Hi-3 of us, never been to Ireland and Scotland. Would like to flyinto Edinburgh, stay in Scotland for about 5-6 nights, and then,having rented a care, ferry to Ireland. I would love your thoughts. We are always happy with what we see, and we do not worry about what we have missed, however, is this do-able without craziness and totally enjoying the scenery, small towns, hiking here and there? Thanks, Linda
Posted by
Charlotte, NC, USA
3428 posts
You could certainly see a good bit of both countries in that time. However, you will want to wait and rent the car in Ireland. Most companies would not let you take it from one country to another without a major fee (if at all). We've been to Scotland many times, Ireland once (on a bus tour). Here's a few suggesstions- Edinburgh- 2 or 3 nights train to Aviemore in the Caringorm Mts.- 2-5 nights (lots of places for hikes- Rothemurchie Estate and Mt. Caringorm- lots of other outdoor activiites, too.) train to Inverness- 2-5 nights with several day trips
possibly- train to Glasgow- 1 or 2 nights You could either take the ferry or get a cheap flight to Ireland. I believe there may even be a rail/sail deal for a combination rail and ferry trip- look into it.
Posted by
New York City, NY, USA
5678 posts
There is some wonderful hiking in Scotland. Some places you can get to by train, but others are a bit more challenging. What level of hiking are you thinking about? Are you looking to climb some Munros or do you want to walk around the lochs? My favorite walking areas are in the west, as much as I can tout the Cairngorms and the east, the west is amazing. Torridon, the Isle of Skye and more are beautiful. Pam
Posted by
wichita, ks
34 posts
To save time and get the most out of your trip I would fly from Edinburgh to Shannon (I think about 1 1/2 hr flight). Rent a car there, drive through Ireland and end in Dublin. Fly home from Dublin.
Posted by
OP
california
291 posts
Thanks everyone. I do like the idea of staying a few days in Edinburgh, a few day trips, maybe Isle of Skye, and then flying out. Thank you, all.
Posted by
Gig Harbor, Washington, USA
1850 posts
Hello Linda, We have visited both countries several times. I would suggest you see Edinburgh (one or two full days, depending on your level of interest), then pick up a rental car to see the Scottish Highlands............You might consider a loop that includes Glencoe, Portree, and Skye. If you have an extra day, you might take the ferry from Uig to Harris/ Lewis. Lewis is strangely beautiful - sort of a drowned land- and has a spectacular stone circle......... Return the rental car to either Glasgow or Edinburgh airport, whichever is more convenient. (The drop fee if you choose Glasgow will not be large.).............Fly to Ireland, get another rental car and see western Ireland. I would allocate the time 10 days Scotland, 7 days Ireland. Distances in Scotland are greater and you are including Edinburgh there.........You could do the trip in reverse order, if you get a better airfare deal - first western Ireland, then Scotland, finish with Edinburgh.