Beach campsites in Taynish National Nature Reserve with horseback riding

On the west coast of Scotland, the beautiful Taynish National Nature Reserve is an often-overlooked gem. The reserve covers almost the entirety of Argyll and Bute’s Taynish peninsula and is one of the largest original oakwoods remaining in Britain. Between the oak woods are scattered pockets of grassland glades, heath, saltmarsh and shoreline. Visitors can spend their time strolling along woodland paths and spotting wildlife, including roe deer, red squirrels and otters. While there are none within the reserve, private campsites within an hour’s drive include Tarbert Holiday Park, which has spacious touring pitches and heated glamping pods, and the small Ardfern Motorhome Park, which is exclusively for motorhomes and campervans.

Taynish National Nature Reserve is open to visitors all year round. May and June are the best months for seeing wildlife. In spring the landscape is carpeted with purple bluebells and yellow primroses and abundant birdlife includes migratory birds from Africa. In summer visitors can discover why Taynish is one of the best places in Scotland to see butterflies: more than 20 species have been seen there, including the rare, and threatened, marsh fritillary.

• The closest public transit access is the bus stop in Tayvallich (30-minute walk), served by buses from Lochgilphead.
• The nearest public restrooms are in Tayvallich.
• Even in summer, the weather can quickly change. Warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy walking boots are essential.
• If wild camping in the surrounding area, be sure to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.