National Trust of Scotland

This exotic splash of wilderness is a Himalayan-style glen, set in the gentle hills of Argyll. The sparkling waters of the Crarae Burn form the centrepiece for a woody paradise of rocky gorges, wooden bridges and thickets of maple, birch and evergreens, blending with sprays of flowers.

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. 

Iona Abbey

Crarae Garden

13 Mar–31 Oct, daily, 10.00–17.00 (last entry 16.00)

1 Nov–11 Mar 2024, daily, 10.00–16.00

12 Mar–31 Oct, daily, 10.00–17.00 (last entry 16.00)

Crarae Garden

This exotic splash of wilderness is a Himalayan-style glen, set in the gentle hills of Argyll. The sparkling waters of the Crarae Burn form the centrepiece for a woody paradise of rocky gorges, wooden bridges and thickets of maple, birch and evergreens, blending with sprays of flowers.

Opening Times

More in Argyll & the Isles

The Hebridean Whale Trail

Cruachan Hollow Mountain

Benmore Botanic Garden

Geilston Garden

Mount Stuart House

Iona Abbey

Other Parks and Gardens

Benmore Botanic Garden

Logan Botanic Garden

Dawyck Botanic Graden

House of Dun

Hill of Tarvit Mansion

Geilston Garden