Motorists have been warned to avoid a notorious Perthshire thoroughfare after icy conditions forced drivers to ditch their cars.
The Glen Quaich road between Amulree and Kenmore, which boasts spectacular views of the rolling countryside, is a popular drive during the summer.
But the winding mountainous route becomes treacherous when the temperatures plummet. Warning signs at the entrance to the 10-mile stretch advice drivers to seek alternative routes in winter conditions.
But these signs are often missed or ignored by travellers.
On Tuesday, two motorists who tried to battle their way along the icy route were forced to give up and abandon their vehicles.
The cars were later recovered, but the road remains closed off.
Highland SNP councillor Mike Williamson said: “This goes to show the importance of paying attention to roadsigns.
“We haven’t had a great deal of snow here, but it has been freezing and there’s a lot of ice. Because this road is so high in the mountains, it does freeze quicker and can be hazardous.
“It can become impassible at this time of year. Drivers should look for another way round.”
At its highest point, the unclassified single track road is more than 1,700 ft above sea level.
Locals said many tourists get into difficulty when they try to use the road as a shortcut to Kenmore.
A Perth and Kinross Council spokeswoman said: “The U173 Amulree to Kenmore road is currently closed between Garrows Farm and Tombuie due to snow, ice and abandoned cars.
“This section of the road is narrow and has a number of tight bends. Road signs are therefore in place to advise motorists that it will not receive winter maintenance treatment, and alternative routes should be used in severe weather.”
She added: “Grit piles are also located along the section to enable motorists to self-help and assist others if they do choose to use the road in snow and ice conditions.”
Police Scotland confirmed that two vehicles were left on the road earlier this week. Their owners had arranged for recovery.
