Crinan Canal

Sail along the Crinan Canal, one of the most beautiful waterways in Britain, and enjoy uninterrupted views of Scotland's breathtaking and rugged natural landscape.

The Crinan Canal is a wonderful waterway to explore by canoe or kayak, surrounded by the stunning scenery of Argyll & Bute.

Enjoy the tranquillity of the towpath, or take the road that follows the route of the canal for a faster ride.

Walk or run along the Crinan Canal, the views are worth the effort as you cross from one side of the Mull of Kintyre to the other.

From undertaking an adventure along one of our nation's breathtaking long-distance routes, or paddling in the shadow of some of Scotland's natural and man-made and marvels, our incredible canal network has no shortage of wonders to explore. What will you discover by boot, paddle or pedal?

The Crinan Canal is well known amongst fishermen as the ideal spot for a bit of fly fishing.

A canal holiday allows you to journey through the country, taking in the landscape and hearing some of the stories of Scotland's past as you go. Or you might choose a canalside cottage as a base for exploring the canals on foot or by bike.

Find out how "Britain's most beautiful shortcut" was built and discover its Victorian heyday.

Discover a rich abundance of flora and fauna as you explore the Scottish canals. Here's our top flora and fauna to keep an eye out for on your travels.

Find out how we're breathing new life into communities from the water to the banks and beyond - creating places and spaces that people want to visit, live and work in.

Living on Water is part of an overall strategy to deliver sustainable development and improvements to Scotland’s canals and towpaths.