Hi, We are going to be flying in to Edinburgh in June and have 6 nights before we need to be in Liverpool. We have been to Edinburgh 20 years ago and did a drive up past Glasgow (from Lakes District) past Loch Lomond and down to Edinburgh for a few days. This time we are thinking of staying in one place and doing day trips. Any thoughts? Edinburgh, Glasgow or maybe Stirling has been suggested as can get to both from there and across to St Andrews and maybe towards Oban one day. Thanks
Louise
Stirling would actually be a good central location, plus you have the castle right in Stirling as well. I would make a list of places you most want to see and then try to find a place to stay within a 2 hour drive of those places. Edinburgh has many sites in itself and you can drive to Stirling in a day trip from Edinburgh. You may not need a car for the entire 6 nights if staying in Edinburgh. Maybe car rental for 3 nights.
Fort William is probably the most centrally located place to stay for touring the Highlands. Contrary to what you might have read, it is an OK town for a base. Huntingtower Lodge is an excellent B and B, located just west of the town on the edge of the Loch. We stayed there in 2010 and were very pleased with both the room and the breakfasts.
I would probably stay in Edinburgh two nights to see St. Andrews and Stirling as well as Edinburgh. Then I would go to Pitlochry. If you are certain that you want to stay in only one place, I would suggest Pitlochry. It is quite central and even Stirling and St. Andrews are not that distant. Ft. William and Glencoe are accessible as a day trip, as are Aviemore and Inverness. Pitlochry also has the advantage of having a wonderful B&B, Craigatin House and Courtyard. In addition to wonderful rooms, they serve an exquisite breakfast and Martin will offer invaluable assistance in planning your day trips.