Crianlarich to Oban

Full of long straights connected by a combination of relaxed S bends and tight corners it's the perfect route to help you forget about the irritations of life and rediscover the joy of driving.

The starting point is Crianlarich (pronounced cree-an-lar-ich) just 10 miles north of Loch Lomond.

It's often said that Crianlarich is the most sign-posted destination in the whole of the UK. Roadsigns point to the small village for a radius of 100 miles in all directions, which, let's face it, covers most of Scotland.

It might be true, or it might just be an urban myth. But never matter.

The Directions
Heading west, leaving the A85 at Crianlarich you should select the A82 which will take you through Inverherive and then Tyndrum.

Speaking of which, at Tyndrum you can stop at the Real Food Cafe for locally sourced fish and chips.

And just along the road there's the Green Welly Shop which provides whisky, gifts and snacks, but not always in that order.

Back on the road, take the left fork which takes you back onto the A85 where you will stay until you reach Oban.

Several miles later you'll pass Dalmally which is the mid-point of the route.

After that you'll reach the coast and follow it for a while passing Loch Awe. Continuing along the road, you'll eventually move inland, passing through Taynuilt then back to the coast travelling through Connel.

A couple of miles later you'll see the Halfway Filling Station. It's a good idea to check your fuel gauge as there aren't too many chances to refuel in this part of the country.

Continue following the A85 and within a few miles you'll reach George Street in Oban.

The Drive
The first two miles consist of narrow country lanes which gradually broaden.

Within five miles when you pass Clifton the road is ripe for an enjoyable drive.

The next five miles of long straight sections divided by gentle bends encourage you to settle into grand touring mode.

At the ten mile mark the gentle curves become challenging chicanes and tight turns which require total concentration.

In the right car and frame of mind this section is as good as any road in the UK.

Within two glorious miles the gentle cruising road returns.

After Dalmally the pace increases as you pass Loch Awe with its long straights and scenic waterfalls.

Incidentally, much of this 40 mile route runs parallel with the west coast railway branch line from Glasgow right down the Kintyre Peninsula.

However, the speed limit on the road is rather less than the railway and speed camera vans are frequently dotted along this route.

So if you meet other motorists who flash their headlights at you it's not because they're trying to say “welcome to the highlands”.

Leaving Loch Awe, you'll be accompanied by Loch Etive for the last five miles before you arrive at the bustling seaside town of Oban.

Known as the seafood capital of Scotland and gateway to the Isles, it's not unknown for the population to triple during the summer months making the roads around the area much busier.

Not a deal breaker, but something to consider.

Crianlarich to Oban is an interesting route with a split personality.

If you're in a mellow mood, the long sections, gentle curves and beautiful scenery can provide an hour of relaxed cruising. All you need it Matt Monro on the radio-and a Lamborghini Miura.

But if you're in the mood for a more spirited drive it can provide all the thrills and adrenalin you need from a great driving road.

Do you live in this part of the country? Have you got any local knowledge that will improve the route for others? We would really appreciate your input.