Minard Travel Guide - Scotland

Minard is a small village on the western shores of Loch Fyne and is home to about 270 people. Many of these live in 17 houses that are quite close to the Minard Castle and Community Woodlands. The peaceful setting of Minard makes for a relaxing base from which you can explore the surrounding villages. The unspoiled natural setting makes this a popular destination for nature lovers. History lovers also love to come to this area to explore the ruins of castles and prehistoric forts.

Originally named Knockbuie House, Minard Castle was built by the Campbells of Knockbuie in the mid 1800's. It has changed hands several times since then and is now owned by the Holiday Fellowship, which operates the castle as a bed and breakfast. The village of Minard is well known throughout Argyll for its blooming rhododendrons and azaleas.

Outdoor enthusiasts love to visit Minard because of the wealth of outdoor activities that it offers its visitors. There are forest trails where you can see the wildlife in its natural habitat and pick the wildflowers that grow beside the streams and in the meadows. There are also trails made for cycling, if you prefer that method of getting around. Bird watching here is some of the best you will find in Scotland because of the many species of birds that nest here. Along with horseback riding and exceptional fishing, there is something here for everyone.

The people of Minard are very friendly and are always willing to stop and chat. They will gladly tell you about the history of the village and the legends of the Community Wood. Just a short distance away, you can visit Inveraray and see its impressive castle and the old jail. See the prehistoric mounds at Kilmartin Glen and visit the small village of Lochgoilhead. Take a ferry ride to the Isle of Luing and spend the day in an idyllic setting.

Not far from Minard, you can visit the Argyll Forest Park and the Auchindrain Folk Museum. This is an open-air museum and details Highland life as it was in the past.

You will not have any problem finding comfortable accommodations in Minard Castle or in self-catering cottages in the countryside. You will make memories that will last a lifetime and will probably make plans to return again in the future.