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.
A Slower Pace, Right on the Doorstep
One of the great advantages of staying at Melfort Village is that you don’t need to travel far to enjoy meaningful days out. The surrounding area offers coastal scenery, gentle walks, gardens and welcoming villages – all within a short drive, or in some cases, right from the resort itself.
This makes the local area ideal for shorter outings, relaxed mornings, dog walks, or days where you simply want to explore without spending hours in the car.
Kilmelford, Arduaine, Craobh Haven & Ardfern
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.
The Cuilfail hotel in Kilmelford is currently being refurbished with plans in place to open later in 2026.
What is there to see & do in the local area?
Within a short distance from Kilmelford, you will find the villages of Arduaine, Craobh Haven, Seil and Ardfern all of which have many reasons to visit be it a cake stop, a boat trip or a balmy walk through a decadent garden.
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.
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.
How Far & How Long to Allow
Most destinations in the immediate local area are within a short drive of Melfort Village:
Kilmelford – 5 minute drive or 45 minute walk
Craobh Haven – 10 minute drive
Seil Island – 15 minute drive
Ardfern – 20 minute drive
Many guests enjoy combining two nearby locations into a single relaxed trip.
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.