The Auchindrain Trust

Step back in time and discover Scotland’s rural history at Auchindrain, the most complete and well-preserved example of a Scottish Highland farm township. Vividly imagine life in the old Highlands as you walk through the settlement and see how ordinary people lived and worked. Step into the restored longhouses, see the objects of everyday life and learn about the past inhabitants. Explore the byres, stables and fields to understand how groups of families worked the land in common. Uncover a fascinating, long-vanished Scottish way of life deep in the hills of Argyll.

The west coast of Scotland is a pretty incredible place. Wildlife and wildlife lovers alike flock to the Hebrides; the coastlines are a haven of natural wilderness, the skies filled with the cry of sea birds and in the seas lurk enigmatic and wondrous creatures. Within the waters around these shores whales, dolphins, porpoises and basking sharks can be spotted. 

Argyll & the Isles

The Hebridean Whale Trail

Take a journey into the subterranean world of Cruachan Power Station and discover the cavernous machine hall and power-generating turbines hidden deep within Ben Cruachan mountain.

Cruachan Hollow Mountain

For true drama visit Benmore Botanic Garden, renowned for its fine collections of rhododendrons and conifers grown to immense stature in a mountain landscape. Benmore's 120 acres are home to a world-famous collection of plants from regions ranging from the Himalaya, China and Japan to North and South America. Other Garden features include:

Benmore Botanic Garden

Punches of colour, tasty vegetables and a succession of seasonal plants make this a classic garden with a vibrant feel. Geilston is typical of the small country estates on the banks of the Clyde, and has offered a tranquil haven for over 200 years. The kitchen garden springs to life in April and May. Geilston is celebrated for its landscaping, which harmonises nature and cultivation.

Geilston Garden

Inside, design inspired by astrology, art and mythology dazzles. See a map of the stars on the ceiling of the Marble Hall. Take the spiral staircase to what is believed to be the world’s first domestic heated swimming pool. This house is filled with innovations – from an early telephone system to our Victorian passenger lift.

Mount Stuart House

Iona Abbey is an abbey located on the island of Iona, just off the Isle of Mull on the West Coast of Scotland. It is one of the oldest Christian religious centres in Western Europe. The abbey was a focal point for the spread of Christianity throughout Scotland and marks the foundation of a monastic community by St. Columba, when Iona was part of the Kingdom of Dál Riata. 

Auchindrain

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More in Argyll & the Isles

The Hebridean Whale Trail

Cruachan Hollow Mountain

Benmore Botanic Garden

Geilston Garden

Mount Stuart House

Iona Abbey

Other Travel

Get Off the Beaten Track

Visit Falkirk

Discover Loch Katrine

Discover Scotland Tours - Glasgow

Isle of Iona

Royal Burgh of Culross