Inverness in September

May through September gives you the best shot at decent weather, though 'decent' in the Highlands means 16°C and only occasional rain. July and August bring crowds and £200-per-night hotel rates, but also 18 hours of daylight for maximum exploration time. September offers the sweet spot – fewer tourists, golden autumn colors, and hotels dropping their summer surcharge. Winter means 6 hours of daylight and horizontal rain, but also empty castles and that dramatic Highland atmosphere you see in films. The Edinburgh Festival in August sends overflow visitors north, so book accommodation early or prepare to pay premium prices.