Cairnbaan Hotel

Find this converted pub, now a restaurant/hotel, idyllically-set beside the Crinan Canal. Full advantage is taken of the abounding supplies of excellent seafood. Although the menu is balanced to appeal to all.

So expect the likes of 'Chicken Liver Paté with Toasted Brioche and Rowan Jelly'; 'Haggis, Neeps and Tatties'; 'Lemon and Coriander Hummus with Black Olives, Roasted Vegetables and Pitta Bread' and 'Mussels in White Wine with Garlic, Herbs and Cream' among the starters.

Perhaps 'Monkfish with a Curried Mussel Sauce'; 'Seared Scallops with Sauce Vierge, Creamed Potatoes and a Parma Ham Crisp' and 'Spiced Confit of Duck with Stir-Fried Vegetables' among the mains.

If you have room, you might be tempted by 'Chocolate Profiteroles'; 'Sticky Toffee Pudding with Vanilla Ice Cream and Butternut Squash' and suchlike.

Lunch brings a few lighter offerings, such as Ciabatta rolls.

The hotel makes a good base for exploring this beautiful region.