Winter Festival Fun in Oban

This winter why not embrace this corner of the west coast, wrapped in its gorgeous winter blanket?  If you book a self-catering break at Airdeny Chalets this November, here are a few ideas of what you could do during your holiday.

The Oban Winter Festival, 21st to 30th November, is a winter celebration packed full of festive fun and family entertainment.  Events include a Scottish Food and Craft Market, a Reindeer Parade, fireworks and light show, ceilidhs, performers, lantern parades, workshops and, of course, Santa. The programme also features new events for 2014 including a St Andrew's Day HaggisFest and Tartan Dash, haggis hurling, and a science and circus show.

Buy some hand-crafted Christmas gifts, join a Gaelic singing or wreath workshop, join in the lantern parade, listen to live music and enjoy the festive atmosphere of this wonderful ten day event.

Photo credit Oban Winter Festival

On Sunday 30th November the Scottish Sea Life Sanctuary will host a Winter Festival Funday at Sealife Centre, where you can visit Santa in his grotto and enjoy some festive games.

Curl up with a hot chocolate in one of the area's many lovely cafes.  From the Ben Lora Cafe at Benderloch and Castle Stalker View, to the Oban Chocolate Co. Cafe on the pier in Oban harbour and the Robin's Nest Tearoom in Taynuilt, there are plenty of places to enjoy a warming drink and a minced pie or two.

Winter is a great time to immerse yourself in wonderful woodland scenery and there are plenty of places nearby to enjoy a winter walk, such as Fearnoch Forest, the Glen Nant National Nature Reserve and Sutherland's Grove.

Or you could simply soak up the peacefulness of the chalet park and enjoy views of Ben Cruachan in its winter cloak.

Take a look at our availability page to view vacancies for the winter months and start planning your winter getaway.

Day Trips from Airdeny: Kilmartin Glen Museum

Here on the Airdeny blog I like to share suggestions for things to see and do in the Taynuilt area to help with planning your Argyll holiday or just to give you a bit of holiday inspiration.  In the next few blog posts I'll outline some day trips from Airdeny Chalets; up first is a journey back in time at the Kilmartin Museum.

From the chalet park you can follow the scenic Glen Lonan Road (where you can soak up the tranquil scenes of this quiet glen), before skirting Loch Nell and joining the A816 to head south.  The road then snakes down to gorgeous Loch Melfort, before weaving down to Kilmartin.  The journey will take just over an hour (or slightly longer if you like to make photo stops).  Alternatively, you can follow a circular route by taking the B845 just after heading east out of Taynuilt, leading you along the long arm of Loch Awe to Kilmartin (taking around an hour by car).

Glen Lonan

Kilmartin Glen is a fascinating prehistoric landscape, with more than 800 ancient monuments in the area from standing stones and stone circles to rock art.  All of the archaeological objects that are found in the mid-Argyll area are housed at the Kilmartin Museum - a wonderful place to delve into the past.

As well as enjoying the display of artefacts in the museum gallery, you can explore the glen in which they were found.  There are guided walks in August and September, starting from the museum and taking between two to two and a half hours.  (You need to sign up at the museum reception).  The guided walks take you to some of Kilmartin Glen's most important historical sites, such as Temple Wood, the Nether Largie Standing Stones, and the Glebe Cairns.  It is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the history of the landscape from the volunteer guides, as well as appreciate the beauty of the glen.

Kilmartin Museum also has an award-winning cafe, so you can enjoy a spot of lunch or coffee and home baking, plus a gift and bookshop to browse.  It is a trip that I highly recommend to guests at Airdeny - and I also suggest returning north along the A816 to end the day with fish and chips in Oban, and a stroll around the harbour.

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Kilmartin Museum is open every day from March to the end of October, 10am to 5pm.  There are reduced opening hours between November and Christmas.  Tickets cost £5 for adults, £2 for children and there are family tickets available.

