Argyle Explorer Ride

Introduction
Argyle Scotland

Accomodation

You will be staying at a nice guesthouse near the riding center for the duration of the week. Usually you will stay at Allt-Na-Craig, an elegant family run Victorian mansion with breathtaking views of Loch Fyne. We also regularly use the  Grey Gull hotel in Ardrishaig.

All breakfast and trail lunches are included.  Dinners are not included and can be taken are one of the restaurants in town.

Riding

We use lightweight Western-type endurance saddles that are very comfortable. The horses do neck reign. Posting to the trot is necessary. The riding pace varies and is designed according to the riding group. If there are different riding levels, we will split the group at times to allow for some faster paced riding and some nice gallops along the beach.

Itinerary

Day 1 Sunday
Transport will be from Glasgow Airport (GLA) at 12:00 noon. A representative of the riding center will meet the riders at the International Arrivals Lounge. If you arrive early there is a coffee bar and lounge for you to relax in after your flight. We then take you to your guesthouse, Allt-Na-Craig (subject to change), an elegant family run Victorian mansion with breathtaking views of Loch Fyne, which is to be your home for the next 6 days. The journey from Glasgow takes you deep into the western highlands of Argyle along the picturesque banks of Loch Lomond and over the 'Rest and be Thankful', the high mountain pass into Argyll, then along the shores of the beautiful sea loch, Loch Fyne. After settling into your guesthouse you will meet your guides and discuss the week ahead.

Day 2 Monday
After a leisurely breakfast, you are collected and brought up to the riding center where your riding skills are matched with a suitable horse. The horses, faithful friends for the week, are all specially chosen for their good nature and stamina and know how to look after their rider.
We ride from the centre deep into the hills and forests above Ardrishaig. A picnic lunch is carried on the horses and we stop to eat by the Kilduskland Loch (It has been known for hardier riders to have a quick lunchtime dip in the loch!).
After lunch we continue over the ridge and down towards the Crinan Canal, possibly through the old ruined Cairnbaan village. At the end of the day we arrive at the Cairnbaan Hotel where it’s possible to get an early evening drink before returning to Allt-na-Craig.

Day 3 Tuesday
From Cairnbaan we ride for a short way beside the Crinan Canal, then branch up into the hills and into the extensive Achnamara Forest - where countless lochs and lochans were linked in the 18th Century to provide water for the canal. A network of forestry roads and grassy tracks provide good riding with stunning views across Loch Sween to Tayvallich and beyond to Jura.
We carry a picnic lunch and can choose from a number of lunch sites to eat at.
After lunch we continue riding through the forest before arriving at Seafield where riders are transported back to Allt-na-Craig.

Day 4 Wednesday
Today we start by riding North to the deserted highland clearance village of Arichonan township, with its stunning views Southward towards Loch Scotnish, Loch Sween and beyond! Heading North and rounding the headland we approach our lunch site, which overlooks the Paps of Jura, the Isle of Scarba and the Corryvrekan – the second largest whirlpool in the world!
After lunch we continue along the west coast path, past an Iron Age ‘vitrified’ fort, until we reach the picturesque fishing village of Carsaig. We are then transported back to Allt-na-Craig, perhaps stopping off at the pub in Tayvallich for a quick drink on the way!

Day 5 Thursday
Today we start in Kilmichael Glen and ride into the forest of Moine Ghlas.
After lunch we make our way high into the Kilmory Forest. At this point there are panoramic views including, Mid Argyll, Loch Fyne, the Isle of Arran and even Brenfield itself.
We finish the day by Achnabreck historic stones and from there you go home to Allt-na-Craig.

Day 6 Friday
Today we follow the Crinan Canal (opened in 1801 as a safe passage for boats to avoid having to navigate the treacherous waters around the Mull of Kintyre) to Ardrishaig where we stop at a traditional pub for lunch. We then ride up the hill and home in time for afternoon tea at the farm.
After a fond farewell to your two and four-legged friends you will spend your last night at Allt-na-Craig.

Day 7 Saturday
Transport leaves Allt-na-Craig at 9:30am giving time to arrive at Glasgow Airport (GLA) for around 12 noon.

Note: The above itinerary is an approximate description of the trail. The route may vary due to many factors, such as forestry work, farming activities or deer stalking, making detours necessary. Locations of night stops can in some circumstances vary too.

Non Riders:  This ride is also suitable for Non-Riders. There are local buses going to various interesting villages and historic sites in the area, however it is easier to rent a car from Glasgow. This will give you the freedom to explore the area and meet the trail ride for lunches if you desire.

Local Attractions:
Kilmartin Museum House http://www.kilmartin.org/   The historic Kilmartin Glen is full of ancient Scottish monuments, beautiful walks and a quaint and informative museum and café. 
The stunning Inveraray Castle is a wonderful place to explore and immerse yourself in all things Scottish!  http://www.inveraray-castle.com/Pages/content.asp 
The Jail House - Great fun for a day out!  http://www.inverarayjail.co.uk/ 
Corryvreckan Whirlpool. www.whirlpool-scotland.co.uk
Marine Eco Tours including visits to the Gulf of Corryvreckan, home of the World’s Third Largest Whirlpool, whale and dolphin watching, and more.  http://www.seafari.co.uk/oban/tours.php

And there are plentiful beautiful walks, golf courses and gardens to explore throughout the Mid Argyll area.

Rates and Dates for Argyle Explorer Ride

Dates Note:

Other Info
Meeting: Argyle
Airport: Glasgow
Transfer: Glasgow

Climate:

Generally, Scotland is cool, damp and cloudy, but daily weather is unpredictable and extremely changeable. January and February are the coldest months, averaging 41°F (5°C), and summer has average temperatures of 66°F (19°C) during its warmest months of July and August. Scottish weather is on average cooler than that of England. The coldest areas are the highlands and the northern latitude means short winter days and very long summer evenings. The east coast experiences more sunshine, but colder winters, compared to the west.

Clothes should be smart but casual for evening wear.