How to best see Scotland
Aug 16th, 2011, 10:35 AM
#22
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Let me check.
True, Lifeman did not say no car = no great holiday.
I was trying to point out that as a person who chooses to travel without a car, it can be upsetting when that decision is put down, presented as an obviously incorrect choice.
Which you have done very well, humpty.
My trip reports are not fake, Bob ;-) , I did enjoy traveling without a car. It's a different experience, as I said up-thread, but not a poorer one.
True, Lifeman did not say no car = no great holiday.
I was trying to point out that as a person who chooses to travel without a car, it can be upsetting when that decision is put down, presented as an obviously incorrect choice.
Which you have done very well, humpty.
My trip reports are not fake, Bob ;-) , I did enjoy traveling without a car. It's a different experience, as I said up-thread, but not a poorer one.
Aug 16th, 2011, 11:22 AM
#23
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You would need psychiatric treatment to take a car south of Birmingham. There again you need psychiatric help for wanting to venture south of Birmingham.
We always go by train to London. Book 1 month plus in advance and the tickets (off peak) are cheaper than the fuel. No silly hotel car parking charges of £22 a night. No congestion charging. No environmentalist spitting at your car (when they have 6 kids which is THE most environmentally unfriendly thing to do), and no bloody speed cameras on the motorway which seem to be every 200 yards south of civilisation.
In short, south of Birmingham get a train or walk (or more fundamentally don't go).
In Scotland, get a car.
We always go by train to London. Book 1 month plus in advance and the tickets (off peak) are cheaper than the fuel. No silly hotel car parking charges of £22 a night. No congestion charging. No environmentalist spitting at your car (when they have 6 kids which is THE most environmentally unfriendly thing to do), and no bloody speed cameras on the motorway which seem to be every 200 yards south of civilisation.
In short, south of Birmingham get a train or walk (or more fundamentally don't go).
In Scotland, get a car.
Aug 17th, 2011, 12:40 AM
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Bob, 60 years? Has she been asking you not to drive all that time?
humpty, thanks for defending my chastity as I most definitely did not say, "No car, no great holiday". I was merely trying to point out the enhancement that having a car brings in that part of the world. Rail links don't stop when you want to and buses don't delve down side road if you see something interesting. Remote hotels and pubs or restaurants become inaccesible.
If you always use public transport and never a car, what basis of comparison do you have to decide which, if either, is the poorer choice?
humpty, thanks for defending my chastity as I most definitely did not say, "No car, no great holiday". I was merely trying to point out the enhancement that having a car brings in that part of the world. Rail links don't stop when you want to and buses don't delve down side road if you see something interesting. Remote hotels and pubs or restaurants become inaccesible.
If you always use public transport and never a car, what basis of comparison do you have to decide which, if either, is the poorer choice?
Aug 17th, 2011, 04:29 AM
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On last summer's trip in the highlands I watched my minibus driver dodge cars on the single track roads very expertly. On one day, we met a car around a bend. Before our driver could pull into the pull out, which was on <b>OUR</b> side of the road at that point, the driver coming from the other way snapped his car into it. We all agreed that it was likely a non-UK driver who had a knee-jerk reaction to get out of the way, but he forced our driver into an incorrect drive around. We were also all very happy that our driver had not begun the correct maneuver of going into our pull out and hit head on with the other fellow.
Scotland is a lovely country. I am so glad it has public transportation and minibus tours that I can utilize while I enjoy my holiday trips.
Scotland is a lovely country. I am so glad it has public transportation and minibus tours that I can utilize while I enjoy my holiday trips.
Aug 17th, 2011, 06:15 AM
#28
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I have uses both car and public transportation, primarily trains. Both, of course, have their advantages and drawbacks. Simply put, there is no best way to visit Scotland. Each individual traveler should decide for themselves which works best for them.
Aug 17th, 2011, 07:32 AM
#29
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Bob,
Listen to Lilla and Scotlib. They have done trips by public transportation. Other posters seem to be on soapboxes about
the wonders of driving. Just ignore them and try a new way of
touring this one time.
By the way, thank you for all the advice you have given on this forum. You have helped countless folks plan their trips.
Pat
Listen to Lilla and Scotlib. They have done trips by public transportation. Other posters seem to be on soapboxes about
the wonders of driving. Just ignore them and try a new way of
touring this one time.
By the way, thank you for all the advice you have given on this forum. You have helped countless folks plan their trips.
