Food
Days Out
Beach
Bike & Hike
Sports
Nature
Gardens
Activities
Historical
Eating & Drinking
Situated on Lachlan Bay, Inver Cottage serves coffees, light lunches and evening meals. Interestingly, it also has an arts and crafts shop full of artwork produced by local skilled artists and craftsmen.
The Oyster Bar is committed to producing and sourcing good food using sustainable methods. Enjoy a menu of traditional hearty dishes whilst taking in the breathtaking views.
Drink and dine at this wonderful establishment and take in the spectacular views of Mull and the Firth of Lorne. You can sample the large range of unique ales - some developed on Seil itself, and dine in the restaurant - serving local produce such as lamb, beef and of course fish.
Popular with locals and seafood enthusiasts, Fin's specialties include lobster, oysters, scallops, home-smoked salmon and homely puddings. Housed in a converted barn with a conservatory extension, it's lively, friendly and informal.
Bossards is a small, friendly patisserie and coffee shop selling all home produced breads, cakes, soups, quiches and delicious sandwich fillings.
Fun Days Out
Quadmania - 11.9 Miles (19 KM)
Quadmania is the place to go for outdoor pursuits in Scotland, it offers fun thrills and excitement to all its visitors. Set in more than 2,000 acres there is ample space to carry out the range of activities they offer including, quad biking, archery, clay shooting, gorge walking, mountain biking, rock climbing, abseiling, kayaking and sailing. Quadmania is conveniently located just over an hour from Glasgow in the stunning and dramatic Cowal Peninsula in Argyll. The activities range in age and ability so everyone can get involved in something and have fun. Quadmania offers great value for money and even offers multi-activity packages offering even better value, there is a package to suit all budgets. The staff are brilliant so friendly, professional and helpful and safety is paramount here, before you partake in any activity you are given a full safety briefing. All equipment is provided and it is well maintained so you don't need to take anything along. The quad trails incorporate a range of terrains and are therefore quite challenging but fun and the views are gorgeous, a great experience. If you are looking for something a little different that is fun and exciting then head to Quadmania for a fabulous time you will not be disappointed with your time here, in fact you will leave wanting to return to try another activity.
Spend some time in the factory and see how the chocolates are made...then take a seat and eat some!
Glasgow Delta Force Paintball offers fast paced fun for everyone! Test your mettle by exploring the battlefield without being discovered by the opposing team. Paintball days are offered as well as services for parties and youth groups. Delta Force even caters to the youngest paintball soldiers, with mini-paintball for 8 to 10 year olds.
Beach
No recommended Beach found within 30 miles of this property.
Biking & Hiking
A lofty range of mountains to the north of Glen Croe includes Ben Ime, the highest peak at 3,318ft. There are three other 'Munroes' (mountains over 3,000ft), but the best known peak, because of its curious rock formation summit, is 'The Cobbler' (Ben Arthur).
Argyll Forest Park welcomes visitors all year round and offers forest walks, mountain paths, spectacular views, car parks and picnic areas, cycle trails, horse riding and fishing.
Golf & Sports
Quadmania - 12 Miles (19.2 KM)
You can tear up the turf on quad-bikes and shoot clays targets in the morning then kayak secluded lochs, explore ancient gorges and take an exhilarating rib-boat ride in the afternoon. Quadmania will organise your dream day in the stunning scenery of Argyll.
Based at Prestwick Airport, Mountain and Glen offers a range of carefully created adventures enabling anyone and everyone to experience the outdoors in a safe but challenging environment.
Well established in the outdoor adventures field, Hebridean Pursuits holds a comprehensive AALA licence to work with young people under the age of 18 on the Hebrides and West Coast of Scotland and in particular the islands of Mull, Tiree, Rum and the Outer isles.
A great way to enjoy kayaking with single or multi-day trips and courses for individuals and small groups, for beginners and the more advanced. Coaching and guiding is provided by British Canoe Union qualified instructors.
Nature Reserves
No recommended Nature Reserves found within 30 miles of this property.
