Luxury Log Cabins in the Southern Highlands with Private Hot Tubs

There are numerous companies offering boat tours on the west coast and these are a real treat for wildlife lovers and photographers alike.

This area is brilliant for spotting dolphins, minke whales, basking sharks, seal colonies, June to August is the best time to see babies, porpoise, puffins, and the incredibly rare sea eagle along with a host of other seabirds. Consult our animals by season guide.

It isn’t just the sea which provides fantastic wildlife spotting opportunities either, feral Goats can often be spotted, Red Deer graze on heather covered hills and otters are often seen on the shoreline.

Add to this, the wild beauty of this spectacular landscape viewed from the Atlantic Ocean and you have all the ingredients for an amazing day out.

A must for anyone who is interested in the work of world-renowned architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

Owned by the National Trust Hill House has been restored to look just as it did when it was built for publishing magnate Walter Blackie in 1904 Restored by the National Trust for to look almost exactly as it did in 1904,

Mackintosh and his wife Margaret Macdonald, an artist in her own right, created the building, furniture and textiles and it is widely regarded as a masterpiece of design and one of Mackintosh’s greatest achievements.

Outside the stunning gardens reflecting the delicate palette associated with Mackintosh are ideal for a leisurely stroll.

These days Scotland can hold its own amongst the finest eateries in Europe and nowhere is this more evident than on the west coast and Southern Highlands.

Whether you are wanting to book a Michelin starred restaurant to celebrate a special occasion such as the Isle of Eriska in Oban or feast on fresh seafood at the award-winning Café Fish in Mull you will be impressed with the choice and quality of local produce.

There are numerous cookery courses available in this area and of course, no visit is complete without a distillery tour and there is an excellent one on the Isle of Jura.

This unique attraction is the only catch and release aquarium in the whole of Europe, this sustainable approach means creatures are only kept for 4 weeks before being returned to the sea.

Not only does this mean there is always something different to see but also minimises the impact on the environment.

There are over 60 species to discover here with touch tanks and interactive displays to enjoy. Learn about local history, the lighthouses, and wildlife before watching a short film in the cinema room.

Open daily from Easter to October Mull aquarium is a fun and fascinating family day out whatever the weather.

Nestled on the tiny island of Iona is one of the most sacred sites in the UK. In fact, Christians have worshiped here since St Columba arrived in 563 AD.

The medieval Book of Kells is widely regarded to have originated here, written by Columba’s monks, along with many other religious works of art.

Take in the 4 iconic high crosses, admire the church’s architecture, explore the graveyard where ancient kings lay buried and walk the Street of the Dead to St Oran’s chapel.

Head to the Iona Abbey Museum which houses a superb collection of medieval crosses and carved stones thought to be the finest in Scotland.

Nestled on the shores of Loch Lomond and the only bird of prey centre in the country with all 5 native species of owl this unique attraction offers an educational and fun day out for all the family.

Home to over 30 birds, including Orla the Golden Eagle, Buzzards, Hawks, kestrels and Smudge the adorable small owl. A guided tour gives visitors the chance to learn about these amazing creatures.

The centre is a leader in bird conservation and offers a range of unique experiences such a Meet the Owls, a Hunting Day and Hawk Walk all of which help fund their work you can also sponsor a bird or buy a souvenir from the well-stocked gift shop.

Situated in the heart of the town Oban Distillery was founded in 1794 and is popular attraction for those staying at hot tub lodges on the west coast of Scotland.

Producing a distinctive flavoured single malt, the distillery is open all year round and offers an hour’s tour costing £10 where visitors can learn all about the whisky making process and some of the secrets that make Oban whisky unique.

A more in-depth 2-hour tour for whisky connoisseurs is also available and this includes access to the warehouse a tasting in the manager’s office and a lovely whisky related gift to take away with you.