Starting and ending in EDI....want to drive into the Highlands (yes, renting a car) during the first week of October. Would like great scenery, light hiking for 2 nights. Thought I'd settled on Glen Coe as the destination, since the village has lodging, scenery, a pub, and many options for walks or hikes very nearby. Then I read about the Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore....might that area be a better choice for a couple days' visit? Your advice is appreciated.
Posted by
3122 posts
Newtonmore is a shorter drive from Edinburgh and back. Both locations are very scenic; you can't go wrong, I'd say. When you say 2 days, is that one overnight, or 2 full days including staying over 2 nights? If the latter, then Glencoe would probably work out fine. If the former, you will shave off some travel time and therefore have more time on the ground in Newtonmore to enjoy that destination.
Posted by
OP
LA
40 posts
We will spend two nights in whatever destination we choose.
Posted by
California
10 posts
GLENCOE!!!!!!
Never been to Newtonmore but I am headed to Glencoe for the second time in June. I found several hikes that look amazing. That area there is just so magical to me.
Posted by
Yorkshire
1279 posts
Tempted to state that you'd be hard pressed to beat to beat Glencoe. While the peaks are not incredibly high in comparison with those you'd find in other countries, if hiking it should be noted that they are rough and challenging and not to be underestimated! The right skyline as you drive down the valley is the Aonach Eagach, the UK's narrowest mainland ridge. If going off the beaten track, be prepared! That said there is a ton of great walking to be had in and around Glencoe and the surrounding area.
Have a great trip!
Ian
Posted by
OP
LA
40 posts
Thanks, Glen Coe supporters, you guys are passionate. I'm afraid that I'm no mountaineer, more of a walker, and I'm a wee bit concerned that the GC area has too much relief for my enjoyment. I mean, I like the idea of lots of waterfalls, but I like looking up at them, not down from the top, LOL.
Now let's here from some folks on Newtonmore area....
Posted by
Camano Island, WA, usa
1448 posts
You should be ready to enjoy Misty weather in October...just make sure you wear a warm layer and a water resistant layer and suitable foot wear. Everyone seems to enjoy Glen Coe. I saw the Folk Museum on TV and supposedly it shows an accurate depiction of how the Crofters lived. Be glad that you live now. Just make sure you check the days and hours open of the places you want to visit as some start to close or have shorter hours for the winter season. The web site Visit Scotland may be helpful.
Posted by
Orlando, FL
185 posts
I have not been to Newtonmore, but I would like to make another plug for Glencoe. It was my second favorite stop in Scotland (Skye was number one). I am more of a walker, not an intense hiker and I had a great time there. You can certainly enjoy the area without doing strenuous hiking. I stayed at the Clachaig Inn, which was marvelous and in a superb location for enjoying the area and scenery. It also had a pub onsite, which I quite enjoyed.