bettyk

Using google.com, I come up with about 4 hours. Does that sound right? Any traffic backups to watch for? This will be on a weekday.

We will need to get friends to the Airport for a 3:20 flight to Manchester. Figure we need to arrive at the airport by 2:00 for check in.

So if we leave Ullapool around 9 AM, allowing a short break for lunch, can we make it to Aberdeen Airport in time?

Michael

ViaMichelin gives it 3.6 hours.

sheila

I, personally, would budget for 3, but you should know that the A96 from Inverness to Aberdeen is not known as the goat track for nothing. Assuming (I know, I know) that the plan is to catch a flight there, make sure you've checked in online. And, if you're trevalling at peak time- early morning or tea time- be aware that the security queues can be horrendous, although the staff are very good at calling you forward from them

bettyk

Well, we decided to change our plans and are not staying overnight in Ullapool.

Will instead drive directly from Portree to Nairn, overnight there and then head to the Aberdeen Airport the next day. Cuts the drive to the Airport in half so we won't have to worry about being late.

Since we'll have a little extra time, is there someplace along the Nairn to Aberdeen Airport route that would be worth stopping for?

Thought about stopping in Elgin to see the Cathedral. Or Huntly Castle? Will probably only have time for one thing. Any other ideas?

janisj

either Elgin Cathedral or Huntly would be great.

If you choose Huntly castle - just west of Huntly is the Northeast of Scotland Falconry Centre http://www.huntly-falconry.co.uk/

Doesn't have to take long to see but the falcons, eagles and other Raptors are amazing. The flying demonstrations, especially of the eagles, are awesome.

Elgin is also terrific though.

I'd maybe wait to decide - if the weather is lousy the birds won't be flying.

bettyk

Thanks, janis. Both options have merit. Guess we'll see what the weather is like and make our decision based on that. I'll also see if our friends have a preference.

sheila

Things worth seeing en route?P

Sueno's Stone at Forres is fascinating. You could pick up one a few distilleries, Elgin Catherdral, Speynie Palace, Huntly Castle, Stone Circle at Daviot or Easter Auquorthies, the Maiden Stone, Leith Hall- house and/or gardens.

Or you could go along the coast road, which is gorgeous, and just look at the scenery, although Fyvie Castle would be a great stop if you chose to do it that way

Nikki

I see that you are no longer planning this drive, but I just had to put in my opinion that any drive Sheila estimates at three hours would take me at least four.

I'm just saying.

sheila

Huh! Huh!

Nikki, are you home? and still speaking to me?

Nikki

Still in Paris, all alone. Still speaking.

bettyk

Nikki, yes, I've heard that about Sheila!