Things to see and do CENTRE ET CÔTE OUEST

The famous aquarium chain has an attraction as far as Loch Lomond, with this marine sanctuary of some 1,500 aquatic animals. Through seven themed zones, you can encounter turtles, sharks, octopuses, rays, seahorses, colourful fish and many more. You can also see otters and stroke starfish. It is even possible, upon reservation, to feed the sharks, or to spend a night in the aquarium.

A discrete, tree-lined bay that deserves to be mentioned for its great beauty.

Situated between Balmaha and Rowardennan, it offers a particularly soothing setting to take on its breath between two hikes. It is also possible to camp in the surroundings.

This walk takes you to the top of the mysterious and mythical Doon Hill, reputed to be the cradle of the fairytale world. It is here, by the way, that Reverend Kirk is said to have received the elfshot. The magic is here and legend lovers will love walking these trails. The 6.5 km hike takes 2 hours and passes near the cemetery where the Reverend is buried, before climbing through a hardwood and venturing into the forest. The place being associated with the existence of fairies, keep your eyes open and let yourself be carried away by the fairytale of the place!

You can spend a whole afternoon on the banks of this absolutely beautiful loch north of Aberfoyle (follow the A821) for a walk or a picnic. It's a time to relax and enjoy the view of the clear water reflected in the wooded hills. It was the inspiration for Walter Scott's poem, The Lady of the Lake.

A great place for families, you can walk and bike along the loch. The highlight is a cruise on an old steamboat.

The graves of Rob Roy and his wife Mary can be seen in the cemetery in the hamlet of Balquhidder, near the plaque proclaiming "MacGregor despite them" ("MacGregor malgré eux tous"). The church is a real treasure for lovers of heritage and religious history. Indeed, there is the tombstone of the first saint who evangelized the territory, representing him with the salvation cup in his hands. There are also copies of the pages of the Bible translated by Reverend Kirk and an exhibition of objects that belonged to Rob Roy.

Castle House invites you to dive into the history of the Cowal Peninsula while visiting a magnificent site. From the garden and rooms of the castle, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the Clyde. Exhibits trace local history from the arrival of the first settlers in the Neolithic period, through Highland clan battles, the Victorian era, the Clyde steamers and the World Wars, all with the help of historical re-enactments and archival material. The castle itself dates from the 12th century.

Crarae Garden is considered to be the finest example of a Himalayan style garden in Britain. Here you won't see the yeti, but exceptional tree varieties, as well as brilliant azaleas and rhododendrons. The garden takes shape between gorges, valleys, waterfalls and cliffs, for a peaceful and dreamlike stroll, in an astonishingly colourful and exotic elsewhere. The fauna is also rich and, with a bit of luck, you will see red squirrels, deer, woodpeckers, buzzards or peregrine falcons.

Discover here the most beautiful set of bells in Scotland (there are 10 of them) and the second largest collection in the world (by weight). You can discover the bell ringers as well as the mechanisms of the bells. On the ground floor, a free exhibition tells the story of the bells, cast in 1920, of their ringing and reveals their little names. It is possible to climb the 176 steps of the spiral staircase to gain height on Inveraray and admire the magnificent carillon, as well as the panoramic view of the mountains and Loch Fyne.

This lively and colorful attraction was developed in a former prison built in 1819. Thanks to actors in costume and a staging faithful to reality, one is immersed in the daily life of the prisoners, from their trial to the cells. Attention is paid to every detail and one is not left indifferent to the stories of torture and forced labor. Many men were subjected to it, but also women and children. The audio guide is included in the entrance fee, and there is a French version of the guided tour.

This is the name of the small mountain next to the castle. A short and easy walk leads to its summit, which offers a superb view of the loch and its surroundings.

The Highlands were long a land of agriculture where ranching and farming families lived in small communities called townships . In the ^nineteenth century, the Highland Clearances wiped out many of these communities, so that by 1850, most had disappeared. Those that survived mutated with new technologies and the Industrial Revolution. Here in Auchindrain, the change was much less noticeable than elsewhere and the area was preserved in its original form. A real trip back in time!

You will find stone circles, standing stones, burial mounds and other Neolithic buildings at several sites around the village of Kilmartin and in the Kilmartin Valley. These are best explored by car or by bicycle. Maps are available at the Visitor Centre or Museum Shop and signs at each site allow you to find your way around and discover the specific features of each building.

