Roam

Far and away the most popular pastime whilst staying at Blarcreen is rest and restoration – reflect on the world around you and give yourself time.
The tranquility of Blarcreen House and grounds make it the perfect place to let yourself go slow; you could sit in our unique tree-scape, listen to the sounds of the wind and rain, and marvel as the red-deer stags, woodpeckers, herons and buzzards play out their daily routines. On a wet day, find one of our covered areas in Blarcreen’s garden, or stretch out in front of the cracking fire in our lounge.

Watch the clouds turn into sunshine and the wind blow the rain away, go for little walks or long walks, on flat or hilly ground, down to the loch-shore, or along, through ancient forests into silent glens. You can use one of Blarcreen’s many pairs of wellies but please bring your own waterproofs and other gear for whatever you plan to do.

Argyll and Bute has 3,700km of coastline, 23 inhabited islands (and many more blissfully un-populated by humans), 121 SSIs (sites of special scientific interest); here are just a few suggestions…

Argyll Safaris (bespoke tours of the culture, history of the terrian and its people),
The Ardchattan Centre (lovely community events and the best cakes in Argyll!),
Ardchattan Priory and Ardchattan Gardens (one of the oldest inhabited houses in Scotland, with gardens established 700 years ago)
Diaspora and Ancestry at The Ardchattan Archives
The Ocean Explorer Centre (at SAMS, the oldest Marine Research Institute in Europe, working for healthy oceans since 1884)
Less than an hour’s scenic drive from Blarcreen House is the majestic Nevis Range (world-class mountain activities in the heart of the Scottish Highlands with gondola rides, scenic walks, mountain biking, snowsports and more). The historic Glencoe Mountain Resort and the Nevis Range boast some of the best skiing that Scotland has to offer.
please ask us for info on Diving, Wild Swimming, Skiing, Island-Hopping, Sailing, Gourmet delights and much more.

Gardens

Our own garden is a haven to indigenous plants and wildflowers, sheltered by our ancient Aspens and venerable Yew, and we are surrounded by neighbours’ beautiful gardens – start with an amble through the ancient gardens of Ardchattan Priory, dating back to at least the 13th century, and wind your way through Argyll following the yellow signs of Scotland’s Gardens Scheme.

Fauna and Flora

If a peaceful ramble through gently rolling hills is right for you, then spend time to take in the flora and fauna and marvel at the majestic views by simply walking out of the door.

Even on a walk around Blarcreen’s garden you might meet this cheeky red deer stag peeking over our hedge!

Walking

In this part of the world, walking is pure enjoyment!

With so much unspoilt countryside there are walks to suit all abilities and ambitions.

Start with a gentle walk from the House, along the shores of Loch Etive.

And for those with a more adventurous disposition, the surrounding hills and mountains provide plenty of opportunity for the experienced hill walker.

Thanks to Chris Drabble Landscape Photography for this image of the summit of Ben Cruachan with Ben Nevis on the horizon © www.photo4me.com/profile/chrisdrabble

Thanks to Chris Drabble Landscape Photography for this image of The Three Sisters of Glen Coe © www.photo4me.com/profile/chrisdrabble

Thanks to Chris Drabble Landscape Photography for this image of Buachaille Etive Mòr in the Snow © https://www.photo4me.com/profile/chrisdrabble

Water, Water, Everywhere...

Ponder the wonders of Ben Cruachan, from the mythical Caillach to the hydro-power hollow-mountain reigning over magical Loch Etive, a unique sea-loch and ever-changing salinity-mix of fresh and sea water. And I’mmerse yourself in SAMS, the oldest Marine Research Institute in Europe, working for healthy oceans since 1884.

The west coast of Scotland has become a mecca for diving enthusiasts from all over the UK. The ‘warm’ coastal waters of the Gulf Stream ensure that our area is diveable all year round. With an abundance of wrecks and knowledgeable charter boat skippers and dive centres to choose from, all divers, from novice to experienced, will find some of the most breath-taking underwater experiences in the UK.

The west coast’s rich maritime history is reflected in today’s sailing community. Regatta-season in Oban culminates in West Highland Yachting Week (late July) and a wonderous spectacle on the water as Oban’s busy harbour takes on a competitive air.

The Islands

Explore the mysterious islands of Loch Etive, take the Corran Ferry to Ardnamurchan, island-hop from Oban’s Gateway to the Isles or chose a sea-tour which is just right for you – and have a brilliant day out.

Big and small, the islands of Canna, Coll, Easdale, Eigg, Eilian nan Gamhna, Fladda, Garvellachs, Gometra, Iona, Insh, Jura, Kerrera, Lismore, Luing, Lunga, Maiden Island, Mull, Rum, Scarba, Seil, Shona, Skye, Tiree, Ulva (to name just a few!) are all within a simple day trip of Blarcreen and we guarantee unforgettable visits to a very special place…

Highland Games and Farming Shows

The late summer season of Highland Games and Farming Shows is a unique opportunity to take part in local community culture, celebrating ancient and contemporary ways of working with the land and expressing our identities. Book your diary to take part in the Lorne Show (Benderloch), Argyllshire Gathering (Oban Games), Dalmally Agricultural Show and Taynuilt Highland Games….

Dark Skies

Pull up a garden-seat, tuck yourself in to one of our blankets, get warm and comfy, and revel in our Dark Skies…

The Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) over Blarcreen on 28 February 2023; image by Eilidh Livingstone Photography