Highlands of Scotland or Southern Ireland? Advice needed

[Ineedthesunshine]

Hi, I've had enough of planes for a bit so we're thinking of a UK/Eire holiday this year - (kids not v pleased at the moment).

So, I'm worried there'll be enough to do for a teenager and a younger DS to do in very rural areas. Currently considering:

1. Cork and surrounds and then maybe Galway
2. Isle of Skye and then further north (suggestions please?) and back round via Aviemore

So can anybody give me some ideas/advice/suggestions?

Finally, if we do go Scotland - is Loch Ness or Loch Lomond nicer?

We live near Bath and are going to drive!

I've spent time in Cork for short breaks over last few years. The Titanic experience in Cobh is excellent so is Fota Island - I'd say they would both enjoy those. Leahys Farm is excellent for the younger kids. There are loads of great beaches. My lad is mad to try out Bridgefield Buggies - an off road quad bike place so might get that this year. Of course anywhere with the sea is popular. Lahinch is up the road in Clare and the surfing is great there. Bunratty Castle is a great day out near there also. Sorry I don't know Galway very well.

Given that neither location can promise unblemished weather I'd take the Highlands over Cork at any time. We've found Aviemore to be an excellent base for activities. Look at a few previous threads for this Location for more details but it's quote close to Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle and you have Landmark Forest Park and loads of other options- hire bikes or canoes, take the train up Cairn Gorm, etc etc.
Co.Cork is better for adults (Kinsale highly recommended) but Cork City itself IMHO is a bit dreary.

when are you planning to go?
beware of midgies