1

5 mins

Fishing on Loch Leven from The Isles of Glencoe Hotel - 01855 811658.  Boat trip on sheltered waters for relaxed fishing while you view the historic burial islands. Great views across the water of Glencoe and Mamore mountains. Trips by arrangement.

2

25 mins

Cruise Loch Linnhe from Fort William Town Pier  - www.crannog.net, 01397 700714. Charming boat and characterful skipper run Seal Island Cruises the length of Loch Linnhe from Crannog Restaurant. Refreshments on board.  April – October, cruises throughout the day or enquire about evening cruises.

3

45 mins

Journey down Loch Shiel from Glenfinnan – www.highlandcruises.co.uk, 01678 470332.  Board the M.V. Sileas for a cruise down historic Loch Shiel.  There are a variety of trips from 1 hour to a full day with refreshments available on board. Runs from April to October, cruises from 10am.

1

10 mins

Cuil Bay, Duror - Cuil turnoff from A85 south on Oban road is a dead-end on lovely wide bay. Views south to Mull. Great picnic spots near car or walk on where road ends and discover two further, even nicer beaches. The further you go the quieter it gets.

2

10 mins

Ardsheal, Kentallen -  On A85 park in the large layby at the head of the little loch at Kentallen and walk along the road signposted to Ardsheal house. An easy, characterful coastal and woodland walk on a quiet tarmaced road. Lovely gardens open in season at Ardsheal House (18.1) - access to coast and possible to walk all the way round to Cuil Bay. 

3

1 hour 45 mins

Sands of Morar nr Mallaig - take signs to Mallaig from Fort William. Enjoy the Road to the Isles and you end up at miles of silver beaches. Busy in parts but you will always find a quiet spot. The movie Local Hero was filmed here.

4

1 hour 45 mins

Singing Sands, Ardnamurchan - cross the Corran Ferry, 01855 841243, (runs frequently all day - last crossing Ardgour to Corran 7.50pm or 8.50pm summer) follow signs to Acharacle and then signs to Swordle - park at the end of the road then walk 40 minutes along forestry/drove road to reach a wonderful quiet beach with stunning views to Skye and inner Hebrides.

5

45 mins

Kilmalieu - cross the Corran Ferry (2.4) then pick up signs to Kingairloch. Where the road meets the sea a long south facing bay stretches out. Very quiet and a lovely picnic spot. Rocky coast at the end perfect for exploring.

1

3 hours +

Lismore - pick up signs for Port Appin on A85 Oban Road. The road ends where the passenger ferry crosses to lovely Lismore.  The journey takes 5 minutes - last crossing 8pm. On Lismore hire a bike or just walk this quiet green Island. A great day out - fit in a visit to the Pier House Restaurant at the ferry slipway.

2

40 mins +

Around Loch Leven – turn off A82 at Glencoe and drive through stunning scenery.  Stop off at Glencoe Lochan (see main entry), the Kinlochleven Centre (16.1) and try some of the short walks (10.4).

2

4 hours +

The Road to the Isles - takes signs for Mallaig from Fort William. Stop on route at historic Glenfinnan (7.2) or just to enjoy the view. At Arisaig and beyond enjoy the Silver Sands and views to the Hebrides and the Cuillin of Skye. We recommend The Old Library in Arisaig for lunch (11:30-2:30).

3

3 hours +

Appin & Oban - the Oban road takes in historic Kidnapped country and views of Castle Stalker with possible diversions to Cuil Bay (2.1) and Lismore (3.1). A detour round the head of Loch Creran is worthwhile in early summer to visit the Gardens at Drumavuic House (18.2). Excellent lunch stop at the Butterchurn Restaurant (12.6) just over the Loch Creran Bridge. Other attractions on this route are the Sea Life Centre (5.1), the Appin Pottery and Ardchattan Priory & Gardens - all signposted off the main road. Oban itself is a busy fishing port with lots of character. We recommend the Kitchen Garden or The Fish Café (13.1)  for lunch.