Tralee Beach, Benderloch

Here at Airdeny we're spoilt for choice with beautiful walks in the area.  From peaceful forest circuits to a stroll along the shores of Loch Etive there are a number of picturesque places to soak up some stunning Argyll scenery.  For a relaxing beach walk, head north over the Connel Bridge to the village of Benderloch, nestled beside Ardmucknish Bay.  Make sure you combine your walk with a coffee or lunch at the lovely Ben Lora Cafe and Bookshop (the scones are delicious!).

From the cafe it is a short walk to the beach along a signposted path.

This pretty beach offers scenic views across the bay towards Dunstaffnage and is a quiet place in which to bask in the coastal scenery.  From the Benderloch direction you arrive at the shingle part of the beach, with sand dunes at the other end of its crescent.  

As it's tucked away from the roadside, this beach is a little hidden gem - well worth a visit on a journey along the A828 or a short trip from your base at Airdeny Chalets. 

Castle Stalker View & Wildlife Hub

Perched on an islet where Loch Laich reaches out to Loch Linnhe, Castle Stalker is oh-so-picturesque.  Wrapped in layers of history as well as tranquil surroundings, this 15th century tower house has its origins in a 14th century fort built by the Macdougall clan.  King James IV used the castle as his base during hunting trips in the area around the end of the 15th century, and it spent much of its history in the hands of the Stewarts of Appin, until a drunken episode in 1620 with the Campbells when the Stewart Chief exchanged it for a boat (!).  The castle was abandoned by the Campbells in 1800.

Today it is owned privately but there are limited tours in the summer.

The perfect place to bask in the castle views, with Loch Linnhe spilling out behind it, is at Castle Stalker View.  With a lovely shop and cafe, it is a great place to enjoy a spot of lunch, or home-baking and a coffee during a journey break along the coast, or to immerse yourself in the panoramic views unfolding from the viewpoint, a short walk from the cafe.

Now as well as enjoying the castle views and the delicious offerings of the cafe, you can also get an insight into wildlife in Appin and Argyll at the brand new Wildlife Hub, in partnership with Philip Price of Loch Visions photography.  The Hub has live nest cams on Sea Eagles, Barn Owls and Herons, and there is also a 20 minute wildlife film in a mini-IMAX theatre that highlights the area's wonderful wildlife.

Photo courtesy of Philip Price

Castle Stalker lies 25 miles north of Oban and around 20 miles from Taynuilt.

Family Fun at The Scottish Sea Life Sanctuary

Guest post by Emma Gibb

As a mother to a one and a half year old boy, my self-catering holidays have changed somewhat.  Gone are the lazy afternoons in cafes, armed with a good book and endless cups of tea.  But I'll tell you a secret, I love that I now get to explore places that I might not have pre-motherhood.  I have shared my son's delight at penguin-watching at Edinburgh Zoo, I've pointed excitedly with him at polar bears at the Highland Wildlife Park and during our recent family holiday in Taynuilt, I'm not sure who was more excited by our visit to the Scottish Sea Life Sanctuary (ok, it was probably me - I do love otters).  

After our first family bike ride in beautiful and peaceful Glen Lonan, we had a quick bite to eat at the lovely Robin's Nest Tea Room in Taynuilt before heading to the Sea Life Sanctuary, nestled into Loch Creran just north of Benderloch.

The loch-side setting is truly idyllic and I found my gaze flitting between the seal pool and its backdrop of the sea loch; drinking in the views of the loch and the layers of hills huddled at its edge.  The loch is a highlight in its own right and there are plenty of places to soak up its beauty, from the bird-watching hide to the Shoreline Coffee Shop.  The Terry Nutkins Nature Trail is a wonderful way to take in the loch views, as well as an opportunity to search for local wildlife. 

There are three main sections to get up close with the sea-life: the seal pool, the otter enclosure (both outside) and the aquarium, home to everything from sea horses to sharks.  With feeding demonstrations and talks, an interactive rock pool and around 50 marine displays there is a lot for little eyes to take in.  My son had never had a 'sea-life experience' like this before and was entranced from the moment we walked in, particularly by the seals and otters.  (I have to say, the otters were the stars for me - they are utterly charming and never fail to make me smile).

