Numerous travelers confirm their participation in Scotland's commitment to eco-friendly tourism practices
Hop on board the North Coast 500 (NC500), Scotland's breathtaking coastal adventure, and make a difference! Although tourists flock to this stunning route for Loch Ness' legendary "monster" and Scotland's stunning scenery, it's the little extras that matter. Here's where you can do more than just journey - you can become a steward.
More than 3,600 vow-takers have committed to responsible tourism, respecting the environment, engaging with local communities, and promoting sustainable travel. The NC500 isn't just about driving along castles, whisky distilleries, white sand beaches, and rugged mountain ranges; it's about leaving a positive impact.
Known for its sheer beauty, the NC500 encompasses more than just stunning landscapes. The route passes through the steepest single-track in the British Isles, Bealach na Bà, and touches Culbin Forest and Findhorn's buried village, setting the stage for countless magical moments.
Launched to spark economic growth in the Scottish Highlands, the NC500 created over 200 jobs in its first year. But as popularity grew, so did concerns about the influx of visitors, leading to the NC500 website's environmental pledge. This campaign raises awareness among road-trippers about the impact they can have, inviting them to make "conscious choices."
The pledge includes "leaving no trace," disposing of waste responsibly, respecting wildlife, cultural landmarks, and shopping locally. Completing the pledge unlocks a list of "Extra Mile" tasks designed to maximize positive community and environmental impact. These rewarding activities range from beach cleanups to donating to local food banks or charities.
Even enjoying local attractions like distilleries can earn you NC500 "champion" points! David Richardson, Development Manager at North Coast 500 Ltd, emphasizes that the initiative isn't about restrictions, but opportunities. As you progress through gold level status, you'll discover just how fulfilling responsible tourism can be.
Make your mark on Scotland's spectacular North Coast 500. Pledge, engage, and become a steward of this magical route. Your journey isn't just about capturing the perfect view; it's about preserving these sights for future generations. After all, it's about the experience, not just the destination.
- Embark on the North Coast 500 (NC500), where you can not only appreciate wildlife, scenery, and cultural landmarks, but also make a difference through responsible tourism.
- Become one of the 3,600 vow-takers, respecting the environment and engaging with local communities while driving along castles, whisky distilleries, white sand beaches, and rugged mountain ranges.
- Forge lasting memories as you traverse the NC500, passing through the stunning landscapes of Bealach na Bà and Culbin Forest, and even discovering Findhorn's buried village.
- Contribute to the economic growth in the Scottish Highlands by embarking on this tour, which created over 200 jobs in its first year.
- Be mindful of your impact during your tourism journey, as the rise in popularity of the NC500 has brought concerns about the influx of visitors, leading to the NC500 website's environmental pledge.
- Take your commitment to the next level by honoring the pledge to leave no trace, dispose of waste responsibly, and respect local communities, wildlife, and cultural landmarks.
- Expand your journey beyond the destination, and unlock a list of "Extra Mile" tasks designed to maximize positive community and environmental impact, such as beach cleanups, donations to local food banks, or charities.
- Gain NC500 "champion" points by partaking in local attractions, like visits to distilleries, and embracing a sustainable, eco-friendly lifestyle.
- Leave a lasting impression on Scotland's North Coast 500 by pledging, engaging, and becoming a steward of this magical route, all while preserving these breathtaking sights for future generations to enjoy.
