West of Scotland

Scotland > West of Scotland

Almost totally surrounded by the sea, this western area of Scotland contains all of the islands from Mull to the Kintyre including Arran, Bute and Cumbrae in the Clyde estuary. A sailing paradise if you can put up with the weather but the ability to call into any of the islands at will is a serious attraction.

Mull and, in particular, Iona would be a good stop. There is something peaceful about Iona that no other island can offer - time does not stand still, it just proceeds in a leisurely manner!

Oban is the boarding point for ferries to Mull (and Barra). This town is often compared to Fort William but it is not so full of transient visitors and has a busy harbour - that is what harbours are for, isn't it? From Oban to Tarbert, there are some magnificent views over the islands as well as some fine hotels and restaurants. Keep your eyes open for the occasional Chancellor or Deputy Prime Minister outside oyster bars, particularly near Inveraray!

One good thing about Kintyre, apart from a fantastic restaurant half way down the Campbeltown road, is the fact that you can come back a different way, west side looking over Gigha, Islay and the Paps of Jura and east side overlooking Arran.

Islay is best in Late May and June - the colours of the rhododendrons are magnificent - and good golfing at Machrie. Good golfing also at Machrihanish - it is imperative to play the first over the bay and not round it!

When on Arran, you must do the cycle tour and then visit the increasing number of seafood restaurants. Some good hotels here but keep an eye out for the accolades!

Bute is one of my favourite islands, not so much for Rothesay, a remnant of the Clyde holiday boom of the 20s and 30s, but for the countryside.

To the north lies Dunoon and the Cowal Peninsula, a contrast of old but presentable Clyde holiday resort and aforested countryside and sailing venues like Tignabruaich.

The A82 between Glasgow and Fort William does not have much going for it except for Loch Lomond. But, when a bus from the north meets a lorry from the south you can always look at the views for 5 minutes. It all makes life worthwhile!