I was particularly interested in learning more about their conservation work.  The Sanctuary rescues common and grey seals, as well as other marine animals, and releases them back into their natural environment.  You can visit the Marine Hospital to find out more about their rehabilitation programme.

The Scottish Sea Life Sanctuary is packed with things to entertain the whole family, inside and out.  As well as all the fascinating marine displays, children can burn off steam along the loch-side trail and in the woodland park.  With its peaceful setting and the loch spilling out around it, I have to say it was one of the best attractions that this little family has visited.

You can follow Emma on Twitter @emmajrgibb and read more about her family adventures around Scotland on her blog - www.emmaexploresscotland.wordpress.co.uk.

If you're look for a family-friendly base in Argyll, Airdeny chalet park has plenty of space for little ones to run around, with a host of great family activities, like the Oban Sea Life Sanctuary, nearby - take a look at our availability here.  

St Conan's Kirk, Loch Awe

You might associate Loch Awe with the ruins of the 15th century Kilchurn Castle, perched at the north end of the loch.  But did you know there is another gem, tucked just round the corner on the A85?  

The beautiful St Conan's Kirk is a must-visit if you are travelling between Dalmally and Taynuilt.  Built between 1881 and 1886, the original church is said to have been established by Walter Campbell, brother of the first Lord Blythswood, so that his mother didn't have to travel to the church at Dalmally.  Amateur architect Walter was apparently unsatisfied with the design of the church, however, and decided to elaborate on the original building, starting work again in 1907.  The church you see today was actually completed in 1930 by trustees of the Campbell family upon the deaths of Walter in 1914 and his sister in 1927.

The reason that the building is so unique is due to the vision of its architect: 'Walter took ideas and designs from different places and period and built a church that serves as a collection of all the best and most interesting features from other churches'.  The result is truly remarkable, a wonderful and 'eclectic mix of various styles from the Norman and Romanesque periods to celtic motifs and even pagan symbolism'. (Quotes from an information sign at the church).  It is a fascinating place to explore, with the feel of a much older building.

The loch-side location is certainly perfect for a place of worship and reflection, with far-stretching views reaching to the hills behind Kilchurn Castle and down Loch Awe.  To step out the back door of the building is to step into the most dreamy scenery.  There is a parapet (inscribed with 'Thy sun shall no more go down') with a sundial, where you enjoy the idyllic setting and immerse yourself in the peaceful loch views.

So if you're planning a trip to Airdeny Chalets take some time on route to soak up the beautiful views and interesting architecture at this lovely loch-side treasure.

For more information on the history of the church and its location, visit www.stconanskirk.org.uk.

A Bike Ride Through Glen Lonan: Photos & Video

Guest post by Emma Gibb

I like to think of it now as The West Highland Cow Way (even though the Highland Cows were congregated only around one section of our hour cycle).  A corridor that snakes between rugged hills, the road that weaves through Glen Lonan leads you into peaceful mountain landscape.  With many more cows than cars, it was also the perfect place for our first family bike ride.

The gorgeous Glen Lonan is on the doorstep of Airdeny Chalets, near Taynuilt (what a location - in the shadow of the mighty Ben Cruachan, a short drive to the shores of Loch Etive and on the edge of this scenic glen).  We opted to explore the glen by bike, despite the showery forecast, but didn't even need to leave the chalet park to organise bike hire.  RCS Cycles is based further up the road we intended to cycle and the owner Nick delivered the bikes down to the chalet park for us in the morning and picked them up that afternoon.

