Out and About
Cairndow is a small vibrant village situated at the head of Loch Fyne with a suprising number of things to see and do.
Fishing
If a spot of fishing takes your fancy then both sea and fresh water fishing is available on our door step. Be it a spot of mackerel fishing from the shore or a more adventurous day out on a boat, Loch Fyne is up there with the best. Reasonably priced fresh water fishing permits are available for a variety of fishing, from small hill lochs to the majestic slendour of Loch Awe.
Walking
Argyll is one of the finest places in Britain for hill walking and whether you fancy a leisurely stroll through Glen Fyne, acclaimed for it's wild beauty, or a more demanding hike up one of the many Munros, you will find walks to suit all. There are many species of birds and wildlife in and around Glen Fyne that add to the pleasure of walking in the are.
Ardkinglas Estate
Ardkinglas Estate boasts it's own mansion house and offers much all through the year. Visiting the woodland gardens, for example, you'll see many champion trees, including the tallest tree in Britain. Take a wander down to the river bank to see the old mill. May and June are a good time to see the glorious show of rhododendron and the not so elusive red squirrels might pop up anytime. The Grade A mansion house is available for wedding ceremonies/receptions or other small functions and is occasionally open for tours. Guided walks on the Estate grounds can also be arranged.
Cairndow Childcare
Cairndow Village also has its own Childcare Centre which is a non-profit making Scottish Charity. Professionally staffed, the centre is registered by the Care Commission and 'open to all'. They will be only too glad to look ater the children if you need a few hours without the kids. Open Mondays to Fridays 8.30am to 5.30pm.
Loch Fyne Oysters
You can look forward to some of the very best fish and shellfish that you will ever taste. Loch Fyne smoked salmon and oysters are famous around the globe where they are the choice of many of the world’s best chefs. They also boast an excellent choice of white fish, all of which are from sustainable resources, and have recently introduced some fabulous meat dishes to the menu including beef and venison from the glens around Loch Fyne. Shop and Oyster Bar open 7 days a week ( bookings recommended at weekends and in holiday periods). Mail order service also available.
The Tree Shop
The Tree Shop Garden Centre specialise in supplying, by mail order, native and ornamental trees, rhododendrons and conifers, many of which are reared on the West Coast of Scotland. It is scenically situated on the A83 at the head of loch Fyne between Loch Lomond and Inveraray.
Here We Are
Sitting in between The Loch Fyne Oyster Bar and The Tree Shop is Cairndow's own information centre for visitors and local people. Here We Are is a social and economic record of the way people live, and lived in the past, in a small Highland community. However Here We Are is more than just a visitor centre, among other things it has internet and emailing facilities, it is a district council hub and a 'field' centre for schools and other activity groups.
General Interest
The Hotel in the village is the Cairndow Stagecoach Inn. You can always expect a warm welcome from the owners, Dougie and Cathy Fraser, whether you're sampling the fine cuisine or enjoying a dram with the locals.