About Argyll

With jagged mountain peaks rising from the mist, and black, fathomless lochs seeping through the landscape, Argyll is one of Scotland's most dramatic and atmospheric looking regions. The rugged Atlantic coastline sweeps up the western side, dotted with pretty fishing villages and bustling harbours, and behind the coast are the lochs and mountains, with their heathery moors and woods. You’ll find our hotel recommendations throughout, but what links them, beside being among the best places to stay in Argyll, are incredible views, and some equally incredible food. Whether a pub-with-rooms, a country house hotel, a cosy B&B or a golf resort, the best places to stay in Argyll certainly know how to delight one's tastebuds!

Oban is one of Argyll’s largest centres, and the ferry hub for journeying to Mull, Jura, Islay, Arran, Iona, Colonsay, Barra, Coll and Tiree etc. It’s a lively spot, and probably a useful base if you’re exploring the region. Inveraray is another possible base for exploring further afield. It's in an inland spot, amongst the lochs and close to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Inveraray Castle is also worth a visit.

If you’re looking to lose yourself in the wilderness, many of the best places to stay in Argyll will certainly oblige. Argyll is the sort of place where you can be right next to the road, but still hundreds of miles from anyone other than your hotel hosts and fellow guests. Magical.

The Best Places to Stay in Argyll

For an escape

  • The Colonsay is on Colonsay, one of Scotland's lesser known islands, so this is a really remote pick, great for walkers, or anyone who wants to escape. There are nine rooms in the hotel, all simply decorated with wrought iron beds, and solid wood furniture. Expect log fires in the communal areas, plus comfortable sofas, books and games. Expect to meet local folks in the bar too. Book this one as far ahead as you can — many guests return year after year!
  • Kilcamb Lodge is a wonderfully remote, stone-built country house on the spectacular shores of Loch Sunart. It’s thought to be one of the oldest stone houses in Scotland. There are just ten guest rooms each of them is simply decorated in pale, soothing shades with a bit of chintz and tartan thrown in. The restaurant (one of the best in Scotland, boasting 3AA Rosettes) is known for its use of local produce, and there are plenty of wonderful local options, from seafood to game. Expect otters on the rocks and the Ardnamurchan peninsula in the background.

For water views

  • The Riva Boutique Hotel is a stylish pick, right on Helensburgh’s seafront. On the ground floor there’s a chic Italian restaurant and bar, and upstairs are the 14 guest rooms and suites. The decor is a contemporary version of mid-century modern, complete with plenty of smooth wooden shapes, geometric patterns, and even record players with carefully curated vinyl collections. Perfect for exploring the West Scottish coastline, or for escaping — with or without your kids and dog.
  • The Royal An Lochan is positioned on a quiet stretch of one of Scotland’s most picturesque roads — running right alongside the Kyles of Bute. Built during the Victorian era, this is a charming, yet small, hotel, with just 11 rooms snd suites — our favourites are those with sea views — decorated with classic style, and bold colours. 
  • Once the local pier master’s home, the The Pierhouse Hotel now offers its incredible water views to all its guests. Positioned just back from clear waters of Loch Linnhe, and overlooking Lismore and Mull, The Pierhouse has views to envy. Beyond the views is a friendly atmosphere, both in the bustling seafood restaurant — we recommend you book in advance — and around the hotel. There are just 12 rooms, all compact, but comfortable and well designed, with cosy lighting and prints on the walls. A good pick for foodies and outdoor-types.

Best country house hotels

  • Superbly positioned above the pretty village of Luss and Loch Lomond, the Loch Lomond Arms Hotel is a charming small hotel, with an excellent gastropub/restaurant and lovely gardens. The 14 rooms and suites have all been individually decorated, with a lovely range of fuss and features: some have tiled fireplaces and four-poster beds, while some of the cosy attic rooms have stunning views, toile du Jouy wallpaper and touches of tartan. The restaurant is supplied by some seriously delicious local options.
  • The Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa is superbly located right on the banks of Loch Fyne, and the best of its 68 rooms and suites overlook the water and the mountains beyond. This property dates from the Victorian era, but has been updated with a spa and pool, and an inviting bistro specialising in local cuisine. The decor matches the location well: with just the right balance of tartan and antiques. Perfect for a romantic weekend where you don’t leave the hotel, equally ideal as a base for exploring the local region.

