Wonderful Scottish road trip that's 'better' than the NC500
However, the iconic route may finally have met its match after some travellers boldly crowned the "unknown" South West Coastal 300 the best in Scotland.
The 300-mile route, which starts and finishes in Ayr, takes around five to six hours to complete and passes through a number of awesome sights across South Ayrshire and Dumfries and Galloway.
Visit Scotland has described it as a "wonderfully scenic" road trip that takes in some of the country's "most picturesque" coasts.
Mull of Galloway Lighthouse and Culzean Castle are among the sights en route (Image: Tripadvisor) The organisation highlighted a number of spots to explore, including Caerlaverock Castle, Mull of Galloway Lighthouse, Culzean Castle and Galloway Forest Park.
Why the South West Coastal 300 is Scotland's 'best' road trip
While a number of publications, including The Telegraph, have named this "alternative" to the NC500 one of the best in Scotland, there has also been much praise from travellers.
One person said on Tripadvisor: "I have travelled along this route many times and I am still discovering new places to visit and things to do.
A number of publications have dubbed the South West Coastal 300 the best in Scotland (Image: Getty Images) "The South West 300 route has so much to offer and far more than the NC500 route; it is sadly bypassed by many tourists and is a very underrated place."
They added: "Take your time and explore this forgotten corner of Scotland!"
Another person penned: "I have driven along this route many times and never tire of the scenery from castles, beaches, lighthouses, wildlife, history and the dark sky forest.
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"It has something to offer for everyone; it may not have dramatic scenery like the NC500, but it has picturesque scenery and quiet little towns."
One user noted: "The route isn't signposted, unlike NC500, but it's easy to follow.
"When you're on the A road, there is traffic, but it's way less than we get on the A roads at home (Cheshire)."
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