Kilmelford Travel Guide - Scotland

A small village on the West Coast of Scotland, Kilmelford is located on the A816 road about 22 miles from Lochgilphead and 16 miles from Oban. It is nestled in a small valley at the head of Loch na Cille. If you are looking for a quiet retreat where you can have a restful vacation, then you will find what you are looking for in this village of 25 or so houses. There are also homes dotting along the main road to bring the population of the village up to about 100.

Many of the people that live in Kilmelford are retired. The economy of the town is based on agriculture and tourism. There is a timeshare complex at the Melfort Club and the Kilmelford Yacht Haven is a local boatyard that specializes in the maintenance and repair of yachts. If you enjoy a vacation where you can spend time outdoors, then Kilmelford has a treat in store for you. This is one part of the country where you explore the area on foot or by boat. There are many excellent walks that offer panoramic views of the coast and the surrounding countryside.

For history lovers, the most important archaeological find in Scotland is located in the area. About 15 miles south of Kilmelford, you will find the heart of Dalriada, the ancient kingdom of Scotland. The remains that have been found in this area indicate that people have been living in this area for thousands of years, much further back that the people who established the Kingdom in the 6^th century. With more than 350 ancient monuments in the area of Kilmartin, you can spend weeks here and still not get to see all that the area holds. Take time to explore the Kilmartin Museum where you will learn about the ancient cultures and see a video about the Valley of the Ghosts.

Visit the Arduaine Gardens, just 4 miles south of Kilmelford. This site is a coastal garden owned by the National Trust for Scotland. Here you will see an exquisite display of blooming rhododendrons, magnolias, ferns and many more plants growing in sheltered woodland.

With the wealth of accommodations and restaurants, you will find that everything is geared towards your comfort when staying in Kilmelford. You can choose a self–catering cottage, a bed and breakfast or a hotel. The food at the tables of the restaurants is superb and will please even the most discerning palate.