Summer on Loch Fyne: 16 (Free) Ways to Enjoy it in Inveraray

nicolageorgehotel
Jul 2
5 min read

Updated: Jul 9

Summer has arrived on the west coast of Scotland. Warm days stretch into golden evenings. There’s time, suddenly, to enjoy it all properly.

With the school holidays upon us and a whiff of warmth in the air, it’s high time to decamp to Inveraray. It's is the perfect choice for picnics, paddles, and getting gloriously off the clock…

Inveraray is home to some truly remarkable attractions - Inveraray Castle, the historic Jail, and Auchindrain Museum among them - drawing thousands to our wee town each summer. But this list looks beyond the ticketed highlights, focusing instead on the free (mostly) and entirely outdoor ways to spend a long summer day here. Bring comfy shoes, a sense of adventure, and perhaps a towel.

1. Explore Inveraray Castle Gardens and Estate

The Duke’s back garden is not to be sniffed at. A gentle ramble among roses and rhododendrons, with the occasional peacock for company. Ideal for polite picnics, hide-and-seek, or pretending one is in a period drama.

Did you know? The gardens were designed in the 18th century by celebrated landscape architect Roger Morris.

2. River Aray Walks

Follow the River Aray upstream until the mobile signal vanishes and all that remains is birdsong.

3. Historic Cemetery Exploration

Yes, really. Our cemeteries are gothic, truly fascinating and beautifully located. A perfect setting for a slow meander and a brush with local history.

4. Beachcombing with the Dog

Wander the pebbly shores of Loch Fyne and see what the tide’s brought in e.g. sea-glass, driftwood, shells... An excellent excuse for a lochside stroll. Interesting fact: Loch Fyne is the longest sea loch in Scotland, stretching over 40 miles.

5. Lochside Picnic Spots

A well-packed hamper, a patch of grass and a beautiful view are all you need. Loch Fyne’s shoreline has endless spots for a scenic sprawl.

6. Dun na Cuaiche Woodland Walk

A delightful hill walk with a beautiful folly a comfy bench, and views that are more than worth the effort, at the top. What more could you want?! The climb is enough to justify cake afterwards. For further ambles in the area, see short-distance trails near Kilmartin.

7. Auchindrain Outdoor Museum Free Open Day (20 July)

A living time capsule of Highland life, with thatched roofs, hens, and possibly a black pudding demonstration. Entry is free on 20 July, so bring the bairns and make a day of it. Did you know? Auchindrain was still a working township until the 1960s—the last of its kind in Scotland.

8. Cold Dips in Loch Fyne

For all of you cold-dippers out there, we have some perfect spots for you all around town. Inveraray is surrounded by some of the cleanest sea water you will find. And never more than a few steps from our pub, garden bar or sunny terrace - take your pick!

Interesting fact: Loch Fyne’s exceptionally clean waters is world famous for its oysters, langoustine, and even lobster. In summer the water reaches around 13 degrees celsius, making it perfect for cold dipping - especially beginners.

9. Crarae Garden Loop

An unexpected paradise of Himalayan plants and mossy bridges, just a short drive down the road. Serene, stroller-friendly, and perfect for a wander. http://www.gardens-of-argyll.co.uk/view-details.php?id=493

Did you know? Crarae is one of Britain’s finest examples of a Himalayan woodland garden, established in 1912.

11. Climb the Inveraray Bell Tower

A short climb, a grand view over Inveraray, and bells with serious pedigree. This striking tower offers a peaceful vantage point over the town and loch. Unless, of course, the bells are being rung. www.inveraraybelltower.co.uk/

Did you know? Inveraray Bell Tower with its impressive peel, is amongst the most notable bell towers in the United Kingdom.

12. Lochside Wildlife Spotting

Take a quiet moment by the loch and you might be rewarded. Herons, oystercatchers, and even the occasional seal make regular appearances,

Did you know? Loch Fyne’s translates as 'Loch Wine'.

13. Capture the Light

Bring a real camera and chase the famous Scottish light. Early morning mist on the loch, golden light on whitewashed walls in the evening, uninterrupted views from the pier or a dramatic sky over Inveraray from Dun na Cuaiche...

Did you know? Inveraray’s unusual combination of Georgian symmetry and dramatic Highland scenery has made it a favourite among landscape painters and period film crews alike.

14. Explore Argyll Estate

Wander near Inveraray Castle and you’ll find more than peacocks and picturesque paths. There is a huge estate to explore, with various fascinating features and ruins. Seek out the stone-lined 18th-century ice house, perfectly domed and quietly fascinating. Nearby, the perfectly round and mysterious, Moon Pond, and if you're lucky, you might stumble across the famous Sweetie Seat for a mid-wander rest.

Did you know? Before refrigeration, ice houses like this one were essential for preserving food and chilling drinks - often stocked from frozen lochs or cut blocks of river ice.

15. Make a Wish at the Wishing Well

Tucked away in the woods behind Inveraray Castle lies a mysterious, mossy old wishing well. It’s not marked on many maps, but locals know where to go.

Do you think you can find it? If you do, take a moment to make a wish!

15. Relax in the Garden Bar + Enjoy Seven Free Entry Music Festivals

The George’s outdoor bar is just the ticket after a day of gallivanting. Dog at your feet, child off somewhere harmless, pint in hand. Plenty of sun (or shade), spacious and leafy with world class views. Don't miss our free entry, family friendly festivals in the garden throughout summer. www.thegeorgehotel.co.uk/festivals

Interesting fact: The George’s garden bar, nestled on the shores of Loch Fyne was voted National Outdoor Bar of the Year in 2021 and 2024!

Fishing from Inveraray Pier

Inveraray’s handsome old pier has reopened, and it’s as fine a place as any to spend a quiet hour with a rod and a flask. No permit needed for sea lochs—just a bit of patience and perhaps a lucky hat. Mackerel, pollack, and the occasional sea trout all patrol these waters.

And when you’re ready to come sit down, we’ll be here. Whether it’s a burger and soft drinks in our sunny Garden Bar, oysters and champagne in our AA rosetted restaurant or something peaty from the shelf in the pub (Whisky Bar of the Year 2025), we’ve got you!

Getting Here

Inveraray is easy to reach. A regular, direct (and spectacularly scenic) Citylink bus runs from Glasgow, dropping you right in the centre of town. Whether arriving by car via the stunning Rest and Be Thankful, or catching a ferry via Dunoon and winding your way north, the journey is part of the pleasure.

There’s ample parking once you arrive, and if you’re feeling particularly nautical, you can now moor your boat right at Inveraray Pier.

However you arrive, we look forward to welcoming you.