Gardens & Woodlands
The enchanting garden at Benmore lies in the magnificent mountainside setting of the Eachaig Valley. Among its many delights, a steep area of hillside has been developed to create plantings to represent the different flora of Bhutan, Chile, Japan and Tasm
Ardencraig Gardens are located close to Rothesay on the Isle of Bute. The current gardens were previously part of the larger layout devised by Percy Cane for the owners of nearby Ardencraig House. Ardencraig Gardens are essentially a walled garden and were attained by Rothesay Town council in 1970 with the purpose of being used to forge a propagation, education and show garden. The gardens are well laid out and are beautifully maintained and are home to a lovely selection of native and exotic plants, flowers, shrubs and trees. When in bloom the gardens are a riot of colour and the air around is full of delicious fragrances. Within the glasshouses you will find a range of more exotic plant species such as orchids and cactus. Across from the gardens is a tearoom as well as a number of aviaries housing a selection of exotic bird species together with information about their natural habitat. Some of the plants on display are for sale. The gardens are open throughout the year and there is no charge for entry but they do accept donations. Ardencraig Gardens are charming and beautiful with a lovely tranquil atmosphere and offer something for all ages, children will love the aviary, the gardens are well worth a visit especially on a nice day.
Ardkinglas Woodland Garden is set on a hillside overlooking Loch Fyne and contains one of the finest collections of conifers in the British Isles. Although a garden for all seasons, its most spectacular time is spring and early summer.
Home to the Earls of Glasgow, Kelburn is a fun day out for the whole family with a working pottery, falconry, assault course and a secret forest.
Geilstown Garden can be found on the banks of the Clyde within, a small country estate. The whole estate is beautifully maintained, unfortunately the house is not accessible as it is undergoing renovations. The gardens were created more than 200 years ago and to this day are a delight, some of the nice features here are the walled garden and a burn, winding through the glen, a kitchen garden and woodland area. Within the walled garden is an impressive 100ft Wellingtonia tree in the heart of the lawn, during the summer this area is a riot of colour and aromas from the beautiful planting here. The Geilston Burn passes through the north end of the estate in the direction of the Clyde in Cardross. All seasons bring different things to see and experience here, so there is no best time to visit. During the summer they sell the plants and vegetables that are grown here. What will strike you is the peace and tranquillity here within this little haven. There is a tour guide who can take you around these lovely gardens and the forest walk and explain how the gardens came about and the many species of flower here, or you can wander on your own using the map provided. If you are in the area you should not miss Geilstown Gardens they are a real treat and make for a lovely place to pass a few hours in a relaxed setting.
Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is probably one of the most picturesque and impressive places to visit. The area is simply stunning, beautiful scenery, impressive mountains and glens, the beautiful Loch Lomond and so much to see and do, in this part of Scotland. This national park acts as a stage for so many activities both land and water, with everything from, sedate walks along the shore to canoeing and adrenalin mountain bike experiences, horse riding, golf, climbing, wildlife watching, water skiing, fishing, sailing and windsurfing to name a few. During the year an enormous choice of events take place including, nature walks, arts and crafts, Lochtoberfest, food and drink festivals and much more, it is worth checking the calendar of events to see what is on. A great way of getting around and seeing the many aspects of the park is on the water bus, it links many locations and runs from spring well into autumn. There are so many trails and walks, all are clearly marked and state difficulty, do some research on the parks Website to decide exactly what you want to see and do during your time here. The Visitor Centres are a great place to get information and also have facilities such as cafes, shops, information on guided tours, some have small cinemas with a light and sound show, working demonstrations of different crafts. Other areas of interest in the park are the children's play area and the high rope adventure park. You will not be stuck for things to do here, the problem will be fitting everything in. You could not find a more beautiful and interesting place to visit, you will be atounded by all there is to see and do.
Local Attractions
Puck's Glen is an extremely popular walk here in Dunoon and it is not surprising, it is a truly beautiful and enchanting place. The walk covers about 2 miles and takes about an hour to an hour and a half to complete the loop. There are a number of routes and they are all well marked so you won't go astray. Your walk will incorporate many features including, rocky steps, some unprotected drops, rocky crops, bridges, woodland, mosses and ferns, lush and vibrant plants as well as babbling brooks. The gorge walk or meditation walk is lovely, it is like walking through an enchanted forest, with the light filtering through trees, you will also find little sayings/quotes as you go along as well as little things to do, a nice addition to his wonderful walk. The views are fantastic and the cascading waterfalls are simply stunning. It is best to wear suitable footwear and take along some refreshments as there is nowhere along the route to get any. It is well worth getting up early to catch the sunrise here in Puck's Glen it is magnificent. If you are in the region then you must talk the time to walk this route you will be entranced by the sheer beauty and tranquillity of Puck's Glen.