I'm pretty sure from his squeals of 'weeeeee' that my son enjoyed the bike ride as much as us.  Once we'd climbed the first initial hill the road levelled off; winding past the occasional house and farm, and forested landscapes.  We cycled slowly, soaking up the lovely scenery (nothing at all to do with being out of breath!).  After about half an hour, we arrived at the bottom of a hill where Highland Cows wandered freely. I'm sure our son would have happily watched them all afternoon, completely entranced by the sight of so many cows inches from the road.  And not just your traditional toffee coloured cows either - it was the first time I'd come across white and black Highland Cows.  I have to say, I probably did cycle ever so slightly faster past the very large white one (pictured below)...

After crossing the river and attempting a few more hills, we took a sudden (though short-lived) shower as a sign to turn back.  It felt more of an incline on the return journey, but there are plenty of hills to whizz down on the approach to the chalet park. 

It was a wonderful place to just enjoy some peace and quiet, and I would have loved to have cycled further along the road (which eventually arrives in Oban).  I'll save that for next time, though...

Why not see for yourself?  Emma also shared this short video clip of her Glen Lonan bike ride.

  You can read more from Emma on her blog - Emma Explores Scotland.

The Colour of May

In recent weeks we've enjoyed sunny blue skies over in the Taynuilt area of Argyll - but even on the mixed days (like the last few) where the sunshine has to fight to push through the clouds, the world is awash with spring colour and the chalet park is lit in shades of blossom, azaleas and rhododendrons.

It is a lovely time of year to explore the gardens of Argyll, with the full bloom of azaleas and rhododendrons peaking in the next couple of weeks, and carpets of bluebells lining the roads and walkways.

I wish I had a photo to share of the beautiful Great Spotted Woodpecker who frequents our bird feeders but alas he remains camera shy.  I was, however, able to snap the cheeky squirrel who manages to squeeze inside the 'squirrel-proof' bird feeders.  And perhaps (as in the photos below) there is nothing more lovely than the lush green of spring trees against a blue sky...

Although the bluebells in the chalet park are waiting patiently to throw down their purple carpet (being that little bit higher we are slightly later for bluebells bursting into colour), you can spot them all around the area (there's a lovely patch behind the 'Loch Cruises' and 'Bonawe Iron Furnace' tourist signs near Loch Etive in Taynuilt).

And even if Loch Etive isn't sparkling in the sun, the gorse is sure to brighten your day (if its heavenly coconut scent doesn't).  

The colours of the mixed weather days where the skies are a tangle of grey and layers of light, those are truly special.  Artists' say there is nothing like the light of Scottish skies, and I have to agree.

Geocaching in Argyll

Forget Easter egg hunting this weekend, why not go on a treasure hunt instead?  If you're looking for an interesting outdoor activity in the Argyll area to do during the Easter holidays or a spring break, I'd recommend giving geocaching a try.  This outdoor treasure hunt is played world-wide, and it's a great way to spend some family time together (plus giving you big doses of fresh air and lovely scenery).  You use a GPS-enabled device to search for geocaches (containers) which hold a logbook for you to sign.  All you need is a geocaching app where you can search for your postcode and choose a treasure hunt, and then enter the coordinates into your device.  And off you set!

I downloaded the app and set off with a friend to Sutherland's Grove to hunt for the geocache.  As mentioned in a previous blog, Sutherland's Grove is one of my favourite places to walk, with ancient oakwood and a grove of huge Douglas Fir trees (and is just one of the many treasure hunts in the area).  I thoroughly enjoyed my first geocaching experience as, for me, it added a different dimension to a familiar walk.

If you're keen to try geocaching in Argyll visit www.geocaching.com for more information.  Happy hunting!

If you try geocaching in Argyll during the holidays, we'd love for you to leave a comment about your experiences!

3 Forest Walks near Taynuilt

If, according to Hippocrates, 'walking is man's best medicine', then these forest walks will leave you as fit as a fiddle.  With longer days approaching and spring inching ever closer, it's the perfect time to be nursed by the soothing, scenic Argyll countryside and give your mind time to recuperate from the daily grind.  For me, the tranquility of the forest, with its soundtrack of birdsong and babbling streams, has restorative powers.  If you also love a woodland walk, here are three of my favourites near Taynuilt you can explore on your next holiday.