At the place called Dunadd, 6.5 km south of the village, you will find the foundations of an ancient fort of the kingdom of Dal Riata, on top of a hill. The most impressive remains are undoubtedly formed by a succession of five cairns around the village. TheGlebe Cairn stands directly to the west, in a field, while the Nether Largie North Cairn, the Nether Largie Mid Cairn and the Nether Largie South Cairn are lined up on the road to Kilmartin Primary School. It is reached by following the direction of Slockavullin, south of Kilmartin. Once at the crossroads, there are two cairns at 450 m on the right, as well as a cairn and some menhirs at 350 m on the left : the Temple Wood. The fourth site, the Ri Cruin Cairn, is located on the B8025, shortly after the crossing with the A816, near other standing stones : the Nether Largie Standing Stones. The fifth, Dunchraigaig Cairn, is visible from the road, 2.5 km south of Kilmartin.

Scattered in fields, you can walk around it. Be careful, it can be muddy.

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.

Sealife Adventures has been operating in Oban Bay for over 30 years. The company offers sea trips to discover the incredible nature of Scottish waters. Each option includes a passage through the Corryvreckan whirlpool and you may see rare birds, dolphins, whales, basking sharks and seals. The boats are accessible to people with reduced mobility and children of all ages. You will be provided with free hot drinks and snacks on board, as well as binoculars, so you won't miss out on the show.

Entirely created and maintained by volunteers, this small, old-fashioned museum houses countless objects and photographs from the last century, including even a piece of the transatlantic cable. They all tell the story of Oban, in times of peace and war. You will learn more about the life of the fishermen, the maritime industries, the arrival of trains, local sports, industrialization, the role of Oban during the war years when the city welcomed Australian, Canadian and American crews, operations in the bay...

Inverawe has many attractions. There's something magical about the road alone! Once your vehicle is parked, several choices are available according to your desires: discover, through the museum area, how salmon are smoked, learn about fishing techniques, go for a walk following the proposed circuits (short walks) or taste smoked salmon on the spot in the café and shop area. In any case, don't leave on an empty stomach, it would be a shame!

The astonishing McCaig's Tower is Oban's most famous monument. Sitting atop the town on Battery Hill, its 92m circumference is reminiscent of the Roman Colosseum, which was its main source of inspiration. We owe this surprising project to John Stuart McCaig, a philanthropic banker concerned about his posterity and the fate of local masons in need of work. He himself drew the plans, which were implemented between 1897 and 1902, the year of his death. The climb is a bit steep, but worth a little effort for the magnificent view of the bay.

The existence of a garden in Ardchattan goes back more than 700 years... It was installed by the monks of Valliscaulian when they settled on the site. However, the garden we admire today is more recent and dates back a little over a century: 110 years! We find its monastic origins and inspiration, but it has been restructured with a rose garden, a wildflower garden, ornamental trees? The ruins of the chapel are accessible from the garden.

This exotic garden, located about twenty minutes from Oban, offers a colourful escape into a world of spectacular, teeming flowers and trees. Rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias and lilies are kings here. Perfect for a bucolic stroll, the place takes you from the dense composition of the landscaped garden to the wooded areas and then to the breathtaking panorama of the coast and the islands. Several itineraries are possible, for walks suitable for all, and explanations are scattered throughout the park, to help you discover the secrets of the place.

Skipness Castle is a remnant of a castle, situated opposite the island of Arran and accessible from the east coast of Kintyre, south of the village of Skipness. It is one of the oldest castles still standing. It dates from the early 13th century and has been rebuilt several times over the centuries. Also known as MacSween Castle, after the clan that built it, it consisted of two floors with a modest entrance hall and a chapel dedicated to Saint Columba.

Emblematic site of Tarbert, its castle is a listed monument of national importance, thanks to the passage and action of Robert The Bruce, King of Scotland in 1325. He is the one who had it expanded and strengthened. If the site has been a ruin since the 18th century, it is very pleasant to visit for its view of Loch Fyne and its park, much appreciated by families for a picnic, a nature outing or to watch the sheep of the Hebrides shearing grass. It is him you will see, illuminated, at night, from the port of Tarbert.

In partnership with the Forestry Commission, Alex organizes safari trips in his 4×4 which can accommodate up to 16 people. Excursions are made from Brodick, either to the forest - wildlife observation with binoculars, passage by Glenashdale Falls, discovery of a cairn of more than 5,000 years... - or towards the coast with emblematic sites such as the Devil's Punchbowl, the Witches' Step or Arran's " Big Five ". Outings including distilleries (Lagg Distillery and Lochranza Distillery) are also on the program.

Opened in 2000, the Arran brewery quickly made a place for itself in the hearts of beer lovers. You can now drink his achievements all over the country and discover his production site here. Visits take place only twice a day and last on average 45 minutes. They allow you to see the manufacturing process and end with a tasting session. If you're short of time, you can always drop by the shop and visitor centre, created to allow you to discover the art of brewing through observation windows.

