Hello! My family will be traveling from St. Andrews to Oban (in early April) and we are looking for tips on a stopping point (or two) to stretch our legs along the way. We have a 10- and 7- year old that are up for just about anything...walk, hike, castle, picnic spot, basically any point of interest. There are so many things to see in Scotland, we don't want to miss anything on this leg of our trip. Thank you for any advice! Summer
Posted by
3122 posts
If you go by way of Stirling and the western shore of Loch Lomond, you could take a short cruise on the loch. See http://www.cruiselochlomond.co.uk/cruises
But, understandably you may not have time for a cruise. A short stop in the village of Luss would give you a chance to stretch your legs and use the facilities. That, of course, is not the most direct route.
Another option, much nearer to Oban and on your way regardless of which route you take, is the Ben Cruachan "hollow mountain" power station visitor centre near the tiny village of Lochawe. You can take the tour under the mountain, or just do a self-guided stroll through the exhibits. There's a nice cafe with a lochside terrace. If your kids are interested in science, it's a unique experience.
The more direct route takes you on the A85 through Perth, where you could stop and tour Scone Palace.
Posted by
OP
Germany
8 posts
Thank you so much for taking the time to respond. All of these options sound wonderful, and I'm going to start Googling now. I truly appreciate these tips!
Posted by
New York City, NY, USA
5678 posts
Hi Spencer,
I did a google map to see where they sent you and then tweaked it. The tweaked route takes you just past Dunkeld / Birnam. In Birnam, there is a sweet little garden for Beatrix Potter. And now it looks like there is an exhibit! This is a great little town. You could probably do a bit of the the Hermitage walk or just walk along the Tay. The Tayside is great pub for lunch. There is a cathedral too, but it is small town with some interesting historical background.
Alternatively, you could go on to Aberfeldy. There is the Crannog Centre, which your kids would enjoy. Also, there is great walk, The Birks of Aberfeldy with waterfall and views. The route take you past the Fortingall Yew. Also, you go through Killin, which has some lovely rapids. (If you want to have a very scenic drive--but it will add some time--go up Glen Lyon. You take the fork just after Fortingall. It's one of Scotland's gorgeous glens. You will be able to go south to Killin to pick up the road west.
Pam
Posted by
OP
Germany
8 posts
Oh my goodness, Pam, thank you for doing my homework! How incredibly nice of you. This is terrific. Thank you, both, so much!