Post
by Lochaber » Thu Aug 16, 2012 3:00 pm
Hello, this is my first post, and already I've managed to get my call-sign mis-spelt (it should have been Lochaber (consequence of two left thumbs))!!!
More importantly, midge repellents. The absolute best for the infamous Scottish midge is not actually an insect repellent. Instead, its a skin product: 'Skin so Soft' by Avon. It's not cripplingly expensive and it doesn't smell bad either.
Avon tends to be marketed in the UK by ladies who sell the products of a catalogue. However, you may be able to get it on-line. If not, I've seen it for sale in chemists in Oban on the West coast.
Real insect repellents, such as "Jungle Formula' aren't bad but the wee b*+%^"$s still seem able to penetrate them.
On the wider subject of visiting Scotland, you must, must, must go to Edinburgh, but Stirling has a nice wee castle too.
Although I'm from Glasgow, and think it has some fantastic museums and art galleries, if you're pushed for time you could miss it out, as you head up the West coast. For my money, the West Coast (from Port Appin to Kyle of Lochalsh) gives a great feel of the romantic Scotland.
Culloden and Glencoe are good (with great visitor centres), as is Glen Shiel.
Loch Ness is, in my humble opinion, underwhelming.
Skye is OK, but be prepared for long drives (add about half again to your planned travel times).
Personally I quite like Fort William, but I can understand those who think there's not much to it.
The Commando monument at Spean Bridge is good if you're near but not necessarily worth driving hours for.
Anyway, with regard to LoA, keep up the great work. I love the gentlemanly, verging on politically incorrect, yet retaining a veneer of civilisation, banter.