Kathleen Cameron is a Blue Badge Scottish Tourist Guide, who is a native of Scotland, and has a true comprehension and ardour for her homeland. A fully qualified licenced driver-guide, she is willing to share this passion and expertise with you to ensure that you get the most from your time in Scotland. Kathleen is happy to organise your travel plans and take you on tours of the region. Kathleen will accommodate people on an individual basis for a personalised tour in one of a number of modern vehicles, to bigger coach parties. In addition to tours in English she can also offer tours in Spanish. During your time here you can partake in Island hopping, boat trips and train excursions, walking tours of the many cities and towns or the stunning Scottish countryside, these can all be organised to suit your requirements. You might consider do I need a guide and the answer is most definitely, Kathleen can enhance your experience of Scotland immensely, you will get a true insight into the culture, history and geography of this magnificent land. In addition you will be shown the best places to see not necessarily the most popular and the best way to travel between places, a true insight into Scotland. Kathleen is fun, amiable and a bundle of energy and above all a true professional. If you want to see the real Scotland whilst here then don't hesitate to get in contact with Kathleen.
Loch Fyne Whiskies is located in the West Highlands of Scotland and specialises in selling only whisky and whisky associated items, it is probably the finest whisky shop around. This unusual and interesting shop is a treasure trove for those who appreciate the finesse of whisky, it is like walking into a wonderland, the shelves are laden with hundreds of bottles of all types of whisky from single malts to blended malts, whisky liqueurs and grain whiskies. The selection is outstanding and sourced locally. Also stocked here are miniatures, books, hip flasks, glassware, whisky confectionery, whisky preserves, jugs, quaiches and measures. They are happy to let customers sample a range of whisky's until you find one that suits you. The staff are friendly, approachable and knowledgeable and will chat away about whisky's or guide you in making a choice if you are unsure of what to buy. The prices are reasonable and the quality is first class. If you are in the area call in and see for yourself what a great shop it is.
Mount Stuart is on the Isle of Bute and located about five miles from the town of Rothesay. The house dates to the nineteenth century and is a neo gothic mansion, and represents a real Victorian extravagance and is a definite display of the family's wealth at the time. It is a house that was ahead of its time and is referred to as a house of innovation. It was a technological advanced house being the first home in the world to have a heated indoor swimming pool. It was also the first house in Scotland to be purpose built with electric light, central heating, a telephone system and a Victorian passenger lift all still being in use today. This impressive and majestic home is an architectural delight with many wonderful features. It has a sumptuous, lavish and ornate decor with real attention to detail and is decorated with intricate wood carvings, antique furniture, fine paintings and woven carpets. Areas of interest in the house include the Marble Hall, Dining Room, Marble Staircase, Gallery, Lady Bute Room, Family Bedroom, Horoscope Room, Drawing Room, Purple Library and Marble Chapel. The gardens are equally intriguing and are divided into various sections including the Rock garden, Wee Garden, Kitchen Garden, Calvary Walk and Pinetums. The gardens are home to an array of native and exotic plants, flowers and trees and are beautifully planted. The woodlands and colourful landscapes compliment each other and it is a real sensual delight full of colour and fragrant aromas when in bloom. The house and gardens are open to visitors from the end of March through to early October daily, however guided tours are only available Monday, Tuesday and Thursday . You can choose to visit just the house or gardens or buy a combination ticket or even a season ticket, full details are on the website. The guides are excellenct, friendly and jovial and really knowledgeable, the tours are interesting and informative and given at just he right level to entertain everyone and interspersed with lots of stories too. Mount Stuart is one of the most extravagant, spectacular and historic houses around and has so much to see during a visit, a must when visiting the Isle of Bute or Glasgow.
Argyll Adventure offers fun and excitement to all with lots of activities available, in a stunning location in the Argyll countryside and near Loch Fyne. Activities on offer here include horse riding, children's pony rides, horse riding instruction and lessons, paintballing, paintball range, laser storm, crossbow range, climbing walls and bungee trampolines. The facilities here are excellent and clean and well maintained, as is the equipment and horses. They provide all the safety equipment and gear needed for whatever activity you are taking part in. There is a real emphasis on safety here and before every activity the staff give a full safety briefing. The staff are professional, friendly and helpful and will ensure that your day is fun and safe. Pony treks take in the stunning surrounding countryside and the guides give lots of information on the region. There is a cafe that serves a nice selection of hot and cold dishes and snacks, or there are picnic areas if you want to take along your own food. You can mix and match the activities you want to do, it is entirely your choice how few or many you do. There are activities to suit all ages and abilities here so suitable for everyone. Argyll Adventure ensures a fun and exciting day for all, if in the area you must come along to experience the hospitality and fun for yourself, you are assured no one will leave with a sad face!
