Hello,

I am collecting information on whether a trip to Scottish Highlands should move up on our priorities list. We got an offer for a very plausible home exchange near Inverness. It is not a destination we both have thought about. My husband has been to Scotland but just to Glasgow. We are assessing our options right now.

Is it worth it? Is there enough to do for 2 weeks in the summer?
Thank you!

There's loads to see in the area, especially if you have a car.

We stayed about half way down Loch Ness from Inverness, and found the area beautiful and there was lots to see even in October. Stunning mountain scenery, and the lochs are stunning. I would love to visit again in the spring/summer.

First, you need to have a car.

Second, you need to be willing to overnight in other areas. There's not much worthwhile IN Inverness, but there's a lot to do NEAR Inverness.

Some spots: Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness, Clava Cairns, Cawdor Castle, Culloden Battlefield, Glenmorangie Distillery, Dunrobin Castle, Eilann Donan Castle, Skye.

Thanks, we are intrigued. I will so some more research about the area.

"Near Inverness" could mean a TON of places. What actual town/village is it in/near? Or better yet, do you have the post code?

In general, 'near' Inverness is a great place to base for a stay. Everything from Skye to the Black Isle/Dolphins, to the Whisky Trail/Speyside, to Culloden to a hundred other major and minor-ish sites.

But the actual location can make a difference.

Here is the link to the location: http://www.homeexchange.com/listings...listing_detail

It is in Inverness itself.

that pin on the map is placed in the middle of the intersection/forecourt of the train station. Is it by any chance a flat in Union Street?

No, I am guessing it is not the exact location of the house. It is a house but it is not next to the train station.

You might want to ask the owner for the post code . . . or at very least, the street name.

we have decided to negotiate other exchange opportunities, including one in the south of France.

Inverness or South of France....hmmm Reminds me of that great scene from that Mel Brooks film History of the World Part I http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9a5-E5Zk3w

Is Inverness that bad, tjhome1?

Actually -- I'd choose outside of Inverness over the south of France. I like France -- I <B>adore</B> Scotland. I've have spent MUCH more time there than in France. Just different strokes.

Tentek: Inverness is not a pit and is not at all dangerous. But it is just a city. There is a nice river flowing through it. But for being on holiday - staying in the countryside or a small town/village would be better IMO.

I thought it was that bad yes and Janis is right about staying elsewhere outside of the city but if you have a good deal and a car you can easily head out and it will certainly be an experience and something to compare other places to.