Summer may be on its way out, but as the hustle and bustle of visitors dies down, a quieter, more intimate experience beckons for those visiting Bute in the autumn.
As we head towards cooler days, there is a change of pace on the island – perfect for those looking for a peaceful coastal break or scenic cycle routes and walks. Below are a few compelling reasons to get out and about on Bute this autumn…
Hillwalkers’ and ramblers’ delight!
One of the best things about Bute in the autumn months is the scenic views of Bute’s natural environment, and walkers can enjoy the changing landscape as they traverse the island’s hills, woodland and coastal paths.
Early morning starts are needed for longer walks as the daylight hours dwindle. However – with a little patience – this is also when you’re more likely to spot local wildflife, such as deer, otters and seals on your journey.
Wild deer at Kilchattan Bay
Bute Trig Points
If you’re feeling energetic, you can also tackle some of the island’s ‘trig points’ – short for ‘triangulation pillars’. These pillars are placed on high ground by the Ordnance Survey to determine the exact shape of the country. Bute’s trig points will take you through some stunning scenery across the island, with Windy Hill, the highest trip point, standing at an impressive 278 metres! (912 ft).
Coastal Cycling Routes
Another great way to enjoy Bute in the autumn is by bike – and you needn’t have your own. Bute Bike provides a range of e-bikes for hire, from large to small, as well as child trailers and panniers. Located at the Rothesay Ferry Terminal – (and at at Port Bannatyne Marina), this means you can pick up your pre-booked e-bikes straight from the ferry, and head off on your own autumnal adventure. Dog owners can also take their pups for a cycle, as we have dog trolleys available for hire, too!
There are many hidden gems on the island, as well as superb cycling routes, which vary in length and difficulty. To find out more, download the Discover Rothesay app, available on the App store and Google Play store.
Trees of every colour…
On the approach from the ferry, you’ll see Bute in a very different light during the autumn months. Catch sight of fiery maples and golden birches and beeches, contrasting with the island’s evergreen tree population around the island.
Skeoch Wood and Skippers Wood (also known as Bogany Wood) are perfect for autumn walks, with the latter taking you up and around Canada Hill for the best views of Argyll and Bute.
Mount Stuart Gardens
For tree enthusiasts there’s still time to visit the gardens of Mount Stuart, where you’ll find several champion trees, as well as orchards, Japanese gardens and many horticultural wonders! Find the majestic Corsican Pine standing at over 46m, as well as the Nootka Cypress, and the Japanese Yew, amongst over 600 conifer species.
Of course, you won’t want to miss a tour of Mount Stuart itself, which remains open to visitors until the 26th October. As well as being steeped in history, and intriguing ancestral stories, there are many artefacts on view from all over the world.
Autumnal beaches and picturesque piers
Bute is, of course, known for its beaches! Visit the golden sands of Ettrick Bay, terracotta sands at Scalpsie and Kilchattan Bay, and the beautiful pebbled beach at the Straad, amongst other coastal gems. For cyclists, the 23 mile route around the island is as beautiful in the Autumn as it is, during the Summer, with stunning beach sunsets to boot!
Find out more about Bute’s beaches and the types of wildlife, walks and landmarks nearby.
Old Pier at Port Bannatyne in the autumn sun
Star gazing
Whilst Bute doesn’t officially have Dark Sky status, there are many areas on the island with minimal light pollution – perfect for a spot of star gazing on a clear night, from autumn through winter.
Meteor Showers
You’ll be in good company if you visit Bute’s beaches for the Orionid meteor shower, which runs from 2 October – 7 November, or the Draconid Meteor shower which you can see from 6-10 October, peaking on the 8th. The best time to see meteors is just after midnight until just before sunrise, so be prepared for the colder nights, and bring hot drinks and snacks to keep warm.(…and don’t forget to make a wish!)
Aurora Borealis
Further, if you’re visiting the Isle of Bute between September and October, there also a chance you’ll see the Aurora Borealis, shifting ‘curtains’ of light, which are caused by the Earth’s magnetic field. This spectacular light show is easiest to see under a waning moon, and away from the street lights of Rothesay and surrounding villages.
Woodland stays
There are plenty of places to stay on Bute, from hotels and glamping pods to AirBnB’s and guesthouses. However, if you’re looking to commune more intimately with nature, you can also find off-grid accommodation, such as the ‘charcoal huts’ in Bute Forest. Here you can wake to the sounds of bird chatter, and enjoy walks through autumnal woodlands, before settling down beside a toasty log fire.
Importantly, all profits from the huts are reinvested in the community forest’s outreach and nature conservation work.
Bute Forest Charcoal Hut
Cosy pubs and local music
As the nights draw in, evenings in the local pubs become a cosy affair, and you can find live music across various venues on the island, from impromptu folk nights to live band nights …and a spot of Karaoke, if that takes your fancy! (Don’t miss the Bute Manouche: a celebration of Gypsy Jazz, from the 27th – 29th October).
Bute also has several warm and inviting restaurants where you can unwind after a day of exploring, and a peaceful walk along the lit pier at night is the perfect way to end the day – weather permitting 🙂
Whatever you decide to do in Bute this autumn, we hope you enjoy all the island has to offer – by bike, or on foot!
About Bike Bute
Bike Bute is a registered charity which is dedicated to connecting communities, and striving for a better, greener world to live in. This is at the heart of what we do at Bike Bute – and when you hire a bike, YOU are making a difference too. Keep up to date with news and events by following us on Facebook and Instagram.
