On another road trip. We booked a lovely cottage in Cairbaan, an old canal workers cottage on the side of the canal was an ideal location for exploring an area we enjoy dearly, We drove the pictureesque route via Loch Lomond, passing the quaint Inverary. Our first new stop was The National Trusts, Crarae Gardens, to be honest what caught our attention was the sign that said Neolithic Cairn, having membership meant we could nip and see. We were very impressed with the Cairn and the amazing walks with some beautiful blossoms, waterfalls everywhere, this was a little gem of a find. We arrived at the cottage and settled in, after dinner we took a stroll along the canal before returning to rest up for a day of exploring. After much discussion of what we would like to do we decided to take a drive along to Crinan, a town only a few miles along the road to see if we walked to it if we could have lunch before walking back, we noticed a sign for Kilmory Knap Chaple and Sween Castle, so we followed the road and enjoyed many beautiful sights. Sween Castle Free site to visit. Sween Castle is looked after by Historic Scotland, however it's access is through a caravan site, Castle visitors are require to park just off the road and walk, it is not a far walk but the hill is quite steep. We found our way into the castle as it is not very clear. The castle is actually well worth a visit, sitting by the water looking over to Jura, we really enjoy wandering around the Castle. If I were bringing my kids I would definately take a picnic down and enjoy the clear water and stunning views. Kilmory Knap Chapel Further down the road from Sween Castle is this fascinating Chaple again maintained by Historic Scotland, the key is chained to the door and you can entre the chaple, It is very quaint and it's location looks out over the water. Inside are many examples of engraved grave stones from near and far, be sure to pick up the little hand boards for more information about each stone. We were very impressed with this stop and was a nice find. We headed back to the cottage and enjoyed a drive in the evening just before sunset to Dunadd Fort, we love to come back to this fort, it is fascinating and how it was so important place for so many years, The place actually still has a presence and power that can still be felt. To reach the top of the fort is a climb, the views of Kilmartin Glen are worth it alone. We hoped that the next day would grant us another lovely day with the weather where we could walk the 3.5miles to Crinan along the canal, enjoy a spot of lunch at Crinan Seafood Bar and then walk the canal back, we were so lucky the weather was brilliant, a bit blowy but on the coast in April cannot expect less. Met several cyclists and walkers on our way who were all very friendly, was a lovely time. In the early evening we took a wonderful drive through Tarbert which is a great place to stop, The Castle up on the hill is worth a walk and gives you amazing views out over the bay. We drove to Skipness Castle and Chapel. Beside Skipness Castle is a smokery which our timing is always off as we come in the evening and it is closed by the time we get there, however the castle tower was open and we were able to venture in however it was a bit overwhelming and forbodding and we were glad to move back outside. Skipness Castle looks out across to Arran and if you ever find yourself with a free day we recommend a ferry trip and a visit ti Arran, it is beautiful We took a leisurely drive back to the cottage and enjoyed our last evening. Up early doors and headed back home via Oban and the Isle of Seils, not the most direct route home but worth it for the scenery.
next adventure is back up to Glencoe with the mini adventurers...Looking forward to it, until then Bye
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Alistair and Ffyona's TravelsOur adventure blog, little bit of history, our recommendations and a few photos... Archives
January 2019
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