Highlands Advice
Seeking Highlands Recommendations
My family and I are heading to Scotland in early July, starting in Glasgow and wrapping up in Edinburgh. We’ll be renting a car for a 5-night adventure through the Highlands, and I’ll have my two kids (11 and 13) with me. One highlight they’re looking forward to is riding the Jacobite Steam Train.
I’m planning to spend 2 nights in Glen Coe and 3 nights in Inverness. While I’d love to visit the Isle of Skye, it seems a bit out of the way, and I want to avoid spending too much time in the car. Can anyone recommend a town I might consider instead? Additionally, I’d appreciate any suggestions for activities or sights to enjoy during our stay. I’d like to stick to just those two stops. Thanks in advance for your help!
That sounds like an amazing trip! Your kids are going to love the Jacobite Steam Train—it’s a real highlight in the Highlands.
Since you’re looking to spend 2 nights in Glen Coe and 3 nights in Inverness without adding a third stop, I recommend exploring the surrounding areas and attractions that are easily accessible from both locations.
Glen Coe:
– Hiking and Outdoor Activities: Glen Coe offers stunning walks with incredible scenery. You could consider the shorter hikes suitable for your kids, like the Glen Coe Lochan walk, which is beautiful and family-friendly.
– Visit the Glencoe Visitor Centre: This will provide some interesting insights into the area’s history, wildlife, and geology.
– Castle Stalker: A short drive away, this picturesque castle is set on an island and can be viewed from the A828 road.
Inverness:
– Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle: Drive to Loch Ness, about 30 minutes from Inverness. Visit Urquhart Castle for spectacular views over the loch— kids will love hearing the local legends about Nessie!
– Culloden Battlefield: Explore the site of the last battle on British soil. The visitor center is very engaging for kids with interactive exhibits that explain the conflict.
– Explore Inverness: The city itself is charming with some lovely parks and riverside walks. Don’t miss the Victorian Market for a bit of shopping.
If you’re looking for a town that captures the beauty of the Highlands without too much extra driving, consider Fort William for your second base. It’s close to Glen Coe and offers easy access to Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK. You could enjoy outdoor activities, including a gondola ride at Nevis Range for stunning views, which could be fun for the kids!
By focusing on these areas, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery, outdoor adventures, and some fascinating history without feeling too rushed. Have a fantastic trip!