The Kintyre peninsula is joined to the Argyll mainland by a narrow isthmus, called a 'tarbert' in Gaelic and from which the lively fishing village and sailing haven of Tarbert takes its name. Swept by the warm Gulf Stream and studded with quiet inns and hamlets, the Mull of Kintyre has already been immortalised in song by Sir Paul McCartney and offers a glimpse of a gentler corner of Gaeldom. Its major town, Campbeltown, has a history and landscape all its own: the scene of Viking invasions at Saddell and nearby, the stunning beaches of Carradale.

To the west, the coast is rugged with some glorious beaches and crashing surf from the blue Atlantic Ocean. West Loch Tarbert, from where the ferry for Islay and Jura departs, has been described as Scotland's most beautiful sealoch, whilst the tiny island of Gigha is lush, fertile and relaxing.

At every turn, the sea-fringed West Highland landscape of Mid Argyll is steeped in history, from the pre-historic sculptures at Kilmartin and Knapdale to the elegant ducal castle of the once-feared Clan Campbell at Inveraray. But an enthralling history is not all that lures the visitor here. It is an area of outstanding natural beauty, with superb views across the water to the majestic Isle of Jura and is ideal for walking. Wildlife is abundant, and the best way to appreciate it is to walk or cycle on the many quiet roads and tracks, or take a walk through the excellent nature reserve at Moine Mhor, near Crinan.