ArgyllTour Highland Argyll where Scotland's heart started to beatIt is the sea and the coastline that distinguishes Argyll from the other parts of Highland Scotland, but rest assured that it's characteristics are very much Highland. It is Argyll where the fledgling Scottish Nation was born, and the word Scot first made its appearance.
It was here in Argyll that Scotland's heart started beating at what was the 5th century Kingdom of Lorn where ambitious Gaelic speakers fought, loved, and forged partnerships with their neighbours to create the larger Kingdom of Dalriada. Further expansion over the centuries of alliances and great battles lead to the fledgling nation called Scotland. When you visit you will appreciate why those heartbeats first started in the overwhelming appeal of Highland Argyll.Argyll is steeped in heritage with mankind having prospered here since before 2oooBC. Around Kilmartin there are cairns and standing stones built long before the Pyramids of Egypt. The museum in the village of Kilmartin has records of the history of the area and explain the many cairns, standing stones, stone circles, graves, and henges that abound in the area. This is not just a paradise for the archaeologist but for everybody to reflect upon our past. Explore Highland Argyll from the Sea
Argyll offers the best of both world, mountains and sea, with a coastline that goes on and on and on ..... In fact, there are more than 1,000kms of pristine coastline, some of it only accessible from the sea or by foot. That is a lot of tourist kilometres to cover yet every kilometre is worth it as you are remote and in tune with nature and rarely far from the salty breeze off the sea. One of the best ways to explore Argyll is from the decks of a suitable sea going craft, in harmony with sea, land, nature, and your innermost spirit. The huge area that is Argyll has a remarkably small population but attracts large numbers of summer visitors who tend to stick to the popular tourist centres and do not leave the beaten track to explore Argyll's wonderful empty spaces. As a result, it is often referred to as Scotland's Secret Coast. It sits on the country's western seaboard, where the sea penetrates deep into the interior where mountains with unpronounceable Gaelic names tumble down into fertile glens and into long sea lochs. Much of the countryside can only be seen from the sea as there is no beaten tracks, only those of nature. The climate is mild thanks to the Gulf Stream which has helped the creation of many fine gardens such as Ardkinglas, Crarae, Arduaine, and Benmore, a small choice from the "Glorious Gardens of Argyle and Bute", some with palm trees and exotic species not expected so far north, some competing for the largest tree of its kind in Scotland. The Cowal Peninsula & Island of ButeDunoon is the largest town on the Cowal Peninsula, sheltered around two bays with a charming old Victorian harbour. Scotland's premier Highland Games the Cowal Gathering takes place in Dunoon over three days every August, culminating in the march of a Thousand Pipers, an awe inspiring site not to be missed.
On the Isle of Bute, easily accessible from Wemyss Bay to Rothesay, or the shortest ferry trip in Scotland, Colintraive to Rhubodach on the Cowal Peninsula you will discover the amazing Mount Stuart, one of Scotland's grandest residences and the first to have electricity as well as an indoor swimming pool. The Royal Castle of Rothesay has a unique circular design and a remarkable history involving the Norwegians and of course royalty throughout the ages to our current monarchy. Oban and LornOban, the "Seafood Capital of Scotland", is an undisputed holiday destination in its own right with its unique charisma and visitor attractions including the War & Peace Museum, whisky distillery and the Scottish Sealife Sanctuary is on nearby Loch Creran. Oban has excellent road and rail communications, but it is the generous choice of regular car and passenger ferry services to the Hebrides that attract many a tourist. Oban is the "Gateway to the Isles". Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the sea lochs like Loch Etive, Loch Fyne, and Loch Linnhe, admiring the remarkable landscapes and castles of Lorn, testimony to the history that was made in Scotland's struggle to become a nation. Dunadd hill fort can lay claim to be the foundation stone of the Kingdom of the Scots. It was the royal centre of the kingdom of Dál Riata, whose kings became the Kings of Scotland and whose people, the Gaels, gave Scotland its name and Gaelic culture. Kilmartin Glen is one of the most unique historic areas in Scotland as well one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe, having seen human activity and occupation since the earliest times, when hunter gatherers moved into the