Where to go from Edinburgh?

Flying in to Edinburgh, solo, mid May. Doing 3-4 days there and then I have about five more days before I have to be back to Edinburgh for my flight home.

I had to plan all this last minute so Skye accommodations are completely gone and Rabbies is sold out (not sure about this option anyway). One of my friends suggested Aviemore but I feel it may be very similar to where I live (Colorado).

I could fly into Inverness by adding a huge layover but then im stuck fighting for accommodation on Edinburgh to see at it the end with a marathon they are having.

I'm on a modest budget and I'm an experience traveler dude in my 30s. I would prefer coast but I'm open to whatever. I want cozy Irish pubs, nature, and scenery outside Edinburgh. I'm good to drive a bit but driving five hours solo on the wrong side of the road sounds less than fun for skye. Maybe I can drive part.

Any thoughts are appreciated and thank you. A route of train or car combo or cool towns other than aviemore. Or if someone like might would like rabbies if one tour opens.