Dogstone, Dunollie Castle
The famous Dogstone is a great place to visit in Argyll and take a moment at when out on a walk around Oban. It is a huge rock set within the grounds of Dunollie.
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Why visit the Dogstone?
It is a huge rock that is imposing on the area surrounding but the real magic around it is its famous legend. It is believed that the Giant named Fingal used to leave his dog Bran (who had magical speed and strength) tied up around the rock when the giant went off hunting across on the islands in the Hebrides. Legend says that you can still see the marks of Bran’s tether around the bottom of the rock (why it is smaller at the base) as Bran circled and circled the rock eagerly waiting for his master to return from his trip so they could reunite again.
Where to Eat & Drink
The Kettle Café at Dunollie Castle and Gardens offers an Al Fresco café with hot and cold offerings within the grounds of the castle (do check times via their website and Facebook page). Several pubs and restaurants are available in nearby Oban a short walk away, including The Oban Bay Hotel and Markie Dans.
Dunollie Castle & Museum
Good to Know / Planning Tips:
- Style: A walker’s dream, great for families exploring the area.
- How to get there: A short walk from the centre of Oban town, either through the woodland or along the promenade towards Dunollie Castle and gardens. Drive – a few minutes’ drive from the centre of Oban. If visiting the castle or Kettle Café at Dunollie at the same time, you can park within the castle car park. Buses and Trains arrive regularly in Oban town centre.
- Access: accessible within acceptable daylight hours when pathways and grounds are open. It can be viewed from the pathway to the left of it.
- What to pack: Sturdy footwear and weatherproof clothing for a walk around the grounds, including seeing the dog stone on your route.
- Best time of year to visit: Spring or autumn, as the grounds have brightly coloured wildflowers or changing autumnal leaves and colours for visitors to experience and witness.
- Facilities: Car parking along the promenade (chargeable) or one of the car parks within Oban, or the Dunollie car park if visiting the castle. Public Toilets are available within Oban or at the Kettle Café within the Dunollie grounds.
KILCHURN CASTLE
Kilchurn castle is a must visit destination whilst in Argyll. It is a 15th century castle (now ruins) that is one of the most photographed castles in Scotland.
DUNSTAFFNAGE CASTLE
A visit to Oban is not complete without popping to visit Dunstaffnage Castle. The castle is one of the oldest dating back to before 1240 and was the base for the MacDougall clan
ST CONAN'S KIRK
St Conan’s Kirk is a must visit when in Argyll as it has natural beauty looking out onto Loch Awe, character, an interesting history of the Kirk itself and an active local community within the church today.
BONAWE IRON FURNACE
Bonawe Historic Iron Furnaceit an unusual heritage site in a beautiful natural setting near the charming village of Taynuilt.
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