In the UK you have many options, but a good choice would be to take your bike to the Scottish Highlands and ride on the North Coast 500. The Highlands undoubtedly contain some of the country’s most beautiful scenery. Riding through it you will feel like you’re alone, on another planet. There are plenty of places to see along your journey, but perhaps the best part of riding through the highlands is that you get to see all of the beauty it has to offer.

Places & Attractions

Along your ride on the North Coast 500, you can go to Loch Ness, where you might get a chance to see the Loch Ness monster otherwise known as Nessie. Ride through Caledonian Canal to For William, which just might be the adventure capital of the United Kingdom. The Inner and Outer Hebrides are accessible and the Isle of Skye is a must see place. Not only will you have the chance to see this tranquil islands, you’ll get to feel the accomplishment of getting there on bike.

On this trip through the Highlands you will go through Trossachs National Park, Cairgnorms National Park, which is where Balmoral Castle is located, and pass by Lake Lomond. This area is also known for some famous distilleries. Finally, you will go by the Smoo cave and the Eilean Castle. Whether you are looking for attractions, nature, or simply to get away from it all, riding the North Coast 500 through the Highlands will provide just what you’re looking for.

Things to Know

Mostly on single-lane roads, North Coast can get pretty busy in the summer. Shoulder seasons are better, when it’s quieter and there is less heat. The Pass of the Cattle into Applecross can be challenging in the adverse conditions for which it’s known. With so many small spots to discover, some prefer to ride this road in at least five days, although it can be down in three. According to the site MoneyPug, which is a platform people use to find cheap last minute holidays, it is possible to stretch your dollar by visiting the free YHA campsite in Torridon or one the of the hostels in the area to tour this road without spending a fortune.

Where to Start

While the North Coast 500 is great in either direction, people generally head counter-clockwise for the best views. This will keep you on the coastal side of the road for the whole ride and put some of the more intense and challenging riding earlier, so you can get through it and enjoy the coastal road more leisurely at the end of your ride.

Depending on where you are coming from, you could have to add a few days to your ride in order to get to the North Coast 500. If this is the case for you, try to add some fun things to do between you and the road. You could visit the famous Speyside whiskey region or spend more time in the Cairngorms National Park. The point is, this area is full of things to do and see, you will have a great time no matter how long you are there.

Guided or Alone

This route is completely possible on your own, but if you aren’t experienced or would simply like someone to give you the information to know where you are and where you are going, you can hire a guide to ride with you. This can enrich your trip in many ways, and you may end up making a friend or two. It can actually enhance your trip more than safety, if you want companionship a guide can mostly certainly provide it. However, if you are looking to be on your own and find solitude there is no better place than the Scottish Highlands.

Whatever you are looking for in a ride, the North Coast 500 offers some amazing views, challenging roads, solitude, great attractions, and many things to do. There is a reason it is known as one of the best roads for bikers in the UK. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip through the highlands today.