Country Cottage Holidays on Scotland's West Coast

The west coast of Scotland is known to be a beautiful part of this distinctive and amazing country and a peaceful place for a self catering holiday.  Characterised by many firths and lochs, Scotland’s west coast is a delight for those who love sailing or boating but also for anyone who loves to be near the waters edge.  Many when using the term of Scotland’s west coast, actually mean Scotland's Argyll and Bute.  However, the west coast of Scotland’s extends all the way up Scotland, starting in Dumfries and Galloway then stretching and winding its way up the western edge of the tranquil Scottish highlands. 

Ayrshire

The most southernly part of the west coast of Scotland includes parts of Dumfries and Galloway.  This then leads to the south and north of Ayrshire.  Some seaside areas in Ayrshire are a bit industrial and not ideal destinations for a self catering break but there are also a number of very pretty places to visit in Ayrshire such as Ayr and Troon.  Culzean castle is located near Maybole, south of Ayr and is a true beauty spot.  The castle towers above the coast and there is also a country park here.

From Ayrshire you can also pop across to see the Isle of Arran.  But do remember there is quite alot to see on this isle, the gems here include lochs, mountains, and an amazing island coastline.  There is also a distillery, good news for whisky lovers!

Argyll & Bute

Argyll & Bute is home to the beautiful Loch Lomond area which is a vast expanse of water, some 24 miles long.  A number of small villages are dotted around the loch and the surrounding area.  This is a well known destination for country cottage holidays in Scotland.

Less well known by many is the most westerly point of Argyll and Bute.  This is a particularly pretty part of Scotland with picturesque waterside towns such as Lochgilphead and Inveraray, along with a number of idyllic fishing villages.  If you enjoy sailing then this is a great place to take a self catering break, although it is equally good for anyone who appreciates a beautiful setting.  From here it’s possible to take the trip over to one of the peaceful islands such as the Isle of Jura, the Isle of Islay or the Isle of Gigha.

Up in the north westerly part of Argyll and Bute is Oban, a charming coastal town where you can take ferry trips over to the Isle of Mull, home to beautiful Duart Castle and the famously colourful Tobermory.

The landscape in this part of Scotland is simply sublime.  It is best to visit the west coast of Scotland during the summer months though as during the summer months you have the best chance of enjoying the scenery and setting bathed in sunlight.

The Coastline of the Scottish Highlands   

The Scottish Highlands is a truly tranquil part of Scotland in which to enjoy a cottage holiday.  Here you can find remote and secluded locations, far from everything which can be truly appealing.

From the picturesque resort of Fort William with its stunning mountain scenery, the west coast of the Scottish Highlands zig zags up the landscape winding up and around various firths and inlets along the way.  From the Kyle of Lochalsh you can nip over to the amazingly beautiful Isle of Skye.  The coastline then continues further north up towards Gairloch and Wester Ross then Ullapool in the northern Highlands.  Enjoy stopping off at fishing villages and sandy beaches along the way.  And don’t forget to look out for golden eagles and deer. 

This part of Scotland is a truly appealing destination for a self catering holiday.  If you need to fully unwind then a cottage holiday on the west coast of Scotland could be just what you need.