Local recommendations Argyll

Traditional dishes, amazing views, or the perfect place to finish off a woodland walk. Take your pick from our top pubs and restaurants close to the forest to get a taste of the local.
 

 
Ben Arthur Bothy
Take just a 5-minute drive to Ben Arthur Bothy, which serves traditional
Scottish pub food.
 
Cameron House on Loch Lomond
It's a 26-minute drive to Cameron House but it's well worth a visit. With
cocktails, cosy sofas and light bites, there's a choice of bars (including a
whisky bar) to relax in, right on the loch's shores.
 
The Village Inn
The Village Inn is a 7-minute drive for vegan, veggie and gluten free options.
Pubs and restaurants
With a National Park and lochs to explore just a short drive away, head out beyond the forest and discover what the area has to offer.
 

 
Explore and taste your way through this one-of-a-kind Scottish experience at Glengoyne Distillery. It's a 45-minute drive to enjoy tours and a little tasting.
 
Take your family on a journey from the shores of Loch Lomond through the zones of the deep blue sea! It's a 59-minute drive to the Aquarium.
 
Whatever your style, you’ll be sure to find adventure in the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, a 32-minute drive.
 
A 30-minute drive away, discover wildlife, breathtaking scenery and a wide range of activities at the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park.
 
A 35-minute drive, Helensburgh Beach overlooks the Upper Firth of Clyde, sitting just outside the mouth of Gare Loch.
 
Drive just 10 minutes to Rest and Be Thankful, a famous beauty spot and viewpoint.
Places to visit
Beinn an Lochain | 5.5km
For more experienced walkers, a short and strenuous trail with rewarding views can be found along the Beinn an Lochain hill walk.
 

 
Ben Arthur | 11km
The Cobbler, also known as Ben Arthur sn't a Munro, but a Corbett (2,500—3,000 feet). It’s a challenging but worthwhile climb, with a late scramble to get to the distinctive peak.
 

 
Glen Loin and Coiregrograin | 17.5km
Take the Glen Loin and Coiregrograin walk, which offers fine views of the mountain peaks of the Arrochar Alps.
 

 
Glenbranter | 3.6km
A 30-minute drive from Ardgartan Argyll, Glenbranter is one of the gems of Argyll Forest Park. To follow the Waterfall Trail, start on the banks of the of the Allt Robuic amidst the remnant of an ancient oak wood. Climb to the waterfalls and feel as if you're stepping away from the world. Rest in the wildlife hide for the chance to see red squirrels, roe deer, buzzards and woodpeckers.
 

 
Great Trossachs Path | 48km
The Great Trossachs Path links the West Highland Way with the Rob Roy Way. The section closest to Ardgartan Argyll stretches from the banks of Loch Lomond at Inversnaid to Trossach Pier on Loch Katrine, and offers up waterfalls, mountain view, lochs and wildlife. It’s a full day’s walking – best suited to experienced walkers – and you'll need arrange transport back to your cabin.
Easy on-location trail | 6.4km
Collect your bikes and set off on a 6.4km loop around the location. Explore your surroundings, enjoy views of Loch Long and uncover plenty of picnic spots along the way.
 

 
Glenshellish Route | 11km
Find adventure along two trails at Glenbranter. Our pick is the Glenshellish Route, a ‘gentle taste of the wild’ with rare wildlife and glorious views.
 

 
The Old Military Road | 8km
Start by catching the waterbus across Loch Lomond and take in three lochs along the way to Stronachlachar – Lomond, Arklet and Katrine. You can also take in views of Ben Lomond, Ben Venue and the Cobbler.
 

 
West Loch Lomond Cycle Path | 28k
For a trail with views of Loch Lomond and Ben Lomond take the 27.4km route from Tarbet (near Ardgartan Argyll) down to Balloch, at the southern end of Loch Lomond. This is a trail runs along the banks of Loch Lomond taking in the pretty village of Luss, where you can stop off to try some Scottish Tablet (a favourite local sweet treat). A train station at Balloch will bring you back to Tarbet.
Bring your furry friend on an adventure and explore one of the many forest trails, where acres of woodland and country roads make a great spot for a scamper.
 

 
Benderloch - Eagle's Eyrie Viewpoint | 3.9km
Stunning views fill this woodland hike – with plenty of benches for you all to
take a short rest.
 

 
Inveraray Castle and Dun na Cuaiche Watchtower | 6.6km
A perfect route for you and your pooch to enjoy beautiful views over Loch
Shira and Loch Fyne, as well as over the surrounding mountains.
 

 
Lochgoilhead and Donich Falls | 8km
A picturesque walk between the mountains. Make sure you watch out for
boggy puddles!
Dog-walking trails
Take a trip through the trees, full of adventure! Save 10% on your Go Ape experience when you stay with us, including on Saturdays. Take a trip with the whole tribe, packed full of adventure!
 
Look out for our emails with offers and activities to book before your stay – they'll include your unique discount code. Aberfoyle is where you'll find your nearest Go Ape, around an hour's drive away (it's also close to our other forest location, Strathyre):
  • Go Ape Zip Line Experience
  • Go Ape Tree Top Challenge
Go Ape
Discover local activities and adventures just beyond the forest, and make the most of the unique Scottish landscape.
Activities nearby
Meet some of our forest friends up close with incredible experiences near to the forest. Why not try...
 
Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre – meet the birds and watch daily flying shows. You can pre-book these activities with us! Just visit my account or speak to the team at the Forest Retreat when you're here.
Wildlife experiences