4

4 hours +

Ardgour & Moidart - cross the Corran Ferry (2.4) then take signs to Acharacle then Lochailort then back via Glenfinnan and Fort William. Many obvious roadside stops all the way for lovely views. Try Castle Tioram (6.2), or the Singing Sands (2.4) for a major diversion. Recommended eating stops are Salen Crafts, Kinacarra Restaurant, Loch Moidart, Glenuig Inn.

5

8 hours +

Iona - start early for this long but worthwhile journey to the cradle of British Christianity. Visit the Abbey and explore the colourful rocky and sandy beaches of this lovely Island.  Cross the Corran Ferry (2.4), then take signs for Lochaline. Take the Mull Ferry to Fishnish (15.6) (runs frequently all day, last crossing from Fishnish-Lochaline 6.45pm or 7.35pm summer) then take signs to Fionnphort where you take the passenger ferry to Iona.  Alternatively take an organised tour from Oban Pier.

6

3 hours +

Loch Ness - the trip to Loch Ness is on the rather busy A82 from Fort William. There are obvious roadside diversions and a good turning point is the historic Urquhart Castle (6.3) near Drumnadrochit.

7

2 hours +

Loch Etive - head towards Glasgow on the A82 and take the sign to Loch Etive at the top of the Glen near the Kingshouse Hotel. The long and winding road to the loch head takes you by the lovely river and there are many stopping points in this quiet glen.  Dwarfed by hills you will feel very small here. In autumn the glen is filled with the sound of rutting stags.

8

5 hours +

Ardnamurchan - after crossing the Corran Ferry (2.4), the long and winding route to Ardnamurchan point rewards the persistent driver. Single track road has lovely views along the way of Scots Pine, Loch Sunart and the Hebrides. Impressive lighthouse at the tip of the peninsula is the most westerly point of the British mainland. Nearby Sanna bay is delightful on sunny days. Stop on the way for something to do/eat at Cosy Knits, Strontian (11.4), Salen Craft Shop or the Ardnamurchan Natural History Centre, Glenborrodale (5.4). At the lighthouse there is a small tea room. For something different hop on the summer only ferry to Tobermory for lunch.

1

40 mins

Glen Nevis - drive through Fort William on the A82 then follow signs at the third (smaller) roundabout. The location for the movies Rob Roy and Braveheart has many fine views including Ben Nevis. At the bitter end of the road begins a lovely, but slightly demanding walk to the Steall Falls (9.6).

2

10 mins

Glencoe - A82 to Glasgow. Speaks for itself and famous all over the world. Try the National Trust Visitor Centre, the Lochan Walk (see main entries), the old road through Glencoe Village and lay-bys in upper  Glen. Also see walks below for Hidden Valley (9.4) and others.

1

30 mins

Sea Life Centre – www.sealsanctuary.co.uk,  01631 720386.  A85 to Oban signposted off main road. Fun for all the family including frequent seal and fish feeding. The Sea Life Centre also rescues and rehabilitates orphaned seal pups. Outdoor play area, shop and cafe. Open daily from 10.  Go by RIB or Yacht with Lochaber Watersports – see main entry.

2

45 mins

Rare Breeds Park - www.oban-rarebreeds.com, 01631 770608 take A85 to Oban then watch out for sign on left just after you have crossed Connel bridge or pick up A816 south of Oban. A weird and wonderful collection of animals in hill-side pens and runs. Its a funny farm for kids with lots of opportunities to feed the animals. Parents also admit they have a great time here. Tearoom.  Open daily from 10am.

3

1hour 30 mins

Natural History Centre, Ardnamurchan - www.michael-macgregor.co.uk,  01972 500263, after crossing the Corran Ferry (2.4), follow the winding single track road to Glenborrodale. A Living Building put together by famous photographer Michael MacGregor and his wife - hands-on wildlife exhibits plus impressive slide show. Nice shop and homecooking in small restaurant. 10:30-5:30.  Closed mid October until Easter.

4

30 mins

Raceway Karting, 01397 701333.  Follow Mallaig road from Fort William, signposted on left hand side at Blar Mhor Industrial Estate just past Farmfoods.  Outdoor tarmac circuit – ‘the wetter the better’.

40 mins

Tralee Rally Karting, 01631 720297. A85 to Oban signposted at Benderloch village. Great fun outdoor carting amongst sand dunes for ages 7 and up. Nearby is well used Tralee beach.

