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booking
information: about
the area:
Mike & Rosy Barlow 01852314274
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The Isle of Luing is ideally placed for exploring Lorn, Oban and Mid Argyll. With only a short ferry ride to the mainland, there are many attractions, sites of historic interest and breathtaking scenery within easy reach. The islands of Luing, Seil and Easdale, collectively known as "the Slate Islands", lie nestled in close to the West Coast of Scotland, south of Oban. Accessed from the mainland by the "Bridge over the Atlantic" at the north-eastern point of Seil, they are centrally placed to explore the spectacular mountains, lochs and coastline of Lorn
The islands have been inhabited since prehistoric times, by crofters, fishermen, and slate workers. The centuries of inhabitants have left their mark on Luing with prehistoric earthworks, iron age fortresses, the church of St Cathan at Kilchatten, and the ruined slate village of Port Mary. There are now around 200 inhabitants on Luing, mostly living in the picturesque villages of Cullipool and Toberonochy. Many residents now are engaged in fishing and farming - the Luing breed of cattle originates here, and can be seen around the island. The neighbouring island of Easdale was once world famous for its slate quarries, turning out up to 9 million slates annually at the height of its productivity in the 19th century. Now it has almost a model quality about its neat rows of whitewashed quarrierrs cottages, and the still waters of the flooded quarries. The World Skimming Championships are held here annually each September. It is reached by passenger ferry, and boasts a fantastic museum and also the Puffer Bar and Tearoom, both of which are well worth a visit. Wildlife watching boat trips are available from Seil to view the Garvellachs and the Corryvreckan whirlpool as well as local marine wildlife.
The larger island of Seil, which provides the link to the mainland for Luing, is slightly more developed with the Tigh an Truish Pub, Willowburn Hotel Restaurant, Oyster microbrewery and seafood restaurant, shop and golf course while still retaining its natural beauty. Oban, known as "The Gateway to the Isles" is a busy holiday resort based around the bustling harbour. With shops, restaurants and pubs, and the Oban Distillery there is plenty to see in the town itself. There are a wide variety of boat trips available from the harbour in Oban to view the local wildlife and visit islands such as Mull, Iona, Staffa, Ulva, and the Treshnish Isles. Overlooking the town is McCaig's Tower, a coliseum-like structure from which fabulous views of the bay may be enjoyed. Other attractions in the area include:
With so many attractions in the area, a visit to the Tourist Information Centre in Oban is a must at the beginning of your stay. All the caravans contain a tourist information folder, to start you off. Further information on wildlife trips in the area can be found at Scotland 4 Wildlife Holidays.
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