Ben Lomond - 23.5 Miles (37.6 KM)
Ben Lomond is a popular munro that rewards climbers with the most astounding views from its summit, on a clear day you can see the length of Loch Lomond and for miles around. It is a relatively difficult climb with several steep sections, mainly at the beginning and the end of the climb. The climbing distance is about 12 kilometres and will take about five hours. There are flat areas where you can catch your breath. The final ascent again becomes steeper and involves zigzag walking, although the views from the top are worthwhile. Ensure you have the correct gear and check the weather before your assent and you will be rewarded with a great climb and hopefully some wonderful views and photo opportunities.
Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre is located along the banks of the loch within the Loch Lomond Shores complex. The location is the perfect setting for the centre as it provides a natural environment for the majestic birds who are homed here. The centre is home to thirty six birds of prey and owls and encompasses birds of all sizes, you will encounter a little owl, kestrels, buzzards, hawks, falcons, eagles and a golden eagle. All those working with the birds are committed and passionate and have a real respect for these magnificent birds. The birds are well cared for and appear very contented, their enclosures are very clean and there is lots of information pertaining to the different birds. During a visit you will be able to get close to the birds and will learn so much about them. They offer a number of activities where you can personally spend time with some of the birds or even become a keeper for a day, full details are on the website. They are open seven days a week throughout the year. The owner Stewart is really friendly and passionate and will happily chat away about the birds and the work he does here, a real pleasure to meet. Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre is a real experience and one not to be missed, the birds are so impressive and you learn so much during a visit. Highly recommend one of the experiences if you have an interest in birds of prey, you won't be disappointed.
Historical & Heritage Sites
Auchindrain is an original township of great antiquity typical of the many which once existed throughout the Scottish Highlands. The conserved buildings have been furnished and equipped to present a fascinating glimpse of the true lives of the Highlanders.
Auchindrain Highland Farm Township is a prime example of how a Highland farm township or small farming community operated more than two hundred and fifty years ago, it is the last remaining township surviving until 1963. These townships were of major importance in the running of the rural countryside and in Scotland's history. This 21 acre site is Category A listed and is identified as being of national importance, and is certainly one of a kind. Situated in the breathtaking Argyll landscape, visitors get a captivating insight into the harsh life and work conditions they had in the old Highlands. As you stroll through the township, you will discover how the people lived, get to see the longhouses, complete with furniture, that they lived in together with their cattle and horses, all cosy under the one roof. There is even livestock running about the place. Your guide book will give all the information you need as you walk around. This unusual museum is open April through to October and there is a small entrance charge. The staff are so friendly and chatty and have lots of information available on the area. The cafe is warm and welcoming and a nice return to modern day civilisation, they serve a delicious array of home cooked food and specials, some days there are heritage dishes, they are reflective of what the locals would have eaten. The Visitor Centre has a shop with a large choice of books, local crafts and souvenirs. If in the area a visit to The Auchindrain Highland Farm Townshipis highly recommended, it is an interesting and unique museum that tells history in an interactive and informative way.
Historic building set in the gardens opposite the Pier, now a museum of local history. Exhibits, models and photographs tell the story from the Neolithic to the present day. There's a fine display of Clyde steamer models, and fully furnished Victorian parlour, kitchen, nursery and study.
Kilmartin House is home to an internationally acclaimed archaeological museum, which uses artefacts from nearby sites, reconstructions and interactive displays to examine the intricate relationship between the ancient landscape and its people over 5,000 years.
St Blane's Chapel dates back to the 12th century although the first Christian settlement is thought to date back to the 6th century. The chapel can be found around two miles from Kingarth and was constructed in a beautiful sheltered rocky dell close to the tip of a south facing slope and its elevated position affords lovely views out over the surrounding countryside, the Isle of Arran and the Holy Isle. The church was abandoned after the Reformation and feel into a state of disrepair and today it is just ruins that remain, although it is still pretty intact and you can see a number of the original architectural features. The romanesque arch between the nave and chancel is still intact. An enclosure wall encircles the monastic site of St. Blane's. Within the grounds of the churchyard are a number of weathered grave slabs one of which is a unique hogsback gravestone dating back to the time when Bute was a member of the Norse Empire. You will also see the remnants of a well and the foundations of a manse which was used up until 1587. Access is via a sign posted grassy track that leads from the car park to the site, there is a slight incline but the climb is relatively easy and not too far, it takes about ten minutes to get there. There is access to the site all year round and there are lots of information boards and plaques with the history of the chapel on them. St Blane's Chapel has a peaceful and serene ambience, take time to sit on one of the benches and enjoy the tranquillity and gorgeous views, well worth a visit.
