Walking Argyll
Arichonan Trail
On the road to Tayvallich, you'll find the Glen of Burning and a great little walk called the Arichonan Trail. The Glen took its name from the large Oak trees which were burnt to make charcoal during the 1800's. The walk itself takes moderate effort for those who are reasonably fit. It's about a mile to the top and a fairly gentle climb. The effort involved is well worth it as when you reach the top you are struck by the most amazing views of the loch below.
Not only is this a great little walk with spectacular views, it's also a historical site. At the top of the hill sits the remains of Conan's Shieling. The history of the site is printed on large boards for visitors. So it's kind of like enjoying a great walk with amazing views and finding a free museum at the top.
Not only is this a great little walk with spectacular views, it's also a historical site. At the top of the hill sits the remains of Conan's Shieling. The history of the site is printed on large boards for visitors. So it's kind of like enjoying a great walk with amazing views and finding a free museum at the top.
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The Crinan Canal
Finding good places to walk in the winter can sometimes be a challenge if you're not overly keen on a bit of mud and rough terrain. However it's not impossible to find some beautiful scenic routes that won't be spoiled by the weather. The walk along the Crinan Canal is one such route.
The canal was originally built as a short cut to link Ardrishaig on Loch Fyne with Crinan. This 9 mile stretch of waterway would negate the need for boats to travel the longer journey around the Mull of Kintyre. The Canal was finally competed in 1809. By 1854, 33,000 passengers, 27,000 sheep and 2,000 cattle had made the journey through the canal. Today the canal is mainly used by yachts and fishing boats taking advantage of 'the most beautiful shortcut in the world".
The walk along the canal is flat so suitable for all levels of fitness. Curlew, Oystercatchers, little grebe, red breasted megansers and grey heron can all be spotted along the Crinan towpath making it a great route for birdwatchers too.
On the 9 mile stretch you'll pass the rocky crag of Dunaad where it is believed that the first Kings of Scotland were crowned. A little further on you'll arrive at Cairnbaan. The Cairnbaan Hotel is an excellent place to stop for well earned refreshments. A warm welcome awaits you. The hotel has an excellent lunch and dinner menu serving delicious locally sourced produce. Once you've refuelled, you'll need to cross the road and continue on the tow path on the other side (keeping to the left side of the canal). From here it's roughly 4 miles to Ardrishaig. When you arrive in Ardrishaig be sure to treat yourself to something yummy at the "rumblin tum" cafe. After a 9 mile walk you deserve it!
The canal was originally built as a short cut to link Ardrishaig on Loch Fyne with Crinan. This 9 mile stretch of waterway would negate the need for boats to travel the longer journey around the Mull of Kintyre. The Canal was finally competed in 1809. By 1854, 33,000 passengers, 27,000 sheep and 2,000 cattle had made the journey through the canal. Today the canal is mainly used by yachts and fishing boats taking advantage of 'the most beautiful shortcut in the world".
The walk along the canal is flat so suitable for all levels of fitness. Curlew, Oystercatchers, little grebe, red breasted megansers and grey heron can all be spotted along the Crinan towpath making it a great route for birdwatchers too.
On the 9 mile stretch you'll pass the rocky crag of Dunaad where it is believed that the first Kings of Scotland were crowned. A little further on you'll arrive at Cairnbaan. The Cairnbaan Hotel is an excellent place to stop for well earned refreshments. A warm welcome awaits you. The hotel has an excellent lunch and dinner menu serving delicious locally sourced produce. Once you've refuelled, you'll need to cross the road and continue on the tow path on the other side (keeping to the left side of the canal). From here it's roughly 4 miles to Ardrishaig. When you arrive in Ardrishaig be sure to treat yourself to something yummy at the "rumblin tum" cafe. After a 9 mile walk you deserve it!