Enjoy a day out in Argyll with hundreds of things to see, do and explore. From pristine beaches and historic castles, to atmospheric woodland walks and adrenaline-pumping watersports, there's plenty for everyone to get involved in and enjoy.

If you're lucky enough to call this region home, then these ideas are for you! We've hand-picked days out ideas on your doorstep which should be available and are safe to do in the current phase. So, what will you find on your first trip?

Remember - you can travel short distances of around 5 miles to enjoy the outdoors and exercise in Scotland. Please do keep a physical distance from others by 2 metres at all times, both indoors and outdoors. Find out more on the current Covid-19 restrictions of Phase 3 and future phases.

Check directly with the businesses before visiting on their reopening date, and look out for the Good to Go scheme logo, which shows which businesses have carried out a Covid-19 risk assessment.

Kilmartin Glen

Step back in time in Kilmartin Glen, where you’ll find over 350 historic sites, ranging from standing stones and ancient sculptures to cup and ring-marked stones. The glen is considered to have one of the most important concentrations of Neolithic and Bronze Age remains in Scotland.

Did you know?

  • The Dunadd hillfort was once the crowning place of Scotland’s earliest kings.
  • Dunadd is located on the edge of the Moine Mhòr – Gaelic for ‘Great Moss.’
  • The cairns, forts and castles of the area span a period of more than 5,000 years.
  • You can walk the most impressive monuments of the glen on this route from WalkHighlands.

Explore Kilmartin Glen.

Westport Beach

With the warmer weather approaching, enjoying a day at the beach with friends or family is a great choice for a day out. Westport Beach is described as one of the finest beaches on the west coast of Scotland, so take a stroll along the sands or enjoy a picnic. If you're feeling brave enough, once the restrictions have eased, tackle the waves while out surfing.

Did you know?

  • Westport Beach is one of the very few places in Scotland where you can find the spectacular pyramid orchid. It can be seen from the end of July.
  • The beach at the north end of Machrihanish Bay faces the Atlantic and continues to be a popular spot amongst surfers.
  • The beach forms part of the famous Mull of Kintyre Half Marathon and was voted the most scenic race in the whole of the UK.

Visit Westport Beach.

Oban

Wander through the historic town of Oban and you'll be amazed by its beauty. Complete with a scenic harbour, views stretching out over the surrounding islands, and delicious local food produce to try, you can enjoy the best of all worlds here. If you look up you can see what resembles a Roman colosseum, McCaig's Tower, which is a prominent landmark of the town. The climb from the town centre is worth the effort for the magnificent panoramic views you can experience from the top. 

Did you know:

  • The name 'Oban' derives from the Gaelic language and means 'little bay'.
  • You can head north along the main road where you'll come across the old ruin of Dunollie Castle, which provides incredible views over the surrounding islands and Oban's harbour. It's especially picturesque at sunset!
  • Oban is walkable - everything you need or want to visit you can get to on foot; a great way to get your steps in and reduce your carbon footprint!

Visit Oban.

Loch Lomond & Cowal Way

Now one of Scotland's Great Trails, this quiet and waymarked 57-mile walking path boasts incredible scenery, views and history along each of its signposted sections. Broken up into four parts, choose which section takes your fancy, get your boots on, and head off to explore. Along the way you can spot a range of historic landmarks and ruins, including Asgog Castle, Kilmodan Church & Carved Stones, Struth Ban Falls and many more.

*Please check ahead for which facilities have reopened before you set off.

Did you know:

  • This route is also known as 'Scotland in 57 miles'.
  • Argyll boasts more coastline than France - that's a lot of beaches, bays and coastal spots to admire and explore!
  • The route is incredibly scenic and includes forests, waterfalls, the shores of sea-lochs and hill-passes - these make for great little stop off points en-route.

Explore Loch Lomond & Cowal Way.

Knapdale Forest and Beaver Trial

If you're looking for somewhere to keep the little ones occupied over the summer months, then head on down to Knapdale Forest. With its abundance of wildlife and natural surroundings, it is the perfect setting for an adventurous day outdoors! During your visit to Knapdale Forest:

  • Enjoy serene woodland walks with the family.
  • Learn about the Scottish Beaver Trial. This unique partnership project led to the successful reintroduction of beavers to the UK for the first time in 400 years. Catch a glimpse of these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat in the heart of Argyll.
  • It's not just beavers that you will be able to spot while on your travels, keep your eyes peeled for invertebrates, amphibians and even bats!