1

2 hours

Duart Castle, Mull – www.duartcastle.com, 01680 812 309. Get there by direct boat trip from Oban or by driving to Mull via Lochaline. This is the ancestral seat of the Clan MacLean who still take up summer residence. A heady atmosphere of bloodthirsty history. Tearoom. Open May to mid October, 10:30am – 6.30pm. Additional nearby activities include Torosay Castle and lovely Gardens and the Mull Light Railway.

2

1hour 30 mins

Castle Tioram - www.tioram.org.uk.  Cross the Corran Ferry (2.4) then take signs to Acharacle then look out for signposted left turn. Pronounced ‘cheeram’, these atmospheric, romantic ruins are only accessible when the tide is out. The wooded surroundings of Loch Moidart are lovely. See also Ardgour and Moidart (3.4) and the Singing Sands (2.4) above for other diversions.

3

1 hour 30 mins

Urquhart Castle – www.historicscotland.net, 01456 450551.  Follow A82 towards Inverness (3.6) to get to this popular ruin of a fortress with impressive views over Loch Ness. A new £5 million development brings an innovative new visitor centre, shop, café and  improved car parking.  Open all year from 9.30am.

4

5 mins

Glencoe Folk Musuem, Glencoe. The only thatched roof building in the area and well recommended.  Exhibits include Clan History, weapons, costume and an insight into the local slate industry. Open April to October.

5

10 mins

James of the Glen Trail – follow the A85 to Oban, just before Kentallen, a track leads off the main road to the sight of the "Appin Murder", an 18th century killing for which "James of the Glen" was wrongly hanged and whose real perpetrator is still hotly disputed today.

6

1 hour 45mins

Kilmartin - www.kilmartin.org, 01546 510 278.  Follow A85 to Oban then continue south towards Lochgilphead. This area is littered with standing stones and other ancient relics. Ancient capital Dunadd is worth a visit with mysterious footprint on the rocks. Great new exhibition and visitor centre at Kilmartin House (in village) is an excellent stop and also has first class café. Open all year except Christmas and New Year, 10am – 5pm.

7

45 mins

Glenfinnan – www.nts.org.uk, 01397 722250 .  Follow Mallaig road from Fort William. The place where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised the standard in 1745 to rally the clans now has a climbable monument, small visitor centre and classic views down Loch Shiel. See also Loch Shiel cruises (1.3).

1

2 hours

Traigh Golf Course – www.traighgolf.co.uk, 01687 450337. At Arisiag on Road to The Isles (3.2). Traigh (pronounced "Try" ) means beach in Gaelic, and the course lies beside sandy beaches and rocky islets, with marvellous views to the islands of Eigg and Rhum, and to the Cuillins of Skye. Open all year – nine holes.

2

25 mins

Fort William Golf Course – 01397 704464, just north of Fort William on the A82.  A great day out for all types of golfer. Major improvements over the last four years now make Fort William well worth a visit.  Open all year – eighteen holes.

1

5 mins

Pap of Glencoe (2700ft) - park in Glencoe village then walk a mile along single track road towards Clachaig Inn. Pass through gate into first field on the left when trees end then follow the river than the path to the top. A rewarding and quite arduous 3 hour walk with tremendous views.  Typically a 3-4 hour hike.

2

30 mins

Ben Nevis (4400 ft) - although there is a mountain track to the top the weather conditions on this mountain are notorious and it should not be undertaken lightly. Park at the Visitor Centre in Glen Nevis where a footbridge leads to the path.  Typically a 6 hour hike.

3

10 mins

Cuil Hill (1800ft) - take the track behind the Duror Village Hall right

next to the A85.  Make for the skyline then follow the easy spine of the hill to the summit.  This is a very easy two hour walk and gives rewarding views to Ben Nevis, Mull and Argour.  Typically a 2 hour hike.

4

10 mins

Buachaille Etive Beag (Stob Dubh 3129ft,  Stob Coire Raineach 3029ft) - 2 Munro tops and fine.  Start at the Lairig Eilde footpath in Glencoe for about a mile before heading up on to the col between the two tops.  If only doing one top, then take the airy ridge to the southerly peak, Stob Dubh.  6.5 miles and 3000 ft of climbing.  Typically a 5-6 hour hike.

