Southern Ireland -v- West Coast of Scotland in August
 

We're trying to decide between the two options of a week round southern Ireland or west Scotland, will be the last week of August, wild camping where we can and definitely want to get off the tourist paths and ride some winding roads.......
Local knowledge and experiences please!

Great roads in both places BUT don't forget the famous plagues of midges in Scotland in the summer! Not sure what Ireland is like at the same time, but if it's midge free zone, then that would clinch it for me!

You won't be short of out of the way places off the tourist route on the west coast of Scotland! Unfortunately, even in August, it's unlikely to be a week you'll remember for how good the weather was.

However, the up side of wall to wall atlantic storms is that it keeps the midges away. They can only fly in virtually still air. If you ever get an evening like that you'll be thankfull you bought a tent with a good midge proof net on the door.

I don't remember having such a problem last time I toured the west coast of Ireland (but it was a few years ago).

For me, I'd choose Scotland for the scenery and Ireland for the company.

Love Ireland, but...
 

I spent 2009 working in Ireland and took as many opportunities to see the country as I could make. I would recommend Ireland but with one important reservation; it is very expensive for Brits at the moment. When I was there the exchange rate was €1.10/£ and that hurt. Last I saw was about €1.20 which is better but still painfull. I expect 2011 to see some large movements in the £/€ exchange rate and they could make important differences to your budget. Unless you know exactly what the rate will do (in which case you will be too rich to care) I would probably go for Scotland this year, but keep Ireland on the list for the future, it is well worth a visit.

Scotland
 

Hi, my vote is for Scotland (not just because i'm Scottish), excellent roads, loads of places to wild camp. Midges can be an issue in calm weather, usually in the evenings, so make sure you have a nice pub to escape into. Andy

Look up Applecross and see why folks come to Scotland on the bike!!
To be honest both places are stunning,, Hit Ballycastle in Ireland and see what all the fuss is about,, or go to Scotland and see the best biking roads and the best scenery in Europe!! your choice.

ATB