For walkers

  • Carradales is a carefully converted Victorian home in a spectacular spot, hidden away on the eastern fringe of the Kintyre Peninsula. Because this is a converted home there are just four guest rooms. All have been individually decorated, and bathrooms with underfloor heating and claw-footed baths added. There’s also a cosy sitting room, where you’ll find a fire blazing just when you feel you need one. Breakfast is a hearty affair, so this is a great pick for walkers, and the restaurant is open for lunches and dinner, if you don’t fancy the stroll into Carradale Harbour.
  • Spectacularly positioned outside Kilberry, overlooking the Atlantic, Jura and Islay, the Kilberry Inn is an intimate choice, with just five rooms, so it’s a paradise for hideaways who don’t like to cook for themselves. The decor is simple, and the food superb, a daily changing menu that responds to availability of local produce.

For romantics

  • Ardanaiseig is a grand, and slightly Gothic feeling country house hotel, complete with ivy-cladding, spectacular Loch views, a huge collection of wellington boots, and a bluebell meadow. The imposing exterior gives way to a more playful interior, though still opulent and impressive. We love the luxurious lounge with open fireplaces and plenty of gilt, and fantastic views of Loch Awe and its islands. Of the 18 rooms and suites, the finest share these loch views, as well as romantic extras, like four-poster beds and the fanciest antiques. The restaurant is a fantastic opportunity to try some locally foraged ingredients.
  • Knockderry House is another loch-side charmer, this time a converted Victorian mansion just metres back from the shore of Loch Long. Designed just for this spot, with the largest windows and the towers enjoying the most impressive views, Knockderry is a building with plenty of romance of its own. Inside, guests are offered a range of accommodation, with some rooms charmingly simple, and others very grand. The Master Rooms, with their four-poster beds, are probably the most obviously romantic. The cosy drawing room is too, and the dining room is definitely designed to impress, now a restaurant specialising in locally sourced cuisine.
  • The Perle Oban Hotel has the sleek design and atmosphere of a city break hotel, but in picturesque Oban. It offers great value for its crisp, understated chic, added extras like Nespresso machines and huge flat-screen TVs. The restaurant, 1882, is a champion of local produce, and the breakfasts are highly recommended. Ideal if you’re passing through via the ferry port, or staying to explore.

Best pubs with rooms

  • The Creggans Inn is a historic inn in an incredible setting, right beside Loch Fyne, overlooking it towards Inveraray and the Kintyre mountains. This is the prefect pick for outdoor pursuits, especially fishing, walking and sailing. The accommodation comprises 14 bedrooms and one suite, all decorated in pastel shades, with printed wallpapers and open fireplaces. Plus there's a buzzing bar and bistro.
  • The Kilchrenan Inn is a totally charming, and surprisingly stylish inn, with an excellent restaurant and three very chic rooms. The decor makes the most of the building's original stone walls and floors, and wooden beams, which they’ve accented with industrial-chic lighting and a splash of tartan. The food is great, the pub has a very warm and welcoming atmosphere, and it’s perfect for walkers, and/or romantics.

For golfers

  • The Ugadale Hotel is a classic Scottish golf hotel with fantastic views over the course and the Atlantic — all the way to Jura and the Isle of Islay on a clear day. There are 22 rooms and suites, most with incredible views, classic furnishings, and just the right amount of tartan. There’s a large restaurant, a traditional bar, a pub and a spa. Our Gurus recommend you book a whisky tasting session.

For great value

  • Brambles of Inverary is a fantastic base for exploring Inveraray and the local region. Located on the shores of Loch Fyne, the views are fantastic, and you’re surrounded by great walking routes and lookout points. Inside are four bedrooms with lots of light and charm, expect original fireplaces, huge sash windows, and an unfussy blend of antiques with more contemporary furnishings. Downstairs there’s an excellent modern bistro with a friendly bar.
  • The Manor House, Argyll is a charming choice, overlooking Oban Bay, and the pretty town beyond. The Manor is historic, and stone built — not too grand, but certainly elegant — with lovely grounds. The 11 bedrooms are cosy and traditional, with pretty wallpapers in toile du Jouy or botanical patterns, and matching tartan details. The restaurant has a daily changing menu that showcases the region’s bounty, and the communal spaces are many and varied.

