1/9 — The location
When you own a van at Strathlachlan Caravan Park, the best of Scotland's West Coast is on your doorstep. Explore historic castles, discover charming villages, enjoy spectacular walks and wildlife and experience the breathtaking beauty of Argyll and Loch Fyne throughout the seasons.
Whether you're looking for peaceful days by the water, scenic drives through stunning landscapes or opportunities to immerse yourself in local history and culture, there's something for everyone to enjoy. From family days out and outdoor adventures to exceptional food and drink, the surrounding area offers countless reasons to return time and time again.
Click through the slides to discover what's on offer in the local area.
2/9 — Old Castle Lachlan
A gentle 15 minute walk from the park will take you past Lachlan Bay to Old Castle Lachlan. A perfect place to walk the dog or take a picnic to the viewpoint.
Dating back to the 15th century, the castle was the ancestral seat of Clan Maclachlan for centuries and today its picturesque ruins provide a fascinating glimpse into Scotland's rich history. Surrounded by stunning coastal scenery, it is a popular spot for photography, wildlife watching and leisurely walks.
Maclachlan Family History
Clan Maclachlan, also known as Clan Lachlan, is a Highland Scottish clan that historically centred on the lands of Strathlachlan on Loch Fyne, Argyll on the west coast of Scotland. The clan claims descent from Lachlan Mor, who lived on Loch Fyne in the 13th century, and who has left his name upon the countryside he once controlled: places such as Strathlachlan, Lachlan Castle and Lachlan Bay. Tradition gives Lachlan Mor a descent from an Irish prince, Anrothan O'Neill. Clan Maclachlan has been associated with other clans, such as Clan Lamont, Clan MacEwen of Otter, Clan MacNeil of Barra, and the MacSweens: as all claim descent from Anrothan O'Neill who left Ireland for Kintyre in the 11th century. From this descent the clan claims a further descent from the legendary Niall Noigíallach, High King of Ireland, who lived from the mid 4th century to early 5th century.
3/9 — Inver Restaurant
A short ten minute walk from the caravan park, you will find award-winning Inver Restaurant - a warm and welcoming restored 18th century croft house, on the beautiful shores of Lachlan Bay.
Inver offers excellent cooking using the very best local produce. 'À la carte' dinner and lunch menus feature simply prepared fresh seafood from the loch and native meat and game in season, and the five-course evening tasting menu offers a creative take on traditional and forgotten Scottish dishes.
Open from March through December, the restaurant has a cosy fireside bar and serves coffee, house-made soft drinks, local craft ale and cocktails in a friendly, comfortable atmosphere overlooking Loch Fyne.
There’s also a small shop selling their own sourdough bread, cultured butter and preserves, as well as a selection of wine and beers to take away. Recently built, Scottish larch bothies provide luxurious, contemporary accommodation for restaurant guests.
4/9 — Benmore Botanic Garden
A 30 minute drive towards Dunoon will take you past Benmore Botanic Garden.
Set in a magnificent mountainside location on the Cowal Peninsula, Benmore Botanic Garden is rich in history and surrounded by dramatic scenery.
Celebrated for its towering conifers and spectacular rhododendrons, Benmore spans 120 acres and features a world-renowned collection of plants from regions such as the Himalayas, China, Japan, and North and South America.
Begin your visit with one of the finest entrances to any botanic garden - a majestic avenue of 160-year-old giant redwoods. From there, explore diverse landscapes as waymarked walks lead through exotic plantings to a tranquil pond, a beautiful Victorian Fernery and several scenic viewpoints.
Redwood Coffee, situated within the grounds of Benmore Botanic Garden, serves locally roasted coffee, refreshments, snacks and delicious home baking. The coffee shop is open daily until 31 October, from 10am - 4pm (serving hot food until 3.30pm) and has 15 seats indoors and 24 covered outdoor seats.
5/9 — The George Hotel
Located a 40 minute drive from the park in the nearby town of Inveraray, and owned by the Maclachlan family, The George offers historic charm, seasonal Scottish dining and an award-winning whisky bar - a place to eat, stay, and gather.
