Lochgilphead Travel Guide - Scotland

Located within the administrative centre of Argyll and Bute, Lochgilphead is a burgh that is home to about 3000 people. It is nestled at the end of Loch Gilp, which is part of Loch Fyne. The history of this town dates back to 1790, when the railway line from Inveraray to Campbeltown was completed. However, it wasn't until 1801 that the town's importance became evident with the opening of the Crinan Canal. Even though there were problems with this canal, it provided a shorter way to cross the Kintyre Peninsula. The starting point for the canal was less than two miles away from Lochgilphead and you can walk the length of it in a day. Along the way you may see many ocean going vessels that want to avoid the turbulent waters of the Mull of Kintyre.

Visit Kilmory Castle in Lochgilphead and take a tour of the castle itself as well as the three glorious gardens that surround it. These gardens contain many rare trees and shrubs. They form part of the Kilmory Woodland Park, where there are many opportunities for you to go bird watching, have a picnic by the side of the loch and sit and drink in the breathtaking scenery. Climb Dun Mor and even though you might be a bit winded when you get to the top, the view before you will certainly be worth it.

The layout of the town is like a grid, so you can easily walk the streets of the town and not get lost. If you do, the people that you meet on the street will gladly give you the directions you need or you can just drop into any of the stores and get the help you need. Take time to drop into a pub, where the people will want to know who you and where you come from to see if perhaps you might have some distant relations living in Lochgilphead. If you don't, you will certainly have new friends before you leave.

The stores of Lochgilphead are unique and unlike the major department stores you see in many tourist destinations. Here you will find crafts of distinction and both inside and out, the stores look just as they did about fifty years ago. Tee off at the 9–hole golf course, where you will not only be able to practice your swing but you will be amidst some of the most beautiful scenery in Scotland.

Just eight miles north of Lochgilphead, you can visit the archaeological site of Kilmartin Glen. Here you will find more than 350 burial mounds, of which about 150 date back to prehistoric times. You can also take a boat charter to go fishing in Loch Fyne or just take a leisurely cruise.

There is a fine selection of pubs and restaurants in Lochgilphead as well as many accommodations where you will be quite comfortable during your stay. Choose an inn or a hotel in the town or a guesthouse located in the hills and other scenic locations.