Explore the Local Area
The area around Melfort Village offers coastal walks, gardens, village cafés and marinas, making it ideal for relaxed exploring without long journeys.
Explore the Local Area Around Melfort Village
Nestled on the Argyll coast just south of Oban, Melfort Village is perfectly situated for guests to explore a wealth of nearby villages, natural attractions, and hidden gems – all within about a 30-minute drive. In every direction, scenic roads lead to quaint coastal communities, lush gardens, and even small islands rich with history. Whether you’re seeking tranquil nature walks, fresh seafood, or family adventures, you’ll find plenty to see and do a stone’s throw from your cottage.
Local Mainland Area - Kilmelford, Arduaine, Craobh Haven & Ardfern
Just minutes from Melfort Village, the surrounding villages and coastlines offer lush gardens, friendly cafés, riding stables, sailing harbours and lochside pubs. With everything from exotic woodland gardens at Arduaine to marina strolls in Craobh Haven and historic inns in Ardfern, it’s the perfect area for relaxed day trips, scenic drives and local food – all under 30 minutes away.
The village of Kilmelford lies just a few minutes drive from Melfort Village. If you prefer to walk, it is around a 45 minute walk along the single track road into the village. You can also catch a local bus to Oban or Lochgilphead from Kilmelford bus stop in the middle of the village.
Kilmelford is a good starting point for gentle walks and exploring the surrounding countryside, offering a glimpse of everyday life in rural Argyll.
Just along the road is the Kilmelford Yacht Haven, a small harbour on Loch Melfort offering moorings for visiting boats and a picturesque spot to see local yachts bobbing on the water.
For a touch of local character, the Cuilfail Hotel in Kilmelford is a traditional inn (dating back to the 19th century) with a cosy pub – it was once a coaching inn and still exudes that old-world charm. The Cuilfail hotel in Kilmelford is currently being refurbished with plans in place to open later in 2026.
Top things to see & do in Kilmelford, Arduaine, Craobh Haven & Ardfern
Loch Melfort Hotel
Loch Melfort Hotel sits right on the shores of Loch Melfort on Scotland’s stunning west coast, with sweeping sea views towards the Isle of Shuna. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and lochside dining, it’s a lovely spot for lunch, dinner or a special occasion. The hotel is just a 10–15 minute scenic drive from Melfort Village, making it an easy and rewarding outing during your stay.
Lunga Riding Stables
Enjoy stunning ocean views looking over Jura & Scarba, as well as hilly forest treks, with opportunities to ride across open hills for our more experienced riders. Ride in English or Western tack with our dual trained horses, including American Appaloosas & Quarter horses.
Farsain Cruises
Operating from Craobh Haven Marina, Farsain Cruises offers intimate, small-group boat trips exploring the spectacular coastline and islands of Mid Argyll. Expect close-up encounters with seals, seabirds and sea eagles, alongside fascinating local history and ever-changing seascapes. With departures just a 10–15 minute drive from Melfort Village, it’s one of the easiest and most rewarding adventures on your doorstep during a stay at Melfort Village.
The Galley of Lorne Inn
Located in the sailing village of Ardfern, The Galley of Lorne Inn is a welcoming pub and inn serving hearty, locally inspired food with a great waterside atmosphere and outdoor beer garden & sundeck. It’s just a 20–25 minute drive from Melfort Village and pairs perfectly with a wander around the marina or down to Craignish Point.
The Slate Islands: Seil, Easdale & Luing
Melfort Village is perfectly positioned for exploring the magical Slate Islands: Seil, Easdale/Ellenabeich and Luing . Just across the “Bridge Over the Atlantic”, a charming stone arched bridge which does indeed cross an inlet of the Atlantic ocean, you will find charming villages with gardens, pubs and marinas, there’s a world of adventure on your doorstep.
Being right on the coast its the perfect place to enjoy a dose of vitamin sea with paddling, sealife & wildlife boat trips, fishing or wild water swimming, there’s so much to do. Other attractions might include a visit to the museum, wandering through a floral oasis, or simply enjoying a pub lunch with a view. With so many fantastic sights and activities within easy reach (and with insider tips from the Melfort staff always available), Melfort Village is an ideal home-away-from-home for exploring Argyll’s local treasures.
