Scotland's NC500 on One Tank of Fuel: A Land Rover Adventure

The Ultimate Scottish Road Trip: Conquering the NC500 in a Land Rover

The North Coast 500, or NC500, is a legendary road trip that winds its way through the most spectacular scenery in the Scottish Highlands. It's a journey of breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and rugged coastlines, and it's a bucket-list adventure for many. But what if you were to add a challenge to this already epic journey? In this video, we follow a couple and their dog as they attempt to complete the NC500 in their trusty Land Rover, 'Larry', on a single tank of fuel. This is a story of adventure, challenges, and the unpredictable beauty of Scotland.

Preparing for the Challenge: Upgrades and Repairs

Before embarking on such a demanding journey, it's essential to ensure your vehicle is in top condition. The video begins with some crucial upgrades and repairs to Larry. The old, mismatched tires were replaced with new Continental Premium Contact 7 tires, a smart move for a long road trip where grip and reliability are paramount. The heated seat, a welcome luxury in the often-chilly Scottish weather, was also repaired. A melted plug was replaced with a part sourced from a scrapyard, a great example of resourceful and budget-friendly vehicle maintenance.

The Journey Begins: Day 1 on the NC500

With a full tank of fuel and the odometer reset, the adventure begins near Inverness. The first leg of the journey takes them to Helmsdale, where they find a beautiful spot to park for the night by a river. Setting up their roof tent, they cook a meal and settle in for their first night on the road. This is where the reality of their challenge begins to sink in – cooking without running water and a fridge is a test of their van life skills.

Challenges and Breathtaking Scenery: Day 2 on the NC500

The second day of the trip is packed with adventure and stunning scenery. The day starts with a discussion of the challenges they've set for themselves: completing the 500-mile journey on one tank of fuel, taking three cold water dips, catching two different species of fish, and trying a new Scottish food. Their first stop is the Whaligoe Steps, a dramatic natural harbor with a zig-zagging staircase carved into the cliffside. The strong winds make the climb back up a challenge, but the views are worth it. Next, they visit Duncansby Head Lighthouse and the Duncansby Stacks, famous for their puffin colonies. Unfortunately, the high winds prevent them from flying their drone and make it difficult to spot the elusive birds. The journey continues to John o' Groats, the most northerly village in mainland Scotland. They explore the colorful harbor and enjoy a meal at a local eatery. A quick stop at a souvenir shop and a heart-stopping moment when they realize they've left their GoPro behind add to the drama of the day. The day ends at Dunnet Head, the most northerly point in mainland Britain, where the relentless wind continues to blow. They find a perfect beachside spot to park for the night in Bettyhill, where Jordan successfully catches a Pollock, ticking off one of their challenges.

The Unforeseen Obstacle: Day 3 and the Midge Invasion

The third day starts with a visit to Smoo Cave, a spectacular sea cave that they had previously visited at night. They are keen to see it in the daylight, but the cave is busy, and the waterfall is dry due to a lack of rain. After a wild swim in a crystal-clear loch, they continue their journey, but their adventure takes an unexpected turn. The Scottish midges, tiny biting insects that are notorious in the Highlands during the summer, descend in full force. The situation becomes unbearable, with ticks on their dog and horseflies adding to the misery. The relentless insect attack forces them to make a difficult decision: to cut their trip short and head home. They express their frustration with the midges, a common sentiment among those who have experienced a Scottish summer.

Frequently Asked Questions About the NC500

What is the best time of year to do the NC500?

The best time to do the NC500 depends on your priorities. The summer months (June to August) offer the best weather, but they are also the busiest time of year, and the midges can be a real problem. The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) are a good compromise, with fewer crowds and less chance of midges. The winter can be a magical time to visit, with snow-capped mountains and the chance to see the Northern Lights, but the weather can be unpredictable, and some attractions may be closed.

How long does it take to do the NC500?

While it's possible to drive the NC500 in a few days, it's best to take at least a week to fully appreciate the scenery and attractions along the way. This will give you plenty of time to explore the charming villages, go for hikes, and soak up the atmosphere of the Highlands.

What are the must-see sights on the NC500?

The NC500 is packed with incredible sights, but some of the highlights include the Bealach na Bà (a winding mountain pass with stunning views), the fairy-tale castle of Dunrobin, the beautiful beaches of the west coast, and the dramatic cliffs of the north coast. It's also worth taking the time to explore some of the charming villages along the route, such as Applecross, Ullapool, and Dornoch.