Speyside, Cateran, or Rob Roy?

[Judi]

My husband and I are starting to plan a special trip to walk in Scotland.  We've hiked a lot in the Southwestern US (where we live) and really look forward to a change of scenery!  I am posting to seek advice on the three trails we are considering: Speyside, Rob Rob, and Cateran.  We are looking for a trail with relatively light traffic (hence not considering WHW), villages with a good/friendly pub and "scenic views." We are not familiar enough with the various regions of Scotland to know how to tell what the scenery, etc. is like other than looking at the pics available on the path websites. We will be staying in B & Bs/inns.  One of us is looking forward to some watercolor sketching on route while the other is looking forward to photography.  We appreciate any thoughts you have on these routes!  We've read all the threads on these three trails and have the RR guides (which are great reading!).  Thanks much!

[Stottie]

I'd go for the Rob Roy. Easy to get to and from, with a great mix of classic Highland scenery (oh dear - it only needed the word "eclectic" and I'd have sounded like a copy writer for vacation ads!).
I recommend the RR not from direct experience but from pondering the same question as you. I'm aiming to walk the RR, maybe next spring. I drove a parallel route in September on my way back home from the Isle of Mull, and the beautiful views tipped the balance in is favour. There are options for more strenuous one-day side-trips onto the summits, should weather, inclination and energy all blend in the right quantities at the right moment.
That's my few cents-worth for you!
Enjoy whichever you choose!

[Stottie]

Further to my post, I guess you've looked at www.robroyway.com
Also, if you're a fan of swashbuckling tales from days of yore, read "Kidnapped" by Robert Louis Stevenson, in which the young hero and his bold companion cross Rob Roy country as fugitives from the law in their quest for justice. It's a slim volume, so won't weigh you down unduly!
Stottie

[Judi]

Thank you, Stottie, for the helpful information.  We did decide to do the Rob Roy Way and are heading out at the end of May.  We're really looking forward to our first long-distance walk in Scotland!