NC500 provides visitors with reminder of 'dos and don'ts'

Motorhome and campervan users who are planning to explore the North Coast 500 (NC500) are being reminded to follow some dos and don’ts, not only for other visitors embarking on the route, but also for the local communities.

The NC500 is a 516 mile route that lets you take in the beauty of the Highlands as you follow the coast. It’s become increasingly popular, and it’s expected that the summer months will see more visitors seize the opportunity to take to the roads and explore the beauty of the area.

To help everyone have a safe and enjoyable time, NC500 has provided drivers with some ‘dos and don’ts’ to stick to while exploring the scenic route…

Remember that ‘Wild Camping’ doesn’t apply to motorised vehicles – this includes campervans and motorhomes. The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 means it’s only applicable if you’re camping by foot, bike or other forms of non-motorised transport.
If you’re not intending to stay at a formal motorhome site, make sure you park in an area that permits overnight parking.
Before you set off on the route, make sure you’re familiar with driving a motorhome and that it can be safely driven over single track roads – this includes reversing.
Only empty chemical toilet waste at a designated chemical waste area.
If you’re hiring a ‘van, ask the motorhome hire company to show you how to both empty and look after the on-board waste facilities, if the ‘van comes with any.
Scottish access rights and the Scottish Outdoor Access Code are not applicable to motor vehicles.

You can find further advice to follow on the NC500 website, including campsites to stay at and some common sense tips to follow.

Craig Mills, Operations Director for North Coast 500, said: “Experiencing the North Coast 500 by motorhome or campervan has become a popular way for visitors to enjoy all that the North Highlands has to offer. However, it is important that these users are well prepared for their visit and follow the appropriate advice and guidance.”

Are you thinking of trying out the route? See how Ian Beharrell got on when he set out on a 1,200 mile road trip of Scotland.

Image credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto

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Peter Byrne

Peter is the Content Editor for Practical Caravan and Practical Motorhome. With over half a decade of experience as a digital editor, Peter’s expertise spans from interiors and homes to food and design. Writing for the website – and occasionally the magazine – Peter oversees the online buying guides, features and news. His career to-date has seen him do everything from launching websites to giving a speech to 250 people at the Tower of London with less than 24 hours notice.