Argyll and the Islands - area overview

Argyll and the Islands is a beautiful and diverse area in the south-west of Scotland. Renowned for its scenery, wildlife and biodiversity, it boasts deep sea lochs, majestic mountains and 26 inhabited islands.

The population of 70,967 is widely spread. Unlike other areas covered by Highlands and Islands Enterprise, there is no obvious 'capital' of Argyll and the Islands. The largest towns are Campbeltown, Dunoon, Lochgilphead and Oban.

HIE's local team is based in Lochgilphead, and works closely with partners including Argyll and Bute Council, North Ayrshire Council and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority.

Geographically, Argyll and the Islands is close to the business and commercial hub of Scotland's central belt. Road and ferry connections are augmented by air services linking Glasgow directly with Kintyre and Oban on the mainland, and the islands of Islay and Tiree.