There is something special, almost magical, about islands and Bute is no exception. Stepping ashore, you feel that you have arrived somewhere different.
Steeped in history from early Christian settlements and Viking invasions through to the fabulous, Victorian grandeur of Mount Stuart. Whatever it is, islands hold a special fascination and nowhere is it felt more keenly than on the Isle of Bute.
Whatever your age, ability or length of stay, Bute has something to do for everyone. From a fun day out at Bute's own Highland Games to memorable coastal walks, horse riding along the beach at Kilchattan Bay, a round of golf on one of our three courses with some of the best views in Scotland or gentle cycling on almost deserted roads, you will find that the time you have is not long enough.
Quiet country roads, woodland tracks, broad sandy beaches - no equestrian could ask for better conditions. There are two riding centres on the island, giving advice and tuition to novice and experienced riders.
The waters around Bute are just as fascinating to explore as the island itself, and the Maids of Bute, the painted rocks on the northwest coast, are a well known landmark. If you are an experienced yachtsman, you can charter a yacht, or bring your own. Five-day RYA sailing courses for all levels of skill are available.
The sheltered waters of Rothesay Bay favour sports such as windsurfing, dingy sailing, water or jet skiing. You can also plunge into the past, exploring sunken treasures on the seabed. Diving conditions are good throughout the year around the island, most especially on the east coast around Ascog.
The flat coastal roads and light traffic on Bute make for enjoyable cycling. If you can’t bring your own bike with you, it’s easy to hire one, contact Robb Cycles.
Loch Fad is tranquil - until you feel the jerk of an 18lb trout, and you know a fight is on. Fish of such size are landed regularly from boat and bank between March and October. In addition, Quien Loch has its fair share of browns, which will test your abilities to the limit. Whatever time of year you come to Loch Ascog. you can pull in pike. Greenan Loch is well stocked with tench, roach and carp. More information Loch Fad
Where ever you play, you’ll be inspired by spectacular panoramas and refreshed by sea breezes. James Braid and Ben Sayers designed Rothesay Golf Course, with its views over mountains, lochs and bays. At Port Bannatyne there’s a 13 hole course with a par of 67, based on 13 plus five holes. The challenging nine-hole course at Kingarth is set by the shore, looking towards Arran.
Bute is only fifteen miles long and five miles across at its widest point, so most sites of interest are easily accessible. The highest point is Windy Hill, just 900 feet. If you enjoy relaxing walks, you will be delighted. Most walks can be as long or as short as you want them to be. For the more adventurous walker there is Bute’s very own West Island Way where walkers can choose a variety of routes around the island to explore some of the remoter parts of the countryside. For information on the many and varied walks, call in at the Isle of Bute Discovery Centre.