Places worth visiting while you’re here.

The simplest memorable outing from the cottages. Cruise Loch Lomond runs circular sailings from Tarbet, with covered seating as well as open-deck views.

Head across the isthmus to the sea loch, with the Arrochar Alps towering over the village. Ideal for an easy scenic wander, a coffee stop or sunset drive.

An easy circular route between Arrochar and Tarbet, following a landscape once used by Viking raiders dragging boats between Loch Long and Loch Lomond.

The local mountain icon. Serious walkers can make a full day of it, but even a short walk from Succoth gives you a flavour of the Arrochar Alps.

Woodland and riverside trails beside Croe Water at the foot of The Cobbler. A very good lower-level choice when the summits are buried in cloud.

A classic Highland viewpoint over Glen Croe. It works brilliantly as a quick photo stop or as the first leg of a day west towards Inveraray.

A superb viewpoint on the west bank of Loch Lomond, looking across the water towards Ben Lomond and back towards the Arrochar Alps.

Pretty stone cottages, beach, pier and easy village walks on the western shore of Loch Lomond. Go early if you prefer it before the day-trip crowds arrive.

A worthwhile waterfall stop north on the A82, particularly after wet weather. Pair it with Inveruglas or continue further north for a bigger Highland day.

A lovely west-coast town on Loch Fyne, with one of Scotland’s most distinctive castles. The castle is seasonal, so check opening days before setting off.

Handy when the weather is changeable: shops, food, woodland, beaches, family activities and easy access to SEA LIFE Loch Lomond.

A reliable rainy-day family option at Balloch, with sharks, rays, otters, a tropical ocean tunnel and more than 1,500 creatures across themed zones.

Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Margaret Macdonald’s remarkable house, now protected inside the famous Hill House Box with elevated walkways around it.

A wonderfully atmospheric wooded gorge near Dunoon, with waterfalls, bridges and fern-lined paths. A very different landscape from the open lochs and hills.

120 acres of mountainside garden, giant redwoods, rhododendrons, a Victorian fernery and huge views. Pair it with Puck’s Glen for a full Cowal day.

One of Scotland’s great castle-and-loch views. The castle interior is currently closed for conservation work, but you can walk to the exterior and enjoy the setting.

A proper Highland day out. The glen itself is spectacular, and the National Trust for Scotland visitor centre adds history, exhibitions, walks, a café and a huge 3D map.

For a longer driving day, combine Rest and Be Thankful, Inveraray and Kilchurn Castle. It gives you mountains, Loch Fyne, a historic town and Loch Awe in one sweep.