Scottish Islands with toddler bad idea?

[Tringa]

I have seen and felt the effects of plenty of midges on Harris and Lewis, and on Syke, but as already said they vary a lot. They cannot cope with wind, but any sheltered spot is likely to have some. They do not like strong light so good sunny days are a bonus, but again they are likely to be in any shady spot.

There is a bit of talk around the part of the west coast I know best on lines of the very hard winter will have killed a lot of midges so this summer may have fewer midges - but I'm not holding my breath.

Dave

[ChrisJB]

We took our little un to Mull last year before her first birthday and she had such a good time we are going again this year. We have a backpack and we just lobbed her in that on our walks. She would often fall asleep in it, even when her hands turned blue in the cold on Iona! We even took her on the boat trip to Staffa. She didn't bat an eyelid. There are some great beaches in the Western Isles, which are great for little kids. I admit to being a bit apprehensive beforehand, but it was a great success and would not hesitate in introducing a nipper to the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.
Also, I got the odd midge bite on Mull last May, but they torment me terribly.

Regards, Chris

[Gill Catton]

Definately get the little one out into the countryside whatever, point out the bugs and beasties and things before someone has suggested she should be frightened of them. Small children in my experiance are fascinated by nature if its pointed out to them.

[eigg head]

Some of the smaller islands are ideal for toddlers/young children. The Inner Hebrides are generally a bit more varied, more woodland (in places!) and not too far to journey by sea. A smaller island gives you more freedom, there's not the relentless pressure to keep driving to see what's beyond the next bend or hill - in fact just leave the car on the mainland. We've managed to do that with young ones in tow. Relax and watch the basking sharks, whales, dolphins, eagles, otters - all from your cottage window!

[southlonder]

Originally Posted by ChrisJB

We took our little un to Mull last year before her first birthday and she had such a good time we are going again this year. We have a backpack and we just lobbed her in that on our walks. She would often fall asleep in it, even when her hands turned blue in the cold on Iona! We even took her on the boat trip to Staffa. She didn't bat an eyelid. There are some great beaches in the Western Isles, which are great for little kids. I admit to being a bit apprehensive beforehand, but it was a great success and would not hesitate in introducing a nipper to the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.
Also, I got the odd midge bite on Mull last May, but they torment me terribly.

Regards, Chris

Thanks a lot for that. (I have been away so could not answer before).
It is very encouraging. Maybe (for financial reasons) I will have to go to the Farne Isles this year but maybe next year we can go to the Orkneys.