I RECENTLY had the good fortune to partake in a Highland road trip that took in part of the NC500.

We didn’t do it all and it was more like the NC200 but it was definitely worth it despite the weather.

Most of the time was spent Googling views we should have seen as all we could see was heavy, enveloping clouds.

I first did a Highland road trip in the early 90’s and the difference between then and now is incredibly stark.

Small villages such as Durness and Scourie are now pleasantly busy and many locals have cashed in on the popularity of the route by seeking up businesses to serve the many visitors.

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Thirty years ago, the only seafood available was scampi in a basket or haddock and chips, while huge refrigerated lorries pounded the narrow roads carrying off prime shellfish to France........

© Herald Scotland