Pat
Aug 17th, 2011, 07:55 AM
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I’m going to throw my 2 cents in..or 2 dollars..sorry for the length.
In my opinion, there is no best way to see Scotland, although many folks will naturally say their way is the best way. A car is not a necessity. The posters upthread are right however. If you want to see a lot, then you should rent a car if possible. If you’re happy to see a moderate amount or if renting a car is not an option for you, then public transport will do just fine. As for organized multi-day tours, I think these are a great option if you choose a good company with an itinerary that suits you. Like you say, Rabbies seems to have a good reputation.
I have heard people from my area say they were glad they chose to rent a car in Scotland while others have said they really wish they hadn’t. Like so many aspects of travel, it often comes down to individual preferences, travel-style, interests etc. Certainly those who actually live in Scotland or those who have enjoyed driving in Scotland previously are likely to feel the limitations of public transport more acutely. For many, a car adds freedom. For some, it adds stress. Others just really enjoy taking the train, especially if you come from a place where train travel is practically non-existent. For others, there is no novelty factor or the novelty factor wore off a long time ago.
My parents (both seniors) and I had a fantastic 10-night trip to Scotland last October. We used the Freedom of Scotland passes which allowed a little bit of flexibility.
Travelling by public transport in Scotland certainly takes a lot of planning. We used the journey planner on www.travelinescotland.com extensively. You do have to plan your itinerary carefully around the train and bus schedules.
We chose to stay in places located on both train and bus lines and we selected accommodation that was walking distance to the train station – although the kind B&B hosts in the Highlands were quick to offer a lift. So, you are not limited to staying in the larger centres though you may choose to do so anyway. My recommendation would be to spend at least a couple of nights in a B&B in a small town or village. We stayed 2 nights in Edinburgh (had visited previously), 3 nights in Dingwall (ancestral significance), 2 nights in Plockton and 3 nights in Stirling. In addition, we visited Ullapool, Culloden, Portree, Crieff and Bridge of Allan.
You have to have a certain level of patience for this mode of travel. Like others have said, with a car you can hop in and be on your way when you’re finished seeing something. Or, if you want to make a quick stop you can. If you’re on the train that’s often impossible due to limited schedules. You also have the issue of your bags if you’re on your way to your next destination. There were self-service lockers in the Inverness train station but I’m not aware of any others.
However, we enjoyed seeing the scenery from the trains and buses and had great chats with friendly Scots on board. Did we miss a huge amount? Perhaps, but our goal was not to see a huge amount. We enjoyed the places we visited and had an absolutely wonderful time in Scotland. I think that’s what matters isn’t it? Never once did we think our trip would’ve been better if we had rented a car. We felt our trip was well planned and we had reasonable expectations.
So then, here are some of the things one can look forward to in Scotland regardless of what transport method you choose.
See beautiful, dramatic scenery
Eat (and drink) in atmospheric old pubs
Chat with friendly locals about all things Scottish
Explore castles, museums and monuments
Experience the amazing hospitality of a small Highland B&B
A few footnotes for anyone still reading this post:
On a previous trip we did a minibus day-tour to Skye from Inverness with this company and it was very good: www.puffinexpress.co.uk. They offer a few other tours as well.
Here is a company that does daily tours to Skye from Kyle of Lochalsh: www.skye-tours.co.uk
We also try to seek out a local festival somewhere ahead of time and include it in the itinerary. For example, this annual one in Crieff: www.droverstryst.co.uk.
This last idea is kind of out of left field, but if one had the extra time one could conceivably combine Northern Ireland with a tour of Scotland by visiting N.I. and then going on a Scotland tour out of Belfast such as those offered by the following company. One could just remain in Scotland at the end of the tour and continue the trip independently. I have no experience with the company so I can’t vouch for the quality – I just thought it would be interesting to be likely the only North Americans among a group from N.I. www.huttonstours.co.uk
In pondering your decision whether or not to drive you might want to watch some of the videos on this fellow’s youtube channel for examples of roads in Scotland or simply to check out some possible stops on your itinerary: www.youtube.com/user/racampbell6
Good luck with your planning.
In my opinion, there is no best way to see Scotland, although many folks will naturally say their way is the best way. A car is not a necessity. The posters upthread are right however. If you want to see a lot, then you should rent a car if possible. If you’re happy to see a moderate amount or if renting a car is not an option for you, then public transport will do just fine. As for organized multi-day tours, I think these are a great option if you choose a good company with an itinerary that suits you. Like you say, Rabbies seems to have a good reputation.
