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Activities

Being based on an island is a great start; being surrounded by sea creates not only a boundary but also enables us to offer a wealth of activities.

At Eriska there is a wide range of activities for all levels. Activities can be scheduled on the island or arrangements can be made with local providers. Let us know if you would like us to prebook activities or make enquires to local suppliers on your behalf.

If you are looking for something more bespoke, our activities team can personalise itineraries for families, indiciduals, and groups.

  • Archery is the art, sport and skill of using a bow to shoot arrows at a target. Historically used for hunting and combat, at Eriska you can try your hand at hitting a bullseye on the circular targets positioned on the hotel lawn. We use sophisticated equipment and quality recurve bows. Learn from our highly skilled Archer who will show you the skills and tactics of an expert.

    Advance bookings are essential.

  • In the spirit of Braveheart, learn a new skill of precision and accuracy; Scottish Highland traditional Axe throwing. The Axe is light enough to be thrown with one hand towards a wooden bullseye!

    Advance bookings are essential.

  • Did you know that Isle of Eriska has its very own apiary? Managed by local Master Bee Farmer, Steve, who offers tours. He will explain the general considerations of how the colony operates and the hive will be carefully opened to show the bee family at work.  Male and female bees will be pointed out and hopefully the queen will be seen.  Fresh honey straight from the hive is a special sweet treat and there will be plenty of opportunities for questions.

    Beesuits and gloves will be provided but you will need your own footwear - wellingtons are preferable but stout boots may be acceptable.

    £40 per person

    Advance bookings are essential.

  • There is nothing quite like the thrill of downing a clay pigeon as it soars across the sky. Your instructor is highly qualified and ensures safety standards are exceeded. We only use new 12 or 20 gauge Beretta over-and-under shotguns and Promatic traps. He will be with you throughout, providing coaching in both technique and safe gun handling to ensure you hit as many clays as possible.

    Advance bookings are essential.

  • What is a country house hotel without its own croquet lawn? The casual and social game of croquet can be enjoyed by people of all ages and can be played in many different ways. Equipment and rules can be found at the lawn area. 

  • Learn how to handle the birds and then take them straight out flying. Whilst out for a stroll through the hotel grounds you will discover the art and history of Falconry, as your hawk follows along demonstrating their aerobatic skill. He won’t let you get lost, as they will be checking in frequently by landing on your gloved hand.

    Interactive Display of Birds of PreyThis comprehensive display showcases the the abilities of all the birds. The falconry team have been hand-reared and are experienced display birds. A great activity for small or large groups alike.

    Advance bookings are essential.

  • Head out on the water with our fishing guides for some multi-species fishing in the nearby Forth of Lorne and Loch Etive. There are many species to catch including cod, pollack, whiting, spurdog, thornback ray, conger eel, dogfish, skate and mackerel. This activity is available year-round.

    Sea fishing on the west coast has had some very successful seasons and trips in local boats can be arranged to track down that deep sea fish.

    Please visit - https://argyll-seatours.co.uk/ for more information.

  • At Isle of Eriska we want to show off the best Scotland has to offer. While Scotland is renowned for its whisky, it is also home to a variety of craft distilleries producing some of the very best artisan gins from local ingredients, highlighting Scotland's natural botanicals. Our tasting experts create unique and delicious cocktails that showcase the flavours of these exceptional spirits.

    Classic - Three of the most beloved Scottish gins and one hand-crafted gin cocktail

    Approximately 1 hour

    £40.00/person

    Premium - Three premium Scottish gins and one hand-crafted gin cocktail

    Approximately 1 hour

    £50.00/person

    Luxury - A welcome cocktail followed by three of the best gins Scotland has to offer, finished with a gin cocktail

    Approximately 90 minutes

    £60.00/person

    Scottish Spirits

    The ultimate tasting experience. Discover the unique flavours of both spirits with three whiskies, two gins. finishing with a gin cocktail

    Approximately 2 hours

    £100.00/person

  • Local clubs include the lovely Taynuilt Golf Club at the foot of Ben Cruachan and the tranquil Dalmally Golf Club with stirring mountain scenery all around. The Glencruitten Course in Oban is also highly recommended for its scenery and course.

