A Visitor's Guide to the Best Things to do in Argyll

We might be biased, but (for us) Argyll is one of the most beautiful corners of Scotland, filled with dramatic coastlines, ancient castles, lively towns, and quiet hidden gems waiting to be explored. It’s a region that offers something for everyone, whether you love history, wildlife, food, or outdoor adventures.

It’s also where our family chose to put down roots. With long-standing ties to the area, we were drawn back to Argyll’s close-knit communities, its authentic Scottish character, and the unbeatable mix of sea, hills, and wildlife on the doorstep. It’s one of the reasons we took on Loch Melfort Hotel all those years ago.
You can read more about our story (and the hotels’) on our history page.

In this guide, we’ve brought together some of the best things to do in Argyll, from lively towns and family-friendly activities to unusual experiences and secret places. Planning a short break, a road trip along Scotland’s west coast, or a longer holiday? This is the perfect place to start planning your adventure.
You might also like our blog: Local tips for planning a road trip to the west coast of Scotland’

What Are the Main Towns in Argyll?
Things to do in Argyll with Kids
Unusual & Secret Places in Argyll
Where to Visit in Argyll for Castles
What Islands Can You Visit in Argyll?
Free Things to Do in Argyll
Where to Stay in Argyll

What Are the Main Towns in Argyll?

Argyll is full of characterful towns and villages, each with its own story to tell. From bustling harbours to quiet lochside communities, you’ll find places that are worth more than just a quick stop.

Oban: The Gateway to the Isles

Oban is the main town in Argyll (with a population of around 8,500) and just a 30-minute drive from Loch Melfort Hotel. With its sweeping bay, lively harbour, and mix of independent shops and seafood restaurants, it’s often the first stop for visitors to the west coast. Oban is also the gateway to the islands, with ferries heading out daily to Easdale, Kerrera, Mull, Lismore, and beyond.
Take a look at the timetables for CalMac Ferries

While you’re in town, don’t miss the Oban Distillery, McCaig’s Tower for the views, and a walk along the harbour. We’ve put together a full guide to help you plan your visit: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Oban.

Helensburgh: The Largest Town in Argyll

While Oban is the most famous, Helensburgh holds the title of the largest town in Argyll. Sitting on the shores of the Firth of Clyde near Loch Lomond, it has a more relaxed pace but plenty to explore. The highlight for many visitors is The Hill House, one of Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s architectural masterpieces, now carefully protected by a striking “box” structure. A stroll along the esplanade with an ice cream (from Dino’s) in hand is a simple pleasure that captures the town’s charm.

Other Towns Worth a Visit

Inveraray: Known for its iconic white-fronted buildings and the magnificent Inveraray Castle, it’s a postcard-perfect stop on the shores of Loch Fyne.
Campbeltown: Once the whisky capital of the world, Campbeltown is home to a handful of historic distilleries and makes a good base for exploring the Kintyre peninsula.
Lochgilphead: A small but busy town, it’s just north of Kilmory Castle and a great base for visiting some of Kilmartin Glen’s incredible prehistoric sites.

Things to do in Argyll with Kids

Argyll is full of family-friendly activities, from wildlife encounters to hands-on history. Here are some of our favourite ideas for days out with children of all ages.

Whale Watching & Wildlife Boat Trips in Argyll

The waters around Argyll are alive with marine life, and a boat trip is one of the most exciting ways for children to experience it. Keep an eye out for seals, puffins, porpoises, dolphins, and even sea eagles.

Seafari Adventures, based in Oban, is a great option for families and also runs trips to the Corryvreckan Whirlpool, the 3^rd largest permanent whirlpool in the world. If you’re lucky, you might even spot whales off Scotland’s west coast, from minke whales to the occasional orca.If that sounds like your kind of adventure, visit our blog ‘Whale Watching on the West Coast of Scotland’

Argyll’s History & Culture Brought to Life

Argyll’s past is full of stories, and there are plenty of attractions that make history engaging for younger visitors. The newly redeveloped Kilmartin Museum is a must-visit. Nestled in the heart of an internationally important landscape, it offers a warm welcome to anyone curious about the history of Kilmartin Glen.

