Things to do this Autumn in Argyll & the Isles
Autumn on Scotland’s Adventure Coast is magical. Blessed with the warming effect of the Gulf Stream, Autumn is the ideal season to explore the shimmering lochs, dramatic glens and island jewels of Argyll and the Isles. Whether it’s an adventure-packed day exploring our stunning coastlines on your bike, a day out with your family exploring woodlands and historic estates, or time spent relaxing, shopping and enjoying one of Argyll’s many foodie destinations, Argyll & The Isles have something to offer for everyone! Here are just some of our favourite things to do this autumn to experience Argyll & the Isles.
The Argyll Holidays Park at Loch Lomond is the perfect base for your autumn adventure.
Wild About Argyll Bikepacking Trail
At 655 km (407 miles) the Wild About Argyll Trail provides an amazing cycling adventure on gravel tracks, forest roads, single trails, quiet roads and cycle paths to discover Scotland's Adventure Coast. Starting in Helensburgh, the route takes in some of Argyll's most stunning locations, including Cowal, Kintyre, Oban, Loch Awe and Loch Lomond. And don’t worry, if you get tired, simply hop on a train from several stations along the road. Download the full route here. If you get tired, simply hop on a train from one of several stations located along the route. You can find the full route description here.
Bike Bute
Bute is the perfect place for a cycling mini-adventure. One of the best ways to see if Bute is to cycle the 23-mile loop that takes you right around the island. Bike Hire is available from Bike Bute, which is Scotland’s first island-based community e-bike scheme! Find out more about Bute here.
Jump upon a Seafari Adventure
There’s no better way to meet the locals of Argyll & The Isles than heading out with one of Seafari Adventure’s Wildlife tours. Jump on board an open rigid inflatable boat (RIB) and look for whales, porpoises, seals, dolphins, basking sharks, or maybe even a rare otter sighting. You will also experience the Gulf of Corryvreckan, the world’s third-largest whirlpool. Boats depart from the base at Easdale, Oban, Scotland.
Visit Loch Awe
Loch Awe is Scotland’s longest freshwater loch, stretching for 25 marvellous miles through glorious Highland landscape. It’s a sight to behold as you travel along the shore by car or by train towards Oban. But take the time to stop here and you’ll experience so much more. This stunning part of Scotland is still relatively unexplored and yet offers so much, from iconic castles to unforgettable wildlife encounters. Find more things to do around Loch Awe here.
Go to Portavadie Spa
After a busy day of exploring the beautiful area around Loch Fyne, check in to Portavadie, a Lochside spa resort and unwind. With a 16-meter indoor pool, outdoor spa pools, saunas, a Precor-equipped gymnasium and the largest heated outdoor infinity pool in Scotland it has something for everyone. Looking for something a little more rustic? Have a look at the campsite area.
Visit Inveraray Jail
Experience a different kind of lockdown at Inveraray Jail, a 19th-century prison. With the free audio guide downloadable to your smartphone, you can experience the true stories of what life was like for the men, women and children – some as young as seven – who were tried and locked up here all those years ago whilst you step into the original cells and the historic country courtroom. Inveraray is a great place to spend a day with independent shops, fantastic places to eat and other visitor attractions.
Explore Ardkinglas Estate
Autumn in Argyll & the Isles is known for its vibrant colours and wonderful walks. One of the most popular trails is the Gruffalo Walk in the Woodland Garden of the Ardkinglas Estate on the shores of Loch Fyne. The short trial uses boards showing selected extracts from the Scots version of the famous book to link the story to the setting of this special corner of the Woodland Garden. The Woodland Garden is open all year round.
Horse riding through Scotland's natural wilderness
How about exploring Scotland’s Adventure Coast on hooves? With Wilder Ways you can ride through over the rolling hills and beautiful beaches of Kintyre’s Southend, exploring some of Scotland’s best-kept secrets. Wilder Ways has a horse for all levels of rider experience to ensure that you are in safe ‘hooves’. Book your half-day and day rides and trail riding holidays here.
Try the Taste of Place Trails
Are you ready to experience and relish a taste of Argyll and the Isles? There is something for everyone. If you have a sweet tooth, love freshly caught seafood, have a hankering for vegan delights or want to indulge in farm produce, you can find it in Argyll! Get inspired by our five taste trails across Scotland’s Adventure Coast. So, work up an appetite and start planning your autumn feast!