Best b&bs

  • An Corr is a two room B&B in a stunning spot at the narrow edge of Loch Long, close to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, just metres from the water, with wonderful views of the hills behind too. The rooms are decorated to make the most of the building’s original exposed stone walls — a Scottish take on Scandi chic. Breakfasts are generous, there are Nespresso machines in the room, and the host is delightful.
  • The Corries B&B is beautifully positioned, in a remote spot, right on the shores of Loch Lomond. Rooms are simply decorated in a palette of greys, with dashes of seasonal colour, and the bathrooms feel contemporary. Perfect for small groups or families, and for walkers and explorers.
  • Ceo Mara Croft B&B is a newly, but traditionally built farmhouse, in a quiet, and very scenic spot just outside of Taynuilt. There are just two B&B rooms in the house — both with spectacular views overlooking Loch Etive and Ben Cruachan. Both rooms are cosy and farmhouse-y, and there’s a cosy sitting room too, also with incredible views.

Prefer a private apartment or cottage?

  • If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel information

  • If you’re visiting Argyll from somewhere in the UK why not consider arriving by rail. The journey towards Argyll is considered one of the country’s most beautiful. If you’re heading for Inveraray or Oban you can travel via Manchester, Liverpool and/or Glasgow — depending on where you’re starting out. If you’re travelling via London it will take you seven or eight hours. If you’re arriving by plane, the airports to head for are Glasgow Airport, which is about an hour away from Inveraray by car or taxi, or about an hour and a half by bus, or Edinburgh International Airport, which is about two hours away by car or taxi, or about three and a half hours away by bus.
  • If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
  • The busiest time of year to visit Argyll and Bute is summer. But the region’s maritime climate is known for summer that are warm, rather than hot, with cool, rather than cold winters, so there’s certainly an argument to say that you can visit this region any time of year. What visitors to Argyll need to be savvy about is the rain. It’s not that there’s a lot of it, just that it can come about quite suddenly, so pack accordingly.

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The best hotels in Argyll

Woodlands

Glencoe (Argyll)

A collection of luxury lodges — all with private hot tubs — just outside Ballachulish. Interiors are smart and modern but it's the finer details that resonate: Egyptian cotton sheets, wet rooms, super-comfy mattresses and breakfast delivered to your door. A romantic highland hideaway.

from $252 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Riva Boutique Hotel

Helensburgh (Argyll)

A chic little property right on Helensburgh's seafront. Fourteen rooms are finished in contemporary style with great touches including underfloor heating and record players with accompanying albums! The restaurant serves Italian cuisine & the views over Gareloch are stunning.

from $101 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Brambles of Inverary

Inveraray

On the shores of Loch Fyne, Brambles of Inverary is a charming B&B featuring comfortable, spacious rooms and an excellent modern bistro. It's a great base for those looking to explore the charms of Argyll.

from $114 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Carradales

Argyll (Argyll and Bute)

A beautifully restored Victorian manse turned luxury guesthouse on the Kintyre Peninsula. Four individually styled bedrooms boast smart decor with designer touches, plus luxurious bathrooms and Egyptian cotton bed linen. Delicious breakfasts and evening meals championing local produce.

from $121 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Kilchrenan Inn

Argyll (Taynuilt)

Stylish and chic are probably not two words that many associate with rural Argyll but the Kilchrenan Inn defies that preconception. With an excellent restaurant and three sleek rooms, it's a great base for those looking for some modern comforts in the wilds of Argyll.

from $121 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Ceo Mara Croft B&B

Argyll (Taynuilt)

Quiet and calming, Ceo Mara Croft is a delightful B&B a few miles outside Taynuilt. Offering two lovely rooms and fabulous views that look out over Loch Etive and Ben Cruachan. The guest house is perfect for those looking to unlock the wilderness of Argyll.

from $121 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
Royal An Lochan

Argyll

A hideaway hotel, with great seafood and heavenly views over the Kyles of Bute. Out of the way in an enchanting setting.

from $127 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
Loch Lomond Arms Hotel

Argyll

Comfortable rooms, glorious views of beautiful Loch Lomond, excellent locally-sourced gastropub food and friendly service on the Luss Estate.

from $127 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Clachaig Inn

Glencoe (Ballachulish)

