Eilean Tighe Bhain Castle

Eilean Tighe Bhain Castle sits on a small island in Loch Awe, about three miles from Taynuilt, and it's the sort of place that makes you understand why people were obsessed with fortifications round here. The ruins date back several centuries, though what you're actually looking at now is mostly stonework from the 17th century - the castle had a complicated history of ownership and abandonment. Access is tricky, which honestly adds to the appeal rather than detracting from it. You'll need a boat to reach the island, and there's no official visitor infrastructure, so this isn't a turn-up-and-wander kind of attraction.

This one's really for the serious castle enthusiasts and photographers with a bit of adventure in them. If you're the type who gets genuinely excited about rubble with a backstory and don't mind getting your boots muddy, it's worth investigating. Families with young kids will find it more hassle than reward - the logistics alone will test your patience.

The real value is combining it with the broader Loch Awe experience. Taynuilt is a decent base, and Loch Awe Holiday Park sits just down the road, making it handy for a multi-day exploration of the area's castles and lochs. Allow a full morning if you're serious about getting out to the island and back, and factor in decent weather - you don't want to be messing about with boat trips in heavy rain. Spring through early autumn is your window.