SCOTLAND'S North Coast 500 is one of the most popular road trips in the world, with thousands of people flocking to the Highlands every year to travel along the iconic route. And now that we're officially into summer , tourists and families alike are gearing up to take to the roads . 9 Tourists are being urged to try other road trips that aren't the NC500 Credit: Alamy 9 The stunning Rest and Be Thankful site can be seen on the Argyll Coastal Route Credit: Getty - Contributor 9 Caerlaverock Castle can be visited on the SWC300 route Credit: Getty 9 Visitors can also stop at Galloway Forest Park which has a dark sky reserve Credit: Alamy Regarded as Scotland's answer to America's Route 66, the 516-mile route is full of magnificent coastal views, castles and distilleries.
It first opened in 2015 but has soared in popularity in recent years due to the staycation boom after the coronavirus pandemic. But the increase in visitors means it is often busy with traffic, including slow-moving caravans and motorhomes . And locals have been left increasingly frustrated by the heavy congestion and fully-booked campsites.
READ MORE IN MOTORS TENSIONS RISE 'We see near-misses daily', cry NC500 locals as 2 tourists arrested on route DISGUSTING ‘Getting out of hand’, blast NC500 residents as they slam tourists for foul act As a result, experts have reminded people that there are plenty of other stunning driving routes across the country that offer equally stunning landscapes and unforgettab.