area after the last ice age. Kilmartin Museum is the hub of the area and an excellent resource for learning all about the glen as well as enjoying the superb cafe and shop. From ancient history to a more recent version in the form of the 200 year old Crinan Canal, considered to be Britain's most beautiful shortcut. It was built during the Industrial Revolution and is still very much in use by yachting and boating enthusiasts. Another reason to be on a boat to explore Highland Argyll but it is also ideal for cyclists and walkers. The Knapdale and Kintyre PeninsulaKnapdale has a landscape quite unique in Scotland which can be derived from its Gaelic description where "knaps", steep rocky ridges, cloaked in woodland, are separated by narrow, often flooded "dales". Bordered in the north by the Crinan Canal, the wild Atlantic Ocean on its west and sheltered Loch Fyne on the east it is a paradise for nature at its very best. There is an abundance of routes, trails, cycle routes and picnic sites through the forest region designed to allow access to a variety of habitats. Start from the Barnluasgan Information Centre where you can learn all about the re-introduction of beavers to Scotland and how to be a "beaver detective". Lochgilphead and Tarbert are ideal stopovers for excellent sea food restaurants. Further south into the Kintyre Peninsula provides one of Scotland's most idyllic drives with views of the entire west coast of Arran. Take a stroll around the ruins of Saddell Abbey with its effigies and grave slabs on display. Campbeltown was, once upon a time, the capital of whisky making. Visit one of the three distilleries remaining and hear all about it. Loch Lomond West BankDiscover how gentle landscapes are gradually replaced by dramatic mountains, crags, and lochs on the Three Lochs Way, one of Scotland great trails which takes in Loch Lomond, The Gareloch and Loch Long, two very different sea lochs and the United Kingdom's largest expanse of fresh water.
On the banks of Loch Lomond, the village of Luss simply exudes charm while Tarbet is a must for a stopover with plenty parking, boat trips, and the best view of mighty "Ben Lomond" across the waters of Loch Lomond. Even in the wee small hours with a full moon the view is awesome, never to be forgotten.
Luss - Loch LomondThe very popular tourist destination of Luss is a beautiful little estate village built in the 19th century by the Colquhoun family who lived in nearby Rossdhu Castle. It sits on the banks of Loch Lomond with wonderful views of the mighty bulk of Ben Lomond on the opposite shore, Scotland's most southerly Munro. There are several pleasant short walks around the area where you can explore its heritage. It has a wonderful tranquil air about it especially on those long sunny summer evenings when most tourists have disappeared and those left behind are pottering in their boats, thinking of a swim, or just having a wee stroll along its lovely beach. You are truly on the "Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond". For those wishing a spell on the tranquil waters of Loch Lomond, "Cruise Loch Lomond" offers a number of options to see the loch side scenery or simply get to the other side. From the picturesque village of Luss the cruise focuses on the island gems of the south. Tarbet provides the ideal base to explore the serene northern landscape. Viking visitors, inspiring wildlife, island legends and the exploits of the legendary Rob Roy MacGregor – their cruises have it all – with the option of a wee dram to stimulate the imagination! There is an interesting piece of history associated with the Vikings in Loch Lomond. Tarbet is the ideal place for a break in your journey with plenty parking and the best view of mighty "Ben Lomond" across the loch. Even in the wee small hours with a full moon the view is awesome. It is ideal spot for a picnic with the wee shop doing a roaring trade with ice creams, sweeties' and sandwiches. The Gareloch is the base for the United Kingdom's fleet of nuclear submarines. They are an awesome sight in more ways than one when coming back from patrol or setting off. It is an ideal spot for small sailing craft with sailing clubs dotted around the loch. There is also anchorage for larger yachts and is a very pleasant safe haven and port of call. HelensburghThe coastal town of Helensburgh is renowned for its heritage of outstanding architecture, because it was a seaside retreat for the many wealthy Glasgow magnates of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It could boast the most number of millionaires living there outside London. The most outstanding example of millionaire living is The Hill House masterpiece by the renowned Scottish architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh who has now become a cult figure.
