The Scottish Highlands boast some of the most spectacular landscapes in the UK. Rugged mountains, stunning lochs and beautiful vistas make it famous around the world as a top travel destination for lovers of the outdoors.
But with that comes a strain on the local area. The NC500 is a 516-mile coastal route around the north coast of Scotland, taking in some of the most incredible scenery the country has to offer.
And it’s become incredibly popular since the brand was established in 2015 – reportedly contributing more than £22million to the local economy and creating 180 full-time jobs.
But with that have come real problems for people living in the area. Roads are now reportedly heavily congested, causing long delays, more accidents and increasing pollution.
It’s become such a problem that travel advice website Fodor included it in its 2025 ‘No List’, which catalogues popular destinations where tourism has placed « unsustainable pressures » on the local area. According to the website: « Roads are congested with traffic, increasing the frequency of accidents and causing significant delays for locals. »
It continued: « Ed and June Hall, who have lived in Wester Ross for the past 20 years, say the drive to their nearest hospital, 80 miles away, doubled to three hours as tourism has surged. For Joyce Armour, a dispensing secretary juggling part-time jobs at several medical practices, the additional commute time is leading to reduced earnings.
« ‘We have seriously considered moving further south but realize we leave positions very few people can fill in an aged community,’ she says. »
The NC500 was established by a non-profit iniative created by King Charles – then the Prince of Wales. But in 2018 it was taken over by NC500 Ltd, a private company owned by Danish billionaire Anders Holch Povlsen. Povlsen also happens to be Scotland’s biggest landowner.
Fodor reported many people who travel to experience the NC500 do so in motorhomes. But it said a lack of facilities such as campsites, toilets and places to dispose of chemical waste is causing serious issues.
‘Wild camping’ is also legal in Scotland – unlike elsewhere in the UK – meaning people can camp anywhere they like without a permit. But this also causes issues, with inconsiderate campers leaving rubbish, scorch marks from campfires and even human waste in their wake.
The NC500 website describes the route as « the ultimate road trip ». It says: Bringing together a route of just over 500 miles (516 to be exact) of stunning coastal scenery, white sandy beaches, rugged mountains, remote fishing villages, hidden gems, and a wealth of unforgettable experiences, the North Coast 500 is one of the world’s most beautiful road trips.
« Whether you’re looking for an action-packed break, a chance to relax or simply want to see more of the North Highlands’ breath-taking scenery, you will find it on the NC500. Start planning your next adventure today. »
A small team of Acess Rangers employed by Highland Council patrols the route and engages with visitors when needed. But their powers are limited. According to Fodor, some have called for the rangers to be given greater powers, such as issuing fines to anyone breaching rules.
The website says: « As is the case with many of Scotland’s European neighbors, overtourism is also driving up the cost of living in the Highlands, pricing out locals and steadily changing the region’s culture. In a bid for self-preservation, the scenic peninsula of Applecross is said to be considering withdrawing from the official route. The NC500 LTD and Highland Council should take substantial steps to combat the issues posed by overtourism before more towns follow its lead. »
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