Argyll where the West Highlands meet the Lowlands. With its fragmented coastline and deep sea lochs lapping at the foot of mountains, this is the birthplace of Scotland and the focal point of much of its history. From Bute nestling at the southern tip of the Cowal peninsula across to the picturesque fishing village of Tarbert, up through the Crinan canal with its delightful yacht anchorages at Crinan, Tayvallich and Ardfern, to the busy waterway of the Firth of Clyde at Dunoon, the area provides a fascinating picture of bustling trade and leisurely sailing. Having a mild climate the area has a lush green landscape, and many colourful and interesting gardens are open to the public, including the Younger Botanical Gardens just north of Dunoon.

The model village at Inveraray, with its old jail and castle, home of the Dukes of Argyll, is open to the public and the drive along the shores of Loch Fyne to the geographical heart of Argyll at Lochgilphead is a most picturesque journey not to be missed. Continuing south through unspoilt beauty one reaches a gentle corner of the highlands at Knapdale and then on to Kintyre which is joined to the mainland only by a narrow isthmus and imortalised in song by Paul McCartney.

Glen Etive Glen Etive House - Lodge for 10 Salmon & Sea Trout Fishing on River Etive - Stalking - Sea Boat Prices from £2000 pw + vat