There are numerous short walks in the area around the 10km mark passing interesting locations like The Hill House, taking in some of the better known Three Lochs Way route over Glen Fruin, Garelochhead and points further north. Why not view the boats at Rhu Marina which takes in the Clyde Sea Lochs Trail? One of Scotland's premier spring garden, Glenarn Garden, one of the "Glorious Gardens of Argyll" should not be missed on your walk of discovery of the area. On your meanders around Helensburgh you might come across the bust of John Logie Baird, who lived in the town and is regarded as the inventor of television. You cannot miss the obelisk which celebrates another son of Helensburgh, Henry Bell, famous for his paddle steamer PS Comet which was launched in 1812. It was the first vessel in Europe to provide a regular maritime steamship service. On your walks look out for Goukhill Muir viewpoint, regarded as providing the best views of Loch Lomond. The hill is 277m high and forms part of the Highland Boundary Fault and is a section of the long distance coast-to-coast walk, the John Muir Way, from Helensburgh to Dunbar, in Lothian. |
Arrochar sits at the head of Loch Long and was once the regular port of call in the late 1940s for the Paddle Steamer Waverley. Transporting goods and passengers by sea was more economical then. The Grand Old Lady of the Seas and Lochs until recently still made an appearance cruising Loch Long as far as Arrochar during her summer cruising season. Nowadays, Arrochar is a busy spot, as the mountains Ben Narnain (925m), Ben Ime (1011m), and Ben Arthur, better known as The Cobbler (881m), attracts walkers and climbers, due to their easy road access from Glasgow. The Cobbler is so named due to the shape of its summit being like an old fashioned "cobbler's last" used to repair shoes. The Cobbler is one of the more popular Scottish climbs. With Argyll's finest mountains to be found so close to Arrochar, they are referred to as the Arrochar Alps. It was here in 1865 that the Cobbler Club was established given credence to this being the homeland of the first Scottish mountaineering club. |
With the Mountain Bike fraternity seeking even greater challenges the Arrochar Alps has become even busier like much of Scotland's higher ground.
"Ardgartan", is situated on the shores of Loch Long to the south of Arrochar. The forest of Sitka and Norway spruce is an ideal habitat for red squirrel, roe deer, buzzards, and owls. Mixed woodland along the many small rivers and burns is home to otters, kingfishers, and bats. While the Arrochar Alps are for more experienced walkers there are gentle forest walks managed by the Forestry Commission.
The modern road westwards, takes you further into Highland Argyll, climbing all the way up to the Rest and Be Thankful, and its a view site where you can stop your car and take in the wonderful scenic views down into Glen Croe and the Arrochar Alps.
Lochgoilhead
The picturesque village of Lochgoilhead, situated on the northern shores of Loch Goil, is set in magnificent Highland scenery.
Considered to be a little off the beaten track as the roads leading to it, through the Argyll Forest Park, are single track; but that's what makes it a wee gem of a place. It is a popular outdoor pursuits and holiday home centre with incredibly rich wildlife on its doorstep; Red squirrel, pine marten, otters, red deer, and badgers are common, as well as seals and porpoises in the loch while eagles and buzzards soar the hills.
On Loch Fyne
Near the head of Loch Fyne, the Cairndow Stagecoach Inn has an airy conservatory and a loch side patio, both ideal for family dining. The nearby Tree Shop Garden Centre and Café at the head of the loch has a range of woodcraft on display while you partake of food such as soups, filled rolls and home-baking. Either sit in or take away for a quick picnic by the loch. The Tree Shop shares the same location as the now world renowned Loch Fyne Oyster Bar where you will hear many languages spoken, being a very popular tourist destination.
Ardkinglas Estate
Within the 4800 hectares of Ardkinglas Estate, on the edge of the village of Cairndow and shores of Loch Fyne, is the Ardkinglas Woodland Garden.
The estate is situated in an area where nature has provided the perfect conditions for a collection of coniferous trees. The high annual rainfall, a mild climate and the light sandy soil have conspired to create some of the tallest trees in Britain. The estate boasts several champion trees that are either the tallest or widest in their class.
Although Ardkinglas House is not open to the public on a regular basis, being a much loved private residence, a private tour of the house can be booked at any time of the year. A public tour is available every Friday from April to October. Ardkinglas does host, from time to time, exclusive and unique events.
The road south along the Cowal Peninsula hugs the coastline with Loch Fyne always in view, perfect touring country with perfect places to stay and perfect places to eat.
The Creggans Inn, with its wonderful history, is an award-winning, family-run hotel that offers the perfect retreat for the discerning guest who will delight in the breathtaking vistas over Loch Fyne.
