Transfer Option:

Day 1: Transport will be at Glasgow Airport (GLA) at 12:00 noon. A representative of the riding centre 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. The journey from Glasgow takes them deep into the western highlands of Argyll, 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, arriving at your first hotel, the Loch Fyne Spa Hotel in Inveraray, where you will stay for the first 3 nights.
The Loch Fyne Spa Hotel is of a 4 star standard with a swimming pool & spa and magnificent views overlooking Loch Fyne – they even have an outdoor Jacuzzi!
Tonight you will meet your trail host over dinner in the evening and discuss the week to come.
The Argyll Castles Trail is ideal for non riders to join in with their riding partners, as there is plenty for them to do and they can meet the ride most days for lunch.

Day 2: You will meet your horse in the grounds of Inveraray Castle home to the Duke and Duchess of Argyll, whose beautiful historic estate we have the privilege of riding through. After riding through Glen Shira and onto high ground with splendid views of Inveraray and Loch Fyne below, the ride then ascends to Dun na Cuaiche, the famous watch tower built by the 7th Duke of Argyll, with stunning views of Inveraray and the beautiful 16th century castle. Make sure to bring your camera every day! We will take a late lunch in the Castle’s tea room, giving the opportunity to explore this famous castle, before visiting the Loch Fyne Whisky shop for a drop of the amber nectar!
We will then return to the Loch Fyne Spa Hotel to enjoy the facilities before relaxing over dinner.

Day 3: We ride from Inveraray castle through estate grounds along the River Aray, which has Salmon ladders which if you’re lucky you may even see a salmon leaping. After passing the Dovecot and Princess Louise’s fishing pool we cross into ancient woodlands, where you may jump the odd fallen tree, passing small lochans and see ruins from the Highland Clearances. Picnic lunch is taken by Dalchenna situated on the shores of Loch Fyne. In the afternoon the ride passes through the River Douglas (which if it is high tide you may have the opportunity to swim on horseback!).
We then follow the coast through Kenmore Forest passing the settlement of Pennymore before finishing at the village of Furnace, where we have a rare opportunity to look around the open air Victorian crofting museum of Auchindrain. We then return to the Loch Fyne Spa Hotel.

Day 4: Today’s ride follows an ancient droving trail between Auchindrain on Loch Fyne and Ederline on Loch Awe. This is the oldest track in Argyll, a former stage coach route and drove road for moving cattle from the Inner Hebrides to the markets of Stirling and Falkirk.
We have lunch in an old bothy at the abandoned village of Carron on Ederline Estate, this was the resting place for the horses and stagecoach. We usually have the picnic lunch (which has been carried by the horses) by candlelight and with a log fire, followed by tea and coffee heated over the open fire. After lunch the trail goes onto the heather covered open hill. We climb to several mountain tops with 360 degree views overlooking the vast expanses of Loch Awe to the North and Loch Fyne to the South. Over 32 Lochs and Lochans can be seen from this vantage point!
The ride continues down across hills and moorland passing ruins of ancient settlements and onto the very old chapel of St Columba, who brought Christianity to Scotland in 497AD, which nestles between the trees and ferns and the later built Kilneuair Church overlooking Loch Awe. We continue on Ederline Estate through hills and woodland passing Ederline House and down through the Glen overlooking the Lochans where we may see the Osprey (the fish eagle). This day is a long ride with lots of canters & fast paced action finishing near to the village of Ford.
This evening riders are taken to the famous Crinan Hotel which is renowned for its superb seafood menu. The hotel is set in the picturesque fishing village of Crinan and every room boasts a sea view. Guests are invited to explore the hotel's secret garden before settling down to dinner - which was probably landed less than 50 metres from the hotel!

Day 5: Today we ride to the famous ruin of Carnasserie Castle, the 16th century home of Bishop Carswell who as Bishop of the West Highlands of Scotland used this as his base when he translated the Bible into Gaelic for the Scottish people. After we climb to the top of the fortified towers take the chance to enjoy a nip from your leader’s hip flask.There is the opportunity to jump stone walls at the castle then gallop on to two Neolithic standing stones. The ride then takes you through Ormag Forest, which has superb views of the Craignish peninsula and on towards the Isle of Mull, before finishing at Kilmartin House Museum for a late lunch followed by a short film and a walk round this interactive museum showing early life in Scotland.After lunch we will visit the ancient burial cairns and stone circles of Temple Wood (circa 5000 years old) and then on to see the remains of Dunadd Fort the location of the first crowning of the King of the original Scots in 500AD. This is usually the perfect evening for traditional Scottish fare and live music.

