EVERY year, thousands of people flock to the Highlands to take on the North Coast 500. And now that we're officially into summer , tourists and families alike will be preparing to travel along the iconic route. 11 Scots are being reminded that there is 'more to Scotland than the NC500' Credit: Getty 11 The incredible Forth Road Bridge can be seen on the Fife Coastal Route Credit: Alamy 11 The Old Course hotel at St Andrew's can be visited along the route Credit: PA 11 And tourists can visit Cairngorm National Park on the Snow Roads Scenic Route Credit: Alamy The 516-mile route is commonly known as Scotland's answer to America's Route 66 and is now one of the most popular road trips in the world.
With its magnificent coastal views, castles and distilleries, it's not surprising that it has seen an increase in visitors. Especially with the staycation boom in recent years after the coronavirus pandemic. But the increase in visitors means the route is often heavily congested, with slow-moving caravans and motorhomes crowding the narrow roads.
READ MORE IN MOTORS HIT THE ROAD Inside 2 lesser-known Scots road trips that rival NC500 with stunning scenery PARKING MAD NC500 locals slam 'freeloading' motorhome tourists' choice of parking location And locals have been left increasingly frustrated after being left unable to get around their small local towns as easily. As a result, experts have reminded people that there are plenty of other stunning driving routes across the country that .