Went to Fort William when I did the 3 peaks challenge a few ah hem years back. Scenery is amazing we approached at 4.00am as dawn broke, incredible and quite imposing. Saw a couple of deer families, stag and all that (nice to see them live rather than their heads mounted on some saddos wall!) and I agree 100% with your comments about the people etc. To be fair though I haven't had any problems (personally) from the Celts in the west either and the Irish are great people. (Perhaps I should go into politics
)
If you looking for scenery and good rides don't by pass the North East on the way to Scotland and you can miss some fabulous stuff in Northumberland.