First opened in the 1990s to celebrate the area’s extraordinary archaeological discoveries, the museum is still a working hub of exploration today. In 2024 it underwent a £7m+ redevelopment, and inside you’ll find interactive exhibits, an impressive collection of artefacts, and a new café. We also recommend that you don’t miss the Guided Glen Walks, which take place each week. These walks take you to unforgettable sites like the Temple Wood Stone Circle – but be sure to pre-book your ticket as spaces are limited!

Bring Argyll’s rich history to life at the magical Inveraray Castle, set on the shores of Loch Fyne. Children will love wandering through its grand rooms filled with artefacts and exploring the beautiful gardens. There’s plenty to spark little imaginations with stories of knights, clans, and Scottish heritage. The castle often hosts family-friendly events and activities, so check their castle website ahead of your visit.

Step back in time with a visit to Inveraray Jail, a fascinating Victorian prison brought vividly to life. The interactive exhibits offer a glimpse into the daily lives of prisoners and wardens alike and is sure to be a big hit for the whole family.

Outdoor Adventures for All Ages in Argyll

For families who love being outdoors, there are plenty of easy adventures to enjoy.

We’re lucky to have the ‘tropical’ Arduaine NTS Gardens on our doorstep. Established in the mid-1890s by James Arthur Campbell, a descendant of the Campbells of Inverawe, this generous garden space is full of charm and natural beauty. Winding trails lead you through peaceful paths filled with vibrant plant life from around the world, and elevated viewpoints perfectly provide the most amazing views across the Scottish isles.
Loch Melfort Hotel Guest Bonus: Our overnight residents can enjoy free access to Arduaine Gardens after 4pm.

Younger children will enjoy the Fairy Trail near Luss at Loch Lomond, while Ardkinglas Woodland Garden in Cairndow has a Gruffalo Trail and even a Snakey Slide tucked among the trees.

Water Sports & Family-friendly Beaches in Argyll

Argyll’s coastline has some fantastic family-friendly beaches, perfect for a picnic or a paddle, alongside plenty of opportunities for water-based activities. You’ll find a more detailed beach list in our blog: Beautiful Beaches of Argyll

A favourite for us? Ganavan Sands near Oban is especially popular, with golden sand and shallow waters.

For more adventurous families, the west coast is Scotland’s “Adventure Coast”, with opportunities for paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, and even wild swimming. For something particularly memorable, book a session with “Dan the Merman” (featured on BBS Scotland in summer 2025), who runs small group wild swimming experiences. If you’re staying with us, you can arrange a session right outside the hotel!

Unusual & Secret Places in Argyll

Once you’ve explored the main attractions, Argyll still has plenty of surprises up its sleeve. Some of the most memorable experiences here are the ones that sit a little off the beaten path, tucked away in smaller communities or hidden in the landscape.

Ancient Standing Stones & Rock Art

Kilmartin Glen is one of the richest prehistoric landscapes in Europe – to put it into perspective, there are more than 350 ancient monuments within a six-mile radius of Kilmartin, with 150 of them being prehistoric! From standing stones to burial cairns and some of the oldest rock art in the UK, the glen feels like a step back in time.

A stand-out glen stop (for us) is the Achnabreck Rock Art – often missed, but one of our favourite trails.
For full details, read our blog: A Guide to the Achnabreck Rock Art in Argyll

Scotland’s Own “Bali Swing”

You’ll have no doubt seen photos of the famous ‘Bali Swing’ – influencers queuing for hours with their long flowing dresses (and guides lined up to capture the perfect swoop!) But did you know, on the Isle of Bute, you’ll find an oversized swing that has become known as Scotland’s very own “Bali Swing”. It’s a simple idea but a unique way to take in the scenery (and one of those secret spots that feels like a reward for going beyond the main tourist trail.)

