Cycling the North Coast 500: A cyclist-friendly guide to Scotland's NC500

This guidebook provides a 528-mile cycling route in northern Scotland, passing through Wester Ross, Sutherland, Caithness, Easter Ross, and the Black Isle. The route is suitable for all types of bikes and can be completed in a fortnight. It features clear and concise route description, 1:150,000 mapping, gradient profiles, suggested schedules, and practical information. The route boasts stunning scenery and rich historical interest, with varied landscapes of craggy mountains, verdant glens, rolling peat moorland, and wild rugged coastlines. It also includes notes on history, geology, wildlife, and local points of interest.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Cicerone Press

This comprehensive guidebook presents a 528-mile cycling route in northern Scotland, spanning across the ancient counties and districts of Wester Ross, Sutherland, Caithness, Easter Ross, and the Black Isle. Starting and ending in the highland capital of Inverness, the circular route offers a diverse and captivating journey for all types of cyclists. The entirety of the route is paved with asphalt, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. While some roads are quiet and devoid of traffic, others provide scenic views and a sense of tranquility.

Completing the circuit comfortably in a fortnight is feasible, allowing ample time to soak in the stunning scenery and rich historical interest. The guidebook provides detailed route descriptions, accompanied by 1:150,000 mapping, gradient profiles, suggested schedules, and invaluable practical information. This includes comprehensive lists of all hostel/bunkhouse accommodations, official campsites, and services specifically tailored for cyclists, along with advice on alternative accommodation and refreshment opportunities.

In case cyclists wish to avoid the steep ascent of Bealach na Bà or the undulating Assynt peninsula, alternative routes are provided. Additionally, the option to include the busier A9 east coast road is available for those seeking a more urban experience.

The route boasts breathtaking scenery and a rich historical heritage, with miles of unspoiled wilderness awaiting cyclists. The journey traverses diverse landscapes, including craggy mountains, verdant glens, rolling peat moorland dotted with lochs, and rugged coastlines. Moreover, the route passes by numerous distilleries and micro-breweries, offering a delightful opportunity to indulge in local delicacies and beverages.

In addition to its natural beauty, the guidebook offers insights into history, geology, wildlife, and local points of interest. It serves as an excellent platform to explore Scotland's captivating far north and deepen one's understanding of its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Whether you are an experienced cyclist or a beginner seeking an adventure, this guidebook provides all the necessary information to plan and execute a truly memorable cycle tour in northern Scotland. So, grab your bike, embrace the spirit of exploration, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey through this breathtaking region.

Weight: 220g
Dimension: 118 x 173 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786312198
Edition number: 2 Revised edition