How do the roads in Scotland compare to Ireland?
 

Can anyone tell me if the roads in Scotland are as narrow as everyone says Ireland's roads are. I'm not talking about highways (dual carriageways), I'm talking about secondary roads (countryside). I've driven in various areas of England so I know what those country roads are like but would like to know about Scotland.

Off the beaten path, the roads are similar. Maybe a little wider and better-maintained. Still deserves your rapt attention while driving.<BR><BR>Regards,<BR><BR>Jinx Hoover

We drove in Scotland, up in the out of the way areas and didn't have any concerns. Even in the winter during a big snow storm:) The biggest thing was that we had to pay attention to signs since we were not familiar with the area...so my husband drove and I had the map and navigated. I hope this helps some.

There are still one-lane roads in Scotland with lay-bys.

If you are near a major center, like Glasgow or Edinburgh, no problems. If you are going BETWEEN such major centers, no problems. However, up in the highlands, off in the back roads, I hadn't dared do more than 30mph, for fear of sheep, lorries, and hairpin turns, especially at night. If you are not familiar with the roads, it is difficult to navigate, as trucks coming in the other direction usually take up most of their lane and some of yours, as well! It made going around blind corners a bit nervous :DDD

I found the secondary roads fairly similar in Scotland and Ireland.

we traveled using the Michelin touring atlas. when they say one lane road- it is just wide enough for a truck and the bumpout for bypass may only be 2 feet deep. the locals know the road and test your nerves without intending malice. I stopped once near a loch and had a straight drop with no shoulder to step on when I opened the car door. scotland does not have the major stone walls on the road edge that makes some rural irish roads interesting. easy does it.