Scottish Islands / Hebrides

[Frad]

Catherine and I are seriously considering a trip out to the Outer Hebrides next summer.

Probably starting from Warrington to a pals 'shed / lodge' at Dalavich (loch Awe) ferry from Oban and heading to South Uist up to Stornaway then ferry over to Ullapool and maybe Skye.

Then back on to mainland and meander back to Warrington

Anyone got any experience, tips, recommendations etc ??????????

[sunnybrook]

Take a left just after Taynuilt for the Glen Lonan road to come into Oban from the east. It's far more scenic than the A85 direct, but keep a look out for touring cyclists and sheep, as it's a quiet route.

If you're staying at Dalavich on the way out and back then that's cool, but the Horseshoe Inn in Bridgend is lovely. They do a mean full Scottish breakfast.

[doglegdon]

Anyone got any experience, tips, recommendations etc ??????????

Midgie repellent and rain gear!

[Frad]

Midgie repellent and rain gear!

I know that does concern me ?????????? what time of year is best to go then ?

[Austin]

I know that does concern me ?????????? what time of year is best to go then ?

Some of the scottish lads and lassies will no doubt advise authorititively but I always understood early better than late for avoiding midges. I went up the West Coast mid-June (and then to Lands End) and got one bite and barely saw a midge - but then it was wet and windy the whole time.

If you have time try the Oyster Bar at Eilenabech on Seil Island -home brew beer and good food, spectaular views and boat trips out to those tidal whirlpools. Otheriwse IMHO you can't go much wrong on the west coast. On your way back if you have even more time come off Skye, take a left onto the A890, then left again at Strathcarron onto the A896 and left again to go over the Pass of the Cattle to Applecross. Good campsite and Ace pub. Well worth the detour. Leave by heading North along the coast road to Sheildaig then take your pick of awesome highland roads to make your way south.

[Frad]

Thanks Austin and Sunnybrook, I think a plan is slowly coming together, I have looked on Google Earth at the places and routes you both recommend and they look fantastic, I shall definately be doing the Pass of the cattle that looks incredible. Catherine might be hanging on for grim death but will be a giggle

I might have to wait till September due to Catherines work (accountant so quaterlies etc) So I bet that is 'high season' for Midges ???

Thanks again

Kind regards

Frad

[Buggles]

When coming to Ullapool, be sure to try one local restaurant... Can't remember the name, it's part of a B&B. it's on the water, take a right when facing the ramp where the ferry docks and keep on walking, it should be on your right near the end of the road. There's a bike parking space across from it...

Vader, my brother and myself had dinner there three or four times during our stay in Ullapool this summer and the food was brilliant!

Oh yes, we also caught a nasty case of the morning headaches, but that may well have been our own fault

JB

[doglegdon]

Some of the scottish lads and lassies will no doubt advise authorititively but I always understood early better than late for avoiding midges. I went up the West Coast mid-June (and then to Lands End) and got one bite and barely saw a midge - but then it was wet and windy the whole time.

Austin, I agree, probably global warning has made a massive change on Scot's weather over the last 20-30 years that I've been away! However, I sincerely believe in our land's second greatest bard's famous quote " there are two seasons in Scotland.......June and Winter!" (Sincere apologies to 'young' William Connelly too!)

[Frad]

Austin, I agree, probably global warning has made a massive change on Scot's weather over the last 20-30 years that I've been away! However, I sincerely believe in our land's second greatest bard's famous quote " there are two seasons in Scotland.......June and Winter!" (Sincere apologies to 'young' William Connelly too!)

Septembers out then

[rgarrioch]

Of the too-few times I've been home this year (place called Opinan just south of Gairloch, opposite Trotternish on Skye), 1st weekend in May was spectacular - pre-midge, hot yellow ball thing in the sky preceeded by 4 wks of non-rain. Unheard of. No guarantee it'll repeat next year but either way that's definitely the right time period. Do the Bealach Na Ba (there is a cycle 'race' over it on the 9th May) but be sure and come south via Poolewe, Gairloch & Loch Maree, scenery like you won't believe. Plus there's a few dis-used forestry tracks by the west end of Loch Maree for a look (take the right for 'Victoria Falls' car park). Be sure to post when you leave and might see you around. Enjoy, Rob.