This itinerary begins in Scotland's capital, Edinburgh, journeys to Inverness via Pitlochry, samples magnificent castles and portions of 'The Whisky Trail,' traces the shore of Scotland's most famous lake, Loch Ness, wends through the glens, and travels over the sea to Skye. It then takes you up into the beauties of Wester Ross where the gardens at Inverewe blossom in a harsh landscape, on to Fort William, Callander and Glasgow with its magnificent Burrell Collection. At every turn there are echoes of history and romance- Nessie the legendary monster of Loch Ness, homes that sheltered Bonnie Prince Charlie and Flora Macdonald, and the lands where Rob Roy MacGregor roamed. The roads are few and often narrow and the long distances between villages and towns add to the feeling of isolation. You can be rest assured you will receive a warm, friendly welcome from the hospitable Scots.
Recommended Pacing:
Spend a day, or two is possible, sightseeing in Edinburgh. With an early morning start you will find yourself at Kildrummy Castle by nightfall if you skip sightseeing adventures in Perth. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, also include an overnight in Pitlochry. Stay overnight around Inverness because it's an all-day drive from Inverness to the Isle of Skye, then spend two nights on Skye- more if you prefer a more leisurely pace. If you are venturing up Wester Ross, plan on spending two nights there. A day-long drive from Skye will find you in Glasgow by nightfall. If you are not a city person, skip Glasgow and stay instead in or around Callander.
Edinburgh is Scotland's beautiful capital, dominated by Edinburgh Castle sitting high above the city. Before the castle lies the long green band of gardens that separate Edinburgh's Old Town, with tis narrow streets, Princes Street, is baked by wide roads and elegant houses………
Karen Brown also offers suggestions for car rental driving itineraries for Cambridge, the Cotswalds, South East & West England, Derbyshire Dales, The Dales & Moors of North Yorkshire and Scotland. For a detailed description of the above-mentioned itinerary Auto Europe highly recommends Karen Brown's Guide to England, Wales & Scotland, Charming Hotels & Itineraries.