I have heard people from my area say they were glad they chose to rent a car in Scotland while others have said they really wish they hadn’t. Like so many aspects of travel, it often comes down to individual preferences, travel-style, interests etc. Certainly those who actually live in Scotland or those who have enjoyed driving in Scotland previously are likely to feel the limitations of public transport more acutely. For many, a car adds freedom. For some, it adds stress. Others just really enjoy taking the train, especially if you come from a place where train travel is practically non-existent. For others, there is no novelty factor or the novelty factor wore off a long time ago.
My parents (both seniors) and I had a fantastic 10-night trip to Scotland last October. We used the Freedom of Scotland passes which allowed a little bit of flexibility.
Travelling by public transport in Scotland certainly takes a lot of planning. We used the journey planner on www.travelinescotland.com extensively. You do have to plan your itinerary carefully around the train and bus schedules.
We chose to stay in places located on both train and bus lines and we selected accommodation that was walking distance to the train station – although the kind B&B hosts in the Highlands were quick to offer a lift. So, you are not limited to staying in the larger centres though you may choose to do so anyway. My recommendation would be to spend at least a couple of nights in a B&B in a small town or village. We stayed 2 nights in Edinburgh (had visited previously), 3 nights in Dingwall (ancestral significance), 2 nights in Plockton and 3 nights in Stirling. In addition, we visited Ullapool, Culloden, Portree, Crieff and Bridge of Allan.
You have to have a certain level of patience for this mode of travel. Like others have said, with a car you can hop in and be on your way when you’re finished seeing something. Or, if you want to make a quick stop you can. If you’re on the train that’s often impossible due to limited schedules. You also have the issue of your bags if you’re on your way to your next destination. There were self-service lockers in the Inverness train station but I’m not aware of any others.
However, we enjoyed seeing the scenery from the trains and buses and had great chats with friendly Scots on board. Did we miss a huge amount? Perhaps, but our goal was not to see a huge amount. We enjoyed the places we visited and had an absolutely wonderful time in Scotland. I think that’s what matters isn’t it? Never once did we think our trip would’ve been better if we had rented a car. We felt our trip was well planned and we had reasonable expectations.
So then, here are some of the things one can look forward to in Scotland regardless of what transport method you choose.
See beautiful, dramatic scenery
Eat (and drink) in atmospheric old pubs
Chat with friendly locals about all things Scottish
Explore castles, museums and monuments
Experience the amazing hospitality of a small Highland B&B
A few footnotes for anyone still reading this post:
On a previous trip we did a minibus day-tour to Skye from Inverness with this company and it was very good: www.puffinexpress.co.uk. They offer a few other tours as well.
Here is a company that does daily tours to Skye from Kyle of Lochalsh: www.skye-tours.co.uk
We also try to seek out a local festival somewhere ahead of time and include it in the itinerary. For example, this annual one in Crieff: www.droverstryst.co.uk.
This last idea is kind of out of left field, but if one had the extra time one could conceivably combine Northern Ireland with a tour of Scotland by visiting N.I. and then going on a Scotland tour out of Belfast such as those offered by the following company. One could just remain in Scotland at the end of the tour and continue the trip independently. I have no experience with the company so I can’t vouch for the quality – I just thought it would be interesting to be likely the only North Americans among a group from N.I. www.huttonstours.co.uk
In pondering your decision whether or not to drive you might want to watch some of the videos on this fellow’s youtube channel for examples of roads in Scotland or simply to check out some possible stops on your itinerary: www.youtube.com/user/racampbell6
Good luck with your planning.
Aug 17th, 2011, 09:31 AM
#32
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"This last idea is kind of out of left field, but if one had the extra time one could conceivably combine Northern Ireland with a tour of Scotland by visiting N.I. and then going on a Scotland tour out of Belfast"
Bingo! Someone is catching on. I have been trying to sell the idea of a 5 country 14 day trip for ages. Nobody seems interested. If anyone is....
We once did Dumfries and Galloway (most beautiful place on earth) ferry to NI, down to Dublin Ferry to North Wales through The Lake district and back to D & G.
Castles, beautiful beaches, mountains, amazing local food, friendly people, sealife, two ferries, best pubs, great B&Bs and a perfect fit for two weeks.
Bingo! Someone is catching on. I have been trying to sell the idea of a 5 country 14 day trip for ages. Nobody seems interested. If anyone is....
