We will be driving from Portree to Ballater and would love suggestions for a scenic route. We enjoy driving leisurely routes. We drove to Skye from Glasgow and took the bridge to Skye. Any suggestions for a route and places we might stop along the way? Thanks!

>>We drove to Skye from Glasgow and took the bridge to Skye.<<

Since you took the bridge over, you now should take the ferry back and visit Glenfinnan. There is really no 'un-scenic' route. Your best bet is to take the A86/ A9 / A95 from Spean Bridge up to Grantown-on-Spey and then A 939 across Tomintoul right into Ballater. You will cross some GORGEOUS country.

(If you decide against the ferry and leave via the bridge -- I'd still follow the same route From Spean Bridge onwards)

Thanks! Ferry depends upon weather. Love taking ferries, but not in the rain.

That is a consideration -- but It is a pretty short sailing so rain wouldn't deter me that much. Heavy winds/sideways rain on the other hand, I'm w/ you.

On a separate subject-do you happen to have any restaurant recommendations in Ballater? Thanks!

It's been about 4.5 years since I've been in Ballater and things do change. Plus there was a serious flood in the winter of 2015 so there were probably many closures/re-openings. But the Clachan Grill was good and I see it is still there.

But you definitely won't starve - there are lots of options including various hotels/pubs.

Ok, thanks!