Argyll, the Isles and Trossachs is an wide-spread Scottish region in the mid-west of the country and sweeps across from the Inner Hebrides to the historic city of Stirling. The area is home to lochs such as Lomond – the country’s largest – and the Trossachs National Park with its picturesque natural scenery. Other major towns include Oban, Dumbarton and Falkirk, while there are also rural villages, rugged highlands and beautiful lowlands. This really is a region of much interest, making it a memorable place in which to stay.

Famous names such as St Columba, William Wallace, Robert the Bruce and Mary Queen of Scots are all associated with this part of the country and they serve to enhance its history and reputation. Travel writer Sir Walter Scott had a liking for Argyll and the Isles too, bringing the region further to the forefront. It was St Columba who came to the Inner Hebrides in 564 and went on to found a monastery on the Iona Isle which has since become famous for its music.

Argyll, the Isles and Trossachs is particularly good for those who enjoy the outdoors thanks to its parks, gardens and plentiful wildlife. There are castles, monuments and historic houses, while cruises along the coast are also popular. It is not unexpected to see wildlife such as eagles, osprey, wildcats, stags, dolphins and even whales while out and about in some parts. Sports such as fishing, walking, sailing, horse riding and of course golf are among the highlights and reasons for visits to the western part of the country. There are some 55 golf courses in the region, including some 6-hole courses and a 13-hole experience.

The Inner Hebrides Islands included in the region are Coll, Tiree, Mull, Iona, Colonsay, Jura, Islay and Bute; here you will find the Iona Abbey and plenty of beaches as well as the inevitable impressive views and scenery.

The Trossachs National Park covers approximately 720 square miles and has a beautifully diverse landscape. It is made up of 20 munros (the name given for mountains reaching more than 3,000 feet), 22 large lochs, many small lochs and 50 rivers. The Park features the gigantic Loch Lomond, the Argyll Forest, the Trossachs wild glens and the Breadalbane mountains.

As already mentioned Loch Lomond is the largest lake in Scotland and has a championship golf course which hosts a string of top events. Lennox Castle is to be found on one of the loch’s 30 islands, while the touristy town of Balloch is located on the southern point of the lake. Another famous village is that of Luss which is on the western side of the Loch, a little to the north of Balloch and its accompanying Balloch Castle Country Park.