THE
COLINTRAIVE
****
Restaurant * Bar * Rooms
HIDDEN
GEMS
Colintraive is an unspoilt village situated on the coast of the Kyles of Bute and is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Being on a no through road, it is perfect for those that want to get away from it all with very little traffic making it safe for all ages.
Make use of our delightful community garden with picnic places and a welcoming bowling green. Step back in time at The Colintraive Heritage Centre and discover the story of the village and its farming heritage over the last 150 years. The community Hall also has a cinema monthly so keep an eye out for the latest showings
There are pleasant walks right along the shore of the Kyles of Bute, great for walkers and cyclists, leading to a small 19th century church. The waters are sheltered making it a perfect place to enjoy the many activities available on the sea.
SEA CLYDE
We can work with the lovely people at Sea Clyde to organise a tour or private charter on their fantastic rib Tunnag. It's a Redbay Stormforce 8.4m rigid hull inflatable boat (RIB). Unlike many other RIBs, Tunnag has a canopy which will ensure you are kept warm and dry during your trip, whilst having great visibility to take in the breathtaking scenery and spot wildlife. Give us a call if you want to try and charter them or book a tour - max 9 passengers.
KILBRIDE BAY
Considered as the best beach in the whole of Argyll, Kilbride Bay is a hidden gem not easily stumbled across. It is made all the more enjoyable because you have to make just a little bit of effort to reach it, Its only a small walk but correct footwear may be required. Pop into the wee bothy at the start of the trail and pick up a cup of tea and cake to enjoy when you make it over the dunes to experience stunning views across to Arran. This special beach is really not to be missed!
KAYAKING
The calm sheltered waters surrounding Colintraive are perfect for kayaking. Why not bring your kayaks with you during your stay and enjoy the Argyll Sea Kayak trail which runs right past the hotel. If your new to kayaking we can set you up with Sea Kayak Argyll. Only the best, friendly, professional, qualified guides and coaches are provided. With Sea Kayak Argyll, each trip is personalised to you, allowing your interests and experience to shape the programme.
GOTHIC BEAUTY
Not so much a hidden gem, the famous Mount Stuart House and Gardens are located on the beautiful island of Bute. Just a short ferry crossing from Colintraive you have access to this Gothic Revival country house and the ancestral home of the Marquesses of Bute. Explore the house and its grounds for a day to remember.
THE RED WOODS
Benmore with its magnificent mountainside setting is a joy to behold. Its 49 Hectares/120 acres boasts a world-famous collection of flowering trees and shrubs including over 300 species of rhododendron and over one third of the world’s hardy conifer species plus fine collections from North and South America, the Orient and the Himalayas.
PUCKSGLEN
Step into a land long forgotten full of mischievous sprites and magical beings in the fabulous Puck's Glen. The forest's shady undergrowth and intriguing dark atmosphere is great fun to explore. There are two trails here: one meanders through the enchanting gorge with its tumbling waterfalls; the other takes a longer route to great viewpoints and some of the finest rhododendron displays in the country.
HUNTING
Argyll offers visitors the chance to explore the wildlife in one of the most beautiful parts of the Scotland. We are able to arrange Pheasant & Woodcock beats & Deer stalking. We have a gun cabinet on site and for our international guests we have staff that speak French, Thai, Portuguese and Spanish! Phone direct to find out more.
FYNE SEA TOURS
Fyne Sea Tours are a local company run by Martin and Janine, they have sailed and explored the lochs and islands off the west coast of Scotland for over 20 years.
Based out of Portavadie Marina with their Evolution 40 boat, they offer daily tours and private charters for groups of up to 12 people.
Join them on board so they can share with you their passion for the area around Loch Fyne and maybe beyond....
CAKES
Are you celebrating a special occasion during your stay with us? Book a stunning cake from Northern Lights Cakery. Kate, our local baker, creates delicious edible artworks to make your day extra special. Check out her work on her website www.northernlightscakery.co.uk
FISHING
Scotland is famous for its fishing heritage. Visit The River Ruel, which flows through the scenic area of Glendaruel in the next village. It is possible to discover wonderful salmon and sea trout swimming through it at certain times of the year. “The Ruel really is a fishing hidden treasure - the loveliest river I have fished for years”. Fishing is readily available on a daily or weekly basis .
QUADMANIA
2000 acres overlooking Loch Long near Dunoon is the awesome setting for 5-star adventure day out to remember. Quadmania offers tailor-made packages for every level of experience. Choose from Quad Biking, Archery and Clay Pigeon Shooting. It's a brilliant day trip from the Colintraive Hotel.
WALKING
Scotland is famous for the epic selection of hikes. Established in 2000, the Cowal Way is Scotland’s most diverse long distance footpath. It runs the length of the Cowal Peninsula, passing through some of the most beautiful and varied landscape in the Highlands just a small drive away from the Hotel, why not walk sections of the route or if you're feeling more adventurous, tackle it all! The hotel is also within driving distance of some of Scotland's favourite Munros.
Joe and I took over the hotel in September 2019. We were looking for a restaurant and fell in love with Colintraive and all the opportunity we have to work with fantastic local produce. Joe had been working for many years as a chef in London for top chefs such as Angela Harnett, Neil Borthwick at the French House and Ken Culhane at The Dysart, Petersham, I hail from Greenock, doon the water, so was excited about the prospect of coming home and starting our family life in this beauty spot. We are delighted to have welcomed a daughter, Winnie, in July 2021, and wee Edith in 2024 completing our family.
Colintraive is the perfect place if you like adventure of all shapes and sizes and there is always a friendly face in the pub. Here at the Colintraive we can help you to arrange the perfect day out during your stay or tasty food and drinks whilst you take in the breath taking scenery."