ATMs, gas stations, accomodations in the Scottish Highlands
 

On the Michelin map, Oban appears to be a good-sized town. In fact, its population is 7500. Villages in the Wester Ross area appear to have populations of 85 or 125. How likely is it to find a gas station, an ATM and a B&B in such locations? Or should I depend on Michelin's recommendations for accomodations and plan my stays accordingly? In the States we are sometimes warned about no services for the next X miles. Do similar warnings exist in Scotland? Thanks.

B&amp;Bs are EVERYWHERE. Even in the most remote areas. Petrol stations are fewer and farther apart. But the small cars get <u>amazing</u> gas mileage so you should not get stuck anywhere - I usually make sure I fill up when the guage gets down to about 1/3 full.

Same for ATMs - there are lots - even in pretty small places -- but you should never get down to your last farthing. I always try to have about 100GBP minimum on me. And if my stash gets low I get cash at the next ATM I see. But if you miscalculate, you can always use a credit card - even at a lot of B&amp;Bs.

janisj,

Thanks for the prompt reply.

Next question: We will be traveling the last week of May and the first week of June. Are reservations necessary?

Ring ahead the day before to check availability and book it then.

ATM machines - not everywhere so do have cash reserve as suggested.

Petrol - fill up when you can is best.

flybob,

I can only call ahead if I know the name of the B&amp;B and have its telephone number. Is there a general listing of B&amp;Bs available on the net similar to Gites de France?

janisj is correct, there are b&amp;b's everywhere in Scotland and every town has ample gas stations (petrol station here!!) Lots of ATM's too, so relax and explore!!

Also distances are shorter here between towns so you cant run out of petrol!!

You don't have to call ahead. Every town and many villages have Tourist Information Centers who will call for you. They run a &quot;book a bed ahead scheme&quot; where you walk into any TIC and tell them what town/area you want too stay (either for the same night or any night in the future) and then go out and do some sightseeing.

Come back in an hour or two and they will have called ahead to the other TIC and booked you a place in your price range, w/ the amenities you asked for and have the directions how to get there.