5

15 mins

The Maidens (Beinn na Caillich 2502ft, Mam na Guilainn 2611ft) -

2 fine Corbetts on the north side of Loch Leven.  Start near the school in Kinlochleven and follow the West Highland Way for 2 miles before heading left on a stalkers track which takes you nearly to the top of Beinn na Caillich.  Continue on to Mam na Gualainn, then descend via another stalker’s path to the West Highland Way at Lairig Mhor.  Turn right to return to your starting point. 7.5 miles and 2500 ft of climbing.  Typically a 5-6 hour hike.

1

West Highland Way - www.west-highland-way.co.uk.  Some of the best sections of the Way can be done from within 30 minutes drive - bus or taxi transport is easy to arrange. Try the sections from Inveroran to Glencoe on the original road (also cycleable);  over the Devils Staircase from Glencoe to Kinlochleven; through the Mamores from Kinlochleven to Fort William (also cycleable). Splendid views everywhere - lunch stops at Bridge of Orchy Hotel and Tail Race Inn, Kinlochleven. 

2

5 mins

Around Ben Vair - Follow the road inland through Ballachulish passing the co-op and playing fields. Cross over the small bridge and then take a sharp left up past the school, then keep following the track inland as it passes through a steading. Now simply follow the track as it climbs and curves around to the right following the line of the river. Eventually you reach a watershed and cross through into forestry for a short time before joining forestry roads which lead you down into the village of Duror. Lovely views – MacDonald Arms Hotel at Duror has good food if waiting for the bus back.  Typically a 3 hour walk.

3

15 mins

The Blackwater Dam, Kinlochleven - Another great walk for views and very varied. Take the road running alongside the remains of the Alcan factory and climb up alongside the pipeline.  When you reach a corrugated hut decide whether to stick to the pipes and brave the steep incline or follow the longer but less punishing road. At the top pause for a moment to enjoy the views then continue along the long concrete conduit until you reach the vast Blackwater Reservoir and Dam.  For an alternative, wilder, route back cross the dam and follow the path back down the opposite side of the valley.  Typically 4 hours plus.

4

10 mins

The Hidden Valley - This moderate but rewarding walk gives a real feel for the remoteness and alpine nature of Glencoe. Find a space in one of the large car parks in Glencoe where the road climbs, opposite a small white cottage close on the road. Pick up the path (signposted Corrie Gabhail) which descends to the valley floor from the rim of the carpark and leads to a sturdy but dramatic footbridge over the River Coe. Follow the well-worn path up the valley on the other side until you eventually reach the hidden valley.  Typically 2 hours plus.

5

45 mins

Ariundle Oakwoods - These mature woodlands form part of a nature reserve. Walks of varied length can be chosen and can be enjoyed in wetter weather thanks to the shelter of the trees. Cross the Corran Ferry (2.3), following the main road to Strontian. Watch out for signs to Ariundle Forest. Excellent maps and info on site. Cosy Knits (11.4) on same side road recommended for snacks.  Typically 2 hours plus.

6

30 mins

Glen Nevis - drive through Fort William on the A82 the follow signs at the third (mini) roundabout. The location for the movies Rob Roy and Braveheart has many fine views including of Ben Nevis. At the bitter end of the road begins a lovely, but demanding walk to the Steall Falls. The early section skirts the dramatic river gorge before you emerge onto a meadow over which you walk to inspect the dramatic falls before returning by the same route.  Typically 2 hours plus.

7

50 mins

Loch Arkaig - A circular walk with a real sense of wilderness. Follow signs for Inverness from Fort William before turning left onto B8004 at Commando Monument signed Gairlochy. After crossing canal turn right and follow road all the way to Forestry Commission Car Park. Take the route immediately to the right of the dramatic waterfalls near the car park which takes you on a sweeping circuit inland before returning you to the minor road along the shores of Loch Arkaig on the final leg. Shorter walks are also signposted from here. Typically up to 3 hours walking.