Castle Lachlan is a beautiful Scottish baronial house set in an estate of 1500 acres and provides the perfect setting for your Scottish Castle vacation. The house, which overlooks Loch Fyne and is the home of the Maclachlan Clan Chief, has been cleverly divided so that the more splendid southwest facing front is now available for letting on a self-catering basis.
At nearby Inver Restaurant, Pam and her partner Rob Latimer have been crafting not just delicious meals but carving out an international reputation with their presentations described as the "taste of the new Highlands" and "up to something world-class". Inver is a small restaurant where people like to spend their time savouring traditional Scottish dishes with a contemporary twist. A cosy bar serves craft ale, natural wines, and fancy drinks. Their coffee is roasted nearby and served morning and afternoon with scones, cakes, and cookies.
Otter Ferry is located on the east shore of Loch Fyne, just north of Otter Spit. The Oystercatcher is a pub and restaurant right on the beach with stunning views of the loch from their beer garden. Visitor moorings and pontoon offer the sailing fraternity easy access to drop in for a delicious pub lunch conjured up from their locally sourced seafood, meats from the Isle of Bute and real ales.
Loch Eck
Loch Eck is at its most magical early on sunny windless summer mornings with the mountain sides reflecting on the mirror like surface. There is stillness all around to complete the magic.
The loch has several picnic sites where you can enjoy gorgeous views across the waters to the craggy tops of the steep Clach Bhein. Walk or cycle along the opposite shore on the Loch Eck Loop. It is a great place for wildlife, with Red squirrels which forage its shores.
If fishing you will need a permit and you might be in for a rare surprise. Deep under the surface swims Scotland's rarest freshwater fish – the powan, a protected relic from the ice age found only here and in Loch Lomond.
Portable craft without motors, like canoes or kayaks, can be used on the loch any time while a boat with a motor will need permission from the Glenbranter forest office at least one month in advance.
The magical Puck's Glen is an enchanting woodland experience with paths of tumbling waterfalls and shallow rock pools all in the hidden depths of a gorge. After rainfall it can be even more spectacular. During your walk, keep a sharp eye out and you might just spot the mythical Ghillie Dhu! The atmosphere of Puck's Glen induces a magical aura of mischievous sprites and beings with supernatural powers making it great fun to explore with family and friends. With two trails, you can take the one going up the enchanting gorge with tumbling waterfalls and the other one, a longer trail for great views, you can take down or continue along the ridge and extend you walk to Kilmun Arboretum and its magnificent variety of large conifers. |
Benmore Botanic Garden, an offshoot of Edinburgh's Royal Botanic Garden, enjoys a magnificent mountainside setting looking up towards Clach Bheinn. In the natural woodland of the Eachaig Valley, Benmore is famous for its magnificent collection of trees and shrubs including some of the tallest trees in Britain. The impressive Avenue of Giant Redwoods, now standing over 50 metres tall, presents one of the finest avenues to any botanic garden in the world. On display in its 120 acres is a world-famous collection of flowering trees and shrubs comprising more than 300 species of rhododendron and over one third of the world’s hardy conifer species plus fine collections from North and South America, the Orient and the Himalayas. The Garden is glorious throughout the seasons, from the vibrant blooms of rhododendrons and azaleas in early spring, striking Eucryphias of late summer and breathtaking displays of rich autumn fruit and foliage. |
Dunoon
The main town in Cowal is Dunoon. In the early 19th century it was but a Highland fishing and crofting village. However, this was the Victorian era and the start of tourism, enabling Dunoon to expand and blossom with fine holidays homes, built by wealthy Glasgow merchants. With the introduction of Clyde steamers many of Glasgow's workforce and their families flocked to Dunoon to experience the clean air and free spaces amongst Cowal's rugged grandeur.
Travel options to Dunoon
There are two ways to get to Dunoon, by ferry and by road. The former is by far the quickest. But you will miss the spectacular Loch Lomond - West Bank.
