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Seeking Advice for Our Scotland Itinerary

After realizing that my initial itinerary for 2.5 days was a bit too ambitious (I completely agree), I’d love your feedback on my revised plan. We’re traveling with kids under 10, so any suggestions for family-friendly activities would be greatly appreciated!

I’d also welcome recommendations for places to stay and scenic driving routes.

Day 1 – Saturday Morning: We’ll set off early from Glasgow to explore the Loch Lomond area. After some sightseeing, we plan to head up to Glencoe for lunch and then continue on to Oban, where we’ll spend the night.

Day 2 – Sunday: We’ll take a ferry to the Isle of Mull. We want to explore the island and possibly visit a distillery in Tobermory. I’m uncertain if we’ll have time to see Iona or Staffa. We’ll stay overnight in Tobermory.

Day 3 – Monday: We’ll be heading back to England with a stop in Glasgow, and I’m curious if there are any scenic routes we should consider to make the journey more enjoyable.

I appreciate all suggestions and insights! Thank you!

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Your itinerary sounds like a great start, but here are some suggestions and tips to help make it more enjoyable, especially for your children:

Day 1: Glasgow to Loch Lomond to Oban

Morning:
Consider spending some time at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. There are several family-friendly walks around the loch, and places like Balloch have parks and play areas for kids. The Loch Lomond Sea Life Centre in Balloch could also be a fun stop for your children.
Lunch & Explore Glencoe:
Glencoe is stunning, and there are several scenic spots. Look for short walks, like the Glencoe Lochan trail, which is relatively easy and beautiful. You might also find the Glencoe Visitor Centre informative for both you and the children.
Afternoon:
After Glencoe, make your way to Oban, which is known for its seafood. The drive is picturesque, and you might want to stop at a few viewpoints along the way for photos.
Evening:
For dinner in Oban, consider trying Oban Fish and Chip Shop or a local seafood place. Staying near the waterfront will give you beautiful views and easy access for evening strolls.

Day 2: Isle of Mull

Morning Ferry:
Make sure to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. The ferry ride can be exciting for kids, so arrive in good time to enjoy the experience. Look for the ferry from Oban to Craignish or the one to Tobermory.
Exploration on Mull:
In Tobermory, the colorful buildings are charming, and there’s a great Tobermory Distillery that offers tours (just check the kids’ policies). For kid-friendly activities, consider visiting local attractions like Mull Aquarium or take a short boat trip to see wildlife.
Iona or Staffa:
If time permits, prioritize Iona for its beautiful beaches and historical significance, but it may be tight. If visiting, plan efficiently (maybe skip some sites in Tobermory).

Day 3: Return to Glasgow via a Scenic Route

Route Suggestions:
Take the route back through Glencoe and Fort William, where you could stop for views of Ben Nevis.
Consider stopping at Inveraray on the way back where you can visit Inveraray Castle and even the Inveraray Jail, which can be fun for kids.
Drive:
The drive from Oban back to Glasgow should be scenic. Depending on time, you can divert to Luss on Loch Lomond after Oban, which has lovely beaches for the kids to play.

Tips for Traveling with Kids:

Pack Snacks: Road trips can be long, so bring snacks, drinks, and entertainment (books, games).
Frequent Stops: Plan for breaks along the way to stretch legs, explore, and let the kids run around.
Weather Preparedness: Always check the weather and dress in layers, as the Scottish weather can change quickly.

Accommodation:

Look for family-friendly hotels in Oban, like the Oban Bay Hotel or The Royal Hotel, both of which have family rooms and a relaxed atmosphere.

This will create a more manageable and enjoyable trip for both you and your children. Enjoy your adventure in Scotland!