8

10 mins

The Two Passes - A real sense of achievement comes from skirting one of Glencoe’s mighty mountains. Ever changing views come in this long walk which involves over 2000 feet of ascent. Park in any car park near the narrowest gorge in Glencoe and walk uphill to find the sign marked as a footpath to Loch Etive (Lairig Eilde). Follow this right through the Glen. When the path starts to descend at the half way point and meets a fence, strike along to circumnavigate the mountain and return through the valley (Lairig Gartain) on its other side. Beware - this walk is often boggy, even in summer. When you meet the main road again it is possible to follow the old road back to the Gorge.  Typically a 5 hour trip

9

30 mins

Along the Caledonian Canal – A gentle walk or cycle, up to 9 miles each way.  Take signs for Mallaig from Fort William and take the right turn for The Moorings Hotel.  Park in large car park and take the path beside the impressive locks of Neptune’s Staircase, you can continue along the canal as far as Gairlochy.  Typically 2 hours plus.

1

5 mins

Inchree Waterfalls - you can reach the viewpoint of these spectacular waterfalls in just a few minutes from the car park. Well marked routes provide options for various extensions through the forest. Follow the A82 to Fort William looking out for signs for the village of Inchree on the right. Follow the road right through the houses to reach the Forestry Commission carpark at the end. All walks well marked.

2

20 mins

Sutherland's Grove - 20 minutes drive on A85 to Oban, few minutes after

crossing new bridge on left. Variety of well marked forestry walks including

dramatic gorge and pleasant resevoir.

3

30 mins

Ben Lora - 30 minutes drive on A85 to Oban, easy to miss on left just after

shops in Benderloch. Varied well marked forestry walks with great view

points including 1 hour climb to summit.

4

20 mins

Kinlochleven – at the head of Loch Leven you will find a great network of paths.  Try the walk to the old Pier – park opposite the Post Office and follow path around the circuit.  The Gray Mare’s Tail walk is also nice – turn off the main road through the village at the Police Station, take a right at the Episcopal Church and follow signs from the adjacent car park. 

1

25 mins

The Granite House, High Street, Fort William, 01397 703651. The shop which truly has something for everyone! Browse downstairs for gifts, cards, jewellery and novelties.  Upstairs you’ll find clothes, traditional music and a great selection of candles. Next door is the wackier ‘Thingking’.

2

25 mins

The Hebridean Jewellery Shop, High Street, Fort William, 01397 702033. 

Jewellery and ornaments with a Celtic theme, you’ll find beautiful Scottish crafts here.

3

5 mins

Great Glen Confectionery Factory, Old Ferry Road, North Ballachulish, 01855 821277.  One for those with a sweet tooth!  They make their own Islay Tablet and luxury chocolates on the premises and stock a wide range of specialist Scottish food and drinks.  Free factory tours and tastings.

4

1 hour

Cozy Knits, Strathview, Strontian, 01967 402279. Travel over the Corran Ferry (2.4) to this busy craft workshop and tearoom.  They produce and sell batiks, hand spun knitwear, wooden toys and pyrography.  

6

5 mins

Ballachulish Visitors Centre and Tourist Information, Ballachulish, www.glencoe.uk.com,  01855 811296.  Tourist information alongside a craft shop selling Scottish and world crafts, handmade jewellery, locally made root sculptures and bowls, greetings cards, music, books and maps.  Plus coffee, home-baking and light snacks. Open all year except Christmas and New Years Day.  9am – 5pm with later summer hours. 

7

5 mins

Crafts & Things, Tighpuirt, Glencoe, www.glencoe.u-net.com, 01855 811325.  This traditional whitewashed cottage contains a well stocked and varied craft shop, there’s also a great selection of knitwear. 

8

30 mins

Argyll Pottery, Barcaldine, Near Oban, 01631 720503.  A85 to Oban, just past Sea Life Centre (5.1). Range of tableware and individual pieces. All pots are hand-made on the premises from stoneware clay fired in a wood-fired kiln. Closed Sundays.