  • On the Island why not enjoy one of our many indoor sports facilities? From Tennis, Squash, Table Tennis, Badminton, Boules, and Football, there is something for all sport enthusiasts.  Our Island Sports Manager is always on hand to give a challenging game if you are in need of an opponent or challenge.

    £10 per hour session

  • Enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the Isle of Eriska by foot. Led by one of our guides, venture through the flora and fauna of our natural unspoilt landscape. Enjoy learning about all the different species of wildlife that thrive on our Island from the otters playing by the sea to the Golden Eagles in the sky. Walks can be tailored to suit individual requirements and more information found here.

  • Looking for a more leisurely past time? Throughout the Spring and Summer months guests can enjoy a vast selection of lawn games, including connect four, boules, jenga, putting green, skittles, and chess. Head to the Games House to pick up your equipment!

  • Should you bring your own bike or wish to use one of ours, let us guide you round the trails. Whether you are new to mountain biking or ride regularly we have trails to suit all abilities. Explore our adventurous countryside with an experienced guide.

    £20 hire per day

    Advance bookings are essential.

  • Oban Distillery offers a range of tours allowing you to explore the whisky making process and to participate in whisky tasting experience.

    For details, current offering and to book your please visit https://www.obanwhisky.com/distillery

  • If you are looking to perfect your golfing ability, our 150-yard rough driving range puts the focus on your swing, giving you the time and the space to make big improvements. Complete with practise short game pitching area, it is an ideal activity to help your development.

    Suited for all golfing abilities, whether you are a seasoned enthusiast, or an amateur just looking to learn the basics. Clubs are available for hire from our Stables Spa building if required, left-handed options are also available.

    £20 for balls and club hire

  • Paddle to idyllic sheltered shores or tackle wild tidal races. See wildlife ranging from otters to whales, sea eagles to basking sharks. This activity is suitable for all abilities with expeditions designed for complete beginners through to seasoned seakayakers. You will be joined by engaging guides and instructors, each with knowledge of the waters and wildlife.

    Please visit - https://www.seakayakoban.com/ to make a reservation.

  • The Isle of Eriska is perfectly located off Scotland’s most stunning coastline boasting varied picturesque scenery. It may be beautiful from the ground, but a bird’s eye view from our scenic flight from Oban Airport is likely to be an experience you will not forget.

    Please visit - https://www.hebrideanair.co.uk/ for more information.

  • For a truly personalized and exclusive experience, consider booking a private tasting with our local master distiller. This intimate session will allow you to delve into the world of Scotch whisky, exploring its rich history, intricate production process, and diverse flavor profiles.

    Classic - Experience four of Scotland’s most beloved whiskies

    Approximately 1 hour

    £50.00/person

    Premium - Indulge in four premium whiskies offering age, rarity, and flavour

    Approximately 1 hour

    £75.00/person

    Luxury - The ultimate whisky experience offering five of the best Scotland has to offer

    Approximately 90 minutes

    £100.00/person

    Advanced booking is essential.

  • Photography day trips targeting some of Scotland's finest wildlife. Evade detection whilst learning great wildlife photography techniques from one of the region’s top photographers.

    Please visit - https://www.lochvisions.co.uk/ for more information. 

  • Boat Trips

    There is no better way to explore Scotland’s West Coast than by boat. Departing from the private pier on the island just a 5 minute walk from the hotel. Explore bays and islands unreachable by car, seeing the West Coast’s unspoilt beauty. See a variety of wildlife on the water including golden eagles, seals and even basking sharks. Alternatively you could enjoy a circumnavigation of Mull visiting Fingal’s cave, puffin colonies and enjoying lunch in colourful Tobermory.

    For more information click here.