Hello -- my husband and I are planning a trip to Scotland this fall. We're staying at least 3 days in Edinburgh but want to spend about four more days in the Highlands. I want to drive and do day trips from one central location. Which is preferable for this option, Glasgow or Inverness? I've heard Inverness is better for newbie drivers, but there's not much to see there. Thoughts?
Posted by
1632 posts
Neither is ideal. Have you looked at Fort William?
Posted by
Banchory, Scotland
285 posts
I would not move from Edinburgh to stay in either Glasgow or Inverness.
Have you considered Grantown on Spey, Aviemore or Pitlochry instead? Lots of scope for day trips from any of those towns.
Posted by
OP
2 posts
I had looked at Fort William as a place to visit, but I will take a look at it as some place to stay. Someone else I've been talking to had suggested Pitlochry, but I had thought a larger city would be better. I keep waffling on whether I want to drive or take public transportation. I want to drive, but am a bit nervous about it.
Posted by
Delaware
1510 posts
Hi, imnessel,
Pitlochry would most likely not be a good town to use as a base. There is a lot to see in the area, but you don't really get the feel of the Highlands from there. If you want the true Highlands, you need to venture a bit farther north.
Inverness is probably not the best place to drive if you are worried about driving. There are many roundabouts and signage can be confusing. I've been there many times, and I still managed to get a bit off track last year. If you do decide to use Inverness as a base, you could get lodging on the outskirts of the central area.
Fort William might be a better choice for a central location. You said that you're travelling in the fall. It shouldn't be as crowded, but Inverness will still be. From Fort William, you have the choice of many day trips, including Inverness, Skye, Oban and south, east to Glencoe, or even Loch Tay.
If you're going to be driving, as you're a bit apprehensive, I'd recommend getting a car with an automatic transmission, and with SatNav (GPS). That will make life a bit easier.
Inverness would be a good base if you're relying exclusively on public transportation. Trains and buses go in all four directions, so you would have a wide selection of destinations available for day trips. You could take the train from Edinburgh to Inverness, and set up shop there.
Whichever you decide, self-drive or public transportation, you will love Scotland!
Best wishes, and safe travels!
Mike (Auchterless)