Months of preparation have paid its dues. When the NC500 finish flag was waved in Fortrose for us – not officially because for that we should have passed Inverness Castle, but hey a full program and all – all participants had a smile on their faces while crossing the line. It has been unforgettable.

After arriving in Applecross the day before, via the stunning roads and sceneries of Wester Ross, we knew that today would be Bealach Na Ba day. The day to drive one of the most epic roads in Europe.

Starting early morning in Applecross meant we had the road to ourselves which is perfect because it tends to get crowded during the day. Soon it became clear that the reputation of this road is well deserved.

The alpine like bends and curves in combination with the single track road are nowhere to be found but here.

And then, the view.

Going downhill was as spectulair as was to be expected after driving up. Hairpins, faster parts, and then the views to go with it. Although, when measured to scenery and shear driving fun Wester Ross can’t be beaten by the Bealach Na Ba.

After a well deserved coffee break in Lochcarron at the Waterside Café we drove to the East passing Loch Dughaill – through a tunnel of blooming Rhododendrons – and had a stop at the Rogie Falls.

Lunch in the lovely Old Victorian Railway Station lunchroom in Strathpeffer was followed by the last miles of the NC500 part of our road trip for which we had our own little extension on the Black Isle. Super nice driving roads brought us in Cromarty with it’s oil rig parking spot in the firth, and causing a Lotus traffic jam in its narrow streets.

Some dolphin backsides were seen by some at Chanonry Point, but too bad no jumps were made for us. And then, The Anderson in Fortrose. The NC500 end for us. Yet another fantastic pub B&B with five star restaurant quality food. And, not in the least, some 250 whisky’s in the house.

Glasses were raised and memories of the days before were shared. Scotland, thank you for having us. You were great and we will never forget.