The Sea
Whether enjoying the beautiful, unspoilt beaches, swimming or skimming, out in a boat, picnicking, playing, cooking sausages on the shore, there is always the wonderful Bute backdrop of the sea. There are fast boat tours available around the island, "blast around the bay" with Bute Boat Tours, or explore the Kyles on a longer trip.
www.buteboattours.co.uk
The West Island Way
A route that runs the length of the island for about 30 miles (48km) and can be accessed from various points for shorter distances. The views of the island and the seascapes are fantastic. www.westislandway.co.uk
Cycling
There are some splendid cycle routes around Bute. A 23 mile loop will take in most of the perimeter of the island with plenty of shorter options. Either bring your own bikes, or hire the electric ones at Rothesay Pier, it is really the best way to see the island and will deliver spectacular views!
From Montford Cottage you can enjoy a 3 mile flat ride into town to the North, or a 2 mile ride to Mount Stuart to the South.
fynefutures.org.uk/bikebute/
Splash!
Bring your teenagers and they will spend happy hours screen-free, jumping off Kerrycroy Pier!
Golf
There are 3 golf courses on the Isle of Bute, each with its own challenges and all with spectacular views.
www.visitbute.com/golf/
The Fad
Loch Fad has boats to hire for fishing, While away a quiet afternoon on this beautiful loch with stunning views of Arran's Sleeping Warrior on the horizon.
www.lochfad.co.uk
Parkrun
Mount Stuart House (2 miles South) is home to the Isle of Bute Parkrun - a 5k timed weekly run on a Saturday morning throughout the year.
Hold on tight
The swing installed at the North end of Bute is well worth the hike for the spectacular view of the Kyles.
www.buteforest.org.uk
Seal-Spotting
A short walk around the shores of Scalpsie Bay for some wildlife watching
Batten down the hatches
We have a shelf full of sea-themed books and DVDs, a chest full of games, a tin of toy pirates, and a basket full of binoculars... there is always something to do!