All the secrets of the fascinating island of Arran are told here for the curious who wish to learn more about the island culture, through archaeology, but also social history. A Bronze Age tomb, a replica Viking ship, reproductions of period interiors, costumes, photographs and videos bring the local heritage back to life, whether it is from 3,000 years ago or the last century. There's a coffee shop on the premises. Events are organized there every year: motorcycle and tractor show, handicraft day, children's day...

Erected and owned by the MacSweens, Lochranza Castle dates back to the 13th century for its oldest part, and to the 15th and 16th centuries for the rest. Robert the Bruce is said to have passed through here in 1306. It was used around 1490 by James IV, then by Cromwell in 1650. In 1705, it passed under the yoke of the Hamilton family, before falling into disrepair during the 18th century. It is now protected by Historic Scotland. If you are a tintinophile, the silhouette of this castle will surely speak to you: it inspired the mysterious ruined castle of Ben More from the album L'Île Noire.

This is the home of the single malt of the Isle of Arran; true island pride. You can appreciate the principles of its elaboration during a 45-minute visit, punctuated by two tastings: a cream of whisky liqueur and the very popular 14 year old. The latter is 46% and has round and fruity aromas. Good plan: the "drop inn tour" for an express discovery (film) with tasting. There is also a café on site for a drink or a bite to eat.

This stone circle is an impressive Neolithic site. It offers to see six stone circles. Erected monoliths, cairns, burial cists and circles marking habitation or plots are visible. They bear witness to a dwelling dating from 3500 to 1500 BC. These stone circles were associated with religious activities estimated at -4500 BC. You will have to walk a little from the car park to see the stones (a walk of about an hour).

Legend has it that Robert the Bruce took shelter in this cave before the Battle of Bannockburn and met the famous spider that encouraged him to continue his fight. He would have watched him fail six times, just as he had lost six times to the English. If the seventh was good for the spider, it would be good for him too. The spider succeeded: Robert the Bruce fought. Besides the legend, the cave is worth seeing for its beautiful surroundings. A 4.7 km marked trail leads to it between forests, panoramic views, moors and cliffs.

This small museum is a good approach to better understand this island before exploring it in depth. Its history is told since the arrival of the first men, but also its nature, its fauna and flora. Archaeological excavations, models, stuffed animals, collectibles and many more bear witness to the island's heritage and diversity. Rothesay Castle is just opposite the museum and is easily accessible. The museum exhibits objects that were found there.

This 13th century colossus is not lacking in singularity with its circular plan, its four massive towers and its high walls surrounded by water. Now partly in ruins, it was one of the residences of choice of the Stuart kings. It had an eventful fate during the Wars of Independence and the Three Kingdoms War, as it was regularly moved from one camp to another. After falling into oblivion, it underwent major restoration in the 19th century and is now open to the public. The Bute Museum, next door, also looks back on its history.

Toilets, this is a public restroom... Recommending a toilet in a guidebook is not common, but you shouldn't miss it... Between the galley and the pier, the Victorian toilets of Rothesay are more than a place of ease, a stopover that has become unmistakable and even very attractive. Opened in 1899, these toilets are a fine example of the style of the period, with their ornate ceramics and mosaics.

The Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum holds in its collections some 40,000 objects and works of art - paintings, photographs, sculptures, and miscellaneous art objects - representing Stirling around the world and showing what Stirling is all about. Three galleries alternate temporary exhibitions. You may meet Oswald Clingan-Smith, the master cat, in the museum spaces or in the library. The place also has a café and a shop.

Created in 2015, this distillery opened its doors to the public in spring 2019. It invites you to discover how gin is made through 3 visits. They will show you the premises, the manufacturing techniques, the perfect recipe for gin and tonic and will allow you to taste one or more drinks, depending on the formula chosen. The guided tours are special in that they also tell you about Stirling, its history and its legends: that of the Red Cap and the Green Lady in particular. You can also follow a 2-hour workshop to distill your gin.

Castle Campbell or Castle of Glooms - it's the same one, called differently - overlooks Dollar. This ^15th century castle dominates the valley with its medieval silhouette. Home of the Earls of Argyll - the heads of the Campbell clan - it is impressive for the panorama it offers and its central keep, 20 meters high. It first belonged to the Stuart clan. Mary Queen of Scots and John Knox stayed there. You can park below and access it by going up a waterfall, through a wooded and green area of great beauty. The gardens are also very pretty.

