Give the Gift of Memories this Christmas
Give your loved ones something truly special this year: An unforgettable experience or a membership to a gift that keeps on giving! Here are 5 memorable Scottish Experiences to gift this year in Argyll & The Isles - although some of them might not fit under your Christmas tree!
Christmas at the Machrie
Experience true escapism with a magical Christmas break on the stunning Scottish island of Islay at The Machrie; a UK Top 30 Hotel by Condé Nast Traveller 2022. Relax and unwind by our log fires, and catch up with friends and family over the festive period at this award-winning hotel on Islay. With panoramic sea views from our lounge and restaurant, the finest Scottish produce and warmest of welcomes await.
Discover the Machrie Three Night Christmas Break Package here.
Historic Environment Scotland - Give the Past as a Present
Why not gift someone a membership to Historic Environment Scotland. Membership allows members free access to over 300 attractions including castles and heritage venues across Scotland. The membership also entitles members to a 20% discount in their shops and a 10% discount in their cafes, a free quarterly members’ magazine, and Exclusive online content! This is the perfect gift for any keen explorer or traveller, as the membership also allows half-price entry to over 500 heritage attractions in England and Wales, which means exploring further afield has already been made so much simpler!
Heathery Heights - On Top of the World
Know someone interested in exploring the great outdoors, but doesn’t know where to start? Heathery Heights is the best starting point for any individual, whether you’re new to nature, an outdoor explorer, or a seasoned explorer, Heathery Heights can lead you to your next journey in Argyll! Heathery Heights offers a bespoke guided walk for those seeking adventure in the Argyll area. Heather Thomas-Smith is an experienced mountain leader with a passion for the outdoors and wants to showcase the beauty of the outdoors with other individuals. Heather also offers a range of outdoor skills courses, which includes basic hill and backpacking skills, to suit beginners to advanced outdoor enthusiasts. If you are looking for a unique gift adventure this Christmas, Heathery Heights is the perfect option for any outdoor enthusiast or those seeking a new challenge in 2023. Find more information on upcoming trips here.
Jump aboard a Sailing Holidays across Scotland's West Coast
Explore the rugged seclusion of Scotland's West Coast, proffering breathtaking views, rare wildlife and excellent sailing - all whilst being on a. stunning sailing boat with local food and cosy interior. Here are som top sailing holiday providers that dep[art from Oban as well as Tighnabruaich:
- Provident Sailing: Lochs and mountains, seabirds and the stars, villages and beaches. The west coast of Scotland offers a fantastic variety of unique experiences. Provident Sailing has a selection of sailing holidays departing from Oban, Mallaig, and Inverness in their catalogue.Why not join their wild swimming adventure with Dan the Merman in 2023?
- Stragavain Sailing: Departing from Oban, join Stragavain Sailing on a 7 and 10 day sailing trips exploring the stunning waters of the west coast of Scotland, visiting iconic coastline and island destinations along the way. Discover the several different sailing holiday packages here.
- Beagle Cruises: Join skipper Jock on his beautiful sailing yacht on a bespoke sailing holiday across there Kyles of Bute and Scottish Highlands. For the more adventurous, there are mountaineering possibilities on Arran, and around the Arrochar Alps, accessible from the head of Loch Long. It's also possible to arrange a multi activity holiday combining almost any combination of walking / climbing, canoeing, cycling, golf, swimming, rowing and running.
Spend a Romantic Night at a Historic Picture House
Campbeltown Picture House, designed by Albert V Gardner in 1913 in the Art Nouveau style, is a Grade A Listed building and one of the earliest surviving purpose-built cinemas in the UK. The community cinema shows a mixture of the latest films alongside classics and festivals. Gift vouchers are available online.