North Coast 500 — Scotland

Scotland's answer to Route 66 and one of the world's most spectacular coastal routes. The NC500 is a 516-mile circular route around the stunning north coast of the Scottish Highlands, taking in sea lochs, mountain passes, ancient castles, deserted beaches and some of the most dramatic scenery anywhere in Europe. Start and finish in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. The route passes through Torridon, Durness (Britain's most northwesterly point), John o' Groats (the northeastern tip), and back through the whisky distilleries of Speyside. Allow at least 5-7 days to do it justice. Best May–September. Roads are single-track in places — use passing places and always give way to oncoming traffic.