The Estate

The Estate is devoted mainly to a sheep farm with some woodland. There are three miles of coastline nearly all of which is only accessible on foot. Guests are free to explore wherever they want with walking to suit all abilities.


Inver Cottage Restaurant, which is owned by the family, is a pleasant 15 minutes walk away facing the Old Castle. It serves morning coffees, lunches, teas and evening meals. Decorated in a warm New England style it has a varied menu featuring lots of local produce. Children are catered for with their own home cooked menu. Go and have coffee and see what you think.

Location

The castle is on the east side of Loch Fyne on the B8000, about 6 miles south of Strachur and close to Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Strathlachlan itself is a quiet backwater but is within easy reach of Inveraray, Bute, Loch Lomond and Dunoon. The drive down the lochside to Tighnabruaich must be one of the most beautiful in Scotland.

Dunoon

Dunoon has all the essential shops. There is a cinema, swimming pool and golf course. Try Chatters, next to Somerfield, for lunch.

At Benmore, just this side of Dunoon, are the Younger Botanic Gardens. They are part of the national botanic collection and are spectacular in May and June when the rhododendrons and azaleas are in bloom. There is plenty to see at other times of the year.

Bute

Bute is a short drive followed by a very short ferry crossing away. Rothesay, again, has all the essential shops and a supermarket. There are three golf courses on the island together with Mount Stuart, home to the Marquis of Bute, some lovely deserted beaches and a great circular drive round the Island.

Inverary

Inveraray is about 30 minutes drive. You can visit the Castle, home to the Duke of Argyll. Inveraray is a pretty little town with a very good butcher, Gillespie and Dad. The steak pies are excellent. The George Hotel is the place for lunch. On weekdays the pool at the Loch Fyne Hotel is open for non–residents. A visit to Inveraray presents the opportunity to call in at the famous Loch Fyne Oyster Bar at Clachan near Cairndow. The shop there is excellent and a great place to stock up on all sorts of delicious foods. Ardkinglas Woodland Garden in Cairndow village is on the way.

Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond is about 35 minutes drive. Cruise Loch Lomond from Tarbet at the northern end and shop Loch Lomond at Lomond Shores the 'gateway' to the Loch Lomond National Park at the south.

Tighnabruaich

The drive to Tighnabruaich over the 'New' road (40 years new) is spectacular with lovely views over the Kyles of Bute. Lunch at the Royal Hotel. Come back on the B8000 along the side of Loch Fyne via Millhouse and Otter Ferry.

The best place for a bucket and spade day out is Kilbride Bay (known locally as Austell Bay) near Millhouse. Park the car at Kilbride Farm. The beach is 20 minutes walk from the main road, but well worth it. There is a mile or more of white sand and a very gently shelving beach that is great for children. On a sunny day the sand warms the water as the tide rises.