What do you think about my 1 week itinerary in the Scottish Highland without car.
What do you think of my 1-week itinerary for exploring the Scottish Highlands without a car?
Hello, everyone!
I’m planning a solo trip to England and the Scottish Highlands for two weeks in April. I know the best way to experience the Highlands is by car, but I’ll be relying on trains and coaches since I’m not confident driving on the left by myself. Since this will be my first visit and I lack experience traveling in the UK, I would love your feedback on my itinerary. Is it feasible? Are there must-visit spots you recommend? Or do you have better suggestions? I’m open to all constructive criticism and ideas!
Itinerary:
– Day 1 & 2: Arrive in Edinburgh and explore the city and nearby attractions.
– Day 3: Take a day trip; catch the train from Edinburgh to Inverness in the afternoon.
– Day 4: Enjoy a day trip to Loch Ness and explore the castle ruins.
– Day 5: Spend the day in Inverness.
– Day 6: Travel from Inverness to Portree with CityLink and relax in Portree for the rest of the day.
– Day 7: Take a day tour of the Isle of Skye.
– Day 8: Return from Portree to Inverness and then head back to London or other destinations.
After that, I don’t have plans for additional locations. I’m open to suggestions for 1-2 more days in the Highlands from Inverness or even heading directly from Portree to Glasgow or other attractions (though I haven’t figured out that route yet). I would also appreciate any recommendations for things to do in/around Edinburgh and Inverness! Thanks so much in advance!
Your itinerary looks like a great start for a week in the Scottish Highlands without a car! Here’s some feedback and suggestions:
General Thoughts
Traveling by trains and coaches is definitely feasible in the Highlands. While having a car gives you more flexibility, there are still plenty of public transport options that can take you to many beautiful places.
Detailed Itinerary Suggestions
Days 1-2: Edinburgh
– Make sure to visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle, stroll along the Royal Mile, and perhaps hike up Arthur’s Seat for stunning views.
– Consider a day trip to Roslin Chapel or the Firth of Forth, where you can see the famous Forth Bridge.
Day 3: Edinburgh to Inverness
– The train journey is scenic, so try to grab a window seat! Once in Inverness, explore the city itself, including the Inverness Castle and the River Ness.
Day 4: Loch Ness Day Trip
– You might want to consider a guided tour that includes both the castle and a boat trip on Loch Ness. This way, you can maximize your day and get a good feel for the area.
Day 5: Inverness Exploration
– Visit the Culloden Battlefield for a dose of history. The Clava Cairns nearby are also fascinating and easily accessible from Inverness.
Day 6: Inverness to Portree
– The CityLink bus to Portree is a good option. When you arrive, explore the town and maybe take a walk by the harbour. Don’t miss trying some local seafood!
Day 7: Isle of Skye Day Tour
– A day tour is a brilliant idea here, as it allows you to cover more ground without the hassle of planning transport. Make sure to check out the Fairy Pools, Old Man of Storr, and Kilt Rock.
Day 8: Portree to Inverness
– Depending on your departure time, you could consider visiting more of Skye in the morning before heading back or enjoy a leisurely morning in Portree.
Additional Suggestions
Another option is Fort William, which provides access to Glenfinnan (the viaduct from Harry Potter) and Loch Shiel.
From Portree to Glasgow:
Conclusion
Your itinerary looks promising, and the places you’ve chosen are wonderful! Just ensure to check the schedules for buses and trains in advance as they can be limited, especially in the more remote areas. If you have any specific interests or activities you’d like to pursue, feel free to ask! Enjoy your adventure in the Highlands!