OUT AND ABOUT
Kinlochlaich House is ideally situated for exploring the beautiful West Highlands. We are located between Oban (25 mins by car) and Fort William (about 40 mins away).
A bustling, picturesque town, Oban has many great shops, cafes and restaurants, as well as a famous whisky distillery There are boat trips to see seals and other wildlife. Oban is the 'Gateway to the Isles', with day trips to Mull and Iona, Coll, Tiree and Colonsay, and longer trips to the Outer Hebrides.
Fort William is the undisputed capital for outdoor sports and activities in the UK. From climbing, golf and snow sports, to paddle boarding, white water rafting and mountain biking, the adventurous at heart will be spoilt for choice. Fort William sits in the shadow of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain. Nearby Aonach Mor is home to the Nevis Range Mountain Experience offering a mountain gondola with outstanding views and skiing, and the Snowgoose Cafe.
THINGS TO DO
Here are some ideas an unforgettable day out:
Glencoe
Visiting Glencoe is a must do. Equally breathtaking in good or bad weather, the most famous glen in Scotland is both stunning and melancholy. It has a violent past, from the volcanic eruptions which formed its towering peaks to the tragic massacre of Clan MacDonald in 1692.​ A place of contrasts and changing moods, Glencoe is embedded with myth and history. You may recognise settings from Harry Potter, Braveheart, Rob Roy and Skyfall. The Visitor Centre provides a busy events programme throughout the year and has a reconstruction of a 300-year-old turf house. The Kingshouse Hotel and the Clachaig Inn both serve good food, after which you can take a ride on the chairlift up to the ski fields and admire vistas across the desolate beauty of Rannoch Moor.
​Oban
Have fish and chips watching the ferries come and go in Oban Bay. If you’re feeling energetic afterwards, make the climb up to McCaig’s Tower. This prominent landmark was built in 1897 by John Stuart McCaig with the aim of providing work for local stonemasons, and it provides spectacular views across to the Atlantic Islands.
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The Jacobite
This steam train starts runs from April to October. This 84 mile round trip runs from Fort William to Mallaig and is described as the greatest railway journey in the world. Starting at the highest mountain in Britain, the inspiration for the Hogwart's Express also passes close to Britain's deepest freshwater loch and the deepest seawater loch in Europe. See the famous silver sands featured in many movies, before enjoying fish and chips for lunch.
Boat tours
Seafari Adventures Boat Trips are based in Easdale, 16 miles south of Oban. They depart throughout the day visiting the Gulf of Corryvreckan, home to one of the world’s largest whirlpools. You may spot dolphins and whales, as well as seals and seabirds.
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Inverary
It is well worth visiting this charming harbour town on Loch Fyne. On the way, make sure to stop at St Conan's Kirk on the banks of stunning Loch Awe. A fascinating blend of architectural styles, the Kirk has become a timeless landmark with a special tranquil atmosphere. In Inverary, visit the castle, or the jail with its historic court room and cells. On the way back, stop to get a closer look at Kilchurn Castle on Loch Awe.
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Crinan
Take a trip to watch the boats on the enchanting Crinan Canal, known as Britain's most beautiful shortcut. There is a cafe serving snacks after which a visit to Knapdale Forest may reward you with glimpses of beavers emerging from their lodges.
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Further afield, if you have a full day to spare you could also consider:
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- Tobemory, the colourful main town on the Isle of Mull, is one of Scotland's most charming and picturesque coastal destinations. Known for its brightly painted harbourfront buildings, Tobermory is filled with quirky shops, delicious seafood, and stunning views over the Bay.
- Eilean Donan Castle is one of Scotland's most famous and romantic buildings in a beautiful setting.
- Take a hill trip or paddock visit to see the famous Cairngorms reindeers which have been in the National Park since 1952.