Must drive roads for visitor to UK

[mhh]

Aussie here visiting London in October - without the family for a change. Apart from catching the Eurostar to Paris for the Motorshow, I want to rent something quick from Avis (Porsche Turbo or Gallardo probably) and drive to Scotland and back on the most interesting roads I can find. I've got about a week. A couple of mates might join me for part of the trip (in their own rentals) but their plans might fall through. I know North Wales has some good roads and Scotland too (I was last there in the '80's in a cheap Vauxhall) but I'd love to see a Google map of a suggested 5-7 day route if anyone cares to share their thoughts. Being solo, I'm happy to spend most of the day in the saddle so I can cover as much ground as possible.

[mhh]

toppstuff said:

If I was the OP and coming to Europe , solo, for a driving experience, I would not come to the UK.

I would go to Italy.

Sunshine, quiet roads, gorgeous cities, great food, appreciative people who love to see a nice car rather than instantly hate you, and even the police can be quite accommodating.

Start in the south, head north, take in a few mountain passes. Job done.

I spent a fortnight in northern Italy, Switzerland and Germany last year and loved it. I didn't realise until afterwards that Avis expressly forbid taking their 911 into Italy. I'd rather not push my luck again so soon. Plus, I'd like to see Scotland again.

[mhh]

Thanks everyone - some great suggestions here.

[mhh]

Sandy59 said:

If you're heading up to the west of Scotland, lots of good info here :

http://www.stevecarter.com/picaday/roads.htm

Wow, great pics!

[mhh]

Cheib said:

Regardless of whether you are in the UK or Europe try and avoid the school half term week.

Thanks for the tip. Which week(s) exactly should I avoid?

[mhh]

jackal said:

just planned my scottish tour for september

this is as good as its gets




the A87 into skye
A830 Road to the Isles
the A836 south of tongue
the 'mini nurburgring' down to Moffat
the A822/A826 Crieff to Aberfeldy
A93 Bridge of Cally to Ballater
Ulapool to Durness
the Applecross penninsula
the run up to Glencoe/Fort william
Eilean Donan Castle
Loch Ness
Kylesku Bridge

Edited by jackal on Tuesday 24th July 22:27

Would you mind posting a link to that map so I can see distances etc? It looks just about ideal.

[mhh]

jackal said:

hiya:



days 1,2,3:
http://goo.gl/maps/dFzLo

day 4:
http://goo.gl/maps/KC4w

Thank you!

[mhh]

Thanks Martin - much appreciated.

[mhh]

I'm finalising my itinerary and need to decide where to go. If you had a choice of Wales+ Peak District + Dales in a loop from London or flying/training to Scotland and renting a car there to spend all the time in Scotland, which would it be? I have 5-7 days and plan to get a 991 Porsche from Avis. I'm travelling solo so can cover decent distance each day.

[mhh]

masermartin said:

Can you get agreement to pick up in Scotland, and drop off in London? That way you can spend 5 days in Scotland and 2 coming back via the Peaks and Wales.

I know this isn't what you wanted to hear!

I just looked, and the 991 wasn't available in Scotland despite being there previously. I like your plan so I'll enquire at Avis.

[mhh]

I had the car dropped to my London hotel yesterday and drove the length of Wales before overnighting in Colwyn Bay. This morning I played around the Evo Triangle and detoured towards Hexham before reaching Glasgow tonight. The 991 is quite a car. It feels light and a bit soft after my Turbo S but it super smooth and a great tourer. Hitting the suspension button is necessary in the tighter stuff though. I can't believe the weather. 2 solid days on the road and haven't used the wipers for more than cleaning bugs off the screen.

I'm hoping I feel more energetic in the morning. I've booked accommodation for tomorrow night in Portree. I'm afraid I might have overdone the first 2 days in my excitement.

Edited by mhh on Monday 8th October 17:52

[mhh]

Got to Skye. Thanks everyone for the advice. It's proving invaluable as I plan each day.

The roads just keep getting better.