Driver safety
Given the popularity of the NC500 and the subsequent rising number of vehicles on the route, driver safety is paramount on its 516 miles of roads.
Tourism on the famous road route increased by around 26% in its first two years, according to research for Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and this figure has risen gradually since then. In fact, between 2015 and 2017, local roads experienced a 10% increase in traffic. Tourist vehicles like people carriers, motorhomes, camper vans, caravans, cars and motorbikes have all added to the local traffic, making the route busier and, potentially, more dangerous. This is why Your Guide to NC500 has included this feature about driver safety.
SPEED
Tourists enjoying the numerous picturesque views along NC500 drive a little too slow for the locals’ liking, so be aware of this. Always adhere to the speed limits on local roads, and avoid driving too fast or too slow. The speed limit for most of these types of Highland roads is 60mph, but 50mph is safer. Be mindful of wildlife, like sheep, cattle and deer, crossing the road and take extra care on narrow, winding roads and single-tracks.
PASSING PLACES
Passing places on single-track roads are often intimidating and many drivers are a little apprehensive about using them. However, they are there to assist you on your journey. If you are being approached by an oncoming vehicle, then use the passing place on your left. Never pull over to the right, crossing the other vehicle’s path. If you approach a passing place on the right hand side, stop opposite it, so the oncoming car can drive around your vehicle. Passing places are also for use when a vehicle behind you wishes to overtake. When pulling in, allow them enough space, especially if it is a large vehicle.
WEATHER
Roads are susceptible to icy conditions in winter, but remember the weather can be much more severe in this northern part of the country. Snow might still fall later this month and into March, so take extra care when travelling at this time of year. Make sure you have prepared your car for winter, ensuring your tyres and brakes, in particular, are in peak condition.
SIGNAGE
Read and adhere to local signage. Look out for guidance on the gradient, speed limit and warnings for roads on the route. As mentioned elsewhere in this guide, NC500 is home to the steepest single-track road in the UK, Bealach na Ba. Even for experienced drivers, this road can be difficult to negotiate with its tight hairpin bends and steepness. The sign on the road to Applecross (pictured middle, right) states that it is “not suitable for learner drivers, large vehicles or caravans after the first mile”, so you should take the alternative low level route. STOPPING The Scottish scenery is spectacular, that goes without saying, but however tempting it may be to stop randomly on the route, or slow down to capture a photo with your mobile phone, don’t. Wait and find a suitable place to park, like a lay-by, and pull in before snapping.
PARKING
Always park legally and do not block entrances or farm tracks. Don’t mount grass verges when pulling in to park as it damages the landscape. Locals on the route have recently noticed a rise in the number of people pulling in at unsuitable places, so be considerate. Also, be courteous; if another vehicle is parked up in a secluded spot, don’t park too near them.
KNOW THE VEHICLE
Locals complain about camper van and motorhome drivers having “no idea how to drive them”. Before you take on a long drive in your newlyrented motorhome, practice manoeuvring it on a private road or car park, putting it into reverse and turning corners, before hitting the open roads of the ‘500.