Day 6: This is the day of our famous three mile beach gallop across the head of Loch Crinan with Duntrune Castle (the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland) in the background! There is the strong possibility of being able to swim our horses across the River Add. The ride then goes West along the tow path of the scenic Crinan Canal (opened in 1801 as a safe passage for boats to avoid having to navigate the treacherous waters around the Mull of Kintyre) passing local artist Fraser McIver and his unique “art studio” gypsy wagon (!) and picturesque lock keepers cottages. A steep and challenging ride up through dense woodland brings you to a clearing in the forest for a gourmet picnic lunch. After lunch we pass through forest tracks with fantastic views out over Loch Scotnish with blankets of purple heather in the foreground. Fast riding to the “fairy isles” on soft grass verges and a visit to a medieval settlement are the order of the afternoon. A holy cross and well can clearly be seen, along with a water powered corn mill at the deserted village of Kilmory Oib. We then return to enjoy our final night at the Crinan Hotel.

Day 7:  Riding from Gartnagrenoch you are taken through a maze of forestry tracks, around small lochans with superb views of Loch Sween and Loch Coalisport, which brings you to the East end of the Crinan canal and Cairnbaan Hotel for lunch. The hotel is situated beside lock number 5, where we can watch the boats passing through the lock system as we enjoy our excellent cuisine!
The afternoon takes you homewards towards Brenfield estate, riding high in the hills above the town of Lochgilphead with magnificent views down Loch Fyne to the Isle of Arran.
We reach Brenfield in time for afternoon tea in the garden overlooking the water and hills beyond.
This evening is spent back at the Stonefield Castle Hotel or at the Loch Fyne Spa Hotel with a final opportunity to benefit from their spa facilities before your return journey home.

Day 8: We will collect you from your hotel around about 10am to get you to Glasgow Airport (GLA) by 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, and tides making changes and detours necessary. Locations of night stops can in some circumstances vary too.  

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.

For evening wear- your clothes should be smart but casual.

Crinan Hotel

The Crinan Hotel is renowned for its world class seafood restaurant serving Scottish seafood, the freshest of shellfish and the best of Scotland's meat and cheese. Located on the Crinan Canal in Argyll this Scottish hotel and Restaurant has an excellent wine list and a well deserved reputation for warm hospitality and good food. The restaurant at Crinan has won many awards and top reviews for its outstanding cuisine.
At the north end of the Crinan Canal, connecting Loch Fyne to the Atlantic Ocean, is the tiny picturesque fishing village of Crinan with its population of just under 80 inhabitants.
For over 200 years the center of this little community has been Crinan Hotel. Today Crinan Hotel is an international meeting point for Hebridean sailors, fishermen, yachtsman, holiday makers and above all lovers of seafood and the best of Scottish produce.

There are 20 bedrooms over three floors of the hotel and a lift to get you there if you feel so inclined.All our rooms have been individually designed by Frances Macdonald and all have views either to the canal basin or others which look over Loch Crinan and out towards the sound of Jura, and the islands of Scarba and Mull. From each of the hotel's bedrooms - many with private balconies - guests can take in the panoramic views of Argyll's rugged west coast, historic castles and the ever-changing collection of boats in the canal basin.
Here is the ideal, undemanding base from which to enjoy the peaceful tranquility of this memorable part of the Scottish landscape.
The rooms are all ensuite with either shower or bath, or both, tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryer, terrestrial television, telephone and complimentary toiletries.

Crinan Hotel's restaurant, the Westward, is on the ground floor and looks out over Loch Crinan.
Here visitors can indulge in the delights of a real Scottish breakfast or a gourmet dinner including some of the dishes made famous by our Lock 16 restaurant.
The Westward restaurant has wonderful views towards the islands . Our chefs use the best of local organic produce including beef and lamb from nearby farms, venison from Jura and halibut and turbot from the islands.

Loch Fyne Hotel

Located on the shores of Loch Fyne, with a wealth of attractions and activities close by, we make our base for 3 nights. We like to give you a true taste of Scotland during your stay. The chefs source the best Scottish produce for some real local flavor. From porridge and kippers for breakfast to afternoon tea with scones, the best of Scotland is here to enjoy. Dine on Loch Fyne mussels or oysters or some fine Scotch beef or lamb in our Lochview Restaurant. Sample a local Fyne Ale in our bar or one of the malt whiskies from nearby distilleries.

There's plenty to enjoy on land and water around Loch Fyne. Stretch your legs on any number of country walks. Visit local attractions like the living museum of Inveraray Jail or the seat of the Dukes of Argyll at Inveraray Castle. Or try a spot of fishing on Loch Awe.
The Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa has 71 guest rooms. Standard rooms are a good size and come in warm, natural shades. Our superior double rooms are spacious with a separate sitting area. Book a Mini Suite and really spoil yourself with its roll top bath, large screen TV, DVD player and stunning views of the loch. Every room has coffee making facilities, private bathroom, hairdryer and trouser press.

Fresh seafood, fabulous wine and the lovely Loch Fyne
Enjoy breathtaking views from the lounge bar, open from 11.00am until late. It is an idyllic spot in which to relax after a full day discovering Loch Fyne.
The Clansman is a popular Argyll restaurant, and rightly so. Guests, locals and passers-by all come to savour our fresh seafood and locally grown produce.

