Visit Knapdale, Scotland's Nature Treasure Chest. Within our stunning mosaic of forest, coast, loch, moorland and seashore are all of Scotland's iconic animals: Golden eagles, red squirrels, otters, pine martens, red deer, harbour seals, hen harriers, ospreys and basking sharks. Our Atlantic Rainforests teem with life from tree top to forest floor. One glen may hold 100s of species of lichens, bryophytes and fungi. Lungwort, yellow specklebelly, Wilson's filmy fern, hazel gloves, dog tooth lichen; the names are as strange and wonderful as the lives of these organisms. Rare butterflies such as marsh fritillaries have a stronghold here along with purple hairstreaks and hawk moths.
Knapdale is famous, of course, for the Scottish Beaver Trial that ran from 2009-14. The beavers are here to stay and more are currently being introduced into the area. At Barrandaimh we are perfectly placed to guide you to the centre of their activities. We are located in a 400-year old farm building in Knapdale Forest, just a few hundred metres from the nearest beaver lodge. Later additions include a cruck-frame barn and what must be Scotland's most unique composting toilet, built in the style of a Norwegian mountain hut.
We run a series of guided walks and events throughout the year to explore the habitat of these amazing engineers and the many animals and plants that benefit from their activities.
So if you want to meet our local moths, listen to our bats, explore our seashores and ponds or discover the weird and wonderful world of fungi we will have an activity to suit. We also have lots of children's activities at the centre from things to make and do, special events and discovery packs for them to create their own adventures.
At our centre you will find expert information on where to get the best chance of sighting anything from an otter to an adder. We can also tell you all you need to know about Knapdale's other unique attractions. Man has left his mark on this unique environment as well. From standing stones and castles to chapels and clearance villages this part of Argyll is packed with the signs of 5,000 years of turbulent history.
One of the frequent comments in our visitor book is 'I wish I could stay for longer, there is so much to see'. Let us help you discover Knapdale, biodiversity at its best.
