On Scotland’s western edges, Argyll and Bute is a place that makes an impression. Here, deep sea lochs have been carved by glaciers and mountains tower over Scotland’s largest freshwater lake. You’ll find the country’s greatest density of prehistoric monuments alongside ancient castles and mighty houses built by Scottish clans and kings as they battled for territory.
It’s also one of the best places for island hopping in Scotland, with its 28 inhabited offshore landmasses, including some of Scotland’s favourite Inner Hebridean islands. All together, making Argyll and Bute one of Scotland’s most scenic holiday destinations.
About Argyll and Bute
Birthplace of the Scottish nation, where the Gaelic-speaking ‘Scottis’ from Ireland first landed in 500 AD, Argyll and Bute is also one of Scotland’s wildest and most remote regions.
Landscape
To the north, the dramatic highland country is sparsely populated and a playground for adventure seekers. It’s a landscape defined by narrow, steep-sided valleys where saltwater sea lochs penetrate deep into the landmass.
These lochs start on the region’s west coast, also known as the gateway to the Hebrides, where you’ll find pretty coastal towns like Oban – famous for its seafood and island ferry connections – along with rocky peninsulas that plunge into the ocean and a series of untouched coves and beaches.
The islands themselves are one of Scotland’s most beautiful areas, where charming fishing ports, some of the world’s best whiskey distilleries, and an astonishing amount of wildlife await.
Moving further south, the landscape softens into rolling hills and, further east, you’ll find Loch Lomond, Scotland’s largest freshwater lake. Almost a third of Argyll and Bute is covered by ancient sessile oaks, Scots pine, and other native tree species.
Wildlife
With such a varied landscape, incredible biodiversity can be found in Argyll and Bute’s forests, lochs, and coastline. A true nature-lovers paradise, both by land and sea, it is home to some of the UK’s rarest and most cherished wildlife species.
Birds
While exploring the cliffs and coastline, keep an eye out for Scotland’s national bird, the golden eagle, and majestic white-tailed eagles hunting for food. During the summer, puffin colonies breed on some of the Inner Hebridean islands, especially Lunga and Staffa. Islay’s two RSPB nature reserves are known for their birds of prey and wintering colonies of geese, along with other migratory bird species.
Mammals
Argyll’s dense woodlands and forests are home to red squirrels, best seen in spring and autumn when they’re most active. On the island of Jura, herds of red deer (Britain’s largest land mammals) take centre stage – a magnificent sight, especially during the autumn rutting season. The west coast sea lochs provide an opportunity to see saltwater otter along the rocky riverbanks.
Marine wildlife
Argyll and Bute’s extensive coastline provides ample opportunity to see harbour seals, which bask in coves and pop up in bays. A boat trip will increase your chance of seeing them, along with dolphins, porpoises, and minke whales. Very lucky visitors may even spot humpbacks and orcas off the coast of the northern Inner Hebridean Islands. During summer, there’s a high chance of seeing basking sharks in the waters near Oban.
Beaches
Soak up the coastal scenery with a trip to one of these Argyll and Bute beaches.
Helensburgh Beach, Helensburgh
One of the best family beaches in Argyll and Bute, overlooking the still waters of the Firth of Clyde, Helensburgh Beach is backed by the town promenade and plenty of amenities, including cafés, restaurants, shops and public toilets. The beach itself is made from sand and shingle and offers beautiful views across the bay to the Rosneath Peninsula.
Ganavan Sands, Oban
Just 2 miles from the bustling port of Oban, Ganavan Sands is an idyllic sandy stretch overlooking the islands of Lismore and Mull – a perfect spot for soaking up the scenery, kayaking or going for a cold water dip. Make the most of the views with a stunning coastal walk to Dunbeg or tie your visit in with the nearby Dunstaffnage Castle and Chapel.
Kiloran Bay, Colonsay
On the northwestern coast of Colonsay, Kiloran Bay is both alluring and remote. Here, a perfect crescent of bright white sand meets a deep blue sea, and the craggy peninsulas on either side make you truly appreciate the wildness of the landscape. Popular with surfers and windsurfers when conditions are right, it’s also a great place to watch the sunset.
Calgary Bay, Mull
A deep bay with bright white sand, Calgary Bay is framed by two grassy headlands that shelter it from most of the elements. Calcium-rich sandy soils encourage the growth of wildflowers, and woodlands at the back of the beach conceal Calgary Castle. A perfect stop-off point while on a coastal walk, or to spend an entire day relaxing on the sand, Calgary is a beach that will take your breath away.
Towns
Wondering where to base yourself in Argyll and Bute? These local towns are the best places to explore from.
Oban
Scotland’s seafood capital, Oban is also the gateway to the Scottish Isles. This waterside town is perfectly placed for island hopping and spotting local coastal wildlife on a boat trip. Or, stick to the mainland and explore the sheltered harbour and surrounding restaurants, tour Oban Whisky Distillery, and discover the history of clan MacDougall with a visit to Dunollie Castle.
