Guest Blog Post: Lisa Wilson

We're taking a back seat with the blog this week as Lisa Wilson has offered to write a guest post for us about her experience at Lagnakeil. 

I was looking for a relaxing holiday not too far from home and came across Lagnakeil online- it was exactly the type of accommodation we were looking for. We went for the Ash Lodge with its wonderful views over the Argyll country side. Lagnakeil is a Highland home in seven acres of scenic wooded hillside, and perfectly positioned to take full advantage of the area’s mountain, glen and loch vista, with Loch Feochan the focal point and fabulous backdrop.

The family and pet friendly wooden-built lodges are cosy and comfortable with prime positioning to maximise the fabulous views from each and every window. Our considerable deck offered a splendid location, from which to watch the impressive west coast sunsets in utter peace, over a dram or two; indulgently basking in the ever changing picture revealing itself before our eyes. The freedom afforded to us by our own countryside retreat was refreshing with everything we were looking for literally on the doorstep - a perfect home from home. There could be no more scenic a location, than the glen side hills on which Lagnakeil Highland Lodges stand. Sited to take full advantage of the stunning West Coast scenery, Lagnakeil’s little gathering of lodges and cottages is a peaceful retreat and photographer’s dream.

When visiting Lagnakeil, we made sure to make the most of open spaces and countryside walks, one of which ends up at the local bar/bistro. The Barn Bar serves up hearty, homemade food and real ales in a convivial atmosphere, where local musicians occasionally strike up a spur of the moment musical interlude, in front of a very welcoming log fire.

Conveniently remote, along a rather quaint, single track road, Lagnakeil is however, only a short, three mile drive from Oban for collecting supplies and visiting the many very good seafood restaurants which are making their mark locally. The seemingly ever busy Caledonian MacBrayne ferry, shuttles passengers to and from the islands and smaller private boat trips, running from the Bay offer the opportunity of sea-life spotting and breathtaking views of the stunning rugged coastline. Tranquil surroundings and beautiful scenery, whichever way you look, present a rare opportunity to unwind and enjoy the Scottish countryside and array of wildlife on your doorstep at Lagnakeil – a peaceful haven, from where you can choose to do as much or little as you please.

A trip to remember and certainly somewhere I would recommend!

Things to Do: World Water Day

In celebration of World Water Day on March 22nd, we've put together some great water-based activities to enjoy during your stay in Oban...

Here in Scotland, we have the best water in the world - it's a wonder that people bother to buy bottled water when it's so clean from the tap. March 22nd marks World Water Day - and to celebrate, we've put together a list of great water-based activities to enjoy during your stay in Oban...

Atlantis Community Leisure

Make a splash in the 25 metre Atlantis Pool, with suitable depths for beginner and experienced swimmers. To add to the fun, there's a toddler's dolphin slide and the fastest flume on the west coast for all those thrill seekers out there too. There are also lots of classes, including "learn to swim", "Aqua Zumba" and Family Fun Sessions - complete with an inflatable pool-top obstacle course. A perfect day out for all ages!

Stramash

Looking for adventure? Stramash offer fun-filled adventure days for all the family. Whether it's Sea Kayaking, Canoeing or Gorge Walking, there's a great mix of activities to keep the family active and get them out in the fresh air. We particualry like Coasteering; a spine-tingling journey of exploration and you climb, swim and jump over land and sea. A great day out for all thrill seekers. 

Isle of Kerrera Ferry

After more chill than thrill? Take a leisurely ride across the waves to the beautiful Isle of Kerrera - also known as the Jewel to the Firth of Lorne. Maybe you'll see some otters or pelicans on the way? Why not go for a cycle? Bikes go free on the ferry. 

Visit our website for more things to do in Oban.

Easter Weekend: Things to Do

On the lead up to the Easter Weekend,we give you some ideas on things to do in Oban for all the family!

It's almost the Easter Weekend, which means it won't be long until the kids are off school again! For us, some of our greatest memories come from Easter Weekends away with the family and that joy has continued by seeing our guests create happy memories with their family too. For first timers coming to Oban, there's so much going on that it can be difficult to choose what to do while you're here! We've put together a list of fun things to do with all the family over the Easter Weekend...

Egg Rolling

Does anyone else remember rolling eggs down a hill at Easter? With kitchen facilities in our lodges, you can boil up your eggs, even decorate them if you like and roll them down the big hill just a short walk from Lagnakeil. It's an Easter tradition!

The Scottish Sealife Sanctuary

The Scottish Sealife Sanctuary is a great day out with the kids as it is, and this year, they're having their Easter Fun Day including the BIGGEST Easter Egg Hunt in Argyll. We also have a special offer with The Sealife Sanctuary when you book directly through Lagnakeil.

Easter Feast

As mentioned, we have fully equipped kitchens in all of our lodges and cottages if you would like to cook Easter lunch for the family, but if you prefer to eat out, there are plenty of great restaurants in Oban (including The Barn Bar, just a short walk away from Lagnakeil) 

Let's Go to The Movies

The Oban Phoenix Cinema is a community run cinema showing all the latest blockbusters. If the weather isn't so great, the OPC is a great place to to keep the kids (and yourself) entertained. Keep an eye on their website to see What's On.

Head over to our website to see availability and prices to book accommodation for Easter Weekend.

Mother's Day: Things To Do

As mentioned in our previous post, Mother's Day is coming up (March 30th to be exact) and as promised, we have come up with  a few ideas of things to do with mum around Oban. Something fun that allows you to have some quality time together. Here are a few of our favourite picks...

Scottish Sea Life Sanctuary

Nature trails, turtle sanctuaries, classes and resident seals and otters - there's loads of fun to be had at the Scottish Sea Life Sanctuary (this is a particularly good one for mums of young kids!) - on Mother's Day - mum's go free and there's card making too for the kids! When you book through Lagnakeil, you get 2 for 1 at the Scottish Sea Life Sanctuary too, check our special offers for more information.

Boat Trip

Take to the water with one of Oban's boat adventures - we recommend Seafari Adventures (see all of Oban's Wildlife) or Coastal Connections, where you can have the option to visit the Isles.

Oban Phoenix Cinema

The Oban Phoenix Cinema is a community run business and the heart of soul of Oban. With the latest releases, fun themed nights and the comfiest cinema seats we've ever sat on, OPC is a great place to take your mum to relax and have a laugh (or cry) - depending what's on!

Restaurants in Oban

Did you know Oban is the seafood capital of the UK? There is a massive foodie scene in Oban and it's all about fresh local ingredients. Don't be surprised if you see fresh fish from the sea come in from the pier, straight onto your plate - that's how things are around here. Click the link above for a list of restaurants in Oban.

Check out the Lagnakeil Website for information on Mother's Day Accommodation