*Please note, toliet facilities will be starting a phased reopening from 20 July. Please check ahead before you visit.

Head to Knapdale Forest.

Inveraray Castle

The ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll and Chief of Clan Campbell, Inveraray Castle is an iconic landmark amongst the Scottish landscape. Within the castle you can visit the famous Armoury Hall which hosts incredible collections of Brown Bess muskets, Lochaber axes, and 18th century Scottish broadswords - it's quite the sight to see! The castle also boasts beautifully maintained gardens and expansive estates, as well as offering some fantastic walks alongside first-class holiday accommodation.

Did you know:

  • The castle is recognised as one of Scotland's finest stately homes - head inside and the intricate art, design and detail will do all of the explaining!
  • The castle contains mesmerising examples of Scottish, French and English furniture, as well as featuring priceless artworks to admire.

Visit Inveraray Castle.

PLAN FOR LATER

Even if this is a region you've spent your whole life exploring, when was the last time you shared that with someone new, a friend, a visiting auntie, or a young one who hasn't seen it through your eyes before? These ideas are for attractions and activities which are not yet open, but will let you start planning where else you're going to go (and who you want to take with you!).

Remember - when you're thinking about taking a day trip or overnight stay in the future, please plan ahead carefully and check opening arrangements with the businesses directly. You can find out more about the current Covid-19 restrictions of Phase 3 and future phases.

Visit Puck's Glen

Deservedly the most famous short walk on the Cowal Peninsula, Puck's Glen boasts an atmospheric trail to wander along. You'll feel as if you've stepped into another realm, with the trails full of rushing burns, criss-crossed by wooden bridges and enclosed by rocky walls, complete with heavily hung mosses and dense trees. Located 5 miles north of Dunoon, and 1 mile south of Benmore Botanic Gardens, it's the perfect countryside escape!

Did you know:

  • If you keep your eyes peeled, you may be able to spot the mysterious Ghillie Dhu - a solitary male fairy prominent in Scottish folklore.
  • Puck's Glen is described as one of the 'most magical forests in Scotland'.
  • The atmosphere of the glen is reminiscent of the mythological Puck from William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream.

Explore Puck's Glen.

Mount Stuart House, Isle of Bute

This magnificent 19th century house portrays everything a grand mansion should have - from an incredible Victorian Gothic design and intricate contemporary craftsmanship, to 300 acres of spectacular grounds and gardens. Head to the visitor centre where you can peruse the gallery, experience an audio-visual presentation in the shop, head on a guided tour and more.

Did you know:

  • That despite the house being a countryside manor, it is only 70 minutes from Glasgow airport and 20 minutes from the Argyll mainland.
  • In 1877 a fire tragically damaged large areas of the house, but it was then later restored. The Georgian architecture of the wings presents a striking contrast to the otherwise Victorian design, providing a completely unique architectural blend.
  • The interior was inspired by astrology, art and mythology, creating a jaw-dropping scene. Make sure and look up to be mesmerised by the intricate ceiling art.

Visit Mount Stuart House.

Watersports and Horse Riding

Being home to a collection of all shapes and sizes of islands, it's no surprise that Argyll features some incredible bays and beaches. These magical spots are a great way to get involved in a range of watersports and even horse riding along the beach. When Scotland fully reopens, why not try out a new sport? Windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing and coasteering are just a few of the great things you can get involved in.

Did you know:

  • The Isle of Tiree is famed for hosting the BWA Tiree Wave Classic - the longest running professional windsurfing event in the world.
  • Balevullin, also on the Isle of Tiree, is a dedicated Dark Sky Spot. Explore our Stargazing in Scotland video series to learn more about how you can get closer to the stars!
  • Tobermory, on the Isle of Mull, was used as inspiration for the colourful houses on the children's TV show, Balamory.

*Please check the websites of individual providers as some may reopen.*

Try out watersports and horse riding.

Where will you go on your first trip beyond your own doorstep? Share your ideas and fascinating facts on Argyll in our iKnow Community or on social media.

With so many places to visit across Scotland, will you head to one of your favourites or try somewhere new to tick off the bucket list? Check out our other articles for more ideas for your first (second, third and fourth…) trip within Scotland.