Helensburgh
One of Argyll and Bute’s largest settlements, Helensburgh is a Victorian town on the Firth of Clyde known for its stunning coastal position next to Gare Loch. Stroll along the pier and promenade for independent shops and eateries, soak up the sweeping views from National Trust Hill House or explore the surrounding areas for beautiful outdoor scenery.
Inveraray
Best known for Inveraray Castle, a fairytale-like manor house that featured in Downton Abbey, Inveraray is a peaceful traditional Scottish town backed by dramatic highland scenery. Ardkinglas House is well worth a visit, with one of the finest rhododendron collections in Britain, or enjoy views over Loch Fyne from one of the award-winning eateries.
Tobermory
One of Scotland’s most recognisable ports, Tobermory on the Isle of Mull is known for its brightly coloured houses backed by lush green trees – where days are spent exploring cafés, shops, restaurants and local art galleries. Other highlights include Duart Castle, once home to Clan MacLean and Aros Park’s woodland trails – plus wildlife watching trips, including whale spotting tours.
Events in Argyll and Bute
A year-round calendar of events takes place in Argyll and Bute, including food festivals near Loch Lomond, Oban, and Colonsay and music festivals throughout the islands. For a true taste of the region’s culture, check out Cowal Highland Gathering and Inverary Highland Games – or explore the landscape with CowalFest, one of Scotland’s largest walking festivals.
Things to do
With millennia of history and a never-ending supply of outdoor beauty, there’s plenty to see and do in Argyll and Bute.
Castles
There are a whopping 60 castles in Argyll and Bute, promising everything from ruined forts to extravagant manor houses. Each site reveals a slice of the region's history, from ancient settlers and Norse invasion to clan wars and royal defensive fortresses. Must-see sites include the 700-year-old Duart Castle on the Isle of Mull, the Gothic Revival clan castle in Inveraray, and Dunstaffnage Castle and Chapel near Oban.
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
Scotland's first National Park, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs is the perfect destination for hiking, cycling, and spending the day outdoors. Including 22 lochs, 39 miles of coastline, and 21 munros, it’s a playground for adventurers. Argyll Forest Park, the UK's first forest park, and the historic Benmore Botanic Garden are also key highlights of the area.
Ancient sites
Uncover secrets of the past, including thousands of years of Scottish history, through an exploration of Argyll and Bute's ancient burial cairns, standing stones, and early Christian sites. Kilmartin Glen includes the highest concentration of Neolithic and Bronze Age remains in Scotland, with hundreds of prehistoric monuments – some of which are housed in Kilmartin Museum.
Island hopping
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Scotland’s western isles, with an island-hopping boat trip around the Inner Hebrides, where the journey itself is just as fascinating as the destinations. Argyll and Bute includes 28 inhabited islands with plenty to see and do – from the pristine shores of Colonsay and the wildlife-rich haven of Mull to the famous whisky distilleries of Islay and the peaceful haven of Bute.
The Clyde Sea Lochs Trail
One of the defining features of the Argyll and Bute landscape is its impressive sea lochs, which bring fascinating ocean wildlife close to the Scottish shores. They’re also extremely beautiful, being described by some as the Scottish fjords. The Clyde Sea Lochs Trail makes it easy to explore these stunning inlets with over 65 miles of hiking, cycling, and driving routes – stop-off points include castles, gardens, and jaw-dropping viewpoints.
Places to eat
Whether you’re looking for seasonal Scottish produce, to sample fresh seafood next to the ocean or to wet your lips on the world’s best whisky, you’ll find it all in Argyll and Bute’s restaurants and distilleries.
Ee-Usk, Oban
A world-renowned seafood restaurant, Ee-Usk brings the best seafood dishes in the west of Scotland, with local catches cooked to perfection. Their glass-fronted venue overlooking the harbour brings a further connection to the water, and they have a great whisky selection too. If you’re stuck for choice, their seafood platters are a great way to sample more of the menu.
Riverhill, Helensburgh
In the heart of Helensburgh, Riverhill Courtyard is a stylish bar and restaurant known for elegant dining with seasonal dishes. The decor is beautiful with red brick walls and high vaulted ceilings, and the menu only uses quality ingredients from local Scottish producers. Expect traditional cuisine from around the world oozing with flavour.
Castle Stalker View Café, Appin
For more casual eats with one of the best views around, make your way to the recently refurbished Castle Stalker View Café near Oban. Opening in early 2026, the menu will include home baking and seasonal soups alongside local Scottish produce. Choose from indoor and outdoor seating overlooking Loch Linnhe, Castle Stalker and the islands of Mull and Lismore.
Laphroaig Distillery, Islay
Famous for its peat-rich whiskies, Laphroaig Distillery is a must-visit for those in Islay, where guided tours will provide visitors with insight into the distilling process and the chance to sample some of their best single malt creations. You’ll also get to know more about the history of the island.
Looking for somewhere to relax in between exploring the history and scenery? Our holiday cottages in Argyll and Bute offer some of the best self-catered accommodation in the region.
