Depart Campbeltown this morning and head
northwards up the west coast of Kintyre and along the
shores of Loch Fyne to magnificent Inveraray Castle.
In 1743 Archibald, Earl of Islay, succeeded to the title
of 3rd Duke of Argyll and he initiated one of the most
imaginative rebuilding projects ever undertaken in the
Highlands. The old 15th century fortified tower house
was replaced by the present Castle and the Royal Burgh
of Inveraray was re-established nearly half a mile to
the south.
The new Castle was designed by the London architect
Roger Morris and the supervising architect was William
Adam and later his son John. It is thought that the
design may have been inspired by Sir John Vanburgh who
was the architect for Blenheim Palace and Castle Howard.
Built of local greenish-blue schist stone, it is a most
impressive edifice complementing the grandeur of the
surrounding scenery. The magnificent interiors were
completed between 1770 and 1789 to the design of Robert
Mylne for the 5th Duke of Argyll. View the magnificent
displays of weaponry, tapestry and art throughout this
splendid castle.
Afterwards enjoy some free time to explore the charming
town of Inverary on the banks of Loch Fyne, with its
pretty whitewashed houses before returning to Campbeltown.
(lunch at leisure either in the castle tea rooms, or
at one of several cafes and restaurants in Inverary
town).
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