7 Wellness Experiences in Argyll & the Isles

We all have those times when the world feels overwhelming – our minds may be caught up thinking about the past or planning for the future. We might find ourselves looking for an escape from the daily hustle and bustle and give our minds a well-deserved break. Here are seven wellness experiences in Argyll & the Isles for you to reconnect with yourself.  

1. Experience wild swimming

Water has immensely calming qualities. So what could be more relaxing than to immerse yourself, quite literally, in Argyll’s ‘blue spaces’?! Once you’ve become accustomed to the refreshing chill of the water, a sense of calmness and later accomplishment will wash over you.

If you’re unsure about wild swimming safety rules, it’s best to join a qualified wild swimming coach and push your boundaries in a safe environment. Argyll is home to multiple wild swimming coaches, such as Inchbagger Island Swims, who offer guided wild swims around Loch Lomond.  If you’re looking for a retreat that takes you away from the everyday and immerses you in the waters of the spectacular Inner Hebrides, you might want to join Wild Hebridean Swimming on the Isle of Mull. Local expert and qualified open-water coach Emma carefully curates multiple-day itineraries that welcome divers and swimmers alike, providing them with a unique opportunity to experience island life from the water and through the local community.  

If you're seeking a truly immersive wellness experience, Wild Bathing needs to be on your list! With their portable woodfired sauna, they offer a range of wild swimming retreats across the West Coast, including foraging, wild swimming, sauna and good company.

So, head to one of Argyll’s phenomenal lochs, set in the shadows of ancient mountains and castles, and try one of the most Scottish wellness experiences.

2. Open your mind whilst foraging 

The simple activity of walking has so many powerful health benefits, especially when combined with breathtaking views over Argyll’s stunning landscapes. From gentle beach strolls over family walks in the woods to epic long-distance routes, Argyll & the Isles offers something for all levels of walkers.

Want to pick up a new skill whilst exploring our greater outdoors? Join Heather from Heathery Heights on one of her foraging experiences. Learn more about the nature surrounding you, how to safely identify edible and poisonous species and finish with Heather's highly recommended three-course wild picnic lunch that showcases nature's bounty.

The Wild Cooke is another fantastic foraging guide who will take you on an unforgettable adventure. Immerse yourself in the world of foraging, learn more about the health benefits of wild food or join guide Lucy on a wellness retreat. 

3. Be mesmerised by Argyll’s wildlife 

There’s no better way to improve your state of mind than watching our wildlife in their natural homes. See white-tailed sea eagles swooping for fish off the Isle of Mull. Head to the Isle of Staffa with West Coast Tours to watch Puffins dive off the steep cliffs. Take a relaxing stroll along Ronachan Point in Kintyre to spot some seals. Or join a summer boat trip from Oban, where you might see basking sharks and, if you're lucky, Minke whales.

Argyll has a healthy population of red squirrels, and with its many woodlands and forests, there are many great places to spot them. The best time of year to see red squirrels is in spring, when they’re out and about getting their dreys ready high up in the trees, and Autumn, when they’re gathering food for the winter. 

Wildlife Boat Tours in Argyll & the Isles

One of the best ways to get up close to our wildlife is on a boat tour. Here are some fantastic wildlife boat tour operators across Argyll & the Isles:

• Basking Shark Scotland, Oban – They offer a variety of day-trips and multi-day tours with a strong focus on sustainability and wildlife conservation.
• Seafari Adventures Oban, Oban – Fully guided marine wildlife tours including sea eagles, whales, dolphins, seals and the Corryvreckan whirlpool. Day tours to Iona, Staffa and the Puffin colony.
• Sealife Adventures, Oban – Go wildlife spotting whilst also visiting the Corryvreckan whirlpool.
• Jura Boat Tours – Join bespoke Rib boat tours to various areas of outstanding beauty off the coast of Jura.
• Bute Boat Tours – Join their boat tour to experience the most beautiful scenery around the Isles of Bute.
• Islay Sea Adventures – Islay's only wildlife boat tour operator! Enjoy a range of tours, including wildlife, fishing, seafood and Corryveckan.

Image Credit: Sealife Adventures

4. Discover Argyll’s Rainforest 

Argyll is home to more than 50% of Scotland's rainforest. But with sweeping vistas across Loch Crinan to Duntrune Castle and the Argyll coastline, few woods have a more breathtaking outlook than Crinan Wood. This ancient Atlantic oakwood is a wonderful example of Scotland’s rare and unique rainforest. The wood is also brimming with wildlife, including the iconic red squirrel. A stroll through Crinan Wood will most definitely soothe your spirits.

Another fantastic rainforest walk is through the Dunollie Woods. Hazel trees drip with rare lichens, mosses, and fungi, bluebells carpet the woodland floor in spring, and the view over Oban Bay to the Isles is something special. Take a stroll along the woodland edge path to Dunollie Castle, the historic seat of Clan MacDougall. Spring is the perfect time to visit with lots of bluebells and wild garlic which will be at their peak in May. Dunollie’s Historic Woodland grounds are unique because they are situated at the intersection of the rainforest and a traditional garden, offering a beautiful mix of native and exotic species brought back from around the world in the 19th century. They are at their best in spring.

It’s surprising how easy it is to be surrounded by nature without really noticing its beauty. But if you look closely, you’ll find every colour of the rainbow! Whilst walking or sitting, look around you – how many colours can you see? 

Image Credit: Niall Benvie / WTML

5. Get lost in ancient stories

Did you know that storytelling is beneficial for your mental health? Listening, telling and sharing stories is in Scotland's DNA. What stories will you seek out and tell?

Immerse yourself in stories from bygone times at one of the many historic sites in Argyll, such as Duart Castle or Historic Kilmun, or let your imagination be sparked by discovering the secrets of the ancient standing stones in Kilmartin Glen. Make sure to drop by Kilmartin Museum to learn more about the history of this ancient site.

6. Find balance on a paddleboard

Paddleboarding is one of the UK's fastest-growing watersports, and with so many amazing places to explore, Argyll & the Isles is the best place to enjoy it. It's also an ideal way for families, and even four-legged family members, to bond in the great outdoors.

For beginners, we'd always recommend joining an instructor-led session to learn the basics and pick up those all-important water safety tips. Once you've mastered your balance, paddleboarding is the best way to explore Argyll’s quieter lochs and waters and let your cares sail away.

Just remember to plan and check weather reports - especially if it's windy - and paddle in a group or with a buddy. #respectthewater.

7. Treat yourself to a Wellness Retreat

Seeking a more classical form of wellness? Head to Another Place -  The Machrie on beautiful Islay to experience luxury and relaxation at its finest. Treat yourself to some luxury spa treatments and succumb to tranquillity and restoration while enjoying the breathtaking views.

Another excellent spa escape is the award-winning Hotel & Spa Portavadie in Cowal. Spend an afternoon in Scotland’s only heated infinity pool overlooking Loch Fyne to the Isle of Arran before enjoying a delicious meal in the Marina Restaurant and Bar while watching the yachts sail by.

If you prefer to unwind by yourself, book a stay at Bothan Jura Retreat to enjoy their wood-fired hot tub, sauna, filtered ice barrel, and cosy interior.