Dunoon hosts the famous Cowal Highland Gathering, Scotland's premier Highland Games, where competitors come from around the world to pit their skills and strength for prizes tossing the caber, throwing the hammer and other athletic events. The softer side of the games comprise Highland Dancing both individual and team while the noisiest is most certainly from the Pipe Band Competitions. The highlight of the event, after the prize and award ceremony, is the sight of more than a thousand pipers marching down Dunoon's main street and when the emotions have settled there is a spectacular fireworks display. The event completely takes over the town but is well catered for by additional ferry transport across the Clyde for day visitors and a variety of entertainment in the evenings for those "willing to go the full course". Look out for the event which takes place the last Thursday to Saturday of August. Use our Events/Promotions facility. |
Dunoon Castle
Visit the site of this once powerful stronghold and former royal castle located on a peak overlooking the Firth of Clyde. Although the remains of Dunoon Castle are scant, to say the least, it is the hilltop position, Castle Mount, which affords stunning views of the town of Dunoon and southwards down the Firth of Clyde. That is the only reason to be there as you would not even notice the castle's few remains.
Castle House Museum benefited from cannibalised stonework of the old castle. In 1822 the Provost of Glasgow, James Ewing, built Castle House, his castellated marine villa, now used by the council and the museum. It exhibits models, artefacts and photographs bringing the Dunoon of yesteryear to life.
Statue of "Hielan Mary"
At the foot of Castle Hill is an impressive statue of a bonnie lass known as "Hielan Mary", erected in 1896. Mary Campbell was a Dunoon born lass who became one of Robert Burns' more serious lovers. Despite Robbie being already married it was an intense affair and Burns became engaged to Mary. This was the time when he was obsessed with emigrating to the West Indies and wrote "Will you go to the Indies, my Mary?" making it clear that his wife was not part of the plan. Speculations abound as to why the plan never transpired and not long afterwards Mary sadly died, aged 22.
The above image displays Dunoon Castle's few remaining pieces of stonework around the flagpole on the top of Castle Hill where the views down the Firth of Clyde are magnificent and the only reason to be there. Additionally, Castle House Museum is to the right almost in the centre of the image while Hielan Mary's Statue is in the foreground. On the right-hand side is a very small part of the grand Victorian Harbour where the Paddle Steamer Waverley, in the foreground, used to tie up on her visits to Dunoon.
North of Dunoon
Kilmun Arboretum and its magnificent variety of large conifers, managed by the Forestry Commission and part of the National Tree Collections Scotland, and on the Holy Loch's northern shore, is a very pleasant afternoon's walk under the canopy of large conifers, all of which originated from different parts of the world.
After much forest depletion because of the First World War, Kilmun was set up as an experimental station to evaluate different types of conifers with a view to replacing the depleted forests. For the energetic there is a path connecting to Puck's Glen with wonderful views of Argyll.
The Holy Loch, according to tradition, was named after a ship from the Holy Land which foundered here when carrying soil destined for Glasgow Cathedral's foundations. It was taken for granted that the holy soil had sanctified the waters of the loch. It is also a nostalgic destination for former US navy personnel who were based here when the Holy Loch was a US nuclear submarine base last century.
Continue further along the north shore of the Holy Loch and then into Loch Long to Blairmore with its small pier edging its way into Loch Long. This little village is well worth considering as a base for your Argyll adventures, especially at the delightful Pier House which you cannot miss. The Blairmore Gallery, adjacent to the jetty, is a renowned stop over for the best scones in Argyll as well as the delicious lunches and art gallery. It also keeps a stock of interesting books on local history which you will not find anywhere else.
On certain days, depending on tides and other weather conditions the Paddle Steamer Waverley embarks and dis-embarks passengers who have decided to admire the Loch Long scenery from the middle of this sea loch. Incidentally much of the coastline can only be admired in this way as there are no roads and limited access on either side. There are good reasons for this, discover why on board the Waverley.
Ardintinny, a small attractive village situated on the shores of a pretty bay on Loch Long is ideal for a quiet picnic. After eating think about the Flowers of the Forest Trail which meanders through oak woodland where you can discover some of the native flowers and plants of the area. For the ambitious walker consider the 11 km Ardintinny to Carrick Castle route through the forest circumventing Creachan Mor (657m).
South of Dunoon
From Dunoon there are tremendous views of the Firth of Clyde all the way down past Ailsa Craig on a clear day. In the above image you have three islands in the "Gloaming", a natural effect achieved in the right conditions during evening. From the left you have the northern edge of the Isle of Cumbrae while in the distance you can just make out the highest peak on the Isle of Arran, namely Goatfell. The nearest island on the right is the Isle of Bute with the mainland road heading south from Dunoon on your immediate right.
