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Scottish Sun
19-05-2025
- Scottish Sun
UK's ‘scariest road' which millions of drivers are told to AVOID revealed… and it's a huge attraction for thrill-seekers
The road winds around one of the UK's most northerly peninsulas DANGER DRIVE UK's 'scariest road' which millions of drivers are told to AVOID revealed… and it's a huge attraction for thrill-seekers Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) The UK's most dangerous road has become a tourist hot spot despite warnings about its perilouslu steep climbs and sharp turns The Bealach-na-ba pass, also known as the Applecross path, holds the ominous title of Britain's most dangerous road. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 7 Bealach na Ba pass is a beautiful maze of zig-zag turns Credit: Alamy 7 The road has designated passing places Credit: Alamy 7 The dangerous drops are railed for the road's entire length Credit: Alamy The hazardous tarmac stretches from east to west from Tornapress to Applecross, in the west of the Scottish Highlands. The road's infamous reputation extends beyond the British isles, and attracts tourists from across the globe. A warning sign at the bottom says: 'This road rises to a height of 2,053 feet, with gradients of one in five and hairpin bends. "Not advised for learner drivers, very large vehicles or caravans after the first mile.' In a top 10 list of the most dangerous roads in the world - compiled by car insurance company - the Bealach na Bà ranked 9th. Bealach-na-ba translates as 'pass of the cattle' - giving tourists an insight into what the path was first used for. In the 7th century, an Irish monk named St Máel Ruba set up a religious community in Applecross, and a subsequent path was established enabling the transport of cows across this Highlands peninsula. The road itself was first built in 1822 – when gravel surfacing meant snowfall couldn't be shifted for weeks at a time making the road either lethal or closed. This meant Applecross was effectively inaccessible during north-west Scotland's harsh winter months, only changing in 1975 with the construction of an alternative coastal road. The path is dangerously thin - wide enough only for one car apart from at designated passing points. The road winds across breathtaking Scottish mountains, demanding drivers navigate endless hairpins, switchbacks and 'Devil's elbows' turns. The sheer size of the ascent makes things even more terrifying – it is the biggest climb in the UK, rising from sea level to 626 metres. These road-goers, and any others who don't fancy putting their nerves to the test, can take the alternative 7.5-mile coastal route instead. But, anyone willing to brave the Applecross Path is rewarded by some of the best viewpoints Scotland has to offer. Drivers can also enjoy a drink and a stay at the Applecross Inn, situated at the road's end, which gazes westward across the sea towards the Isle of Raasay. The Bealach-na-ba path has become increasingly popular over the last decade, with its sweeping landscape views being popularised by its inclusion in the The North Coast 500 (NC500). The NC500 is a coastal route across the Scottish Highlands which was established in 2015, and encompasses the regions remarkable landscapes and landmarks. It has become highly popular among motoring tourists, cyclists, caravanners, and even featured in 2019 The Grand Tour special 'Well Aged Scotch' - airing in 2019. Those who have conquered the stomach-churning road took to TripAdvisor to describe their adventure. One motorist said: "It was well worth. Steep at times, some big drops (although always behind barriers), but plenty of passing places. There are also two or three designated spots to park and take in the views, which, even in awful weather, were stunning." Another weighed in: "Best road in the UK. easy for cars, passable for camper vans if u can drive." However, others warned of the treacherous risks. "Thankfully my husband drove. It is stunning BUT do not underestimate how difficult this is in a motor home", one driver warned. "We were fortunate that we did not meet anyone coming down on the hairpins. "The passing places are not generous. I would encourage folk to be more savvy than we were and understand how tricky this is." 7 When the path was built out of gravel, it was unsurpassable in winter Credit: Alamy 7 The road's risk is matched by its breathtaking views Credit: Alamy 7 Would you dare drive down the path? Credit: Alamy
The Irish Sun
19-05-2025
- The Irish Sun
UK's ‘scariest road' which millions of drivers are told to AVOID revealed… and it's a huge attraction for thrill-seekers
The UK's most dangerous road has become a tourist hot spot despite warnings about its perilouslu steep climbs and sharp turns The Bealach-na-ba pass, also known as the Advertisement 7 Bealach na Ba pass is a beautiful maze of zig-zag turns Credit: Alamy 7 The road has designated passing places Credit: Alamy 7 The dangerous drops are railed for the road's entire length Credit: Alamy The hazardous tarmac stretches from east to west from Tornapress to Applecross, in the west of the Scottish Highlands. The road's infamous reputation extends beyond the British isles, and attracts tourists from across the globe. A warning sign at the bottom says: 'This road rises to a height of 2,053 feet, with gradients of one in five and hairpin bends. "Not advised for Advertisement Read more Motors In a top 10 list of the most dangerous roads in the world - by car insurance company - the Bealach na Bà ranked 9th. Bealach-na-ba translates as 'pass of the cattle' - giving tourists an insight into what the path was first used for. In the 7th century, an set up a religious