Fearnoch Forest
Only four miles from Taynuilt lies the entrance to Fearnoch Forest, with two lovely walking routes (plus 14kms of cycling trails).  The shorter walk, Ceum nan Seangan, is 1.5 miles or for a slightly longer walk, you can set off down Tri Drochaidean (2.5 miles).  This is a favourite of Liath's (my dog).

Sutherland's Grove
There are a number of walks in Sutherland's Grove to discover, through ancient oakwood and a wonderful grove of huge Douglas Fir trees.  Take a picnic to enjoy by the river, and keep an eye out for the waterfalls.  Sutherland's Grove is 17 miles from Airdeny - and after your walk you could soak up the views overlooking Castle Stalker.  The Castle Stalker View Cafe is a great place to have lunch or coffee after stretching your legs, and the view really is spectacular.

Glen Nant National Nature Reserve
This circuit trail takes you through beautiful oaklands of Glen Nant, which is a National Nature Reserve (and a haven for wildlife).  Enjoy the peacefulness of the 'Ant Trail' and views across to Ben Cruachan.



Do you have a favourite walk near Taynuilt? We'd love to hear from you - please leave your comments below.

A year of #brilliantmoments in Argyll

This year VisitScotland are asking you to share your #brilliantmoments - the Scottish scenery and sights that tug at your heart and stay with you long after you've left.  So here are some of the things in and around Airdeny Chalets that may be a 'brilliant moment' in waiting...

Sunsets over Ben Cruachan
The chalet park is set in tranquil surroundings under the watchful gaze of Ben Cruachan.  For me sunsets are always a 'run for your camera' moment - there's something so hypnotic about watching the sun cling to the sky before being swallowed by the land.  Seeing the sun set over Ben Cruachan is sure to leave you a-glow.

Walking in Glen Strae
There's a wonderful walk down Glen Strae, with a lovely waterfall.  A beautiful place to get away from it all and immerse yourself in spectacular views.  The walk is signposted to the 'ruined village' but I've never found it - who wants to take on the challenge...?

Springing into life
You could enjoy your own 'Spring Watch' at Airdeny.  Surrounding yourself in nature as spring unravels and unfurls is surely food for the soul - and where better than in 3.5 acres of land, with the air thick with birdsong and the ground beneath your feet thick with bluebells?  You can see a host of wildlife without even leaving the chalet park, from red squirrels, woodpeckers, cuckoos and buzzards to otters, which have been spotted by the stream at the bottom of the bluebell wood.  When you're out and about in Argyll you can also keep an eye out for golden and sea eagles, as well as Ospreys.  April is also the start of Puffin season - these adorable birds are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face (and did you know that a baby Puffin is called a 'Puffling'?).

Highland Games
Traditional Highland Games are truly a sight to behold and there a number of Highland Games in the area, including right here in Tayuilt.  The Oban Games, known as the Argyllshire Gathering, is one of the largest in Scotland.  With kilts, piping and dancing galore, plus track and field events like tossing the caber, it's a time to soak up some Scottish-ness!

Canoeing on Loch Etive

Loch Etive is just a stone's throw from the chalet park and is an idyllic place to enjoy a spot of fishing or a tranquil canoe trip.  Stretching from the foot of Ben Cruachan to the Glencoe hills, this lovely sea loch offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape - just the place to watch the world go by.

Why not take a look at our availability page to see when you can discover all the #brilliantmoments waiting on the West?

Countryfile Programme about Loch Etive

Did you see the Countryfile programme on Sunday evening 18th September, all about Loch Etive. If you missed it you can view it on BBC IPlayer http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006t0bv

It really showed what a beautiful part of the world this is. Donald, our local boatman, took them on a trip down the loch. Philip Price, an award winning photographer, who runs Wildlife Photographic Safaris, showed how to take wildlife photos. There was also a play set at the historic Bonawe Furnace.

It couldn't have shown this wonderful part of Scotland better.You must come and visit it!