Nature Reserves, Museums and Tourist Attractions in Argyll and the Argyll Islands

Argaty Red Kites

Red kite feeding station and guided walks to track the kites. Hide onsite.

www.argatyredkites.co.uk

Knapdale Forest

A patchwork of fresh water loch, woodlands, rocky coast and sea lochs providing habitat for a wide range of flowers, butterflies and insects, freshwater life, lichens & mosses.

Websites for Knapdale Forest and Barnluasgan Visitor Centre provided by the Forestry Commission.

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

The National Park encompasses around 720 sq miles (1,865 sq km) of some of the finest scenery in Scotland. It is an area of contrasts from rolling lowland landscapes in the south to high mountains in the north, and has many lochs and rivers, forests and woodlands. National Park events are organised or supported by Park staff throughout the area. The events are free of charge and include everything from nature walks to arts & crafts.

View the official Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park website.

Moine Mhor (National Nature Reserve)

This surviving remnant of raised bog is home to a myriad of dragonflies, as well as hen harriers, curlews and other moorland and wetland species. Due to its fragile nature and the dangers of its pools and waterlogged areas it is best viewed from the road bounding it close to Crinan Canal. The picnic area, short woodland trail, wooden walkway into the "Great Moss" and interpretive panels make this a good choice for families.

Further information on the National Nature Reserves website.

Staffa (National Nature Reserve)

The uninhabited island of Staffa is better known for its basalt columns and Fingal's Cave than for wildlife, however is well worth visiting for its nesting puffins, kittiwakes, shags and gulls. The waters around are also rich in marine life including cetaceans. Accessible by boat from Iona and Ulva on Mull, and as a day trip from Oban. For more information on these trips go to the wildlife watching tours and trips page.

Websites for Staffa National Nature Reserve by SNH and the National Trust for Scotland.

Trossachs Bird of Prey Trail

The 'Trossachs Bird of Prey Trail' links Argaty Red Kite Project just north of the historic village of Doune with the Forestry Commission’s magnificent hill-top visitor centre at Aberfoyle. Around the farmland and forest in-between, the Trail hosts viewing points, walks, cycle routes and events, giving you the best possible chance to see Scotland’s birds of prey in the wild.

www.birdofpreytrail.com