4-day itinerary for exploring Mid Argyll

🚲 Day 2: Crinan Canal, Wildlife & Waterways

Morning

Cycle or Walk the Crinan Canal Towpath (9 miles one way – bike hire available)

• Start from Ardrishaig or Cairnbaan, heading west to Crinan.

• Pass locks, woods, and scenic viewpoints – great for spotting herons, swans, otters, and canal boats.
  
  

Shorter options: Walk a section around Cairnbaan (which also has ancient cup-and-ring marked rocks).

Lunch

• Crinan Coffee Shop or The Galley of Lorne Inn (Ardfern) – both excellent for light meals and views.
  
  

Afternoon

Explore Crinan Harbour

• Visit the viewpoint behind the hotel, admire the working lock gates, or walk out to Crinan Lighthouse.

• Optional: Book a boat trip for wildlife spotting (seal colonies, sea eagles, and sometimes porpoises).
  
  

Evening

Return via the canal or by car. Relax with dinner at your accommodation, or try The Smiddy Bistro in Lochgilphead.

🏡 Day 3: Auchindrain & Tayvallich Adventure

Morning – Step Back in Time

• Drive to Auchindrain (about 20 mins west of Kilmartin).

• Explore Auchindrain Historic Township - a living museum of traditional crofting life. Take a guided tour to hear local stories, visit croft houses, barns and a bothy.
  Tip: Try the traditional cuppa and a scone in the café - homemade and delicious!
  
  

Late Morning – Coastal Drive

• Head south toward the Crinan coast and then on to Tayvallich (approx. 25 mins).

• The road enjoys sweeping views of Loch Crinan and the surrounding hills.
  
  

Lunch

• In Tayvallich, enjoy lunch at:
  
  

• Tayvallich Inn or Tea Room & Coffee Lounge, or
  
  

• The Sheiling Café—both offer hearty food, home baking, and sea-views.
  
  

• Wander by the small marina, watch for fishing boats, and check out the small village shop.
  
  

Afternoon – Beach or Boat

• Take a family walk along Tayvallich Bay - tide-dependent, beautiful shoreline for paddling and rock pooling.

• Or book a short boat trip to explore the inner Loch Crinan, spot wildlife, or enjoy a peaceful drift on the water.
  
  

Evening – Coastal Return

• Return to your base in Crinan or Lochgilphead via the scenic A816/A83.
  
  

• Dinner options:
  
  

• The Horseshoe Inn (Kilmartin) – family-friendly pub meals,
  
  

The Smiddy Bistro (Lochgilphead) – good food, relaxed setting.

🏞️ Day 4: Coastal Adventures & Hidden Villages

Morning

Visit Ardfern or Craobh Haven

• These coastal villages offer lovely marina views, kayaking, and short coastal walks.

• Optional: Head out on a sea kayaking tour or wildlife boat trip (seasonal).
  
  

Or..

Drive the Argyll Coastal Route south toward Kilberry

• Scenic and remote, with gorgeous sea views and stop-offs like:
  
  

• Kilberry Castle viewpoint

• The Kilberry Sculptured Stones – medieval grave slabs.

• Beaches like Ormsary, Kilmory, or Carsaig Bay.
  
  

Lunch

• The Galley of Lorne Inn (Ardfern) or a picnic by the sea.
  
  

Afternoon

Relax at a beach or take a short walk

• Knapdale Forest (with accessible trails, lochs and wildlife hides).

• Optional: Visit Bellanoch Viewpoint for a panoramic finish.
  
  

Evening

• Final dinner at your favourite spot so far – or toast the trip with local whisky or craft beer.

 Bonus Tips:

• Auchindrain tours are often run by volunteers - check tickets and times before visiting.

• Tayvallich café is very popular in summer - book ahead or arrive early.

• The Crinan Canal towpath has shorter walks if cycling all the way seems too much for the family.

• Always bring layers, snacks, waterproofs and sturdy footwear - Mid Argyll weather shifts fast!

🚗 Tips for Travelling Mid Argyll

• A car is essential – everything is close but rural.

• Perfect for slow travel – don’t rush, enjoy the journey.

• Good bases: Kilmartin, Crinan, Ardrishaig, or Lochgilphead.

• Pack for all weathers – waterproofs and sunglasses recommended!
  
  

Great for families, history buffs, cyclists, and photographers alike.

Read more about Mid Argyll (The Heart of Argyll!) here