Tucked into Glencoe, the Clachaig Inn is a charming hotel. The hotel's hub is formed around the atmospheric pub that offers a great selection of beers and whiskies, often playing host to traditional music sessions. A great launchpad for exploring the surrounding beauty of Glencoe.

from $127 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
An Corr

Argyll (Argyll And Bute)

A boutique lochside B&B that goes that little extra mile. The two rooms are beautifully designed with exposed stone, dark blue panelling and added touches such as a Nespresso machine and White Stuff products. Breakfasts are bountiful and the host is a delight!

from $129 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Corries B&B

Argyll (Loch Lomond)

A charming three-bed B&B set in a spectacular and remote spot overlooking Loch Lomond. The rooms are simple and modern in design with sink-into beds and modern bathrooms. A cosy base for a rural escape.

  • Country Escape - Set beside Loch Lomond this is an ideal starting point for a rambling holiday or simply a place to just enjoying being in nature
from $134 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
Ardanaiseig

Argyll (Kilchrenan)

A glorious country house hotel, touched with eccentricity and a little bit of magic. Luxurious decor, stunning views and wonderful food on the banks of Loch Awe.

from $138 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Knockderry House

Argyll (Cove)

The rural Victorian Knockderry House is situated on the banks of Loch Long. This 4*, 2 Rosette Hotel offers a range of smart accommodation with the Master Rooms (featuring four poster beds) especially elegant. Food is divine, made using local produce. Plus a cosy drawing room. A romantic retreat.

from $140 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Ugadale Hotel

Machrihanish (Argyll)

Beautiful 4-star hotel and golf course in Argyll, offering rooms decorated with classic Scottish elegance and boasting outstanding views over the Atlantic sea to Islay and Jura. There's a restaurant, traditional pub & a spa. Whisky tastings & country sports can be arranged.

from $145 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Manor House, Argyll

Oban (Argyll)

Charming listed property with stunning views over Oban Bay. Cosy individually designed bedrooms are traditional in style with pretty Toile de Jouy wallpaper and fabrics. The restaurant offers a daily changing menu showcasing the best of local ingredients. Great for exploring the West Coast.

from $152 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
The Creggans Inn

Argyll

An historic country inn on the shores of Loch Fyne, with views to Inveraray and the Kintyre mountains. Award-winning Scottish cuisine, delightfully cosy bedrooms and one suite, and a beautiful landscape for fishing, walking, diving, and whisky tasting. A gourmet spot in a breathtaking setting.

from $152 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Perle Oban Hotel

Oban (Argyll)

A welcome luxury addition to Oban's hotel scene! The recently opened Perle Oban enjoys an enviable harbour-front location and boasts chic rooms and suites with luxury accessories including Nespresso machines for all! The restaurant champions local seafood and steaks. A smart stay on the West Coast.

from $159 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
No. 20

Helensburgh

A chic boutique B&B on the shores of Gare Loch in the quaint town of Helensburgh. Smartly dressed rooms feature large sash windows - taking advantage of the views - sink-into beds, contemporary artworks and indulgent bathrooms. A charming base to explore the region.

from $159 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Melfort House

Argyll (Oban)

Set amongst rural pasture in coastal Argyll, Melfort House overlooks the islands of Scarba and Jura. Offers three elegant and smart rooms featuring warm hues, silk fabrics and large beds. Come back after a long day and relax in the drawing room by the fire with a good book! Homely and rejuvenating.

from $165 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
The Crinan Hotel

Argyll (By Lochgilphead)

Traditional hospitality and accommodation in a fantastic location. The Crinan offers cheerful service with a bar and restaurant serving the freshest of seafood. Outstanding views to Jura and Scarba plus the Crinan Canal on your doorstep. Perfect for outdoorsy types or yachties.

from $165 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Colonsay

Argyll

Unpretentious nine bedroomed hotel on the beautiful island of Colonsay. Great for families and those seeking a break in a laid back Hebridean hideaway. Old house charm, roaring log fires, restaurant and bar.

from $165 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Pierhouse Hotel

Port Appin (Argyll)

Originally the pier master's house, The Pierhouse hotel now offers twelve comfy bedrooms in the most outstanding west coast location. The vibe is friendly and laid back, but the real star of the show is the food - the freshest seafood and game imaginable! Perfect for foodies & outdoor active types.

from $178 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa

Inveraray

Victorian property with killer location on the banks of Loch Fyne. Spa, pool, fab bistro & rooms brimming with contemporary comforts add a modern edge to cosy Scottish 19th century interiors. Facilities & location means this works equally well for those looking to explore or stay indoors & relax.

