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Excursion away from Edinburgh for 3 nights?

My family (3 couples) will be in Scotland in May 2023; first 3 nights in Edinburgh, but then we would like to stay some place more rural (rent a place where we can cook, also) before we have to return to Glasgow or Edinburgh to fly out. We are not renting a car. Any suggestions on a destination relatively easy to get to via train or train/bus for 3 nights or so, preferably on or near the water? (Outstanding scenery seems a given most anywhere.) We will need to find a place near enough to walk for groceries, etc. but could hire a car or ride bus/ferry for daily excursions. None of us have ever been to Scotland and there are SO many places to visit, but we don't have the time to get far north. We all enjoy walking, history, wildlife viewing, eating good seafood, and checking out the Scotch varieties! Suggestions welcomed!

Posted by
1819 posts

Someplace near Fort William would give you access to several potential daytrips and well-stocked supermarkets.. You say you don't want to rent a car, but then indicate you would be OK doing that while at your more rural location. Not sure why you feel that way, but hiring a car or even two in Edinburgh and driving is a lot more time and $$$ efficient. The drive up through Glencoe is gorgeous and pretty easy driving. Returning to Glasgow you could pass Loch Lomond, so your drive days would be very scenic. and both airports are on the edge of the cities. We had a great and very reasonably priced rental experience with Arnold Clark, June 2022.

Posted by
13 posts

Thanks very much for these suggestions. I'll check out the Fife area; I'd looked at Fort William but it seemed possibly too far in terms of travel time on public transport vs time there. Thanks again!