Heart of Argyll Wildlife Organisation, Lochgilphead

The Heart of Argyll Centre is an educational organisation that followed on from the Scottish Beaver Trials, which commenced in 2009. This project was to introduce beavers from Norway and Germany, and integrate them into Scottish waters. The beavers have thrived in the Scottish environment, and though the trial has ended, education and information is still available at the Heart of Argyll, through their Beaver Centre.

The information centre is in a little building down a track. It's well signed and easy enough to find. The building itself is very cute, and has a log burner, small shop area and activities and exhibits to see. It's really well staffed, and the guys there are really knowledgeable about the beavers, birds, various other wildlife and the area. They are on hand to answer any questions and give advice and recommendations.

There are a few walks that can be done from the Beaver Centre car park. The first is a short walk to the Bellanoch Viewpoint. It's under 1.5km to the viewpoint and back, and it's well worth the trip, for views over the wetlands, and of the canal.

The next walk is a 1 mile loch loop - we chose to do this walk from a little further down at the next car park, because big dog has a bit of an iffy shoulder, so we didn't want to overdo it. It's a lovely flat walk, that takes in some glorious scenery and woodland.

The larger walk that was recommended by the chap in the Beaver Centre is a larger loch, which takes in the dam which was built by the beavers a decade ago. There is a walk over the dam, and a pontoon for some excellent views. We decided that this one would be a little much for big dog today.

I would highly recommend a visit to the centre if you're in the area. It's not an all day thing, but it's really interesting, and has something for all age groups.

At a Glance

• 🚗 - Free parking - not loads of space, but enough for maybe 10 or so cars

• 🚽 - A compost toilet, well maintained

• 🐶 - Dogs are welcome, but be aware that there are no bins, so be prepared to bring your doggy's deposits away with you

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