  • Romantic Break - Offers everything you could want from a romantic weekend away by the sea; delicious food, beautiful views & super spoiling rooms
from $189 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Ardtorna

Argyll (Barcaldine)

A top-notch contemporary bed & breakfast on the Oban coast, with splendid views of the sea. Golf and pool nearby.

from $190 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Winterton

Argyll

A small B&B offering rural chic accommodation in a beautiful and remote setting. The two rooms have wooden floors, plenty of light, roll-top baths, and beamed ceilings. The hosts whip up a fabulous three-course dinner and there's a lovely firelit lounge to unwind in after a day spent outdoors.

from $195 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
No 26 By The Sea

Oban

Upmarket boutique B&B with fab location on the Oban coast. Carefully curated rooms are the pinnacle of contemporary chic; bold prints & colours give a distinctive feel. Start active days with hearty breakfasts before returning to a fireside lounge or sea-facing terrace. Romantic seaside retreat.

from $202 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
Greystones

Oban (Argyll)

Grand baronial house turned boutique B&B in the heart of Oban. Five spacious rooms with contemporary interiors and large modern bathrooms. Minimalist feel is complemented with plenty of period features. An intimate, romantic base for exploring Scotland's west coast, with stunning views.

from $235 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
Barcaldine Castle

Argyll

17th century turreted castle B&B with a beautiful location on Loch Creran's shores. Pretty rooms are decorated with Victorian-era antiques and look out over dramatic scenery. Expansive yet cosy living areas with roaring fires make this ideal for groups of friends, families or events.

from $254 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
No 17 The Promenade

Oban (Argyll)

A boutique hotel boasting stylish interiors, on Oban’s picturesque seafront. The rooms feature a mix of contemporary elegance with plush furnishings, rich textures, and tasteful artwork. There's a restaurant serving fabulous local cuisine, and a terrace with salty sea views. A charming coastal stay.

  • Foodies - Indulge in a culinary adventure with farm-to-table dining at Porcini Restaurant, featuring local seafood and seasonal produce
from $299 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Kilcamb Lodge

Argyll (Strontian)

Charming country hotel with a serene setting on the shores of Loch Sunart. Traditional rooms feature large windows with chintz and tartan fabrics and stunning views. An award winning restaurant uses local produce. Cosy living rooms for post outdoor unwinding. A true country getaway.

from $311 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
Kilberry Inn

Argyll (Tarbert)

With stunning coastal vistas this property is a detour worth taking. Rooms are bright in modern colours with floral patterns. Breakfast and dinner are included and with Clare Johnson's cooking, winning her local fame, you are sure not to tire of the freshly, locally sourced menu. A perfect escape!

from $317 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Glencoe House

Glencoe

Once the home of Lord Strathcona, this handsome country house is set in ravishing Highlands scenery overlooking Loch Linnhe. Family and dog friendly, comfortable, spacious suites, some with open fires and superb in-suite dining. There is plenty to entertain the hearty from fly fishing to walking.

from $431 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Isle of Eriska

Port Appin (Argyll)

An idiosyncratic and lovable private island resort and spa just north of Oban. Antiques mix with contemporary interiors in this peaceful haven. Cosy living rooms with roaring fires, fine dining restaurant, comfortable rooms and pampering spa plus modern private retreats. A remarkable rural escape.

from $438 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Mingary Castle

Argyll (Argyll)

An expertly refurbished 13th-century castle on Scotland's rugged west coast. Interiors clash ancient walls and original cannons with Kashmiri drapes and crushed velvet sofas. There's fantastic fine dining with an ever-changing 6-course tasting menu. A wonderful blend of history, luxury, and nature.

  • Beach Life - With a courtyard door leading straight down onto the shore and Otter Adventures offering guided sea-kayaking and paddleboarding
from $457 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Airds

Port Appin

An intimate hotel in a tranquil lochside setting with exceptional food

from $469 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees