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highlands in mid October with a car ?
hi all,
I'm planning a 7 day trip to the highlands in mid October.
an estimated route is : Edinburgh --> Glencoe --> Glenelg --> Skye --> Inverness --> Saint Andrews --> Edinbrough
My main concern is bad road conditions due to weather.
What are the expected road condition on this route at this time of year ? are snow tires needed ? is road flooding expected ?
What is the expected weather ? I don't mind some rain , but too much rain will be less favorable ?
Are there affordable traveling alternatives along this route or a similar route (like a combination of trains/buses/faeries)
Any other suggestions (route changes)
thanks in advance ,
ezko
0
Comments
Thanks for your enquiry. I am not sure whether you are planning to drive or to take public transport. In mid October it would be very unusual to have snow - it can happen in November but it's still quite rare. The weather is extremely unpredictable in any season but my guess is that you will experience a mixture of rain/sunshine/wind and maximum temperatures around 10 - 12 Celcius . In October the trees look spectacular as the leaves are turning red and gold so it's a really good time of year to see the Highlands.
Regarding the route you describe, it is fine as you have a whole week. I would recommend you to have a look at our accommodation section if you want to plan overnight stays. If you prefer to travel by public transport, have a look at Citylink Explorer Pass or Scotrail Travel passes which can save you quite a lot of money. Citylink offer discounts on some ferry and other bus companies.
When in Scotland, please pop in to VisitScotland iCentres for helpful advice on a whole range of topics.
Have a great holiday in Scotland and please post some pictures on the forum!
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Hi Donnie and VisitSctolandMurial .
Thanks very much for your replies.
It sounds like a car would be the best option.
I didn't know october is still busy (i was planning on just finding B&B along the way) , but now i understand reservations are advisable.
if you have any other suggestions (places to see , short walks along the way) i'm open to suggestions.
Thanks,
Erez
I am glad you find the information useful. For walks along the way, please check out the following website: http://www.walkhighlands.co.uk
There is a bridge to a go across to Skye between Kyle of Lochalsh and Kyleakin so that would be the cheapest option in a car. Places to visit near Skye: Plockton, Applecross and generally Wester Ross (North West Highlands) which is a stunning part of the country if you have enough time.
Enjoy your time in Scotland!
thanks for the tips. the website you suggested for walks is awsome (so many walks - hard to choose from).
thanks !
I see you are planning on visiting Glenelg, there is a ferry there that takes you over to Skye i think i'm correct in saying it's the only turntable ferry left in operation. The drive from Kylerhea on to the main road is spectacular but be aware it is a narrow road.
Also at the top of the hill at Kylerhea on your right there is a car park that is for the otter hide but also has a great view of Glenelg and the ferry. It is a lovely walk into the hide and is one of the best wildlife hides i have ever been in, just remember there is no certainty in seeing any otters.
Hope you enjoy your visit , i'm sure you will.
thanks again for all the tips.
i'm starting to work on a more detailed plan which i will post later on for some more feedback.