Leaving Inverness over the Kessock Bridge, the next big set-piece is the drive to Applecross in Wester Ross over the infamous, nail-biting hairpin Bealach na Ba pass.
If you have plenty of time, you can also pull over at Rogie Falls before you take on the notorious road.
Location & Getting There
The Bealach na Ba — Gaelic for the Pass of the Cattle — climbs from Loch Kishorn to 626 metres, one of the highest and steepest roads in Britain. It is single-track with passing places and a run of tight alpine-style hairpins near the top. The turn-off is signposted from the A896, and the road is unsuitable for caravans and large motorhomes, which are directed round the longer coastal route instead.
What to See & Do
On a clear day the summit car park delivers one of the finest views on the whole NC500 — west over the Applecross peninsula to Raasay, Skye and the Cuillin. Photographers should linger; the light here shifts fast. Take your time on the descent into Applecross, where the road unspools in long switchbacks toward the sea.
Best Time & Tips
- Drive it in daylight and good weather — cloud can blank the view entirely
- Give way graciously; passing places are for passing, not parking
- Check your brakes and fuel before the climb
- Avoid it in ice, snow or high winds — the coast road is the safe alternative
Where It Fits on the Route
This is the dramatic gateway to the west coast, the first stop after Inverness on a clockwise loop. Clear it and you drop straight into Applecross for a well-earned meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high is the Bealach na Ba?
The pass climbs to 626 metres (2,054 feet), making it one of the highest road ascents in the UK, with gradients around 20 percent near the hairpins.
Can you drive the Bealach na Ba in a motorhome?
Large motorhomes and caravans are strongly discouraged and directed via the coast road through Shieldaig. Smaller campervans manage it, but only confident drivers should attempt it.
