Argyll Adventure - April 19th - 26th 2008
& September 13th – 20th 2008
This tour is based in lovely Oban, a charming coastal town in the land of Lorn. Close to the Highlands and surrounded by lochs and glens, it commands the most diverse of landscapes, from the majesty of the mountains to the beauty of the water and surrounding islands - the scenery is stunning.
You can choose from a visit in vibrant springtime, when the golden daffodils and primroses grace the lanes and gardens, or mellow late summer, when the hills are strewn with purple heather. We will visit castles and gardens, take walks on remote islands or moors, take an adventurous sea excursion, visit ancient sites and secret waterfalls, and connect with the glorious land.
Day 1 - Meet at Glasgow International Airport and wend our way north alongside the banks of Loch Lomond and assorted beautiful scenery to Oban, "Gateway to the Isles", stopping for lunch in Inveraray on Loch Fyne. Arrive at our cottage, relax or take a refreshing walk in the surrounding countryside before going into Oban for our Welcome Dinner.
Day 2 - Get your bearings with a daytime exploration of Oban town, with its amazing seascapes towards the Isles of Kerrera, Mull and Lismore. Walk along the cliffs of Ganavan to enjoy further vistas, and visit the ruins of Dunollie Castle. Take time out for personal shopping, if desired. After lunch take a trip to Musdale, for a short walk along high, wild moorland, stopping by a secluded secret waterfall.
Day 3 - Sail across to the Isle of Mull and take an extraordinary train ride on the narrow gauge railway to Torosay Castle and Gardens, in their spectacular setting. On the way, keep a lookout for wildlife or enjoy the panoramic views of Ben Nevis, the Glencoe Hills, Ben Cruachen and Duart Castle. On arrival, wander trough the relaxed atmosphere of this Victorian Country home, and explore the 12 acres of gardens and woodland.
Day 4 - Today we drive to Kilmartin Glen. From Carnassarie Castle at the north end of the glen, to Dunadd fort in the south is the heart of ancient kingdom of Dalriada and site of the crowning of their kings. Here is a cornucopia of sites - stone circles, standing stones, cairns, and inscribed rocks, many dating back over 5000 years. Spend the day in a Neolithic wonderland.
Click to enlarge images above
Day 5 - After a leisurely breakfast, take in the special tranquility of Loch Nell and Glen Lonan - the ancient Serpent Mound, crannogs, stone circle and standing stones. Visit Angus gardens, where the display of rhododendrons is about to burst forth.
Day 6 - Today, a walk on the magical isle of Kerrera. Just a short boat ride from Oban, this unique island will take you back in time where the locals and wildlife live in harmony in a beautiful, unspoilt landscape. The ruins of 16th Century Gylen Castle on the south end, features spectacular views down the Firth of Lorne to other Argyll islands and we can soak up the atmosphere of isolation and beauty which must have changed little over the centuries.
Click to enlarge images above
Day 7 - A day on the Isle of Seil, visiting local gardens, and a quiet beach before our afternoon Wild Sea Adventure, featuring a chance to observe the rugged shoreline where you may see seals, otters, deer and wild goats; eagles, buzzards and falcons above; and in the rich feeding grounds of the Firth of Lorn special conservation area, hot spots for sightings of whales, dolphins, porpoises and an astonishing variety of seabirds. On our way to or from, we'll have a fun packed sprint to the Corryvreckan whirlpool. A perfect end to our adventures, topped with a Farewell Dinner at a special restaurant.
Day 8 - Goodbye to Oban and back to Glasgow Airport.
Price - £995* which includes:
- Pick up and drop off at Glasgow International Airport.
- All accommodation and breakfasts and 2 dinners.
- All land transportation and ferry fares.
- Entry fees and boat trip.
- Castles, gardens and Neolithic sites located in spectacular and inspirational settings.
A deposit of £250 will secure your place.
*Cost is based on 2 people sharing. Single rooms may be available at extra cost. Please contact Denni for availability and price.
You can pay for the deposit of the tour or the total amount using a debit or credit card using Paypal. However PLEASE check availability with Denni first either by phoning on 44 (0)1631 564 750 or filling in the online enquiry form.
"Scotland was awesome! Thank you for the best holiday ever!! Please sign me up for next year!"
Mary Lou, Watsonville, CA
"I can never thank you enough for the special, special trip! You guided us with the sweetness of a travel angel who really loves her job. Everything was just perfect!"
Jane, Urbana, IL