Discover the West Highland Line
Argyll and the Isles is a region that lends itself to scenic journeys and perhaps the most scenic of all is by rail from Glasgow to Oban on the West Highland Line. This romantic route, operated by Scotrail, heads up the west coast of Scotland showcasing some of the nation’s most stunning scenery. It was voted the world's top rail journey by Wanderlust magazine, beating off 400 others, including the route of Machu Picchu in Peru and the Trans-Siberian express.
There’s no better way to experience the beauty of Argyll and the Isles. The journey takes three hours, so sit back, relax and enjoy the views as you pass majestic mountains, lush glens and tranquil lochs.
Most of the West Highland Line route lies inside Argyll. With stops at Dumbarton Central, Helensburgh Upper, Garelochhead, Arrochar & Tarbet, Ardlui, Crianlarich, Tyndrum, Lower, Dalmally, Loch Awe, Falls of Cruachan, Taynuilt, Connel Ferry and Oban, you can hop on and off at your leisure.
Helensburgh
After leaving Dumbarton and enjoying the stunning views over the Clyde, the second stop brings you to the lovely town of Helensburgh. Stroll through the tree-lined avenues, enjoy lunch in one of the many cafés and restaurants and check out the shops. One of the highlights of Helensburgh is Hill House – which is universally regarded as Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s finest domestic creation.
Arrochar & Tarbet
As you head further north, the scenery changes as you enter the Highlands. For walkers and climbers, the station at Arrochar & Tarbet is a jumping-off point for the famous Arrochar Alps. This rugged mountain range includes the famous Cobbler, one of Scotland’s most iconic – and best-loved – peaks. Alternatively, walk down to nearby Loch Lomond for boat trips on the loch and loch-side strolls. The line now switches from skirting seawater to a freshwater loch as it hugs the western shore of Loch Lomond north of Tarbet before arriving at Ardlui, another jumping-off point for walkers, particularly those tackling Ben Vorlich.
After briefly leaving Argyll, the line splits at Crianlarich – where some trains also separate with carriages taking different lines – and the route strikes west.
Loch Awe
Jump off at Loch Awe to visit the Scottish baronial-style St Conan’s Chapel, built in 1883. You’ll also get a great view of Kilchurn Castle, a marvellously evocative ruin on Loch Awe's shore. Kilchurn’s dramatic situation – at the head of the loch with the peak of Ben Cruachan visible behind – makes it one of the most photographed castles in Scotland.
Your next stop is the Falls of Cruachan. It’s a short walk from here to one of Scotland’s most incredible engineering projects. Cruachan Power Station is hidden deep within the mountain of Ben Cruachan on the shores of Loch Awe. You can tour inside the “Hollow Mountain” to witness this engineering marvel with your own eyes.
Taynuilt
At Taynuilt, visit Bonawe Iron Furnace, the most complete charcoal-fuelled ironworks in Britain, and the nine-hole Taynuilt Golf Club. Your penultimate stop is Connel Ferry before you roll into the bustling fishing port of Oban, the unofficial capital of the West Highlands. This lovely Victorian resort is a great place to spend a few days. It’s packed with shops, cafés and convivial bars.
Oban
Oban is known as ‘Scotland’s Seafood Capital’ and is the place to sample fresh seafood. Pop into Food From Argyll on the Pier to enjoy some of Argyll’s finest produce expertly prepared. There are plenty of things to see and do in Oban. Walk up to McCaig’s Tower, visit Dunollie Castle, take a tour of Oban Distillery and discover the best traditional music experience in Scotland. And if you’d like to see some of Argyll’s islands, CalMac operates ferry routes from Oban to Mull, Coll, Tiree, Colonsay and more. There are many boat operators based in Oban offering wildlife trips.
Places to Stay in Oban
Looking for a place to stay in Oban? The bustling town has many accommodations that cater to everyone's preferences. Here are some of our top recommendations for places to stay in and around Oban:
