Returning to Scotland

[ScottD3]

Two years ago we spent 2 weeks driving around Scotland and spending the nights in wooden pods.
I also proposed to Sarah while we was up.
Ever since then Sarah has spoke about going back.

I like the idea of going back when they have some snow, not to ski, even though it be a nice option but to just have a week away in the snow.

I understand they have snow till march?
Would winter tyres been necessary?

Has anyone got any advice or recommendations for the car, trip or us for going up in February?

At the moment this is planning to be the first big trip in the A8 and a trip to a snowy land in a quattro.
Its all going to be pretty new and exciting to me.

[The_Laird]

There's no knowing what the weather will be like here in February. It could be mild (but wet) or we could have a load of snow and freezing conditions. The further north you go (and the higher up) the more likely it is to be cold.

If you go much off the beaten track, I'd favour winter tyres (or good breakdown cover!).

And stop for a beer with the Helensburgh & Dumbarton D2 S8 club!

[HPsauce]

That sounds like great fun, though remember a lot of tourist facilities (except in skiing areas) will be closed, including many nice hotels and restaurants if you were thinking of a bit of luxury.

Winter tyres I would say were a necessity, but let the locals advise.

[sarg]

We went in March in the Mini 2 years ago, HPSauce is correct in what he says about places being shut down, finding hotels and places to eat could sometimes be problematic. Make sure you book hotels ahead is my advice.

Weather wise, the north west was fine but very windy, Edinburgh was just cold, but we had snow on the trip from NW to Edinburgh that got a bit hairy around Perth, and a LOT of snow in the borders area.

After this year's trip in June however, SWMBO decided she preferred it earlier in the year with less tourists and less leaves on the trees blocking the views.

[tintin]

I wouldn't go without winters before March: I'm pretty sure they saved my life a couple of years ago in winter on the road from Stirling to Perth….

[HPsauce]

Had a great few days in Edinburgh in February a year or so back, but we did go by train........

[ScottD3]

Don't do really do hotels.

We stayed here last time http://www.ecocampglenshee.co.uk/.
That's where we are thinking of staying this again this time.
Take the odd day trip out or just a walk around the hills with their Llamas.

The car will be parked up for most of the trip.

I understand the possible need for winter tyres and its always been on my mind to get some but they are not really needed this far south so reluctant to buy a set.

I understand the weather can be a bit hit and miss really but it seems like a good time to go.
if no snow, then we just good views of where we are.

Helensburgh is near Loch Lomond?

[sarg]

http://forum.a8parts.co.uk/showthread.php?t=5999

[The_Laird]

Originally Posted by ScottD3

Helensburgh is near Loch Lomond?

Yes, very near. No more than 5 miles tops.

[David's8]

If you are going to be up in February, the temperatures will generally be in the area where winter tyres will perform better than summer - and thats before you get onto snow. I went over Beattock pass weekend before last heading south out of Scotlandshire and there was snow falling heavily and there were a few cars pointing the wrong way (on the other carriageway fortunately) whereas I cruised on (at a moderate speed,) with the car feeling pretty sure footed in about 1-2inch of slushy snow.
When I came back this Saturday just gone there was plenty of snow on the verge and the fields/hills around. So the answer, is be prepared - its still very mich winter up here at that time.