Eat at the atmospheric restaurant with centuries old stone walls, flagship floors and four open fires. From freshly landed seafood and comforting classics to premium Scottish steaks and seasonal specials, the dishes showcase the very best of the West coast. A carefully curated selection of wines from around the world, available by the glass or bottle.
The pub at The George is open daily until midnight. A traditional pub beloved by locals and visitors, with open fire, local ales, fresh pints on tap and plenty of whisky!
Just steps from Loch Fyne, The Garden Bar at The George serves live music, great food, cold beer and spectacular views. Look out for a series of free music festivals in The Garden Bar throughout the summer.
The George was voted most Pet Friendly Hotel in Scotland in 2020 and dogs are welcome throughout the hotel.
6/9 — Portavadie
A picturesque 45 minute drive from the park along the Secret Coastline takes you to Portavadie - one of Argyll's premier leisure destinations. Overlooking the shores of Loch Fyne, it is home to an award-winning spa and leisure complex featuring a heated outdoor infinity pool, indoor pool, sauna, steam room and a range of relaxing treatments. After a day of unwinding, visitors can enjoy fresh, locally sourced food in the marina restaurant and bar, where panoramic views across the loch provide the perfect backdrop for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Whether you're seeking relaxation, recreation or great food, Portavadie makes for an ideal day out.
7/9 — Woodland Walks
Argyll is renowned for its spectacular woodland scenery, with a variety of forestry walks within easy reach of the park. Wander through the enchanting gorge of Puck's Glen, where waterfalls, stone bridges and winding forest paths create a truly magical setting. Explore the extensive trails of Glenbranter Forest, offering peaceful walks beneath towering trees and stunning views across the surrounding hills. Closer to home, Garbhalt forestry track can be reached on foot directly from the park and is a favourite among owners and their dogs, with quiet tracks providing the perfect setting for a leisurely walk surrounded by nature. Whether you're looking for a gentle stroll or a more adventurous day out, the local forests offer something for walkers of all abilities.
8/9 — Scenic Drives
One of the many joys of owning a holiday home at Strathlachlan is having some of Scotland's most scenic driving routes right on your doorstep. The park sits on the B8000, a stunning coastal road that winds through the Cowal Peninsula, passing beautiful lochside views, peaceful woodland and picturesque villages along the way. Follow the route south to the charming village of Tighnabruaich, where you can enjoy a waterfront stroll, browse independent shops and cafes and take in spectacular views across the Kyles of Bute.
The scenic drives don't stop at the B8000. Head south through the beautiful Loch Eck corridor towards Dunoon, where towering forests, tranquil waters and dramatic mountain scenery create one of Argyll's most picturesque routes. Alternatively, travel north along the shores of Loch Fyne to the historic town of Inveraray, famed for its stunning castle, traditional architecture, independent shops and waterfront setting. Whether you're exploring the Cowal Peninsula, visiting Inveraray for lunch or simply enjoying the journey, the roads around Strathlachlan showcase some of the finest scenery Scotland has to offer.
9/9 — Wildlife & Nature
The woodlands and coastline surrounding Strathlachlan Caravan Park are home to an abundance of native wildlife, making the area a haven for nature lovers. Red squirrels are a familiar sight around the park and can often be spotted darting through the trees, while the elusive pine marten occasionally makes an appearance in the early morning. As evening falls, listen out for the calls of owls echoing through the woodland, while throughout the day the sound of birdsong provides a constant soundtrack to life in this peaceful corner of Argyll.
Away from the glow of towns and cities, the park also enjoys wonderfully dark skies that make stargazing a truly special experience. On clear nights, thousands of stars become visible overhead, with constellations, planets and even the Milky Way often shining brightly above the park. When conditions are favourable, visitors may even be treated to the spectacle of the Northern Lights dancing across the night sky, creating unforgettable memories in this beautiful corner of Scotland.