Innellan is a small village on the mainland road heading south where you will find the last and most southerly pub on the Cowal Peninsula. A stop off at the lighthouse at Toward Point presents views of the Isle of Bute and the passing ferry on its way between Wemyss Bay and Rothesay. On early mornings it can be so peaceful you can hear inquisitive seals surfacing to check you out.
The hills in the area offer great short walks with marvellous views all round and you are almost guaranteed not to meet a living soul, just nature at its best. At the most southerly tip of Cowal explore the Ardyne and Clyde View Walk, a short climb through the forest for superb views over to Rothesay and the Isle of Bute, Cumbrae and the Firth of Clyde.
Isle of Bute
Easy to reach from mainland Scotland from Wemyss Bay to Rothesay, Bute is a peaceful haven for undulating landscapes, sheltered coves and expansive sandy bays. There is another ferry link to the mainland, recommended for departure if continuing your tour of Highland Argyll.
Rothesay Castle
At the centre of the town is Rothesay Castle, a ruined castle which dates back to the 13th century but is still worth a visit to explore its fascinating history involving the Vikings. It’s also famous for its association with the House of Stewart – both while they were hereditary high stewards and, from 1371, a royal dynasty. To this day, the heir to the throne still has the title Duke of Rothesay.
In 1098, Edgar of Scotland gave up the Hebrides, including Bute, to Norway – the result of Viking raids since around 800. But the king’s descendants were set on recovering the islands. Walter, the 3rd High Steward, probably built the first stone castle in the early 1200s, as a defence against the Norwegians. It soon became clear why such a formidable castle was needed. In 1230, Haakon IV of Norway ordered his liegemen to sail into the Clyde and capture Rothesay. This they did, after a three-day siege and much loss of life. But thereafter they were soon forced to retreat. The Norse returned in 1263, this time led by the king himself. They retook the castle, and would doubtless have done more damage, but a violent storm scattered their longships. After an inconclusive skirmish at Largs, the Norse retreated. Haakon died in the Bishop’s Palace, Kirkwall, on his return to Norway. Three years later, the Hebrides to were again part of Scotland under Alexander III. After it became a royal castle various works were undertaken by the Stewart monarchs, including adding the impressive gatehouse and St Michael’s Chapel. |
The heir to the British throne, Prince Charlie, is known as the Duke of Rothesay when in Scotland. This practice was started by King Robert III, who regularly resided at Rothesay Castle, and first granted the title to his son David in 1398. The title was given to the heir of the Scottish throne until the Union of the Crowns in 1603. Unlike the equivalent English title of Duke of Cornwall, there is no land attached in the form of a Duchy.
Mount Stuart is the ancestral home of the Marquis of Bute, the main landowner on Bute. In 1877, after the original house was destroyed by fire, the third Marquis employed Robert Rowan Anderson to design the present Victorian masterpiece. As you can see
it is an immense house, but it is the interior which reflects Mount Stuart's majesty. The house is packed with treasures intricately designed and thought out. It not only reflects the history and importance of the family who owned it but it defines the family. When it was built it had all the up-to-date "mod cons" of the day, being the first house in Scotland to be lit by electricity and the first to have an indoor heated swimming pool. Surrounding the house are 3oo acres of delightful gardens.
The visitor centre and restaurant compliment your visit with perfect hospitality and food possibilities as well as a range of gifts and mementoes of your visit. This will be an unforgettable highlight of your tour of Highland Argyll!
Have you ever watched a game of shinty? Do you know how to play the game? Visit the Bute Highland Games and discover what the game is all about by watching the juniors play. Their enthusiasm is infectious. Although Games were held on Bute in earlier times, their exact history is unclear. The modern Games, as we know them, began in 1947 under the auspices of Bute Shinty and the Amateur Athletic Sports’ Club. These Games have gradually grown in status and strength to their present position as one of the major events on the Highland Games’ calendar. |
Rhubodach is Bute's ferry link to "Colintraive" on the Cowal Peninsula where, in the past, cattle were made to swim across the Kyles of Bute on their way to the markets in lowland Scotland. As you can now imagine this is the shortest ferry crossing in Scotland taking minutes and if you are lucky they will be waiting especially for you to arrive to up anchor and off they go.
