Trip to the Highlands - ideas

pogofish

if you want somewhere off the beaten track, Have a look at Glenelg - A charming little backwater amidst the mountains, with an excellent Inn, Gavin Maxwell (Ring of Bright Water) interest, some very real Highland history with the ruins of Bernerea Barracks and the best surviving Broch remains on the mainland. 

The drive there over the Mam Ratagan Pass is up there with the Lecht Pass from Speyside to Strathdon/Deeside and the Bealach na Ba to Applecross as one of our very best mountain drives, with great views over to the mountains Kintail and on the otherwise to Skye, which in season can be reached by the little Kylerhea Ferry, the last traditional turntable boat still running.

https://skyeferry.co.uk

UKtravellerandexplorer

I agree with so many of the comments here and you'll have a blast travelling through the mountains!  If you're keen on Loch Lomond (amazing btw), I can also suggest Loch Goil and Loch Fyne (both to the west and you'll need to head along the A83 - which is also stunning).  If you're after some inspiration on places to visit when you're up there, or on route, I recommend taking a look at Monty's Guide, as it has loads of great historical places to visit.

Also highly recommend Tebay services on the M6 on your drive up/down - it's a lovely spot for a brew and the views are incredible, even on a wet day!

Murphybear

I appreciate all the help, it’s been amazing.  We’ve put off the Highland trip  because OHs hip is getting worse and he’s on the list for a new one. . We have to be fit because as I may have said it’s a long way from here to Inverness and we have to be fit for long drives.  Fortunately we are having lots of days out in beautiful Dorset, Somerset and Hampshire (where I come from).