The Area: the Slate Islands, Oban and Lorn and mid-Argyll
Seil and the other Slate Islands were one of the most important slate-producing areas in Scotland. Nowadays, as well as being a thriving farming and fishing community, Seil is a wonderful place for a peaceful, relaxing holiday, with great scenery and wildlife, a profusion of wild flowers, and lots of historical interest.
On Seil, explore the picturesque villages of Balvicar and Ellenabeich, and take the passenger ferry from Ellenabeich to the island of Easdale, to see the attractive rows of traditional slate workers’ cottages. Another ferry takes you over the fast-flowing Cuan Sound to the island of Luing, with its attractive villages of Cullipool and Toberonochy. All three islands offer beautiful views to Scarba, Mull and many other islands in the Firth of Lorn.
Oban with its ferries to Mull, Iona and the Hebrides is just a few miles north. Beyond Oban, the magnificent mountains and lochs of Appin, Lochaber and Glencoe are within easy reach. To the south, Kilmartin Glen is one of the most historic parts of Scotland, with a wealth of standing stones, chambered cairns, Celtic crosses and ruined castles. The Crinan Canal, bustling with yachts and fishing boats, provides a fascinating contrast to all this ancient history. The many glorious gardens of Argyll are also within easy reach.
Balvicar’s excellent village shop and Post Office boasts a wide range of newspapers and local produce, with golf clubs and DVDs for hire. Oban has a selection of supermarkets, fish shops, butchers, galleries and craft shops, as well as good cafés and restaurants.