This is a stunningly beautiful part of Highland Argyll as you are in the renowned Kyles of Bute.
Kyles of Bute
One of Scotland's most romanticised stretches of water, the narrow straits known as the Kyles of Bute, more than live up to their reputation. A paradise for yachtsmen, boats large and small as well as canoeists, the Kyles are best admired from the viewpoint above Colintraive, where the view to the Isle of Bute is truly awe inspiring.
Tighnabruaich Viewpoint
Highland Argyll is not short of breathtaking panoramas but the Tighnabruaich Viewpoint must be a contender for one of the top prizes. It overlooks Loch Riddon and takes in the beautiful Kyles of Bute stretching all the way along the southern edge of the Cowal Peninsula on your left and the Isle of Bute on the right, with the Firth of Clyde and Ayrshire in the distance. Look closely and you might spot the CalMac ferry, about to leave Colintraive on its way across to Rhubodach.
Oban & Lorn
Inveraray
The small town of Inveraray is claimed as a striking example of town planning, 18th century style, when the 3rd Duke of Argyll wanted to site his new castle with an unspoilt view of Loch Fyne. No problem for the chief of the Clan Campbell, he simply demolished the old settlement to build his new grand castle and re-housed the villagers in the attractive Georgian houses making up the Main Street. The duke also provided them with an elegant new neo-classical church, All Saints, which originally had a unique feature. It was divided into two distinct parts, one for services in English and the other for Gaelic speakers, still a much used language in Argyll in the 18th century. The free standing Bell Tower was a much later addition to commemorate those Campbells who fell in World War I. It has ten bells which are reputed to be the second heaviest in the world.
Inveraray Castle stands in its own grounds to the north of the town, and is an elegant four square stately home designed to tell the world that the Campbells, Dukes of Argyll, belonged to one of the most powerful families in the land.
Incidentally the "Disneyesque" features were a much later alteration to the castle. The castle contains important treasures including portraits by Gainsborough, Ramsay and Rayburn, superb furniture, and a mind boggling array of weaponry. The dirk, or traditional Highland dagger, used by Rob Roy is part of the collection. The grounds of the castle are extensive with pretty walks by waterfalls on the River Aray. For the more energetic consider the climb up to the Dun Na Cuaiche where the views are stunning. Take your camera!
Inveraray Jail
A popular Inveraray attraction, especially for the kids, is the Inveraray Jail, yet another thoughtful planning addition from the 3rd Duke. You can find out at the stately Georgian Courthouse and the bleak prison cells which have been converted into an award winning imaginative museum where the horrors of prison life are re-acted. See the once cramped, cold and damp Old Prison compared to the New Prison, state of the art at the time, with furnished cells which tell the story of this model prison and its prisoners. Torture, death, and damnation were the order of the justice system several centuries ago and you can talk to the warders, prisoners and matrons about their life in Inveraray Jail. There is one piece of advice for parents. No matter how sorely pressed you might be and how tempting it might be to forget your children and leave them in jail you will pay the ultimate price of 18th century justice. |
Para Handy was once a popular TV series based upon the imaginatively penned books of Inveraray's most famous son, Neil Munro (1863 - 1930), writer and journalist. You might be tempted to read one of his books, many of which are for sale locally. Don't forget to look out for them.
Discover Britain’s finest example of a Himalayan-style garden on the banks of Highland Argyll's Loch Fyne. Lady Campbell started Crarae Garden in 1912 and it now includes the national collection of southern beech, eucalyptus and eucryphia. It is considered to be one of the finest woodland gardens in Scotland with rare trees and exotic shrubs which thrive in the mild climate. For a fine dazzling display of colour, the more than 400 varieties of rhododendrons and azaleas await you in the spring and summer months. A rich collection of deciduous trees adds colour and fire to autumn. There are walks in the sheltered woodlands where you can see a spectacular gorge. The Scottish Clan Garden features a selection of plants associated with the Argyll Clans. |
Lochgilphead
The little town of Lochgilphead which overlooks Loch Gilp on your way south from Inveraray is an ideal place to stop for sustenance with some excellent eating establishments in the town; but the real reason is to take your time deciding whether you are about to take a right hand turn, towards Oban, or a left hand one further south to Campbeltown. Nothing better than making momentous decisions with a fine pub lunch in the Argyll Inn or the Stag Hotel. You would not be the first to ponder such a decision as in the 18th century the powers to be had a similar issue. The best mode of transport in those days was still by sea as it had been for millennia beforehand. Transport by sea had to be shortened to the west and hence the Crinan Canal was an inspired solution.
