I don't know that the proximity to the Highlands should be the criteria.

Stirling had a population of under 34,000 in 2008. Personally, I don't think that is enough to support an international event of this kind. The two towns closest to me are Bury St Edmunds and Kings Lynn, which both have populations in excess of Stirling.

Both would struggle to mount an event such as this. Neither has the capacity to house or feed the influx of tourists. As Edinburgh is only 44 miles away, most people would probably stay there anyway.

Regards

Chas