The historic Heart of Argyll

The historic Heart of Argyll sits just to the south of Oban and Lorn. The area’s unique heritage, national nature reserves, abundant wildlife, prehistoric landscapes and stunning coastal scenery, make it a fabulous place to visit.

Stretching from the picturesque fishing village of Tarbert, Loch Fyne, in the south to Loch Craignish in the north, over to Knapdale and Crinan in the west, across to Inveraray and Loch Awe in the east – with Kilmartin Glen in its midst – the Heart of Argyll boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe.

And the Heart of Argyll is rooted in ancient history. The epicentre is the mystical Kilmartin Glen and Dunadd Hill Fort.

Kilmartin Glen has the most important concentration of Neolithic and Bronze Age remains in mainland Scotland. At least 800 ancient monuments, of which 150 are prehistoric, lie within six miles of Kilmartin village. Kilmartin Museum is the perfect start to your exploration of 6,000 years of human history.

Dunadd is the former capital of the ancient kingdom of Dál Riada (Dalriada) which, at its height (late 6th–early 7th centuries), encompassed roughly what is now Argyll in Scotland and part of County Antrim in the Irish province of Ulster. The views from Dunadd are far-reaching; it’s easy to imagine why it was selected as the ancient seat of Kings.

Take time to explore the smaller roads and tracks that meander through our rugged natural landscape and deliver you to stunning castles, abandoned settlements, secret beaches, fishing villages, diverse national nature reserves, surprising art installations and galleries, plus “Britain’s most beautiful short cut”, the Crinan Canal.

Boat or kayak trips with highlyexperienced guides explore local waters, islands and inlets. You can visit the world famous Corryvreckan Whirlpool. If that is not special enough, the sheer diversity of wildlife above, on and in the water plus breathtaking coastal scenery will overwhelm your senses.

An exclusive wildlife experience can be had at the Heart of Argyll Wildlife Visitor Centre at Barrandaimh, the home of the Scottish beavers – the first reintroduction in UK history.

Unique visitor attractions also include Auchindrain Highland farm township museum, a fascinating glimpse into rural social history and the stunning designed landscape and Himalayan gardens at Crarae.

Whether you intend to explore by car, by bike, to sail, kayak or just to wander, there are so many adventures waiting for you in the Heart of Argyll.

Delve deeper!