Moine Mhor National Nature Reserve
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Overview
In Gaelic, Moine Mhor (pronounced ‘moyn-yavore’) means ‘the Great Bog’, and the name perfectly sums up this dramatic Argyll NNR. It’s a rare, relatively undamaged example of a lowland raised bog, formed in what was once the sea-filled estuary of the River Add. Further inland, the bog grades into different habitats, including some fine oak woodland. Moine Mhor itself is a mixture of mossy hummocks and open pools rising in a shallow, peaty dome. Ghostly hen harriers quarter the moss in search of prey and in the autumn, the reserve is dominated by the deep red tones of sphagnum moss, which soaks up water like a sponge. The bog was just beginning to form when the first humans arrived here between 4,000 to 5,000 years ago. The adjoining area, around Kilmartin Glen, is full of standing stones and other monuments from prehistoric times, making this area one of the most important historical sites in mainland Scotland. For the best views, climb to the ancient hillfort at Dunadd or stroll along the Crinan Canal.
Location
Poltalloch
About the area
This is a county that’s all about awe-inspiring landscapes and unique island cultures. Ex-Beatle Paul McCartney put the area on the map when he wrote Mull of Kintyre, recorded in 1977 with the local pipe band backing his group.
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Nearby places to stay
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Nearby places to stay
Inver Restaurant & Rooms
Inver Restaurant & Rooms occupies a beautifully converted lochside croft on the shores of Loch Fyne, where the wild landscape of Argyll shapes both the atmosphere and experience. Inside...
Glendaruel Caravan Park
Glendaruel Gardens, with an arboretum, is the peaceful setting for this pleasant, well established wooded site in a valley surrounded by mountains. It is set back from the main road and...
Tigh An Truish
Tigh an Truish has been a hostelry for over 250 years and is just a few miles away from Oban. Expect picture postcard views of the bridge, friendly service and fantastic cooking that ma...
The Colintraive
The Colintraive is located on 'Argyll's Secret Coast' with views onto the narrow channel that separates the mainland from the Isle of Bute. This is an ideal base for touring, with the I...
Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa
Situated in a stunning location with uninterrupted views across Loch Fyne and the surrounding landscape and close to the historical county town of Inveraray, seat of the Dukes of Argyll...
Taychreggan Hotel
Surrounded by stunning Highland scenery, Taychreggan is a stylish and superbly presented hotel which was once a busy drover's inn. It enjoys an idyllic setting among 40 acres of wooded ...
Rowan House B+B and A Self Catering Apartment
Rowan House is located on Loch Goil with a small garden area right on the water's edge. This is a luxury property with wonderful physical standards backed up with attentive service and ...
Royal Hotel
Well situated in the heart of Oban, just minutes from the ferry terminal and with the shops on its doorstep, the Royal Hotel really is central. The comfortable and well-presented bedroo...
