(December - March)

Winter Activities in the Heart of Argyll

Recommended by Heather Thomas-Smith from Heathery Heights

The Heart of Argyll is rich in wildlife, stunning scenery, history and heritage, and home to the famous Crinan Canal.

All of which comes to life in winter when nature offers spectacular sunrises and sunsets and dramatic weather to enjoy.

Heart of Argyll 01
Background image - Argyll Beaver Centre Great Tit (2)

Wonderful Wildlife

Bird watching is one of the most rewarding winter activities, especially for migratory birds that have come to the area over winter.

Places like the River Add, Crinan Canal and National Nature Reserves at Taynish and Moine Mhor are good places to start exploring.

Further information on sites can be found on the Scottish Ornithologists' Club site.

The Argyll Bird Club is open to new members for a small fee (you don’t have to live in Argyll). This fee allows you to join field trips (usually monthly) and attend indoor events.

Winter Beaver Walks are also a must. Experience these wonderful, protected creatures in their natural habitat at Argyll Beaver Centre.

Flora and Fauna

Get closer to nature, responsibly and learn more about the area's flora and fauna - a whole world ready to explore!

  • Winter Tree identification and Wild Food talks and events with Heathery Heights
  • Community Joint Venture – Above and Below Heritage Tours with Heathery Heights and Swim Dan the Merman in conjunction with Highlands Rewilding
Background image - Heather, Heathery Heights (2)

Activities to keep you warm in winter

Being outside can be very therapeutic in winter, if you are prepared and organised with the right equipment and ready for the thrill of adventure.

There's so much on offer in the Heart of Argyll in the great outdoors:

  • Walking, cycling, kayaking, cold water immersion, wellbeing activities, winter wildlife watching, historic sites, navigation & hill skills courses, star gazing, cosy trips away, photography, gift and book shops, art and craft workshops, food and drink, sea fishing (as per law), golf, horse riding, swimming pool

Or opt to stay inside and invigorate your mind, taste buds, creativity and skills:

  • Inveraray Jail
  • Kilmartin Museum open from Feb 1st
  • Argyll Estates hind stalking (21st Oct to 15th Feb)
  • Fyne Ales Brewery Trips
  • Weaving Workshop Short Brea
  • Basketmaking
  • The Fyne Den
  • Zing Organics Therapy and Workshops
  • Private Hire
  • Foodie Weekends at Ronachan House (includes activities by 3 WAA members from Kintyre and Mid Argyll: Beinn an Tuirc Distillers, Lulabelles and Heathery Heights)
  • Yoga Retreats
Inveraray Jail

Natural Habitat Exploring

In addition to the wildlife, flora, and fauna highlighted, take time to explore and wander the nature-based and natural sites across the area. Some inspiration includes:

Dan Merman Argyll Hope Spot

Explore the Heart of Argyll

What are you looking for?
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Artmap Argyll

Artmap Argyll is a network of Artists who work across Argyll, from Kintyre in the south, up to Ballachulish in the north and out to the Isle of Tiree. Our me...

No 1 Balliebeg
Castleton
Lochgilphead
PA31 8RU

Tel: 07708461081

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Westie Whisky Tours

The west coast of Scotland is home to some of the best, if not the best, distilleries in Scotland. Westie Whisky is run by a self-confessed whisky geek, who...

Head Office: Ramsay House
Glenalmond
Perth
PH1 3RY

Tel: +44 (0)7946 839738

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Portsonachan Hotel & Lodges

Enjoy the spectacular location and amazing views that won Scotland's 2022 Most Scenic Hotel and Lodges award.

​Relax and unwind in our charming hotel panoram...

South Loch Awe Side
Dalmally
PA33 1BJ

Tel: 01866 833224

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Portsonachan Hotel & Lodges - Cruachan Restaurant and Bar

Situated on the banks of the beautiful Loch Awe, West of Scotland.

19th Century Portsonachan Hotel's Cruachan Restaurant offers a stylish dining room and bar...

South Loch Awe
Portsonachan
Nr Dalmally
PA33 1BJ

Tel: 01866 833224

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All you need to know

This list is just a suggestion of how you could spend your time in the Heart of Argyll. The region has a range of activities and experiences to suit everyone, across all seasons.

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A place rich in natural and historic wonder, surrounding the scenic and popular waterway of the Crinan Canal.

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Find your place to stay from luxury hotels for a relaxing retreat to holiday parks and self catering options for adventure seekers, and everything in-between.

 

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