Stone Skimming on Easdale

Just a short passenger ferry ride from the Isle of Seil lies Easdale, a tiny car-free island with a slate-mining past. Today it’s best known as the home of the World Stone Skimming Championships, a quirky event that brings people from around the globe to test their skills on the island’s old quarries. Outside of the competition, Easdale makes a peaceful place for walking, with views across to Mull and Scarba. While you’re there, be sure to visit the Puffer Bar, Easdale Island Folk Museum, and Siabann Eisdeal (a local, handmade skincare business). The soaps in the wee shop make for the best Scottish gifts – they even made a dedicated ‘skimming stone’ soap for the competition.

Witness The Northern Lights

Argyll is one of the few places in Scotland where you might catch sight of the Northern Lights (also known as the Aurora Borealis.) On clear winter nights, the dark skies over the west coast sometimes come alive with dancing green and purple light. While sightings can never be guaranteed, it’s worth keeping an eye on local aurora forecasts during your stay.

In 2024 we caught the lights (right outside the hotel) so many times that we put together a handy guide:
How to Find the Northern Lights in the Scottish Highlands

Where to Visit in Argyll for Castles

Gylen Castle on the isle of Kerrera

Argyll’s landscape is dotted with castles due to its long history as a strategic gateway between Scotland and the Isles (and as a homeland for powerful clans like the MacDougalls and Campbells.) Some are dramatic ruins that hint at fierce clan battles, while others remain grand homes still filled with treasures. Here are a few of the most memorable castles to visit in the region.

Inveraray Castle

Previously mentioned in this blog (due to its family-friendly approach), Inveraray Castle is one of Scotland’s most recognisable castles, with its turrets and sweeping gardens. Home to the Duke of Argyll, Chief of Clan Campbell, the castle is filled with fascinating collections and has even appeared in shows like Downton Abbey and Landscape Artist of the Year. It’s popular, so booking ahead is a good idea, especially in summer.

Dunstaffnage Castle

Just a short drive from Oban, Dunstaffnage Castle is one of the oldest stone castles in Scotland, dating back to the 13th century. Built on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Firth of Lorn, it was once the seat of the MacDougall clan. Today it’s managed by Historic Environment Scotland, with great sea-views and wonderful walks around the grounds.

Castle Stalker

Perhaps the most photographed from our list, Castle Stalker sits on its own tiny island in Loch Laich near Appin. Its fairy-tale setting has earned it fame on postcards and calendars, and guided tours are available on select dates each year. Even if you don’t step inside, it’s a striking sight from the shore (there’s a photo-friendly viewpoint just up behind the Castle Stalker View café.) Monty Python fans might recognise the little fortress as “Castle Aargh!”, from the celebrated movie, Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

Dunollie Castle

Overlooking Oban Bay, Dunollie Castle is the historic seat of the MacDougall family. The ruins are atmospheric, and the grounds include a little museum and heritage centre that bring the clan’s story to life. Open from March to October, it’s a great stop if you’re already exploring Oban.

Find out more in our dedicated blog: Visiting Dunollie Castle – History, Highlights, and Clan MacDougall

Gylen Castle

On the island of Kerrera, Gylen Castle sits dramatically above the sea cliffs. Built in 1582 by the MacDougalls, it feels wonderfully remote despite being only a short ferry ride from the mainland. Much of the island is still owned by the MacDougalls of Dunollie, descendants of the legendary Norse-Gael warrior Somerled, and it was the MacDougalls who built Gylen Castle, believed to have been completed in 1582. Interestingly, the castle shares distinctive masonry features with several other castles across the Highlands, suggesting the same skilled hands crafted them.

Combine a castle visit with a walk or cycle around Kerrera (and stop at the Kerrera Tea Garden and Bunkhouse) for a memorable day out.

What Islands Can You Visit in Argyll?

Island hopping on the Scottish West Coast

Isle of Kerrera off Oban Bay

One of the real joys of visiting Argyll is how easy it is to explore the islands that lie just off the coast. Each has its own character, from quiet car-free communities to larger islands with dramatic mountains and rich history. Ferries and short boat trips make island-hopping part of the adventure.

