The NC 500 is becoming one of the most iconic routes in the UK and Sutherland in particular is starting to attract attention globally for its scenery.
Lots has been written of its delights, but as a local it's getting a bit much dealing with some of our "visitors"
Since the route was initiated there has been a massive influx of tourists to the area, a fair number of whom are spectacularly unskilled and thoughtless drivers.
Try 15 motorhomes in convoy at 25 to 35 mph meeting 10 classic car owners also in convoy coming the other way on a single track road with passing places every 150m. Much shouting and swearing ensues till someone figures out how to use reverse (always hilarious watching that in action).
Then there are the lambos, Ferraris's, Aston martins etc that seem to think it's a racetrack (lots of them now use spotters in front so they can nail it).
And finally there are our biker brethren who seem to have figured out how not to wind up locals, generally keep within their limits and don't cause massive tailbacks, so at least someone is paying attention.
So if you are in a car convoy, keep it to three car groups with a decent gap, know how to use reverse gear (if you don't either stay at home or practise beforehand as you will look like an idiot otherwise), use passing places properly (don't jump across the road into one just cos it's on the other side), give way to uphill traffic ALWAYS and definitely let following traffic past.
And the last one is the biggest issue. If you are dong 25mph and a local catches you up, pull over. We may be a P/T fireman, coastguard, mountain rescue, nurse or doctor and being held up could result in tragic consequences.
Yes we love having visitors, and in particular bikers of course. Our roads are challenging, but there is very little else like it in the UK and you will have a great time. Just please be aware of all of the above and make sure you don't end up sprawled across a LP 500 Supperleggera bonnet because the view over Ben Hope got a bit much for you both.

Not everyone can be a great driver though, and I`m sure a local has never turned down anyone's cash because they thought they could have driven more skilfully.

When you market yourself as a tourist attraction, you have to expect tourists.

If the folk on the NC500 aren`t careful they will end up being like the folk on Skye.

Miserable moaners.

I`ve been driving it for years and am glad more folk are experiencing it now.
And from my experience, the bikers who visit are far from the best drivers on the route.