Places to visit near Lochgilphead
There are plenty of interesting places to visit near Lochgilphead. Here are a few we recommend.
The Arts in Argyll
Crear (an inspirational and unique resource)
Crear, space to create, is an inspirational working space with accommodation on the west coast of Scotland, connecting individuals and organisations across the arts worldwide through innovative residencies and collaborations. The studio and rehearsal space, with
accommodation for up to 18 people, provides a unique resource to hire for special occasions and celebrations, holidays and retreats, arts and business. When staying at the Grey Gull Inn, check out our website for concerts and events over the summer months.
Crear is fully licensed for weddings and civil partnerships, including the grounds surrounding the house and all the way down to the sandy beach and rugged coast. Set in a magical landscape on the west coast of Scotland, it is the perfect space for bespoke weddings and civil ceremonies, large and small. We offer complete flexibility to host your celebration in understated luxury, complete privacy, and a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. For guests invited to a wedding at Crear, the Grey Gull Inn is an ideal place to stay.
www.crearweddings.co.uk and www.lovecrear.com.
Interesting places in Mid Argyll
Climb to the top of Dunadd Hill, just a few miles from the hotel, and you will follow in the footsteps of Scotland’s ancient kings. Dunadd was the capital of the Scottish kingdom of Dalriada in 500AD.
There are more than 350 ancient monuments within a six-mile radius of the village of Kilmartin : 150 of them are prehistoric. Visit the standing stones and cairns scattered throughout the valley. Kilmartin House Museum is a visitor centre for local archaeology and landscape interpretation. www.kilmartin.org
Built between 1565 and 1572, Carnasserie Castle is on a ridge above the Kilmartin valley. A short walk takes you up to this magnificent castle. Although now a ruin, you can still climb the steps for magnificent views of the valley.
Kintyre
The colourful fishing village of Tarbert is well worth a visit. Tarbert is a yachtsman’s paradise with a safe harbour and is a popular stopping off point for boats heading out to the west coast through the Crinan canal. A short walk above the village is the ruined Tarbert Castle, seen as strategically important and so rebuilt and extended by Robert the Bruce in 1325.
The drive from Tarbert to Campbeltown offers magnificent views of the islands of Gigha, Jura, Islay and even Northern Ireland on a clear day.
South of Campbeltown is the road to Southend and to the Mull of Kintyre. The direct road is about 8 miles to Southend with a further 8 miles of single track road out to the lighthouse on ‘the Mull’.
www.kintyre.org
Inveraray
Just half an hour’s drive from the hotel is the scenic Royal Burgh of Inveraray.
Visit Inveraray Jail, one of Scotland’s top visitor attractions. The Jail is a living museum, and gives an insight into what life was like for prisoners of old. Visit website www.inverarayjail.co.uk for further information.
Inveraray Castle is the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll and is open to visitors throughout the summer months. www.inveraray-castle.com
Auchindrain Museum is an original highland township of great antiquity, typical of the many which once existed throughout the highlands of Scotland, but which are now long gone. The conserved buildings of the township have been furnished and equipped, presenting to visitors a fascinating glimpse of the true lives of the highlanders. www.auchindrain.org.uk
Oban
Just under an hour’s drive takes you to Oban, “gateway to the isles”. This bustling town provides plenty of shopping opportunities
In the heart of the main street is Oban Distillery, which offers guided tours throughout the year. Tel 01631 572000
North of Oban is The Scottish Sealife Sanctuary. Nestling amidst the pine trees on the shores of picturesque Loch Creran, the centre combines a spectacular aquarium with a busy rescue and rehabilitation facility for both common and grey seal pups. www.sealsanctuary.co.uk
For lots more information and ideas, visit www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk
