dulciusexasperis

Janisj, which part of 'example' do you not understand?

The comments I made re Pitlochry applied to this sentence, "My point is, there are things to see and do everywhere but you have to make some decisions as to which areas appeal to you most, no one can decide that for you."

If you want to disagree with something, disagree with the point being made, not the example.


Since you have chosen to make an issue of Pitlochry, "But there are better, nicer, prettier and more interesting options."

Let me be quite clear. What you think of Pitlochry is up to you but do not attempt to suggest that what I think of it is in any way incorrect. It's a subjective opinion. It is incorrect to say, 'there are better, nicer, prettier....'.

You can say, 'I think' or 'in my opinion' but to state, 'there are' simply shows a lack of either an understanding of what is an opinon vs. what is a fact or a lack of English language skills. Your choice.

janisj

Actually, in this case there ARE better, nicer, prettier places than Pitlochry. I use IMO a lot -- but when it is a given I don't . . .

Absolutely <u>nothing</u> <i>wrong</i> with Pitlochry. I've stayed there or nearby probably 10 or more times over the years. But <B>IMO</B> it doesn't fit in the OP's plans/short trip.

bilboburgler

Everything we say is IMO chill guys.

janisj

(dulciu: For someone who has been on the forums 3 days you are pretty opinionated yourself )

dulciusexasperis

I think you've said more than enough janisj. You've given micron your opinion for whatever it's worth. I suggest you leave it at that.

Underhill

I really wouldn't want to stay in Glencoe (especially if my surname were Campbell). There's a brooding, unhappy atmosphere there.

Inverness, however, is very pleasant, even in the rain.

micron

Thanks for all the opinions and discussion. We have decided (for now) on four nights in Fort Augustus and 4 nights around Callander. My question now is whether to go from Windemere to Callander and then to Fort Augustus and then to Edinburgh or to Fort Augustus first then Callander and finally Edinburgh? I've got a map and it looks like coming from Windemere we would pass to the South West of Callander but to come back there from Fort Augustus would involve some backtracking (which is fine). However, people who know the routes well might be able to advise what makes sense. What looks straight forward on a large map may not be the reality. Look forward to your opinions even if they vary!

janisj

I'd personally do Callander first. From Windermere to Callander takes about 3.5-4 hours car time. That would give you time to take a short detour to Hadrian's Wall or even a boat ride on Loch Lomond e route.

The drive to Ft Augustus would require at least 6.5 hours 'car time' and very likely more.

janisj

Meant to add - you wouldn't be backtracking except for the short distance from Ft Augustus to Spean Bridge, so you'd see lots of different countryside

micron

Thanks Janis, that was the order that made sense to me and I don't want such a long drive in one day when there will be nice things to see along the way. What route would you advise then from Fort Augustus to Edinburgh?

micron

Forgot to say that I've been looking at some accommodation in the Callander area and right in Callander. One is a self catering cottage near Balfron, http://www.ballatsmithycottage.com/
The other is a well reviewed B&B in Callander (Annfield). Any opinions?

janisj

The cottage looks nice - I don't remember if you said when you are traveling. Short breaks may not be offered if it is in summer/high season.

I haven't stayed at annfield house but do know it. It is just a block from the Rob Roy and Trossachs visitors center (the main tourist information office for the area). It would be a much more convenient location for a short visit.

Here is a modest but very nice B&B on the Lake of Menteith
http://www.inchiefarm.co.uk/

indy_dad

Annfield is where we stayed. Excellent hosts; would stay again.

micron

We will be in Callander area June 16th. The cottage owner is prepared to do a four night stay. Just not sure how isolated it might be and whether Callander would be better. We like self catering as it gives a bit more freedom for what you eat instead of always eating out. We all love to cook. I've emailed Annfield house for a price per room. Will see what the costs are for both options. Lake Menteith looks good too. In Fort Augustus we have been looking at apartments in the Highland Club complex which was an Abbey http://www.holidaylettings.co.uk/ren...ch-ness/127225 By getting in early there is a lot to choose from and the Highland Club self catering apartments are available for four nights.

dulciusexasperis

I'd say your plan is shaping up quite nicely.

janisj

The problem with the cottage is you will almost have to self cater your evening meals - unless you don't drink at all. (Same w/ Inchie farm except there is a hotel with a casual pub and posher restaurant about a mile away).

I actually prefer renting cottages/flats - but usually try to pick ones that are in or walking distance from a town or village with dining options.

micron

The not drinking at all would not suit us but catering for evening meals might be okay as we will hopefully be out and about during the day and may eat out for lunch and just chill out at home in the evenings. I can't see the cottage location in relation to a village. I will email th owner.

RM67

You can drink - you either need to take turns on chaffeur duty or get a cab home.

RM67

chauffeur

janisj

I know exactly where that cottage is (if their map is accurate). Just off the junction of the A81 and A811 - it isn't in a village.

(I've spent many weeks in the general Callander, Aberfoyle, Lake of Menteith area and have been over those roads countless times)