Mull and Iona
Mull is one of the best-known islands in the Inner Hebrides, with colourful Tobermory as its main town. The island is full of wildlife, with chances to spot sea eagles, otters, and even whales. Just a short ferry from Mull is Iona, famous for its abbey and peaceful atmosphere (many visitors describe it as one of the most spiritual places in Scotland.)

Islay and Jura
For whisky lovers, Islay is a must. The island is home to a remarkable number of distilleries, each with its own style and story. Nearby Jura offers a wilder experience, with rugged hills, red deer roaming freely, and just one main road running through the island. Fun Fact: there are thought be over 6,000 deer on Jura, significantly outnumbering the island’s sparse human population.

Kerrera, Luing, and Lismore
Closer to Oban, all of these islands make excellent (and easy) day trips. Kerrera and Luing are just short ferry rides from town and provide quiet walking trails, and a lovely sense of seclusion. Lismore, meanwhile, is known as the “Great Garden” thanks to its fertile land and abundant wildflowers. While it may be small, there’s plenty to see here, including the ruins of Castle Coeffin, Lismore Parish Church, and Isle of Lismore Café.

Tiree and Coll
Further out, Tiree is famed for its wide sandy beaches and sunshine (it’s often called the sunniest place in Britain). The island is popular with surfers and windsurfers thanks to its Atlantic waves, and it also hosts the sell-out Tiree Music Festival each year.

Neighbouring Coll is quieter, with dark skies that make it an excellent spot for stargazing.

For more information and inspiration, explore our “Island Trips off the Scottish West Coast” series:

• Part 1: Mull, Iona and Jura
• Part 2: Lismore, Islay and Kerrera
• Part 3: Coll, Tiree and Ulva

Free Things to Do in Argyll

Not every great day out in Argyll needs a ticket or a tour. Some of the most rewarding experiences here are completely free, whether you’re travelling on a budget or simply want to enjoy Scotland’s great outdoors at your own pace.

Coastal & Woodland Walks

With miles of coastline and a patchwork of forests, Argyll is perfect for walkers. From short lochside strolls to longer hikes with sweeping views, you’ll find plenty of routes that don’t cost a thing. We recommend starting with Wild About Argyll’s detailed guides:
Short Distance Walking Trails in Argyll & the Isles

Historic Ruins

Alongside the famous castles, Argyll is full of ruins and ancient sites that are free to explore. Dunadd Fort, once the seat of Scotland’s early kings, is open to visitors year-round and offers incredible views once you reach the top (we recommend tying this in with a trip to the afore mentioned Achnabreck Rock Art.)
The standing stones and cairns in Kilmartin Glen can also be visited without charge.

Beaches & Wild Swimming

Pack a picnic and head to one of Argyll’s many beaches for a free day out by the water. Ganavan Sands near Oban is especially popular, but quieter coves can be found all along the coast if you prefer space to yourself. For the adventurous, wild swimming in the lochs or sea is an unforgettable way to connect with the landscape.

In our blog: Wild Swimming in the North West Highlands with Dan the Merman, Dan the Merman shares his favourite wild swim spots and professional tips.

Argyll Wildlife Spotting

You don’t need a boat trip to see wildlife in Argyll. Keep your eyes peeled while walking the coast and you might spot seals basking on rocks or otters playing in the shallows. Birdwatchers can look out for sea eagles, buzzards, and plenty of seabirds soaring overhead.
Follow us on Loch Melfort Hotel IG and Facebook for our find along the rockpools at the end of our path – we caused quite a stir with our enormous Barrel Jelly Fish find!

Argyll Community Events & Music Nights

Many towns in Argyll host regular markets, ceilidhs, or small festivals where visitors are welcome. At Loch Melfort Hotel, our own music nights are free for guests to enjoy, with talented local musicians creating an authentic west coast atmosphere.