1

5 mins

Glencoe Studio Art Gallery, Tigh Phuirt, Glencoe, www.glencoestudiogallery.com, 01855 811861. Artist Caroline Cooke paints dramatic Scottish scenes here.  On display are a selection of originals pieces and prints, pop in when you visit Crafts & Things (12.3)!

2

25 mins

The Lime Tree, Achintore Road, Fort William, www.limetreestudio.co.uk, 01397 701806.  A traditional Manse houses the working artist studio and gallery of Landscape Artist David Wilson. 

3

50 mins

Kranenburg & Fowler, Star Brae, Oban, www.kranenburg-fowler.com, 01631 562303.  We recommend this gallery which is just off Argyll Square, opposite House & Home, for striking, contemporary Scottish Art.  Closed Sundays.

1

50 mins

Eeusk, The Fish Café, George Street, Oban, 01631 565666.  A locally renowned restaurant which deserves its reputation for the best seafood in the area.  Spend the day in Oban (3.3) and then treat yourself.

2

25 mins

No 4, Cameron Square, Fort William, www.no4-fortwilliam.co.uk, 01397 704222.  Stylishly decorated with a simple but tasty lunch offering.  Lunch in the conservatory on a sunny day – snacks served until 6pm.

3

25 mins

Lochaber Sidings, Railway Station, Fort William, 01397 701843.  Foods and crafts made solely in Lochaber.  Delicious home-made, healthy and wholesome meals, snacks and baking. Open all year.

4

5 mins

Crafts & Things, Glencoe. (See 11.7). Try the coffee shop for light meals, healthy options and terrific home baking all in light, airy surroundings.  Good coffee too!

5

5 mins

Mrs Matheson’s Tearoom, Glencoe Village, 01855 811590.  Be sure of a hearty meal at this small tearoom in Glencoe Village.  Closes in the winter.

6

50 mins

Café na lusan, 9 Craigard Road Oban, www.cafenalusan.com, 01631 567268.  Tasty, wholesome food, home baking & internet access, relax on the comfy sofas with  a newspaper or a board game.  Closed Sundays in the winter.

7

30 mins

The Butterchurn Restaurant, Barcaldine, 01631 730346.  The bridge at Creagan makes this excellent, small restaurant all the easier to visit.  You have to try the home baking!

1

30 mins

The Ben Nevis Distillery and Visitor Centre, Lochy Bridge, Fort William, www.bennevis.co.uk, 01397 702476.  You’ll get a warm welcome at The Ben Nevis Distillery! Join the tour and sample the ‘Dew of Ben Nevis’.

2

50 mins

Oban Distillery and Visitor Centre, Stafford Street, Oban, www.scotch.com, 01631 564262. Visit this distillery set in the heart of Oban.  See the distillers at work, try a complementary dram.  Oban is one of the six ‘Classic Malts of Scotland’.

3

20 mins

Scottish Crafts and Whisky Centre, High Street, Fort William, 01397 704406.  Tour the interesting, independent, whisky exhibition and then spend a while browsing in the huge gift shop.

1

Bruce’s Highland Tours,  www.bruceshighlandtours.co.uk, 01397 772333. Your own guided tour of Lochaber and the Highlands in a spacious Landrover Discovery.  Bruce can provide route suggestions.

2

Scottish Citylink Coaches, www.citylink.co.uk, 08705 50 50 50
Coach from Glasgow to the Isle of Skye via Fort William.

3

Highland Country Buses, Fort William, www.rapsons.co.uk, 01397 702373. Local buses covering Kinlochleven, Glencoe, Ballachulish, Fort William and Oban.

4

Alistair McMillan Taxi Hire, Ballachulish, 01855 811460.

5

Robertsons Taxis, Onich, 01855 821428.

6

Caledonian MacBrayne Ferries, www.calmac.co.uk,  01631 566688.

1

15 mins

The Kinlochleven Centre – 01855 831190/191.   The centre offers Badminton courts and indoor bowls.  Call for details or ask the Ranger.

ACB Fitness at The Kinlochleven Centre – 01855 831190/191.  A well equipped Cardiogym with treadmills, eliptical trainer, upright & incumbent cycles, rowing and weight machines.  Alan is on hand to help and advise.

