Holiday in Scotland in August, suggestions?

[missyB1]

So we fancy exploring Scotland for a week with our 8 year old ds in the summer holidays, no specific idea of where we want to be. We are happy to travel a bit and stay in a couple of places, but don't want to be driving all the time.
We like beaches, outdoor activities, steam trains, castles, good food and beautiful scenery. We don't know Scotland at all really hence need advice!

If you like steam trains you should go up the West Highland Line to Mallaig. There is a steam train once a day (I think) and you go over the viaduct that was used in the Harry Potter films as Harry goes to Hogwarts. I think it is a shame to come to Scotland and not go to some of the islands. Doesn't really matter which but they feel like a real adventure. From Mallaig you could go to Skye, the Small Isles or over to Knoydart. You can get island hopper tickets on the ferries too. You wouldn't need a car on Knoydart, or the Small Isles.

Oban and a trip to Mull, Iona and Staffa to see the puffins!

Probably a bit too late for puffins in August. There may be a few stragglers left!

Depends on how far you want to drive.
It is a good 4 hour drive from the border to Inverness area.
Dumfries and Galloway is gorgeous and kids go back to school mid August so kids attractions much quieter. It is only 45 minutes form the border.
Plenty hotels and b&bs

I live in Gairloch and can highly recommend it! Check out the NC500 (North Coast 500 mile road trip) and see for yourself how beautiful it would be to travel here.....

www.northcoast500.com/

I highly recommend the North Coast 500. Its 500 miles with lots of stops over the highlands. Absolutely stunning and a must if you are visiting Scotland! Lots of camp sites/ cottages/b&bs to book enroute. Very popular.