and Applecross peninsula
One of the most beautiful and challenging locations on the whole of the NC500 is the Bealach na Ba Pass in Applecross. The Bealach na Ba is an outstanding climb and one I’ve only had the privilege to drive before. It’s an uphill road covering 9.1km and rising 626m along winding roads to the top of the mountain.
Scottish weather is tricky – you might find stunning views at the top or, like when I drove over Applecross in the past, be deep in the clouds.
Upon reaching the summit, you can enjoy the rapid decline towards the coast and Applecross Bay. Continue north to reach Applecross Sands. This is a great spot for taking a well-earned break or bringing the family. With a stunning beach and sand dunes, kids can play while adults rest their cycling or driving legs. From the climb to the sands, the entire area is on many bucket lists worldwide.
Highlands Geopark
The area surrounding the highlands Geopark is ideal to pause and take a breather, especially for nature lovers. As you’re not in a rush to reach your next accommodation, you can spend the morning cycling and exploring the local area. Visit the beach on the loch or cycle back to Allt Chranaidh Waterfall. After soaking in nature, cross over Kylesku Bridge – just don’t miss this perfect photo opportunity, it’s stunning.
The most northerly point
Unfortunately, mainland Britain’s most northern point, Dunnet Head, is not included on the official NC500 cycling route as it leads to the A99. For those completing the full loop, you’ll have to double back after visiting the head and this will add up to four hours to your ride.
If you’re an ocean lover, getting to stay near the coast can make the extra trip worth it. After a photoshoot at the northern point, you can either choose to continue East or return West to the route straight away.
By staying on the northern path, you’ll eventually reach John o’ Groats. The coastline on the way hosts even more beautiful scenery, like Scotland’s Haven and the Castle of Mey. These incredible sights have a rich history and natural beauty. Remember, the further East you cycle, the longer you must backtrack.
For cyclists completing the full route, journeying to John o’ Groats will add around 6 hours if you count both the trip there and back from Melvich.
A stop for whiskey
Fancy some whisky near the end of the trip? Then break from the standard route and head to Glenmorangie. Here you can find a whisky distillery waiting with open doors to offer you some warmth.
Enjoying the taste of Scotch whiskey is an ideal reward for making it so far. I must state that I only suggest a taster though, as people shouldn’t drink and ride. Saying that, if you’ve got the room, there’s no harm in buying a bottle for later.
By following an alternate route, you can avoid the A9 and enjoy a lovely coastal path south through beautiful, quiet villages. This route lets you see Scotland your way and discover areas people following the set course normally miss.
How to start planning
If you’re like me and planning to brave the North Coast 500 on a bike, or just want to see a part of it, then I’d advise reading what people who’ve completed the route have suggested.
What are the best bikes for the terrain? Where are the highest-rated places to stay? Are there stretches requiring extra caution? Once we can answer these kinds of questions, we’ll be ready for the trip.
I’m still planning my ride and am so excited to visit Scotland again. Wish me luck and good luck to you on your next adventure.
Are you feeling creative? We are proud to have a hugely talented community on Rest Less, which is why we’re so excited to open up a section of the site dedicated to showcasing the wonderful and diverse writing of our members. If you have a piece of creative writing that you’d like to share with the Rest Less community – you can do so here.