2

5 mins

Vertical Descents, Inchree, Onich, www.verticaldescents.co.uk, 01855 821593.  Join the experienced guides for Canyonning and Fun Yakking on the River Righ.  On the way you will be lowered over waterfalls, jump into pools of water and slide down natural flumes!  All specialist equipment provided.  Open Easter – October.

3

20 mins

35 mins

Skiing –

Glencoe, Kingshouse, Glencoe, www.ski-glencoe.co.uk, 01855 851226.  On A82 south to Glasgow. Scotland’s first commercial ski area boasts exhilarating sking, unique terrain and dramatic snow-holding gullies.  Glencoe has runs to suit all abilities and advanced skiers can take advantage of the longest vertical descent (2,600ft/792m) and the steepest on-piste black run in Scotland (The Fly Paper)!

Nevis Range, Torlundy, by Fort William, www.nevis-range.co.uk, 01397 705825.  On A82 north to Inverness.  Scotland’s highest ski area and only mountain gondola.  Outwith the season it’s worth taking the gondola to the Top Station for access to waymarked trails and viewpoints plus the restaurant, bar and shop.

4

35 mins

Active Highs Paragliding School, Nevis Range, Torlundy, by Fort William, www.active-highs.co.uk, 01397 712062.  The only Paragliding Tandem Flights with cable car access in the UK. Taking flight has never been easier or more breathtaking.

5

25 mins

Linnhe Marine Boat Hire, Lettershuna, Appin, 01631 730401.  Signposted on A85 south to Oban.  Learn to Windsurf or Sail in a sheltered bay, or for the more advanced user, explore the loch or visit castles & prehistoric sites.

6

50 mins

Highland Icelandic Horse Trekking,  Ardechive, Spean Bridge, www.highland-icelandic.com, 01397 712247.  Take A82 north to Inverness before turning left onto B8004 at Commando Monument signed Gairlochy. After crossing canal turn right onto B8005. Treks for riders of all abilities on the scenic northern shores of Loch Arkaig (9.7).

1

10 mins

Ardsheal House, Kentallen of Appin, www.ardsheal.co.uk, 01631 740227.  Signposted right turn at Kentallen on A85 south to Oban. Ardsheal estate includes one of the oldest natural woodlands in Scotland, as well as several unusual geological features. There are 11 acres of lawns, flower gardens and woodlands, containing many fine trees, some of a great age.   Open daily, from 29 March end October.

2

25 mins

Druimavuic House, Appin.  A85 to Oban (3.3) detour around Loch Creran and lookout for the turnoff. Stream, wall and woodland gardens with lovely views over Loch Creran. Spring bulbs, rhododendrons, azaleas, primulas, meconopsis, violas. Plant stall. Open from April to end of June, 10am – 6pm.

3

1 hr 15 mins

Ardtornish Kitchen Gardens, Lochaline, Morvern, www.freespace.virgin.net/i.lamb, 01967 421643.  Cross the Corran Ferry (2.3) and follow the road to Lochaline.  A small, family-run market garden and nursery located in the original walled Kitchen Garden of Ardtornish Estate. Open every day except Tuesday, 10am to 5pm, 1st April to end October

4

1hr 15 mins

Arduaine Garden, near Oban, Argyll, www.nts.org.uk/arduaine.html, 01852 200366. Follow A85 (3.3) to Oban and then continue south on the A816, the gardens are 4 miles south of Kilmelford. A green oasis of tranquillity nestling on the west coast, Arduaine will surprise and delight the visitor every day of the year. Open all year.

5

15 mins

Appin House, Appin, www.appinhouse.co.uk, 01631 703207.  Left turnoff A85 south to Oban. Beautifully landscaped gardens with many specimen trees, and pathways through the lawn and shrubs lead the visitor to secluded resting places. In Spring the azaleas and rhododendrons are almost unbelievable while the Autumn colours provide a blaze which is equally magnificent. Open from end of April to October, 10am – 6pm.

6

25 mins

Ard-Dariach Hill Garden and Nursery, Ardgour, 01855 841248.  Right hand turn shortly after crossing the Corran Ferry (2.3).  A wild hill garden which specialises in rhodedenrons, shrubs and trees.  Open all year.