Hi! I’m struggling to decide between Glencoe and Cairngorms area for 3 nights on our trip (we are coming from 2 nights in Edinburgh). Traveling with my husband and 16 year old son next July. Originally I chose Glencoe as we are avid hikers and outdoor enthusiasts and it looked so beautiful there but we are also doing Isle of Skye for 3 nights and will be coming from a visit to the Faroe Islands so it seems like Cairngorms was the most different landscape. And if we do choose Cairngorms is Ballater a good place to stay? It looks like a beautiful and quaint area with good mountain biking options as well. Or should we consider Aviemore? Would love any advice.
Posted by
Camano Island, WA, usa
1795 posts
I think that you would enjoy a visit to Inveraray Castle, which is not that far from Oban and Glencoe, while you are in the area. It is near the Trossachs National Park which has camping cabins and boating. You could drive a Camper Van. We took of advantage of the Camps DYI Laundry. We stayed near there in a Farm Manor House. Some other guests were from Glasgow celebrating their Anniversary with friends. We were welcomed to join them in the lounge since we offered to share a bottle of good scotch!
Posted by
Gig Harbor, Washington, USA
2060 posts
IMHO the Cairngorms are a very pretty area. Glencoe is spectacular and evocative, especially if you know the history. if you need someplace else to visit while in the Glencoe area you could do a loop trip to Kilchurn Castle (use the B8074), Oban, Glenachulish. 100 miles, about 3 hours of driving, and many scenic stops.
Posted by
Lorton, VA
21 posts
The Cairngorms do have a different landscape and mood compared with Glencoe (I've not been to the Faroes.) If you are starting from Edinburgh, you could go up through Perth (worth a stop) and take the A93 to Braemar. There's a gorgeous bit just outside of Braemar along the Linn of Dee road. You can then continue on the A93 through Balmoral (perhaps a stop at the castle) on to Ballater. Loch Muick is worth a visit from Ballater; you can hike around it. On the way back, you can continue east and follow the Old Military Road that turns into the B974 through the Bridge of Dye and the Cairn O'Mount for an expansive view towards the North Sea. From there, you can explore the glens or take the A90 to Dundee and beyond. This part of the Cairngorms is probably less crowded than the Aviemore area in July. I'm sure you'll be happy whatever area you decide to explore!