What are the top highlights in Seil, Easdale and Luing?
Tigh an Truish
Set beside the historic Clachan Bridge — famously known as the Bridge Over the Atlantic — Tigh an Truish is an award-winning pub, restaurant and butcher’s shop celebrating the very best of Argyll produce. Owned by renowned chef William Rocks, the menu champions exceptional local meat, seafood and seasonal ingredients, served in relaxed, characterful surroundings. A firm favourite with locals and visitors alike, it’s around a 20 minute drive from Melfort Village and well worth the journey for food lovers.
Rocks Fine Foods
Next door to the pub, the Tigh an Truish Butcher Shop is a local favourite for quality meats, pies and deli treats – ideal for stocking up for a cottage supper or BBQ. It’s also about a 20 minute drive from Melfort Village and located around the back of the Inn and through the gate.
Easdale Folk Museum
This small but captivating museum on Easdale Island brings the Slate Islands’ rich quarrying past to life. Set in a former quarry worker’s cottage, it features tools, photos, and local stories that paint a vivid picture of Easdale’s industrial heyday and community life. Open seasonally and run by friendly volunteers, it’s an ideal stop while exploring the island.
Approx. 30 minutes from Melfort Village (via ferry from Ellenabeich).
The Oyster Bar & Restaurant
The Oyster Bar & Restaurant is a family run business located in the beautiful and historic village of Ellenabeich, Easdale.
The Restaurant has a seating area overlooking the Atlantic taking in views of the islands of Scarba and Jura and serve seafood and other locally sourced fayre.
The Slate Islands Museum
The Heritage Centre houses an interesting collection of artefacts and records relating to the social and industrial life of the Slate Islands of Argyll. There are photographs and records of the people engaged in the former slate industry covering the period 18-20th century.
Why Visit The Melfort Village Area
Melfort Village sits in the heart of one of Scotland’s most beautiful coastal regions, perfectly positioned as a base for exploration. From the magical Slate Islands just across the “Bridge Over the Atlantic” to the charming mainland villages with gardens, pubs and marinas, there’s a world of adventure on your doorstep. Guests love returning to the comfort of Melfort Village after a day out – whether they’ve been wildlife-watching at sea, wandering through a floral oasis, or simply enjoying a pub lunch with a view. With so many fantastic sights and activities within easy reach (and with insider tips from the Melfort staff always available), Melfort Village is an ideal home-away-from-home for exploring Argyll’s local treasures. Come rain or shine, you’ll find plenty to see and do nearby – making your stay both relaxing and richly rewarding. Enjoy every minute of discovering this special corner of Scotland!
Frequently Asked Questions
No. There are several villages, gardens and coastal walks within a short drive of the resort.
Kilmelford is the closest village and the closest bus stop location for exploring the area.
Yes. The surrounding area offers quiet roads, shoreline walks and open spaces ideal for dogs.
Yes. Places like Arduaine Garden, Craobh Haven, Seil Island and Ardfern are perfect for half-day or low-effort trips.
The closest shop to Melfort Village is Ardfern Stores, a 20 minute drive away.
Yes there is a selection of hotels, restaurants, inns and cafes in the local area. All are within a short drive from Melfort Village.
The Slate Islands – Seil, Easdale and Luing – are all around 20–30 minutes by car from Melfort Village. Seil is connected by bridge, while Easdale and Luing require short ferry crossings (under 5 minutes each). You can easily explore them on a half-day or full-day outing.
Yes – to reach Seil and get to the ferry points for Easdale and Luing, a car is recommended. Easdale is car-free (leave your vehicle in Ellenabeich), while Luing allows cars on its short ferry, though many visitors choose to walk or hire bikes on the island.
Yes – many nearby attractions are family-friendly, including boat tours, easy woodland walks, horse riding at Lunga Stables, and interactive local cafés. Easdale and Luing are also great for safe, slow-paced exploring with children.