As we leave the Black Isle to start the NC500 proper, heading west across Scotland, we spy this oil/gas rig with its legs high above the water line in Cromarty Firth.

The NC 500: The Scottish 'North Coast 500' is one of the world’s most beautiful road trips. A route of just over 500 miles (516) of stunning coastal scenery, white sandy beaches, rugged mountains, remote fishing villages and hidden gems.