Edinburgh v. Highlands....not enough time!
 

We will be in Scotland from May 12 to mid-day on the 19th (arriving in Glasgow). We're traveling with our son, who has a flight out of Edinburgh mid-day on the 17th. I'd been thinking we would travel north through western Scotland, Isle of Skye, then circle back and end up in Edinburgh on the 17th. There is so much to see,however, I'm wondering if my husband and I should just put him on a train to Edinburgh for his flight, and stay in the northwest as long as possible. Debating between this and a couple days in Edinburgh. Any input? Also looking for specific lodging recommendations if anyone's had a particularly great experience. Thanks!

Depending where you will be, the trains are not that frequent or quick. Edinburgh is a great city, and a day or two there at the end would be good. You'll never see everything there is to see in the Highlands - not in 5 days, not in 7 days.

What are your particular interests: castles, hiking, etc.? Also, what is your lodging budget?

If you've not been to Edinburgh, spend the time there. It'sa a beautiful and fascinating city, even if you're really country people.

Ardenlee Guesthouse in Edinburgh is quite nice. The B&B is nice, their apartment down the street, I do not recommend.

I'd have to second Sheila, spend some time in Edinburgh, recommend a day trip to Stirling.

Natalie, I don't want to seem unhelpful, but only you know whether your family would prefer to spend the time in the the countryside or in a city.