During part of my trip to Scotland (1st time to Scotland, traveling early Sept), I will be driving from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh and am wondering whether I should take the straight forward route (A82/A887/A87) or if taking the "not-so-straight-forward" route (A835/A832/A890)would be more interesting.

Fora little context: for my previous 3 days, based from Inverness, I am spending a day exploring the Loch Ness/Glen Affric area and taking an overnight trip with Puffin Express to the Orkneys before heading over to Skye (by way of Kyle).

Thanks!
Kat

Since you will have already been down Loch Ness I don't see any reason to take the A82 route. The scenery along the A832 is glorious.

I would go via the A832/A896/A890. (A832 to Kinlochewe, A896 around Sheildag and catch up w/ A890 at Strathcarron)

The detour along the A896 through Torridon and Lochcarron will add some time but it is the prettiest part of the whole drive. Even with this round about route it is still a reasonable drive from I'ness.

re: A832/A896/A890 route - about how long do you think this will take to drive? (I was thinking about stopping by Eilean Donan as well on the way to Skye)

the stop at Eilean Donan would be the same - a very short detour east before turning back west to cross the bridge. The best thing (by FAR) about Eilean Donan is the view of it and down Loch Alsh. There is really no reason to go inside - honest. So it isn't that important that you get there during any specific open hours.

My longer route is about 95 miles from Inverness to the junction at Auchtertyre. from there it is about 3 or 4 miles to Eilean Donan before turning around and heading to Skye. With the side trip to see the castle I would allow 3 hours for the drive allowing for photo stops or a walk on a beach, etc. - 4 hours if you stop a lot.

I know some of you think I have 7 league boots or something, but when I'm going to Skye- usually with no intention of stopping at all, because I'm late for the Uig ferry, I reckon on a bout an hour from Inverness to Kyle. Via Michelin. The route you identify, mairnets, is the direct and shorter route.

It's 10 minutes from (or at least, the Dornie road junction) down to Eilean Donan, and I have to say all advice is- outside only. Inside is not worth the time or the money.

To go via Torridon would take at least 4 hours and should ne the purpose of the exercise and not a route to get somewhere. I can't see it taking less than 4 hours. It IS stunning, tho'