B869-Drumbeg Road is a truly fantastic drive in Scotland

Okay, picture this: you're in Scotland, in the Assynt district of Sutherland, ready to tackle one of the most stunning drives the country has to offer – the Drumbeg Road (that's the B869 if you're looking for it on a map).

You'll find it nestled in the Highland council area, right in the north.

This epic stretch is part of the legendary North Coast 500 (NC500) and clocks in at around 22 miles (35.4km), winding its way from Lochinver to Unapool. Budget about 1 to 1.5 hours to soak it all in – and trust me, you'll want to stop!

Get ready for views that will blow your mind: lochs shimmering in the sunlight, majestic mountains, and the endless expanse of the sea. Seriously, make a beeline for Achmelvich and Clachtoll beaches. Turquoise waters? Check. White sand? Double-check.

Now, about the drive itself. It's paved, alright, but don't expect a Sunday cruise. This is a single-track road that throws steep hills and hairpin turns at you out of nowhere. If you’re not super confident behind the wheel, this might be one to skip. There are some serious drop-offs right down to the sea, and a few sections where you'll be climbing a 25% gradient. The highest point is only 436ft (132m) above sea level, but it's a thrilling ride! And FYI, it’s pretty narrow, so coaches and caravans are a no-go.

This coastal road can be blissfully empty in winter, but summer? Tourist central! Thankfully, there are plenty of passing places, so you can pull over, breathe in that fresh Scottish air, and capture those postcard-perfect vistas. Seriously, this is one road trip you won't forget.