What it really boils down to is freedom or dependence on others. Sure you can take a bus from one town to the next - at their convenience. Sure you can take a bus out to Coulloden - maybe a couple of times per day. And I'm sure some sort of tour bus could get you up to Loch Ness and Urquardt Castle. Maybe it's the Californian in me, but I'd rather stick a hot poker in my eye than be trapped on busses and local trains.

Scotland is so easy to drive around in and there are so many places to just stop at will that I personally think it would be unbearable to be at someone else's transportation mercy.

Try VisitScotland.com for maps of the whisky and castle trails in the Speyside region. They are well worth the drive.

Last time there I stayed in Elgin which I found a decent base for day trips. I was not all that impressed staying in Inverness the previous trip.

What are your plans for accomodations?