Alpein Cottage sits at the heart of the 2,500 acre Kilninver Estate, an area that encompasses a variety of woodland, open hill and seashore environments. Wildlife is abundant here and birdwatchers will delight in the variety of species to be seen. Anglers can pit their wits against Atlantic salmon on the River Euchar (chargeable) or take advantage of free fishing for trout on a couple of local hill lochs.

On a practical front, Oban is the go-to destination for all needs. The town punches above its weight in terms of services and amenities as it serves such a huge area. It boasts a couple of large supermarkets and a wide range of specialist shops. On the leisure front, there is a cinema, an impressive swimming pool and sports centre, while Glencruiten golf course is a picturesque gem – laid out by the legendary James Braid and more recently made famous as the home course of Scottish Ryder Cup star Bob Macintyre.

Oban has also acquired a reputation as something of a foodies’ destination. Given its location, fresh seafood figures prominently on most menus. For a more casual dining experiences, the town’s fish and chip shops are rated among Scotland’s best.

A day trip across the water to the island of Mull and its picture-postcard village of Tobermory can also be taken by ferry from Oban. Other options include boat trips to the islands of Staffa (famous for Fingal’s Cave), Iona and Lismore. These outings are all well advertised around Oban’s harbour area.

One unique way across the sea is to head four miles south to Clachan Bridge, the so-called ‘Bridge over the Atlantic’, which links Seil Island to the Scottish mainland. The bridge was erected in 1793 and is now a designated historic monument. Seil Island itself has a number of attractions, including craft workshops, the impressive An Cala Gardens and easy access to the pocket-sized island of Easdale, once the centre of the Scottish slate industry and now the venue of the annual World Stone Skimming Championships.

One unmissable experience in the area is a visit to Ben Cruachan, the so-called hollow mountain. A marvel of modern engineering, the Cruachan pump storage system generates hydro-electric power from water that tumbles down through massive pipes from Cruachan Reservoir to Loch Awe below. The story of its creation is told in an impressive visitor centre (which boasts a highly-rated cafe as well) from where guided tours can also be taken deep into the heart of the mountain.