Pamper yourself in our tranquil spa
When you stay at our spa hotel on the shores of Loch Fyne, Scotland, you will enjoy full use of all our spa facilities. These include a 15 metre indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room. For that extra bit of indulgence, let our trained therapists soothe tired muscles and make your skin glow with a wide range of treatments- choose from full aromatherapy body massages, Indian head massage, Reiki, hot stone massage and many facial treatments to name just a few...

Stonefield Castle hotel

Although it has gone through a remarkable transition over the years, this delightful castle hotel still bears much testimony to the golden age of elegant and graceful living, and has carefully retained all that unmistakable character and personality, and many artefacts of a bygone era.
Built in 1837, the castle stands high on the famous Kintyre peninsula, commanding quite spectacular panoramic views over Loch Fyne. There can be no more breathtaking sight than the mist lifting off the loch to mark the dawning of a new day. In keeping with its unique situation and character, many original period furnishings have been retained to complement the timeless ambience that is Stonefield Castle.

Guests relax in the traditional elegance of wood panelled lounges with fine corniced ceilings, unwind on leisurely walks through the 60 acres of woodland grounds and stunning, famous gardens, or simply enjoy a leisurely pace of life far removed from the stress of city living. Situated above the picturesque fishing village of Tarbert, the castle was once the family home of the Campbells. It is now a fine 33 bedroom hotel offering the discerning traveller all that is best in Scottish hospitality.
32 wonderful bedrooms, 32 individual 'personalities', all individually and tastefully decorated. Pleasantly old fashioned, yet unobtrusively modern and thoughtfully appointed, offering a quite unique traditional ambiance, yet with every contemporary comfort, including private bath, television and direct dial telephones.

Creating that feeling that they were made just for you, no matter which one you choose. This combination of modern guest standards laced with an unmistakable feeling of yesteryear is much talked about by visitors and undoubtedly remembered with fondness and affection. Bedrooms at Stonefield Castle include quality toiletries and other little touches to create the perfect welcome when you first open the door.

The crispness and character of the bedrooms, and the softness of the individual décor combine with classic furniture to provide a delight to the eye - and speak softly of the care with which the wonderful interior of the hotel has been preserved. Comfort rather than modernity is the theme - clear air, peaceful tranquillity - and a wonderful night's rest.

This trip includes and can accommodate special dietary requests.

The ride is about 150 Km in length and is mostly over private lands with little road work. This trail has a fair amount of fast work in it and the opportunity to take in some jumps and gallop on the beach. Expect to spend around four hours in the saddle each day.

Non-Riders are welcome to join the riders for lunch every day except one, where it’s logistically impossible! There are plenty of interesting historical features to visit and explore, or some prefer to simply enjoy the facilities at their accommodation. There is no “fixed!” itinerary for non-riders as we have found them to be so varied over the years. Some people are just wanting to meet up with their partner as soon as possible – this is fine and they can pretty much travel to meeting points with our back up team; some want to go exploring by themselves – again fine, we just liase through the week as to where and when they would like to be picked up and dropped off.

Tack:		Western Endurance, English upon request
Horses:		Scottish hunter, native Highland, or Cob
Pace:		Walk, trot, canter and gallop with occasional optional small jumps | Walk | Trot | Canter | Gallop | Jumps |
Level:		(3.5 to 4 out of 5)    Good intermediate
Weight:		Max 200 lbs
Riders:		Min 4 riders	Max 10 riders

The ride is about 150 Km in length and is mostly over private lands with little road work. This trail has a fair amount of fast work in it and the opportunity to take in some jumps and gallop on the beach. Expect to spend around four hours in the saddle each day.

Non-Riders are welcome to join the riders for lunch every day except one, where it’s logistically impossible! There are plenty of interesting historical features to visit and explore, or some prefer to simply enjoy the facilities at their accommodation. There is no “fixed!” itinerary for non-riders as we have found them to be so varied over the years. Some people are just wanting to meet up with their partner as soon as possible – this is fine and they can pretty much travel to meeting points with our back up team; some want to go exploring by themselves – again fine, we just liase through the week as to where and when they would like to be picked up and dropped off.

Passports
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart except:
1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.
Note: EU nationals are only required to produce evidence of their EU nationality and identity in order to be admitted to any EU Member State. This evidence can take the form of a valid national passport or national identity card. Either is acceptable. Possession of a return ticket, any length of validity on their document, sufficient funds for the length of their proposed visit should not be imposed.
Passport Note
(a) A passport is not required for travel between Great Britain and Ireland, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man. (b) Passengers transiting the UK destined for the Republic of Ireland are advised to hold return tickets to avoid delay and interrogation.

Visas
Not required by nationals referred to in the chart above for stays of up to six months.
Visa Note
(a) Nationals not requiring visas are advised to be in possession of either a return ticket or, if arriving on a one-way ticket, proof of sufficient funds to accommodate and support themselves for the duration of stay. (b) Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements