Lerigoligan
Patrick Boase & M.A. McDiarmid 31 Banavie Rd, Glasgow G11 5AW 0141 339 3064 lerigoligan@ntlworld.com
a west highland retreat
activities
Walking
Lerigoligan and Ardfern village are located on the Craignish Peninsula where there are masses of gentle walks, some of them waymarked, with plenty of sea and hill views. You can even start from the back of the house. For longer walks we recommend Glen Domhain and Degnish to Ardmaddy. The nearest Munros (over 3000ft) are Ben Cruachan, at the head of Loch Awe, and Ben More on Mull.
Boat trips
Sea Leopard operates from Ardfern itself, but there are other services from Craobh Haven, Seil Island, Crinan and Tayvallich. From Tayvallich a summer ferry operates to Jura. Most Sea Leopard trips visit the Corrievrechan “whirlpool” between Jura and Scarba Islands, but other trips and sea fishing can be arranged.
Riding
Lunga Riding Stables operate from near Craobh Haven on the west side of the Craignish Peninsula. Nearly all the horses are locally-bred Appaloosas which can be ridden English or Western style. They do rides into the forest or along the shore, also 4hr pub rides. Children’s rides from 4 years old.
Cycling
Our favourite is cycling the 4 miles to Craignish Point. It’s a mile further on foot to the point itself, overlooking the Dorus Mhor (the big door) tidal race. For a longer circular trip try heading down the glen from Kilmartin, past the pre-historic “linear cemetery”, across the Moine Mhor, the big moss,, up Kilmichael Glen nearly to Loch Awe, and back down the Ford road. Only 2-3 miles of this 15 mile trip is on the main road.
Mountain Biking
Fire Tower Trail, just north of Lochgilphead, has nearly 5 miles of custom-built downhill single-track through Forestry Commission land. There are plenty opportunities for mountain biking on the Craignish Peninsula, too
Ancient sites
KIlmartin House is an award-winning independent museum and interpretation centre for pre-historic and ancient history. The area is very rich in burial mounds, standing stones, cup-and-ring marks and early Christian sites. Kilmartin House explains what is understood about these sites and remains, and is active in finding out more. Good restaurant, too!
Castles
The nearest is Carnasserie Castle, only 3 miles from Ardfern, a fine 16th century keep, which you can climb to the very top. Another, with a wonderful sea outlook is Gylen Castle on Kerrera Island, a short ferry trip from Oban. (See photo)
It is almost impossible to walk far in the area without coming across ancient “duns” or defence points, built on high spots.
Islands
Islands are to be seen from many places on the peninsula, especially Jura, Scarba and Mull. From Oban Calmac Ferries serve nearly a dozen islands. The largest and most populous is Mull. From Mull you can reach Iona, early Christian centre and site of the reconstructed Abbey and ecumenical centre
Beaches
The nearest is at Crinan Ferry, a 10-mile drive from Ardfern. The Craignish Peninsula has a mainly rocky shoreline. The best shoreside walks are on the west side.
Fishing
Loch fishing is available with permission of the laird, Colin Lindsay McDougall of Lunga. The nearest lochs are within 15 minutes walk of the cottage. For sea fishing, see Sea Trips, above.
Gardens
Argyll is famous for its rhododendron gardens, and one of the best examples is the National Trust for Scotland-run Arduaine Gardens, (see photo) located 4 miles north of Ardfern. Situated on a steep promontory with wonderful sea-views, the Gardens are a pleasure to visit at any time of year, but at their best iApril-June.
Village Hall
Craignish Village Hall is at the base of the Lerigoligan track, and host many interesting arts event throughout the year. For more information see Craignish Village Hall
Eating out
The Galley of Lorne restaurant, pub and hotel in Ardfern village is open all year. The Crafty Kitchen cafe and craft shop, close to the Galley of Lorne, is open April to December daytimes except Mondays. At Craobh Haven there is the Lord of the Isles pub and restaurant, and not much further the Loch Melfort Hotel, beside Arduaine Gardens. There are plenty more places a bit further afield.
Shopping
Ardfern Village Shop and Post Office (01852 500298) is less than half a mile form the house and stocks a very good range of food. For a supermarket shop, we recommend the Scottish Coop, Oban Rd, Lochgilphead. And there is always Tesco in Oban.
Highly recommended for a visit on your way from Glasgow is Loch Fyne Oyster Bar and Shop
For more activities and sites see Lunga Estate website,
