FAIRYTALE TOWN INVERARAY

With its white waterfront buildings, sparkling harbour, and angular backdrop of hills and forest, Argyll’s county town of Inveraray makes an eye-catching first impression that hints at the experiences to come. Established by its Duke in 1745, this planned town is a showcase of Georgian architecture, with its grand homes, mysterious alleys and central neo-classical church.

Inveraray Castle, the fairytale home of Clan Campbell and the current Duke of Argyll, is the town’s star attraction and was once the setting for a Downton Abbey Christmas special (as well as the recent BBC hit A Very British Scandal). Its armoury hall displays an impressive collection of weapons, including the handle of outlaw Rob Roy’s dagger. More sedate highlights are the state dining room, tapestry drawing room, a cosy basement café and well-cared-for gardens.

Echoes of Inveraray’s murkier past are part of its appeal too. In the 1800s, Inveraray Jail housed offenders from convicted killers to children caught stealing apples. Today, it is a living museum where costumed guides tell stories of former inmates and visitors can try out punishments and experience the excitement of a trial in the courtroom.

Perched on a hilltop high above Loch Fyne, the Dun na Cuaiche watchtower is the stone guardian of Inveraray. The 18th century viewpoint is a relatively short, though fairly challenging walk from Inveraray Castle car park, and provides a staggering view of the Fyne Valley – the town, castle, celebrated bell tower and loch can all be seen from the shelter.

A day trip to Inveraray can also encompass living history at Auchindrain, a farming township (a few miles south of the town) that has been carefully preserved. Head north-east from Inveraray town and you reach Cairndow, a scenic hamlet that is home to the celebrated Loch Fyne Oyster Bar and Farm Shop and, for families, the recently-opened Fyne Den play space.

At the very tip of Loch Fyne is Ardkinglas, the stately home and estate that includes Ardkinglas Woodland Garden, a hillside haven which includes a Gruffalo trail, fairy garden and a remarkable collection of plants and ‘champion’ trees including some of the tallest, widest, and oldest trees in Britain.

DIARY DATE: Fyne Fest, 2-4 June. An outdoor celebration of the region, hosted by Fyne Ales, with live bands, beer and lots of local produce.

Inveraray Castle

One of the West’s most popular attractions, Inveraray Castle is the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll. The Armoury Hall and opulent Tapestry Drawing Room are highlights of a tour. inveraray-castle.com

Auchindrain

Learn about Argyll’s rural history in this living museum where you can explore the homes of the crofters of the past and get hands on learning about traditional skills. auchindrain.org.uk

Loch Fyne Oyster Bar

The internationally famous seafood brand started out here, in a shed, in the 1970s. You can dine in more comfortable surroundings now, but the sparkling view and the fresh oysters, mussels and salmon, remain as memorable.

lochfyne.com

Argyll Adventure

Get out and about on horseback around Loch Fyne. Argyll Adventure offer scenic pony treks and riding lessons, plus paintball and crossbow ranges and laser storm.

argylladventure.com

Fyne Den

Indoor Adventure Zone and new Adventure Garden! Play Sessions 1hour 45 minutes. Check for opening hours and ticket prices. Cairndow, next to Loch Fyne Oysters off the A83. Email:- info@thefyneden.com

Tel: 01499 320429

Mob: 07931 656706