Now known as Scotland's most beautiful shortcut it starts at Ardrishaig, a few kilometres south of Lochgilphead, and skirts the town as it heads across the peninsula towards the village of Crinan on the west coast and ostensibly the Atlantic Ocean, after dodging a few islands of the Inner Hebrides. The road itself runs parallel with the canal offering you an insight to the marvellous work of the 18th and 19th century civil engineers, whether on foot, on your bike or in your car. It is about 15km long, has an average depth of three metres, rises more than twenty metres above sea level and despite such a short length has no fewer than 15 locks. In 1847 it got the royal seal of approval when Queen Victoria sailed its full length as part of her Highland tour.
Northwards Bound towards Oban
The Cairnbaan Hotel – This family run small hotel in tranquil surroundings in Cairnbaan, by Lochgilphead, overlooks the Crinan Canal. Over the years the hotel has hosted famous guests, including Royalty and Presidents. There is an à la carte menu, a bistro style menu and one specially for children so they cater for all tastes.
Knapdale Forest is bounded by the Crinan Canal in the north and the Sound of Jura in the west. The forest contains many walking, cycling and horse riding trails, whilst also having plenty of areas for fishing and picnics. Knapdale has a reputation for spotting otters but be sure to start earlier or stay late; they prefer dusk and dawn.
Kilmartin Glen
Kilmartin Glen is one of the most unique historic areas in Scotland as well one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe, having seen human activity and occupation since the earliest times, when hunter gatherers moved into the area after the last ice age. More than 800 internationally significant ancient monuments have been identified within 10 kilometres of the quiet village of Kilmartin where ancient burial cairns, rock carvings, early Christian crosses and medieval castles are scattered.
Balance the ancient history with more modern history in the form of the Crinan Canal, build during the Industrial Revolution and still very much in use by yachting and boating enthusiasts.
Kilmartin Museum is the hub of the area and an excellent resource for learning all about the glen as well as enjoying the superb cafe and shop.
Temple Wood Circle
Kilmory Scultured Stones
Baluachraig Cup & Rings
Ballymeanoch Stones
A ceremonial landscape of standing stones, a henge and small cairn from about 4,000 BC
Scottish Sealife Sanctuary
Barcaldine Castle (Accommodation)
Tralee Beach is one of the best unspoilt beaches in the area, lying off the unmarked road to South Shian and Eriska, on Loch Creran
Ardchattan Priory (Historic Scotland)
Ardansaiseig Garden
Cruachan Power Station
Dalavich Oakwood Trail, Timber Walk and Loch Avich Trail
Arduine Gardens
The Loch Melfort Phenomena of 1821 (p205)
Southwards Bound for the Knapdale & Kintyre Peninsula
Knapdale and Kintyre
Knapdale Forest
Bounded by the Crinan Canal in the north and the Sound of Jura in the west. The unique Knapdale Forest contains many walking, cycling and horse riding trails, whilst also having plenty of areas for fishing and picnics.
Start your exploration of Knapdale’s many trails and highlights at the Forestry Commission managed Barnluasgan Information Centre where you can follow scenic trails to the peaceful lochs of Barnluasgan, Coille-Bharr and Dubh, all with good fishing for brown trout. Permits are available at local hotels and tackle shops. But you are really here to spot the beavers (better with binoculars), introduced in 2009; they successfully built lodges and raised families and settled down. Otters watching is best when you start early or stay late; these delightful creatures prefer dusk and dawn. Should you be unlucky enough to miss a sighting you are sure to at least see evidence of their work.
Look out for red squirrels, ospreys and eagles which are also in the area.
The Mull of Kintyre
Accommodation in Highland Argyll
This part of Scotland rarely has formal stuffy hotels; instead they do award winning restaurants, fine wines, open fires, comfortable resident lounges, stunning views, cosy bars, an abundance of single malt whiskies and relaxing atmospheres.
You might find one that does it all!