We once did Dumfries and Galloway (most beautiful place on earth) ferry to NI, down to Dublin Ferry to North Wales through The Lake district and back to D & G.
Castles, beautiful beaches, mountains, amazing local food, friendly people, sealife, two ferries, best pubs, great B&Bs and a perfect fit for two weeks.
Aug 17th, 2011, 03:03 PM
#35
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Hi Bob,
Always enjoy your posts/pics and helpful (non-judgmental
answers to Fodorites’ questions.
You mentioned that you might consider a tour, most of which are about 7 days though Scotland. INSIGHT (“Country Roads of Scotland” which goes quite far up) or TAUCK would be my suggestions. Of course, quite high end might be “Country Homes of Scotland Aboard THE ROYAL SCOTSMAN.” This luxurious Abercrombie and Kent train trip is only 5 day allowing you plenty of time to extend your journey with shorter trips from Edinburgh or other cities, like Rabbies tours and the excellent suggestions which Reddun offered.
Regarding weather, I would choose June – lovely loooonnng nights, before the madness of August festival time (which, come to think of it, might be fun too). Knowing you, you will research your options carefully and have a great trip even without driving.
Bob, as a workup to Scotland you might enjoy reading HOW THE SCOTS INVENTED THE MODERN WORLD: The True Story of How Western Europe’s Poorest Nation Created Our World and Everything In It by Arthur Herman.They did it all!
Enjoy Scotland….
Always enjoy your posts/pics and helpful (non-judgmental
answers to Fodorites’ questions.You mentioned that you might consider a tour, most of which are about 7 days though Scotland. INSIGHT (“Country Roads of Scotland” which goes quite far up) or TAUCK would be my suggestions. Of course, quite high end might be “Country Homes of Scotland Aboard THE ROYAL SCOTSMAN.” This luxurious Abercrombie and Kent train trip is only 5 day allowing you plenty of time to extend your journey with shorter trips from Edinburgh or other cities, like Rabbies tours and the excellent suggestions which Reddun offered.
Regarding weather, I would choose June – lovely loooonnng nights, before the madness of August festival time (which, come to think of it, might be fun too). Knowing you, you will research your options carefully and have a great trip even without driving.
Bob, as a workup to Scotland you might enjoy reading HOW THE SCOTS INVENTED THE MODERN WORLD: The True Story of How Western Europe’s Poorest Nation Created Our World and Everything In It by Arthur Herman.They did it all!
Enjoy Scotland….
Aug 17th, 2011, 03:51 PM
#37
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Bob,
Although I have not yet been to Italy, I've typed notes for the past several years out of your responses and reports on here. Always 'hoping' for that future trip.
We did spend a week driving in Scotland in 1998, and had hoped for a much longer trip this last spring. Work schedules and finances got in the way, but I'll be looking forward to seeing your report whichever way you choose to go. Maybe we'll get to go June 2013!
I did a lot of research here, and it sounds like the Isle of Skye is one thing definitely not to be missed. I would even want 2 or 3 days. Some of the mentions of taking a train or ferry to the island, then renting a car, might be an option. It's not a place which would have that Sunday afternoon traffic they talk about along the shores of Loch Lomond on to Glasgow.
The first few hours the passenger just reminds "think left, think left".
Although I have not yet been to Italy, I've typed notes for the past several years out of your responses and reports on here. Always 'hoping' for that future trip.
We did spend a week driving in Scotland in 1998, and had hoped for a much longer trip this last spring. Work schedules and finances got in the way, but I'll be looking forward to seeing your report whichever way you choose to go. Maybe we'll get to go June 2013!
I did a lot of research here, and it sounds like the Isle of Skye is one thing definitely not to be missed. I would even want 2 or 3 days. Some of the mentions of taking a train or ferry to the island, then renting a car, might be an option. It's not a place which would have that Sunday afternoon traffic they talk about along the shores of Loch Lomond on to Glasgow.
The first few hours the passenger just reminds "think left, think left".
Aug 20th, 2011, 05:26 AM
#40
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Sorry, we have not decided and are still discussing it.
If we end up going it will be the approach of using 3 base locations with day trips from each. We will not be driving nor will we book a tour group. Your input has been a big help---thanks again.
If we end up going it will be the approach of using 3 base locations with day trips from each. We will not be driving nor will we book a tour group. Your input has been a big help---thanks again.
