Argyll and the Isles
We’ve compiled the best of the best in Argyll and the Isles - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
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1. Lochranza Castle
Perched above the bay, Lochranza is Arran's most picturesque ruin and occupies a special place in Scotland's history. It was here that Robert the Bruce, after years of dithering, returned from exile to commit himself to the war for Scotland's independence.
Off A841, Lochranza, North Ayrshire, KA27 8HL, Scotland0131-668–8800Sight Details
Rate Includes: Closed Oct.--Mar. -
2. Achamore House Gardens
Visit Achamore House Gardens in late spring to see its azaleas and its prize collection of rhododendrons ablaze with color. The island's mellow microclimate fosters these lush shrubberies.
Isle of Gigha, Argyll and Bute, PA41 7AA, Scotland01583-505390Sight Details
Rate Includes: Free, donations welcome -
3. Carnasserie Castle
The tower house of Carnasserie Castle is all that remains of this Renaissance structure. It has the distinction of having belonged to the writer of the first book printed in Gaelic. John Carswell, Bishop of the Isles, translated a text by the Scottish reformer John Knox into Gaelic and published it in 1567.
Off A816, Crinan, Argyll and Bute, PA31 8RQ, ScotlandSight Details
Rate Includes: Free -
4. Castle Sween
The oldest stone castle on the Scottish mainland, this 12th-century structure sits on a rocky bit of coast about 12 miles south of Crinan. From the northwest tower, known as the Latrine Tower, you can enjoy the dramatic views of the Paps of Jura.
PA31 8PT, Scotland -
5. Duncan Ban Macintyre Monument
The monument was erected in honor of this Gaelic poet (1724–1812), sometimes referred to as the Robert Burns of the Highlands. He fought at Culloden and wrote poetry and song in the language of the clans. The view from here is one of the finest in Argyll, taking in Ben Cruachan and the other peaks nearby, as well as Loch Awe and its scattering of islands. To find the monument from Dalmally, just east of Loch Awe, follow an old road running southwest toward the banks of the loch. You can see the round, granite structure from the road's highest point, often called Monument Hill.
Dalmally, Argyll and Bute, Scotland -
Recommended Fodor’s Video
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6. Islay Woollen Mill
Gorgeous tweed, plaid, and tartan clothing, wraps, and throws---woven at this historic mill and dyed in subtle, traditional tones---are sold here.
A846, Bowmore, Argyll and Bute, PA44 7PG, Scotland01496-810563Sight Details
Rate Includes: Free, Closed Sun. -
7. Kilchurn Castle
This is one of Argyll's most evocative ruins, with its crumbling lochside towers and high ramparts. Built by the Campbells in the 15th century, Kilchurn was rebuilt as a government garrison after the troubles of the late 17th century. The castle was abandoned after peace came to the Highlands following the final defeat of the Jacobite cause in 1746.
View Tours and ActivitiesLochawe, Dalmally, Argyll and Bute, PA33 1AF, ScotlandSight Details
Rate Includes: Closed Oct.–Mar. -
8. Kildalton Cross
Of interest only to anyone fascinated by Celtic heritage, this rock slab, engraved with elaborate 8th-century designs that meld pagan and early Christian motifs, stands in the kirkyard of a ruined medieval chapel.
Port Ellen, Argyll and Bute, Scotland -
9. Machrie Moor Stone Circles
Six ancient circles of boulders and head-high sandstone pillars are scattered across Machrie Moor. These relics of a prehistoric culture are as old as Egypt's pyramids, if not quite as impressive, and the site evokes a dim and distant past.
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10. Oban War and Peace Museum
This free museum recalls Oban's history through peace and war in photographs and other exhibits. Always a fishing harbor and a ferry port, during the Second World War the town became a key naval command center.
Corran Esplanade, Oban, Argyll and Bute, PA34 5PX, Scotland01631-570007Sight Details
Rate Includes: Free, but donations welcome, Closed Nov.–Feb. -
11. Ocean Explorer Centre
On the Firth of Lorne, this imaginative venture lets you get a look under the sea. Hands-on exhibits include microscopes where you can observe tiny algae and a live undersea camera where you can see what's happening below the waves. Part of a scientific research center, it's educational but also accessible and fun. There is a bright little café and a shop with books on marine science and other topics. It's 2 miles from Oban—follow the signs for nearby Dunstaffnage Castle.
Kirk Rd., Oban, Argyll and Bute, PA37 1QA, Scotland01631-559123Sight Details
Rate Includes: Free, Closed weekends -
12. Rest and Be Thankful
This viewpoint at the highest point of the route from Loch Lomond to Inveraray is one of the few places where you can pull off the road to enjoy the spectacular panorama. It's an ideal place to take some selfies, and it's easy to imagine how it earned its name in the days when the only travelers on this trail went on foot or on horseback.
A83, Argyll and Bute, Scotland -
13. St. Conan's Kirk
St. Conan's may look medieval, but in fact, it's less than 100 years old. Built in 1930 from local boulders, it features modern stained glass and wood and stone carvings, including an effigy of Robert the Bruce.
A85, Lochawe, Argyll and Bute, PA33 1AQ, ScotlandSight Details
Rate Includes: Free
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