Argyll and Bute can be discovered on very different scales: 1,167 miles of designated Core Paths contrast with a prehistoric landscape in which more than 800 monuments lie within a six-mile radius of Kilmartin Museum. One draws attention to paths and landscapes, the other to traces of earlier times.

Walking trails between coast, moor and forest

The 30-mile West Island Way on Bute passes through coastal landscapes, along beaches and across farmland, moorland and forest paths. These changing landscape types give the route its character. Different sections of the route take centre stage on the Loch Lomond & Cowal Way: the long-distance trail runs from Portavadie to Inveruglas along the Cowal Peninsula, using existing footpaths, forest tracks, slopes, quiet roads and traditional rights of way. Those who pay particular attention to the type of path will find a different mix here than on the Bute route.

There is also a specific route option for cycling enthusiasts: a 120-mile route on the Caledonia Way, mostly on roads, runs between Oban and Campbeltown. The routes described can therefore be distinguished not only by their length, but also by whether the focus is on coastal and forest landscapes on foot or on a largely road-based cycling route.

Prehistoric sites and striking buildings

Kilmartin Glen is one of Scotland’s richest prehistoric landscapes. The more than 800 monuments within six miles of Kilmartin Museum give an impression of the density of its archaeological remains. The active museum has collections, educational programmes and activities. Guided walks in the glen visit, among other sites, the Linear Cairn Cemetery, Nether Largie South Chambered Cairn and Temple Wood Stone Circle.

The Kilmodan Sculptured Stones offer a different historical perspective: the collection comprises nine late medieval grave slabs from the West Highlands and one post-Reformation grave slab, dated 1636. The carved stones come from the cemetery around St Modan’s Church in the village of Clachan of Glendaruel and are housed in a chapel resembling a churchyard burial chapel. On Bute, Rothesay Castle has Scotland’s only circular curtain wall. Also on the Isle of Bute, Mount Stuart is a neo-Gothic mansion set in 300 acres of gardens.

Forests, gardens and wildlife

Argyll Forest Park stretches from the Holy Loch, a sea loch off the Firth of Clyde, to the rugged peaks of the Arrochar Alps. Its landscapes include hidden valleys, quiet sea lochs and fast-flowing rivers. Red squirrels, pine martens and crossbills live in the park; it also has mountain bike trails for cross-country riding. In the centre of the park, Glenbranter Forest offers short walking paths and long horse-riding trails. Waterfalls lie in the Allt-Robuic Gorge, and a path leads through the gorge to a series of cascades. A forest path also passes a wildlife observation hide; other forest trails wind through native oak, birch and hazel woodland. Red squirrels can often be seen among the branches in Glenbranter Forest.

Garden visits offer further perspectives on plants and landscapes. Benmore Botanic Garden is located within both Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park and Argyll Forest Park. Across 120 acres, it displays plant collections from the Himalayas, China, Japan, and North and South America. Crarae Woodland Garden is a Himalayan-style valley in the rolling hills of Argyll. Its paths lead to a gorge, a stream, waterfalls and cliffs; forest bathing is also available. With more than 50 plant families, 240 genera and over 900 plant species, Crarae offers a different kind of diversity.

Further discoveries and getting there

A distillery or garden can also shape the character of a visit: Bruichladdich Distillery offers tours of its Victorian distillery and cask tastings. There is also a practical Botanist cocktail-making class. Ferries to Bute run between Wemyss Bay and Rothesay, and between Colintraive and Rhubodach; check the timetables before travelling. Buses between Dunoon and Strachur pass the entrance to Glenbranter Forest. Check the connection before setting out.

Discover more destinations: Ardentinny, Dunoon, Kilmun, Taynuilt, Tobermory, Tighnabruaich, Rhu, Lochgoilhead, Kilmelfort, Inveraray, Dalmally, Craignure, Carradale, Campbeltown, Bridge Of Orchy, Arrochar, Ardfern, Rowardennan, Lussagiven, Helensburgh, Appin, Luss, Cairndow, Tarbert, Lochgilphead, Saint Catherines, Lerags, Port Ellen, Ardlui, Rothesay, Inversnaid, Innellan, Cardross, Furnace, Ardrishaig, Isle Of Colonsay, Colintraive, Isle of Mull, Garelochhead, Minard, Cairnbaan, Shandon, Crinan, Connel, Glencruitten, Bowmore, Dalavich, Kingarth, Isle of Islay, Kilchoan, Bruichladdich, Port Charlotte, Tayinloan, Isle of Jura, Bunessan, Isle of Coll, Port Bannatyne, Kilbride, Kirn, Isle of Gigha, Strachur, Kames, Isle of Bute

For the overview of the wider region: Scotland.