Mermaid Suite is part of the Melfort Pier and Harbour Resort and sits alongside sublime Loch Melfort, within one of the most beautiful scenic landscapes in the World. Relax and enjoy this unique and tranquil getaway with views of the loch at every turn, providing a revitalising base to tour the region, or to merely relax and watch the red squirrels, the seals and, if you’re lucky, a pine marten.
Our on-site reception is there for further information and any assistance required during your stay.

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Scotland’s west coast, Melfort Pier and Harbour Resort offers a tranquil escape amidst the natural beauty of Kilmelford, Oban. Here’s a guide to some of the best activities and attractions in the vicinity:

Outdoor Adventures:

• Sea Kayaking: Paddle through the calm waters and explore the rugged coastline with Sea Kayak Scotland
• Wildlife Watching: Join Sealife Adventures on a boat trip to spot seals, dolphins, and perhaps even whales
• Birdwatching: Visit Kintail Birds of Prey Argyll to observe some of Scotland’s most majestic birds in their natural habitat

Gardens and Nature:

• Arduaine Garden: A mere 3.7 miles away, this lush garden offers a peaceful retreat with its vibrant plant life and scenic views
• Isle of Kerrera: Take a short trip to this nearby island for a day of exploration and stunning landscapes

Historical Sites:

• Oban Distillery: Discover the art of whisky making and sample some of Scotland’s finest at one of the oldest distilleries in the country
• Castles: Explore the region’s rich history by visiting nearby castles such as Dunollie and Dunstaffnage

Cultural Experiences:

• Oban War & Peace Museum: Delve into the local history and heritage at this informative museum
• Easdale Island Community Hall: Attend events and performances that showcase local and international talent
• Kilmartin Museum: Explore this fascinating museum and discover 12,000 years of local history (now reopened following major redevelopment)

Leisure Activities:

• Fishing: Enjoy free fishing from the pier, or take a boat out for a more adventurous angling experience
• Spa and Relaxation: Indulge in some pampering with available aromatherapy and therapeutic massage services

Local Cuisine:

• Gunpowder Cafe and Bar, Kilmelford: just a short walk from Melfort Pier and Harbour, you’ll find this relaxed, informal Café & Bar offering brunch, lunch and small plate evening dining options.  The focus is firmly on local produce. The cafe is also dog friendly. Please note: hours and days do vary so it’s best to phone or email first before venturing out (follow this link for more details).
• Loch Melfort Hotel, Arduaine: Enjoy fine dining and bistro classics at this lovely restaurant where fresh local produce is used wherever possible (especially fish and seafood freshly caught by the fisherman of Oban, a world-renowned location for top quality Scottish produce). The restaurant enjoys a stunning view over the sea loch towards Jura in the distance. Outside decking provides the perfect location for a drink so you can relax in the fresh sea air, as your meal is prepared. Also dog friendly too.
• Lucy’s pop up cafe at Craobh Haven: Come and enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at Lucy’s pop up cafe, situated right next to the marina, thus ensuring a stunning backdrop for your meal, with both yachts nearby and the distant peaks of of Mull.  Please note: this cafe is only open June – September.
• The Galley of Lorne Inn, Ardfern: Situated in the heart of the charming village of Ardfern and near an extensive marina, the Inn provides meals from breakfast to lunch and dinner. A variety of meals are on offer catering for lovers of meat and fish as well as gluten-free and vegan options as well. A decking area allows you to sit outside and have a drink while enjoying panoramic views of the loch.
• Lucy’s Argyll Café & Bakery, Ardfern: This is the parent business of the Lucy’s pop up in Craobh Haven marina but is also open throughout the winter period for a few days a week. Various hot and cold beverages, snacks, meals and home-baking are on offer, including delicious cakes (vegan options also available). You’ll also find Lucy’s is very welcoming to dogs, so don’t forget to bring your pets!
• Kilmartin Hotel & Restaurant: Providing breakfast, lunch and dinner, this dog-friendly hotel provides a convenient stop-off point to have a meal and refreshments while exploring the local area or visiting the nearby museum. The extensive menu offers a host of different cuisines including vegan options that will provide you with plenty for you and your family to choose from.
• The Horseshoe Inn, Kilmichael Glassary, Lochgilphead:  about 35 minutes drive south of Kilmartin (20 miles) and just off the main road to Lochgilphead is the Horseshoe Inn. Scoring 5 out of 5 on Trip Advisor, the inn is highly regarded for its food and service, a variety of meals are on offer, from meat, fish, seafood, pasta and kebabs, to vegan and gluten-free options, so there should be something to everyone’s taste.
• The Oyster Bar Restaurant, Ellenabeich, Isle of Seil: Situated about 16 miles south of Oban is this pub, serving pies, fish and chips and locally caught seafood, pasta and more using local ingredients, as well as offering vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free choices as well. Although the pub is on a small island, a hump-backed bridge (named The Atlantic bridge) connects the island to the mainland, so no ferry journey required! Note: Oyster Bar is also dog friendly. We highly recommend you to sit out on the decking at the seaward side of the pub and enjoy the stunning view across the old flooded slate quarries towards the Isle of Jura, while enjoying a drink and maybe a tasty bite to eat (booking in advance is advised).
• The Puffer Bar and Restaurant, Easdale Island:  Easdale Island is located just off the Isle of Seil and the small village of Ellenabeich (see The Oyster Bar above). The small island is reached by a small ferry boat that you call over by pressing two buttons from within a small hut in the harbour (please also refer to the timetable there). The pub has been dubbed “The most remote pub in the U.K.” and Easdale island “The smallest permanently inhabited island in the U.K”, having only 60 residents (and no cars). The annual World Stone Skimming Championships is held here every September bringing in visitors from many countries and the number of visitors rises sharply during this event (from 100 to 1500+). The Puffer Bar offers a small menu with fish and seafood options, plus burgers and salad with vegan and gluten-free food options also being on the menu. The pub also featured on the BBC series “Designing the Hebrides” hosted by Banjo Beale, to give the pub a new look, and is very popular with the locals. Slate used to be quarried here back in the 19th century, but were flooded by a massive storm in 1881, and the last slate quarried in the 1950’s (the island group is known as “The Slate Islands”).
• Cooking with local produce: With access to fresh, local ingredients, you can also opt for a self-catered experience in your own accommodation. You’ll find various supermarkets located in Oban but why not visit the Love Oban Farmers and Crafts market held once a month from April to September and located in The Corran Halls towards the western part of Oban and a roundabout (PA34 5AB). For actual dates, you can also refer to this website: Oban Farmers and Craft Market for an amazing selection of fresh fruit and veg, seafood and cheese among other exciting items on offer.

Art and Entertainment:

• Arts and Crafts: Participate in local arts and crafts activities, perfect for families and creative individuals
• Live Music: Enjoy the vibrant music scene with performances ranging from traditional Scottish tunes to contemporary bands.

Active Pursuits:

• Hiking and Hillwalking: The surrounding hills offer numerous trails for all levels of hikers, providing breath-taking views and a chance to connect with nature.
• Cycling: Rent a bike and explore the countryside at your own pace, with plenty of scenic routes to choose from

Maritime Exploration:

• Boat Trips: Embark on a journey with Farsain Cruises or Craignish Cruises to discover the hidden gems along the coast
• Sailing: Experience the thrill of sailing in the open waters, with lessons and rentals available for enthusiasts
• Other boat trips and attractions: Explore some of the other local attractions and boat trips around Kilmelford and Oban

Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, the area around Melfort Pier and Harbour Resort is brimming with opportunities to create unforgettable memories. From the tranquillity of gardens and historical sites to the excitement of outdoor activities and cultural events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this enchanting part of Scotland.
View more things to do around this area >