First timer - clockwise or anticlockwise?
Started by MarcToronto · 15 September 2025 at 10:00 · 487 views
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MarcToronto
15 September 2025 at 10:00
Planning my first NC500 trip for April 2026. Everyone seems divided on direction - clockwise or anticlockwise? What did you do and why?
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RossM84
15 September 2025 at 14:30
Anticlockwise every time for me. You get the east coast out of the way first and save the best scenery (west coast) for the second half. The sense of building anticipation is brilliant.
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Bob & Margaret
16 September 2025 at 08:00
We always go clockwise. Hitting the west coast early means you get Applecross and Torridon while you're still fresh. Plus the light is better on the east coast in the afternoon on the way back.
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CraigT
16 September 2025 at 11:00
Anticlockwise in a campervan is easier because you're on the inside of the road on the single-track sections along the west coast. Trust me, it makes a difference when you're driving something big.
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Andy_NC500
17 September 2025 at 09:00
Go anticlockwise so you arrive at Bealach na Ba from the right direction. The views coming down towards Applecross from the top are unreal.
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jen_adventures
18 September 2025 at 10:30
Honestly, you can't go wrong either way. I've done both and loved them equally. Just go whichever feels right and enjoy it!
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MarcToronto
18 September 2025 at 14:00
Thanks everyone! I think I'll go anticlockwise based on the campervan tip. Really helpful advice.