On June 24, 1314, the forces of Robert the Bruce defeated the English troops of Edward II here in the First War of Independence. At that time, Stirling Castle was held by England, and the Scottish King's brother Edward II held it under siege. He concluded with his enemies that if they were not rescued before mid-summer, they would give up the stronghold, the gateway to the Highlands, to him. London, unable to ignore this agreement, marched its men north. The Scots, one against two or three, managed to win the victory after two days, despite their numerical and material inferiority. This success opened the way for military raids to the south and put an end to the first conflicts of independence. The discovery centre that now occupies the site offers an immersion in this key moment in national history. Thanks to its 3D technologies and interactive imagery, it recreates the conditions of the battle. Immersion is total! And it's fun too: you can take control of your virtual battlefield and try to recreate the battle... The winner will remain, in any case, the valiant Bruce! The attraction has been awarded several times for its educational and innovative character, which involves visitors in the story, making it more alive than ever. Outside, don't miss the statue of King Robert and discover the place where Robert the Bruce raised his standard.

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.

The Engine Shed invites you to explore Scotland's built heritage. Classical and interactive exhibitions provide an understanding of architecture over the centuries, capturing its history and becoming the ultimate in learning about Scotland's built heritage. The museum spaces are very modern: 3D theatres, augmented reality, participatory workshops... This very concrete visit puts you in a situation and makes you discover the buildings in all their states: plans, materials, know-how, engineering, technologies, and even practical advice.

The prison in the old town can be visited on a guided tour with an actor in costume, taking turns playing different roles. Immersed in the gloomy atmosphere of the building, designated as one of the worst prisons in Britain, you will discover the history of crime and punishment in the Stirling of yesteryear. You will meet the executioner Jock "The Happy Hangman" Rankin, but also the murderers and the tortured. From the top of the tower you will enjoy a beautiful view of the historic town and the surrounding countryside.

On the banks of the river Teith, this former 18th century cotton factory has become a well-known distillery in the region. In production since the 1960s, its building, designed by Richard Arkwright, now houses all the technology needed to make a single malt. The classic tour lasts 50 min and includes a dram, but there are other formulas: with tasting of 3 whiskies from the cask, with a visit to the tasting room, tour and heritage to learn more about local history, whiskies and chocolate...

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).

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!

This distillery was founded by William Mitchell in 1872. He had previously owned Springbank with his brother John. You can learn the history of this family as well as the different names of whiskies that have become established here. Several tours are offered. The £10 tour lasts one hour and tells you about the genesis of the distillery and how whisky is made. It ends with the tasting of a dram of spirit and the gift of a miniature.

Springbank is one of the last distilleries still active in Campbeltown. Present in its current premises since 1828, it claims to conduct 100% of its production on site, which is extremely rare in Scotland. The tour unveils the process from A to Z and ends with a tasting of the 10-year-old, a single malt with tastes of citrus fruits, spices and peat smoke, with a hint of vanilla. You'll leave with your miniature as a gift to prolong the pleasure or just to enjoy it if you have to drive.

When the weather is nice, the Campbeltown Heritage Centre opens its doors to tell the story of the local and peninsula history through a social and economic lens. Three hundred years of history are told here, with many artifacts from the past. You will discover the history of agriculture in Kyntire, the secrets of shipbuilding, the fishing tradition and the life of the fishing communities, but also that coal mining began at the end of the ^15th century.

The signposted walk starts from the car park on the heights of the village of Callander. We first pass under spectacular boulders before skirting a river which leads to these impressive waterfalls running through a gorge before flowing into Keltie Water. The curious thing about this place is that it is on the boundary line between two species that do not mix: red squirrels and grey squirrels. Easy to access, this small 5.25 km hike can be completed in an hour and a half. The route is available for free download on walkhighlands.co.uk.

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.

The Cruachan hydroelectric station, nicknamed "the Hollow Mountain", can be visited by guided tours. First, a free time in the exhibition - which deals with energy in all its aspects: ecology, techniques, engineering, but also the history of the site and social history - will familiarize you with the subject. A special area is dedicated to children. Then your guide will take you by shuttle bus into the mountain. The observation of the site is done from a platform through a bay window.

Kilchurn castle is one of the most photographed castles in Scotland. It must be said that its ruins are particularly photogenic, facing the loch and the hollow of the mountains. It was built in the 1400s and was the stronghold of the Campbells clan of Glenorchy for 150 years. After the first Jacobite uprising in 1689, it became a garrison stronghold, before being abandoned at the end of the 18th century. Currently, it is only visited from the outside. A car park a few hundred metres away makes it easy to stop there.

A huge 300 hectare park along the canal between Falkirk and Grangemouth. This ecopark connects more than 16 local communities. It is mainly known as the home of the Kelpies. These are the largest horse sculptures in the world! These two huge horse heads that are 9m high are inspired by mythical Scottish creatures. You can go inside if you book a guided tour.

Great place for families with velocipede boats, bike paths, water fountain area and an adventure playground.