Here’s the plan …
Essential Info
When to go: The wilds of Scotland can be enjoyed year round, though winters can be very cold and snowy – especially in the mountains. Spring (May-Jun) and autumn (Sept-Oct) are good times to go to miss the crowds and midges, and enjoy good weather.
Getting there: By far the best way to reach the Highlands is to catch ScotRail’s Caledonian Sleeper train: you travel at night so don’t waste any time. Running daily (except Saturday), it departs London Euston in the evening, with pickups at Crewe and Preston, arriving in Aviemore (for the Cairngorms) and Inverness the next morning. Journey time is around 11-12 hours; the ticket includes a complimentary cup of tea/coffee and a shortbread biscuit, brought to your cabin for breakfast. Booking opens 12 weeks in advance.
Faster, if less romantic, is to fly.
Getting around: If you’ve taken the train then the most convenient option is to hire a car. All the big hitters have bases in Inverness; Europcar/Alamo is a five-minute taxi ride from the station, in the Thistle Hotel. Otherwise Stagecoach runs local services between Inverness, Aviemore and Loch Ness.
Where to stay: Chrialdon House B&B, in Beauly, is well placed for Glen Affric, Loch Ness and Inverness (all under 30mins drive). For easy access to the Cairngorms try Docharn Lodge Guest House.
