NC500 chair speaks out after Scottish route named on 'no go list'

Fodor's Travel, a respected travel guide, named the NC500 route on its list of “destinations suffering from untenable popularity”.

On the Scottish road, which loops 516 miles around the northern coast, it said that a “newfound surge in popularity comes with significant downsides, from the inconvenient to the downright disgusting”.

It went on: “Roads are congested with traffic, increasing the frequency of accidents and causing significant delays for locals …

“‘Wild camping’ on beaches, in laybys, and even on private property is common, and residents report finding campfire scorch marks, trash, disposable grills, and even human faeces in their wake.”

Campervans have been cited as a reason for concern on the NC500 (Image: Getty) Fodor’s Travel then concluded its segment by saying: “In a bid for self-preservation, the scenic peninsula of Applecross is said to be considering withdrawing from the official route.

“The NC500 Ltd and Highland Council should take substantial steps to combat the issues posed by overtourism before more towns follow its lead.”

NC500 Ltd was set up in 2015 to promote and manage the route. It is now owned by the Danish billionaire Anders Holch Povlsen, who is known for being Scotland's largest private landowner, after a takeover in 2019.

Asked for a response to appearing on the “no go list”, the firm’s chair David Hughes told The National that he accepted some of the criticism, specifically around wild camping.

He added that they were “working hard to encourage tourists to be part of the solution”.

READ MORE: NC500 boss says 'tempers are raging' in communities over lack of caravan policing

Hughes said: “The North Coast 500 is an iconic route that showcases the very best of Scotland’s natural beauty.

“Over the last few years, we’ve all seen an increase in visitor numbers, and we are working hard to encourage tourists to be part of the solution, helping us maintain the North Highlands’ natural beauty for everyone to enjoy.

“For example, our recently launched Visitor Pledge is our way of ensuring that everyone who visits this unique region understands their role in protecting it for now and for future generations.”

The pledge, which was announced in October, was developed in consultation with residents and businesses along the route.

READ MORE: Letters: NC500 Ltd responsibility ‘pledges’ should be treated with scepticism

It will ask visitors to the Highlands to leave no trace by disposing of waste responsibly, parking only in dedicated parking areas during the day and overnight, and prioritising shopping in local businesses, alongside a list of other commitments.

On the issue of “wild camping”, Hughes said: “We share the concerns raised about ‘wild camping’ in motorhomes and campervans and the impact this has on visitor numbers.

“We are actively engaging with the relevant authorities to highlight this issue which impacts not only the NC500, but many areas of Scotland.

“While we don't have the power to improve important infrastructure, we are doing everything in our power to make the route an enjoyable experience for both the local community and visitors."

Highland Council was also approached for comment.