Out and About in the Area
Ideally situated in beautiful countryside and close to loch and sea, Loch Seil Cottages are surrounded by farmland with walks a-plenty, yet we are only a short drive from either the busy harbour town of Oban, the historic monuments of Kilmartin Glen, or the slate islands of Seil, Luing and Easdale. These islands are all within the Firth of Lorn Special Area of Conservation. There are plenty of pubs, hotels and restaurants within easy reach for dining out or take away.
Seil Island:
Seil is approached by the "Bridge over the Atlantic", an amazing single arch bridge built about 1792, built in such a high arch originally to let sailing ships pass through. Seil has a shop and post office at Balvicar, and ferry access to Easdale from Ellenabeich and to Luing from Cuan. It is also home to a Heritage Museum showing the way of life during the slate quarrying industry. There are many walks around the island offering views of the west side of the island where access is limited, and views out to sea.
Easdale and Luing:
The islands are reached by a short ferry ride from Seil. Easdale has no cars, you can just wander around the island visiting the old slate quarries and then the Folk Museum, or visit the cafe at the Puffer Bar. Luing is another of the slate islands and home to the famous Luing cattle, and has a recently built Atlantic Islands Centre - museum, shop and cafe. See the old slate workings and the slate-strewn beaches.
Kilmartin Glen:
The Kilmartin House Museum displays ancient artefacts found in an area rich with prehistoric sites, from Bronze Age and Neolithic times onwards. In Kilmartin Glen can be seen standing stones, burial cairns and numerous other ancient monuments, including Dunadd Fort where the ancient kings of Scotland were crowned. From the top of the Fort the view is fantastic up Kilmartin Glen and across to Crinan, and well worth the climb.
Gardens to Visit:
There are a large number of open gardens to visit in the area, from within 10 minutes drive to up to an hour away, and worth a visit at any time of year. Some have the added bonus of being able to buy plants to take home. Have a look at Gardens of Argyll and National Trust for Scotland.
Wander Argyll Culture, Heritage and Arts Trail
See the amazing diversity of culture, heritage and arts throughout Argyll on this map which shows the unique skills and activities of artists and crafters in Argyll, along with museums and heritage organisations - Wander Argyll Culture, Heritage and Arts Trail. Further information and a directory of members and organisations at Argyll and the Isles Culture, Heritage and Arts Assembly website.
Oban:
Oban is a busy commercial centre and harbour, offering varied shopping opportunities with independent retailers, craft shops and galleries. You can tour the Oban Distillery and visit the imposing McCaig's Tower overlooking the town and harbour. No trip would be complete without a visit to the Oban Chocolate shop. Independent ferry services run to Lismore and Kerrera and trips out to Iona and Staffa. CalMac ferries run to the islands of Barra, Coll, Colonsay, Mull, Lismore, South Uist, Islay and Tiree.
For more information see the Oban tourism website »
What's On: obanwhatson.co.uk can give up to date information on local events.
Further Afield:
Some of the further islands are within easy reach for a day's trip, for example Mull and Jura. Mull, Iona and Staffa are among the most popular "must do" visits, with the possibility of seeing some great wildlife while you're out on any of the ferries. Jura can be reached in the Summer by a passenger ferry from Tayvallich.
Northwards, Glen Coe with its wonderful vistas, walks and the beautiful and remote Glen Etive are within easy reach. A good circular route will bring you back via Glen Orchy. The Argyll Coastal Route will take you on to Fort William and Ben Nevis just a little further but well within reach for a day out. Whilst at Fort William, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is not far for any Harry Potter fans or steam railway enthusiasts.
Equally accessible is the old town of Inverary on Loch Fyne. Inverary has its magnificent castle, home to the Duke of Argyll, chiefs of the clan Campbell, and the town also boasts an historic jail, with interactive exhibits and live actors.
South on the Argyll Coastal Route is the small picturesque fishing port of Tarbert and the drive down the coast of the Kintyre Peninsular will take you to Campbeltown, and Machrihanish bay. A circular drive back up the east coast road gives stunning views to the Isle of Arran.
