Gardens

The West Coast of Scotland is rightly famous for its gardens, and we have some beauties.

CRARAE GARDEN

On the road towards Inverary. A tranquil woodland garden with Himalayan plants, a gorge and waterfalls. Spectacular azaleas and rhododendrons. Open from March 18th to end of October, daily. Café. www.nts.org.uk

ARDUIANE GARDEN

On the road to Oban, an exotic coastal garden with fabulous plants and views. Next to the Loch Melfort Hotel for food. Open from March 26th to end of October. www.nts.org.uk

BENMORE BOTANICAL GARDENS

120-acre mountainside garden famous for its giant Redwood trees and Victorian fernery. Houses a world-famous collection of plants. Opens March 18th to 31st October, from 10am to 5pm.www.rbge.org.uk

BEACHES

We are near some lovely beaches for walking or swimming. Kilmory Beach past Achnamara ( 30 minute drive) is justly famous with a lovely sandy beach and a pretty church. If the tide is out you can walk at Crinan Ferry ( just off the Oban road) and there is a lovely beach at Achahoish on the Kilberry road. The biggest and most spectacular beach is at Westport on the Kintyre peninsula, which is just north of Campbeltown so a long drive but worth it. Famous for its surfing. There is a nice café at Glenbarr nearby.