Tourist activities near Lochgilphead
There are many local activities within a short distance from The Grey Gull Inn. You can see from the extensive list below that you’ll most definitely not not be short of things to do – something for everybody.
Boat Trips
With Loch Fyne on our doorstep and the Atlantic close by, what better way to experience the beauty of Argyll than on the sea.
Seafari Oban for an exhilarating trip to the Corryvreckan, Europe’s second largest whirlpool, and the chance to see a wealth of wildlife, why not join one of Seafari’s high speed adventures out of Easdale.
Tel: 01852 300003 – Website www.seafari.co.uk
For catamaran charter on Loch Fyne, there’s Loch Fyne Services.
Tel: 01546 886282 – Website www.lochfyne.co.uk
Clay Pigeon Shooting
Clay pigeon shooting is available at nearby Brenfield Farm.
Tel: 01546 603274 – Website www.brenfield.co.uk
Cycling Lochgilphead
Bicycles can be hired in Ardrishaig from a local social enterprise: Argyll Activities – ideal for a trip along the 9 miles of the Crinan Canal.
Tel: 01546 606930 – Website www.argyllactivities.co.uk
Also from Crinan Cycles in Lochgilphead, Tel: 01546 603511.
There are numerous mountain bike trails in the area, for all levels of skill and experience.
The Fire Tower Trail, by Lochgilphead, has a little bit of something for everyone, from gentle tracks to radical free-riding. The descents are awesome – but what comes down must first go up, so there are some challenging climbs as well. Fortunately the climbs give you an excuse to sit down and take in the stunning views before enjoying 7.4km of single-track. For details of this and other trails in the area, the Forestry Commission website has full descriptions and downloadable maps at – Website www.forestry.gov.uk
Diving in West Scotland
The West Coast of Scotland is ideal for diving, with some great wrecks to visit and lots of marine life to observe.
Loch Fyne Dive Charters is based in Tarbert. Contact Tel No 01880 820209
If you have never dived before, why not “Try a dive” at the Puffin Dive Centre near Oban? The centre is a top rated 5 Star PADI Career Development Centre and specialises in training to a superior level all the year round. From beginner to experienced instructor Puffin Dive Centre provides exceptionally high quality tuition on a personal attention basis.
Tel: 01631 566088 – Website www.puffin.org.uk
Horse riding
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, there’s horse riding for everyone at nearby Argyll Trail Riding. Beach gallops, trail rides and lessons amid stunning scenery. Tel: 01546 603274 – Website www.brenfield.co.uk
Swimming
If the weather’s warm, there’s some lovely beaches in the area for those brave enough to take to the sea. In particular, Crinan Ferry is a stunning beach where the Atlantic waters can be a touch warmer than elsewhere!
Mid Argyll Swimming Pool is just two miles away for those who don’t feel brave enough. Tel: No 01546 606676 – Website – www.macpool.org.uk
Walking near Lichgilphead
Crinan Canal is on our doorstep and is ideal for a leisurely stroll along the towpath. It’s nine miles from Ardrishaig basin to Crinan basin, though you can walk it easy sections. There’s always an enjoyable walk to be had as it passes through pretty countryside with the opportunity to watch the boats make their way along the canal and through the locks.
There’s lots of walks in the area including Ardrishaigs’ very own “39 Steps” Trail. For details of this and other trails in the area, the Forestry Commission website has full descriptions and downloadable maps at – Website www.forestry.gov.uk
The new Kintyre Way walk launched 12th August 2006. The route allows visitors to walk from Tarbert to Southend – approx 89 miles. Time to complete about 4-7 days (depending on ability). See www.kintyreway.com for more information
For the more adventurous, the nearest Munroes are just over an hour’s drive away.