The Tower of Glenstrae is located in Lochawe village and as the name suggests is nestled on the shores of Loch Awe – one of the longest freshwater lochs in Europe. It is situated conveniently for the Highlands and Islands. Oban is only 30 minutes drive away and is a ferry port gateway to the Inner Hebrides which includes the stunning islands of Mull and Iona.
Walks and Castles
90 minutes drive to the North and you will be at the atmospheric Glencoe and ultimately find yourself in the shadow of Ben Nevis – Britain’s highest peak. A further 30 minutes drive takes you to the Glenfinnan Viaduct now globally famous given its appropriation by the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter film series! There is definitely plenty to see and do particularly if you like walking, cycling, climbing and canoeing. Install the free WalkHighlands App to check out the nearest walks. And then there are the castles in Argyll – the nearest of course is Kilchurn Castle which can be seen from our garden and from the main bedroom. The interior of the castle is currently being restored but you can walk around it from the nearby car park, which is located between our house and Dalmally. Other castles are available.
The nearest Munro – a term for Scottish mountains over 3,000 feet – is Ben Cruachan and offers a good days hiking rewarded by spectacular views for miles around including the Isle of Mull, Loch Etive and the mountain ranges of the Highlands. The Tower of Glenstrae is a mere 15/20 minutes walk away from the access path to Cruachan dam.
Also 15minutes walking distance, past the Ben Cruachan Inn, but just before the path up to the dam is St.Conan’s Kirk – a bit of an architectural smorgasbord with something for everyone…
Active lives and island hopping
From Oban (30minutes drive) you can get a ferry to Mull, Islay and serene Iona (booking recommended for your car) as well as boat tours to see the seals! Nearby next to Ben Cruachan you can book tours to see inside the Cruachan Dam (check opening times on their website) and of course you can book the Harry Potter train over the Glenfinnan viaduct near Fort William. Kayaks can be hired from Sea Kayaks Oban. For horse riding lessons and treks there is Argyll Adventure. Photography oriented boat trips on Loch Etive from nearby Taynuilt can be booked by contacting Gillian via her website.
If you have had to leave your trusty two wheeled steed at home then you can hire bikes from The Rusty Cycle Shed.