In mid-September 2014, we are taking the train from Edinburgh (09:35) to Kyle of Lochalsh (ARR 16:00). We are renting a car and staying in Kyleakin 2 nites. We, then, return the car to K of L for return to Edinburgh, most likely, by bus from Kyle of Lochalsh (08:50) to Fort William then train from Fort William (11:40) to Edinburgh (ARR 16:36) The return route is fine although we would have preferred to take a ferry from Armadale (DEP 08:50) to Mallaig where we could get the train in Mallaig (DEP 10:10) to enjoy that scenic part of train line. The Isle of Skye Bus (Stagecoach line #52? Kyleakin-Broadford-Armadale) seems to lack any convenient earlier morning route availability, unfortunately.
1) Any other suggestions known to research transport to Armadale ferry alternatives?
Rick Steves' Trotternish Peninsula self-tour by car starting/ending in Portree goes counter-clockwise around the peninsula. This works opposite his suggested clockwise direction car tour around Ireland's Ring-of-Kerry which kept the car more open to views.
2) Any thoughts to preference in driving direction for this route? And for alternative/extra exploring Uig-Sartle-Staffin road?
I appreciate your thoughts.
Eileen in San Diego