community in Applecross, and a subsequent path was established enabling the transport of The road itself was first built in 1822 – when snowfall couldn't be shifted for weeks at a time making the road either lethal or closed. Advertisement Most read in Motors This meant Applecross was effectively inaccessible during north-west Scotland's harsh winter months, only changing in 1975 with the construction of an alternative coastal road. The path is dangerously thin - wide enough only for one car apart from at designated passing points. The road winds across breathtaking The sheer size of the the UK , rising from sea level to 626 metres. Advertisement These road-goers, and any others who don't fancy putting their But, anyone willing to brave the Applecross Path is rewarded by some of the best viewpoints Drivers can also enjoy a drink and a stay at the Applecross Inn, situated at the road's end, which gazes westward across the sea towards the Isle of Raasay. The Bealach-na-ba path has become increasingly popular over the last decade, with its sweeping Advertisement The NC500 is a coastal route across the Scottish Highlands which was established in 2015, and encompasses the regions remarkable landscapes and landmarks. It has become highly popular among motoring Those who have conquered the stomach-churning road took to TripAdvisor to describe their adventure. One motorist said: "It was well worth. Steep at times, some big drops (although always behind barriers), but plenty of passing places. Advertisement There are also two or three designated spots to park and take in the views, which, even in awful weather, were stunning." Another weighed in: "Best road in the UK. easy for cars, passable for However, others warned of the treacherous risks. "Thankfully my husband drove. It is stunning BUT do not underestimate how difficult this is in a Advertisement "We were fortunate that we did not meet anyone coming down on the hairpins. "The passing places are not generous. I would encourage folk to be more savvy than we were and understand how tricky this is." 7 When the path was built out of gravel, it was unsurpassable in winter Credit: Alamy 7 The road's risk is matched by its breathtaking views Credit: Alamy Advertisement 7 Would you dare drive down the path? Credit: Alamy 7 There is an alternative, coastal path for learner drivers and caravanners Credit: Getty
Daily Mirror
23-04-2025
- Daily Mirror
Brits could be refused entry into countries for mistake that is easy to make
Tourists can be refused entry to a country for many reasons that you may forget to think about before leaving home - including having no proof of onward travel Holidaymakers have been warned to avoid seven simple blunders that could result in being denied entry into a country. The rules for entering a country vary, so it's crucial for travellers to familiarise themselves with the regulations of their chosen destination. Tourists can be turned away at the border for a variety of reasons that might slip your mind before you set off, such as not having proof of onward travel or insufficient blank passport pages. While being barred from a country might seem like something that only happens under extreme circumstances, it actually occurs quite frequently and often for less serious reasons than you might anticipate. Travel experts at have compiled a list of seven reasons why tourists might be refused entry to a country and potentially detained. Damage to passport Even minor damage like a small tear or water stain can lead officials to detain you for questioning and deem your passport invalid. If your personal details are hard to read or any of the pages are stained by things like ink or makeup, your passport can be considered invalid. Taking medicine abroad Before jetting off to your dream destination, it's crucial to check the rules around medication. Some over-the-counter drugs in the UK might be regulated or even banned elsewhere. If you're carrying medical equipment like syringes, make sure they're in their original, labelled packaging. It's also a good idea to carry copies of any prescriptions, just in case officials need to see them. Lack of vaccinations You could be denied entry to certain countries if you haven't had the necessary jabs to protect against infections and diseases. Some places even demand proof of vaccination. The risks are higher if you're backpacking, visiting rural areas or bunking down in hostels. So, chat with your GP or a travel clinic at least eight weeks before you fly to find out what vaccinations you'll need. No proof of onward travel Some countries and airlines insist on seeing proof of onward travel - whether that's a return ticket or a ticket to another destination. This is to ensure you won't overstay your welcome. If you're a spontaneous traveller, consider booking a refundable flight 24 hours before you set off, or seek advice from a travel agent. Running out of blank passport pages Each country has its own rules regarding the number of blank passport pages required for travel. While most countries require one or two pages, some may demand up to three. If you're short on blank pages, you'll need to renew your passport before jetting off. Insufficient funds In certain situations, you might be asked to provide evidence that you have enough money to cover your stay in your chosen destination. The amount needed varies from country to country. If you're planning to stay with a friend or relative, it's recommended to have a written agreement to show to officials. Criminal record Having a criminal record can bar you from entering some countries, although the criteria differ. It's wise to check any restrictions in your chosen destination before making your travel plans.
