Background image - Aird Point Craignish Marc Pickering

Credit Marc Pickering

Couples Weekend in the Heart of Argyll

Recommended by local Heather

Escaping the humdrum and finding peace in this part of Argyll is why most visit, whether for a quiet romantic break, an activity holiday on the water, or to enjoy the wildlife, history and amazing scenery.

Immerse yourself in the Heart of Argyll

Taking time to enjoy your surroundings and the experiences on offer is paramount. The wildlife, scenery, and coastline are stunning, and it's certainly worth exploring.

Kilmartin Glen is a treasure trove of historic sites from the ancient burial cairns, carvings and standing stones that date back thousands of years, the hill fort of Dunadd that formed the centre of the Kingdom of Dalriata to the 16th Century remains of Carnasserie Castle and the slightly older Kilmartin Castle, which is now offered as luxury accommodation.

The nearby Kilmartin Museum is an excellent starting point for learning more about the local history. You can also join one of the museum’s free weekly history walks or hire a bespoke service from a local guide.

To the north, Inveraray boasts a fine day out with a visit to Inveraray Castle and Gardens, Inveraray Woollen Mill and the historic Inveraray Jail. The small town also has a bell tower housing some of the country’s finest bells and an excellent choice of cafes, restaurants and shops. Suppose you fancy seafood or the opportunity to tour a local brewery. In that case, lunch can be had at the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar, followed by a tour around the Fyne Ales brewery in the afternoon. The George, Ocho, Campbell Coffee, Cottage Restaurant and Samphire all offer superb food and drink.

Exploring the ancient rainforest, the Taynish National Nature Reserve, and the Moine Mhor National Nature Reserve, as well as the wildlife and coast of this incredible part of Argyll, is not to be missed.

There are many walks from easy saunters along the canal and around the Beaver Lochs to more rugged woodland, hill and coastal walks to fuel the appetite. In Summer, Polly’s Coffee Stop is a popular place to grab a coffee and cake whilst walking along the canal, and it’s not far to the Crinan Hotel or Tayvallich Inn for an excellent seafood lunch.

From Waterways to Villages

There are a number of boat tours available which offer wildlife and sightseeing trips. Where available, privately chartered boat trips can offer tailored experiences to suit, which could include coastal foraging and a Wild Food Picnic—a truly immersive experience.

In Summer, the Vic 32, the last steam-powered Clyde Puffer, also offers day trips through the Crinan Canal or down Loch Fyne (which can be booked as a bespoke, privately catered trip).

Waverley Excursions, the only seagoing paddle steamer in the world, offers seasonal trips from Tarbert and Ardrishaig.

If heading down to the fishing village of Tarbert, it is worth exploring the ruins of Robert the Bruce’s castle to gain excellent views over the picturesque harbour. Tarbert has several galleries and some excellent eateries, including Lulabelles, The Red Herring, and The Gather.

Sea fishing trips can also be arranged with Jenny Wren Boat Charter based near Craobh Haven. If heading that way, there is the opportunity to drop into Lucy’s of Ardfern for lunch or afternoon tea.

Days out ready to explore from the water and land. What will you do?

Unique Cultural Experiences

For an immersive experience in nature and Gaelic culture, Heathery Heights and Swim Dan the Merman (in conjunction with Highlands Rewilding) offer bespoke heritage and wellbeing tours connecting the land and sea near Tayvallich with guided foraging, calming cold water immersion, a three-course wild food picnic, Gaelic culture, language and traditions in a precious landscape that forms part of the Argyll Hope Spot.

Heathery Heights and Swim Dan the Merman can also offer separate guided and immersive experiences, including guided history walks, foraging experiences and wild swimming.

Nearby, the Argyll Beaver Centre offers weekly public walks with the opportunity to book a bespoke private 2-hour guided beaver walk with a Ranger near the freshwater lochs of Barnluasgan and Loch Coillebharr, which offers an excellent insight into the area’s wildlife.

Arts & Crafts

For those who like to immerse themselves in art and crafts, the area has a wide number of local artists, gift shops and local galleries, as well as the popular Artmap Argyll Open Studios every August.

Several local makers offer bespoke workshops, including Weaving Workshop Short Breaks and Basket Making.

Stones & Ruins

Knapdale, between Tarbert and the Crinan Canal, has several old chapels and sites with Celtic carved stones, including Keills Chapel near Tayvallich, Kilmory Knap Chapel south of Castle Sween, and the Kilberry Stones in South Knapdale. Standing stones and cup and ring marked rocks dot the landscape, with old Crannogs hidden amongst the freshwater
lochs.

At Kilmory, a delightful beach can be reached on foot, and the drive round the Kilberry road gives tremendous views over to Jura with the option to stop at the lovely little Kilberry Inn for dinner (from April - prior reservation only, rooms also available).

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Heart of Argyll in Pictures

Dun Mor Crinan Woods Viewpoint Marc Pickering (2)

Ready to plan your Heart of Argyll trip?

All you need to know

This list is just a suggestion of how you could spend your time in the Heart of Argyll. The region has a range of activities and experiences to suit everyone, across all seasons.

VISIT HEART OF ARGYLL

A place rich in natural and historic wonder, surrounding the scenic and popular waterway of the Crinan Canal.

Explore Kilmartin Glen Explore Inveraray

Crinan Canal on YouTube

STAY HERE

Find your place to stay from luxury hotels for a relaxing retreat to holiday parks and self catering options for adventure seekers, and everything in-between.

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