​Into Wester Ross: Torridon and the Journey to Applecross

​Leaving Gairloch, the landscape immediately delivered more of Wester Ross's raw, majestic beauty. The drive south winds through the spectacular Torridon region, past towering mountains and deep, glassy lochs. It’s a route that demands slow driving, not just because of the winding roads, but because the scenery is utterly distracting.

Refuel Point: Applecross Village

​Before taking on the main event, I pulled into the tiny, picturesque village of Applecross—a beautiful, sheltered spot looking out over the water toward the Isle of Skye. This was my final refuel before the biggest driving challenge of the whole trip. I'm currently settled down with a hot coffee and some warm chips, soaking up the atmosphere and gathering my nerve. Soon, it'll be time to point Black Betty towards the infamous ascent.

The Infamous Ascent: Bealach na Bà Conquered

​The Bealach na Bà (Pass of the Cattle) is a single-track road that climbs from sea level to over 2,000 feet (626m) in just a few miles. Fueled up and ready, I pointed Black Betty towards the infamous ascent.

​The climb was demanding, but Black Betty handled the steep gradients and tight corners brilliantly. Reaching the summit, visibility was tough—it was very cloudy and poor, meaning the panoramic view I'd hoped for was hidden away in the mist.

The grey skies and constant drizzle didn't take away a single ounce of the thrill, especially on the descent. The sweeping hairpin bends are absolutely fantastic, and Black Betty gripped every corner so well. It felt like a true driving conquest, a fitting climax to the NC500's coastal drama.

​And the universe had one last NC500 surprise for me: pulling into a layby at the bottom of the pass, I bumped into Gav from Redcar again! It was brilliant to chat again and share the victory of having just conquered the mighty Bealach na Bà.

The Final Drive: Home to Inverness

​With the Bealach na Bà conquered and a chance encounter with Gav at the base of the pass, the final segment of the NC500 was a straight run. I pointed Black Betty towards the route's official start and finish line: Inverness.

​The road softened as I left the dramatic mountains of Wester Ross behind, passing through charming villages and along the edges of vast lochs. It was a time for reflection—looking back over the past seven days, the cliffs of Dunnet Head, the thrill of the zipline, the eerie history of Ardvreck Castle, and the sheer challenge of the mountain pass. Every mile marker brought me closer to the finish, and a profound sense of accomplishment settled in.

​Pulling into Inverness, the bustling Capital of the Highlands, felt like crossing a major finish line. The North Coast 500 was officially complete!

​NC500 Completed: A Final Thought

​Seven days, over 500 miles, and enough memories to last a lifetime. From the bustling signpost at John O'Groats to the wild, windswept west coast, this journey has been an absolute triumph. Black Betty was a total superstar, tackling everything from bogs to the Bealach na Bà. But the real highlight? The raw, untamed beauty of the Scottish Highlands, and the brilliant, unexpected people I met along the way. Time now for a big meal and a proper celebration!

As I look back on this journey, my heart is truly full. I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest thanks to every single one of you who has followed along. Your support, encouragement, and presence have been a constant source of strength. Thank you for being a part of this with me—it wouldn't have been the same without you!!