Inveraray Jail offers a interactive museum experience, it is a living museum where actual people imitate what prison life was like in a 19th century prison, a real eye opener. During your time at this finely preserved jail, you will, see courtroom trials, chat to prisoners, meet the warder, spend some time in a cell and get a true feel, experience the punishments, and make your escape, you will be glad you did not have to undergo these extreme harsh conditions. There is an exhibition of prison artefacts and if ghost hunting is your thing, they operate special ghost hunting nights and paranormal investigations. It is a fascinating and intriguing attraction, that will appeal to all the family, offering fun and excitement. You can tour Inveraray Jail at your own pace and you will be impressed by the amount of information that you are told from interesting jail stories to lots of history, and what you will take away with you. There are a lot of stairs to climb so do bear this in mind before visiting. There is a gift shop that has some nice souvenirs. The entrance fee is very reasonable for what you are getting and everyone will enjoy their time here. Inveraray Jail is a delightful mix of education, information and atmospheric entertainment in genuine surroundings. Definitely worth the drive, if you are not in the immediate area or nearby.
Rothesay Victorian Toilets are located close to the gangway on Rothesay Pier on the Isle of Bute. They are probably the most splendid and fabulous example of late Victorian gents public convenience in Scotland and Britain. They are still open today to the public and cost 30p to visit or use. The facilities are spotless and excellently maintained and date back to 1899 when they were commissioned, at this time Rothesay was a bustling holiday resort. These unique conveniences are a testament to Victorian extravagance and were certainly built to impress. The interior is stunning, the walls are covered with decorative ceramic tiles, ornately patterned in rows. The floors are covered with ceramic mosaic and at the doorway have the crest of the Royal Borough of Rothesay. Three glass sided cisterns feed water to the urinals that passes through shining copper pipes. Most of the original fitments are still used and were supplied by Twyfords back in 1899 for the grand sum of £530. The toilets are run by volunteers who will gladly show any women around if they are empty and tell you the history of them. Rothesay Toilets are probably the most ornate and lavish public toilets you will ever see, a unique insight into a bygone era.
A favourite residence of the Stuart Kings, this is a wonderful example of a 13th century circular castle — its curtain wall is unique in Scotland. In the 16th century forework containing the great hall was added. (Some wheelchair access)
Discover some wonderful artwork in this magnificent 18th century castle. Its grand appearance gives way to an even more delightful interior with collectible muskets, axes and swords on display. Composed of Palladian, Gothic and Baroque architecture it has an impressive finish and is unmistakably Scottish.
The evocative ruins of a late 11th or 12th century castle with later additions, it is probably the oldest stone castle on the Scottish mainland.
Visit an ancient fort which signifies a clear example of Iron Age inhabitation. It has a dominant site on the island of Bute that is well worth a look.
Vikingar - 20.9 Miles (33.4 KM)
Relive the Viking experience in the stories told by the enthralling actors at Vikingar. Let them take you through over 500 years of turbulent history and piece together the culture, traditions and lives of this extraordinary group of settlers who changed the course of British history for ever.
The Cathedral of the Isles is recognised as Britains smallest Cathedral and dates back to 1851. It was constructed by George Frederick Boyle who subsequently became the 6th Earl of Glasgow, and represents Gothic Victorian architecture. It is part of a cluster of buildings that make up two residential buildings and a collegiate church that was designed by the renowned architect William Butterfield. Music has always played an integral part in the buildings history and today it is proud to be the home to a 1867 tracker action organ as well as Erard and Lipp pianos, the 1976 "Cumbrae" harpsichord in addition to its newest addition a Bösendorfer concert grand piano. The interior is charming with a number of features including some beautiful stained glass windows, wall tiles and paintings. There are some laminated sheets that provide a brief history and information on the instruments. This delightful Cathedral is not immediately obvious but is worth the effort to find it, it is located behind the town, in a lovely woodland setting, very pretty and tranquil making for an ideal place to take a nice walk. There are some steep steps to navigate to get into the church so might not be suitable for everyone. A number of concerts and music recitals are operated throughout the year and if you get the opportunity to go along to one of these don't miss it, you will not be disappointed, the Cathedral has the most amazing resonating acoustics. They rely on the generosity of visitors to keep this wonderful building going. The Cathedral of the Isles is a gem of a building, beautiful, serene and a place of reflection and well worth a visit if you are in the region.
