Knapdale
Scotland's Adventure CoastKnapdale is bounded to the south by the Kintyre peninsula and to the north by the Crinan Canal. Walkers and cyclists are all drawn to the remote, rugged beauty and wildlife of the area. Knapdale is a place sculpted by the great forces of nature. The western coastline, including the lovely Kilberry peninsula, is fringed with wild, empty beaches.
Knapdale Forest spreads from coast to coast, and it’s here that beavers have been reintroduced into Scotland. If you love getting active in the outdoors, you’re spoilt for choice in Knapdale. Explore the woodlands, forests and coastline on foot, by bike or by kayak. You’ll find scenic way-marked trails for all abilities.
Why visit Knapdale?
Things to See & DoKnapdale is a fascinating area in the Heart of Argyll, with exceptional walking trails through ancient oak forests, opportunities to see beavers in the wild, and the chance to step back in time at ancient sites. Here are some of the top things to see & do in Knapdale:
- Argyll Beaver Centre: In May 2009, Knapdale Forest was chosen for a groundbreaking conservation project: the reintroduction of Beavers to Scotland. Walk along the Beaver Trail to learn more about this conservation project, the impact of beavers on our ecosystem and how you can get involved. The centre offers regular guided walks throughout the season, typically running from April through September.
- Woodland Walks: Dunardry Forest has four trails along platforms, walkways and bridges providing you with a rare glimpse into a gorge woodland environment. The summit of An Cruach Mòr offers panoramic views of the Argyll coast.
- The deserted village of Arichonan: Arichonan is a deserted village from which the local Laird’s tenants were evicted during the Highland Clearances in 1848. Access is via a waymarked trail starting at the Gleann a Gealbhan car park between Bellanoch and Tayvallich on the B8025 road.
Knapdale is bounded to the south by the Kintyre peninsula and to the north by the Crinan Canal. There is much to see within striking distance, from the Bronze Age and Neolithic remains in Kilmartin Glen to the historic Georgian town of Inveraray. So, stay a while!
Natural Paradise and Wellbeing Experiences
Watch wildlife, explore ruins, discover lochs, enjoy great views – and maybe even meet a beaver
Explore Mid Argyll's Places of Interest
Discover some special places of interest while you are staying in mid Argyll. Click on our map icons to discover where to see on your travels. If you see multiple icons clustered in one area, simply zoom in on the map to decluster the icons.
How to get to Knapdale
By Car
Reach Knapdale via scenic drive along the A83, taking you on a journey along the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, past the peaks of Arrochar, also through the historic town of Inveraray on the shores of Loch Fyne and finally into the heart of Argyll. The total journey time from Glasgow is approx. 2 1/2 hours (95 miles), but plan for plenty of scenic stops along the way.
By Public Bus
Scottish CityLink operates daily services from Glasgow to Lochgilphead via Inverarary. From here, you can board a local bus to the village of Knapdale. From Oban, West Coast Motors operates frequent public buses into the Heart of Argyll.
It's an area worth exploring, with many walking trails and superb views from the west coast across to the Paps of Jura.
KILMARTIN GLEN
Kilmartin Glen is one of Scotland’s richest and most important prehistoric landscapes, with over 350 ancient monuments, including cairns, standing stones and stones.
INVERARAY
Overlooking the still waters of Loch Fyne, Inveraray is a traditional town of Georgian architecture, and home to the Duke of Argyll, head of the powerful Clan Campbell.
LOCHGILPHEAD
Lochgilphead is an ideal base to explore Crinan, Knapdale, Kilmartin Glen and Kintyre pennisula.
TARBERT
Tarbert on Loch Fyne is an attractive village which for many visitors acts as the gateway to the beautiful peninsula of Kintyre
Discover more inspiration on our blog
Explore Knapdale & beyond
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8 reasons to visit the stones of Argyll’s Kilmartin Glen
Argyll’s Kilmartin Glen is one of Scotland’s richest prehistoric landscapes. Here are eight reasons to be upstanding for the stones of Argyll’s Kilmartin Glen.
Wellness Weekend in Inveraray
Discover a perfect wellness weekend in Inveraray for your next escape. Plan your trip to Scotland's Adventure Coast today!
