Rashfield Sheilings

There’s no need to jump in the car for ace attractions in the Argyll area: get your jollies on a visit to the giant redwoods of Benmore Botanical Garden (a 25-minute walk away) or take your binoculars to the Holy Loch Local Nature Reserve (40 minutes on foot) for a bit birding. Keep your field glasses out when you’re back at the lodge to watch the wildlife on the banks of the river too: red squirrels are regular visitors to the site, red deer are frequently seen in the valley, and the shy pine marten has also been spotted nearby. Back out exploring, Loch Eck – a five-minute drive away – is worth visiting to glimpse signs of the ancient crannog dwellings visible when the water is low. Walk the medieval path close to the site in search of Iron Age remnants and a historical Christian chapel as well. If you’re venturing to other parts of the region, Loch Lomond is an hour away by car and the Isle of Bute takes an hour and a quarter to reach.