Cycling The North Coast 500

[AndyCr15]

Has anyone done this? Can anyone offer any advice?

I mentioned it to my mother recently and she's up for coming along. She would occupy herself during the day, but would drive to each destination each day so I can leave all my gear with her, so I don't need a tour company.

A quick google shows this site - https://www.northcoast500.com/itinerary/cycling/

It looks really handy with the trip planned out over 8 days, but you need to pay £15 to see it. I'm not against that, but wonder if something is available for free? Or, if it's actually any good?

Maybe all I really need is the Strava route for it and I can decide distances each day and then pick out my own hotels/B&B's?

 

[AndyCr15]

Thanks guys, some great info. Let me see if I can pick a few questions out...

8 days is a long time but it all depends on what you want to achieve from it.

There's certainly no hurry, that's for sure. I wont be working by this time, so no need to rush. I don't think I would cope with more than 80 miles on lots of consecutive days, with lots of climbing.

We opted for the GCN route. Watch their video on it too. While I haven't done the official route which does all the main roads and includes JOG I have to say I'm glad we did this route.

That's interesting, thanks. It looks like they slice a whole load of coastal riding off the North East part of the official route. This is more scenic though?

you won't get on-the-day bookings.

I definitely wouldn't be leaving without having each stop already booked. I'm not the kind of person who says 'I'm sure it'll be fine... it'll work itself out' or any of that cr*p. I want it all planned and booked before I go

You're going to struggle for nice hotels every night and tying that up with the mileages. So will she be alright with hostel type places?

Quite honestly I don't know even I'll be alright with hostel types I guess I envisaged B&B types with nice comfy beds of an evening? Again, if I'm booking months in advance, are they at least available?

 

[AndyCr15]

When would you say is the ideal time of year to ride it? I can do anything from mid April? Good weather, but not too busy?

 

[AndyCr15]

So any recommendations on when to go, or maybe more importantly, when not to go? With my summer filling up, I'm thinking May?