The most beautiful religious buildings Central & West Coast

Founded in the ^13th century on an island in the Lake of Menteith, Inchmahome Priory is accessible by a small ferry from the village of Port of Menteith. The crossing is included in the ticket, which allows you to visit this historic site that saw the passage of King Robert the Bruce and Mary Queen of Scots. Now partially in ruins, it still retains a certain charm, thanks to its location and its stones carved in the chapter house. This haven of peace is worth taking the time to walk around and discover its secrets.

It is possible to reach Davaar Island on foot and at low tide during a short hike of 6.5 km, without big difference in altitude. You can explore the sea caves, including the famous crucifixion painting. You then reach the lighthouse further north. The itinerary is available for free on the walkhighlands.co.uk website.

Caution : This hike can only be done at low tide, otherwise you may get stuck. Make sure you get the information you need before leaving!

The building is relatively new, having been designed in 1846 and completed only in 1910. Initially a simple church, it became the cathedral of the diocese of Argyll in 1920. This cathedral does not impose from the outside. Nor is it absolutely grandiose on the inside. However, it deserves to be mentioned because it mixes, in an original and moving way, the spiritual dimension and industrial architecture. A Gothic church with industrial elements, riveted beams instead of stone columns, is not often seen.

This cathedral covers several periods, from the 11th to the 15th century. This gives it an interesting mix of styles, with some pre-Romanesque parts, such as the base of its tower, contrasting with the rest of the building, which is mostly Gothic. Andy Murray was married here, and there is also a memorial stele in memory of the victims of the massacre of March 13, 1996. You can see the grave of Mary Drummond, a mistress of James VI, and her two sisters, who were all allegedly poisoned... Guided tours are offered on Sundays in summer (2pm and 4pm).

Don't think it's the church of the Holy Evil! Here, rough comes from the Scottish rood, which means cross, as in Holyrood Abbey. Founded in the 12th century, the building that stands here today dates from the 15th century, making it the oldest in the city after the castle. James VI was crowned by John Knox in 1587 and its characteristics are magnificent. The organ, first of all, but also the medieval wooden roof, the stunning stained glass windows and the imposing pillars. A little piece of history worth a look.

This small church, built on top of the loch, is as discreet as it is visited. Seen from the road, it seems rather banal, but by entering and admiring it from the loch, one realizes that it is a real jewel of religious architecture and a jewel of heritage. Sculptures and details are legion for the play of symbols and omnipresent lights. One of them is a magnificent lying down, which is none other than Robert the Bruce. Indeed, the church holds a relic - a bone fragment - of this great historical figure.