Local Area

The area around Brander Lodge is renowned for its spectacular scenery and walks. There are marked trails and climbs both locally and within short drives from the hotel. Ben Cruachan (Mountain of the Peaks) is aptly named and is the highest point in Argyll and Bute. Ben Cruachan is one of the best-known mountains in Scotland and certainly one of the finest, with soaring ridges, dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views.

The Scottish Highlands are a MTB’ers dream – enjoy routes through the forests, by the rivers and lochs nearby. Trails are set out by grade, and we can advise on many of the options on your doorstep or further afield.

A short drive away in Taynuilt, this renowned smokery is well worth experiencing – a visit here can also include fly-fishing, walks and trails.

The river Awe is recognised as one of the best Salmon and Trout rivers in Scotland, with an impressive catch record. Nearby, at Loch Awe & sea Loch Etive, there is a variety of fishing, including trout, perch and pike, along with salmon and various other catches.

Taynuilt Golf Club is a challenge friendly 9-hole parkland course surrounded by majestic scenery with Ben Cruachan for a backdrop and view up Loch Etive.
There are also courses at Dalmally and Glencruiten.

Situated beside Brander Lodge this well stocked garden center offers an extensive range of potted plants, bedding plants, shrubs, trees, garden furniture. There is also a well equipped children’s play area and currently being created, an attractive walk down through the pine woods to the edge of the beautiful river Awe, where picnics can be enjoyed.

At nearby Oban, enjoy many of the distillery tours on offer, and sample some of the country’s finest malts.

Details of tours can be obtained from us and we can assist in booking these for you in advance.

Cruachan Power Station an underworld on a spectacular scale – a hollow mountain and a place like no other. Buried almost 1km below the ground a massive cavern, as high as the tower of London, houses enormous turbines converting water into electricity. This is a fantastic attraction and we at the Brander Lodge can assist book you on the trip into the heart of the mountain.