Mike Cantlay launches the trail alongside the Crinan Canal

Scotland’s tourism boss launched a new heritage trail linking some of the country’s most historic sites.

The 20km (12-mile) trail leads through the ancient kingdom of Dalriada and links with a 100km access network with more than 800 ancient monuments.

The heritage route runs between Carnasserie Castle near Kilmartin to the Crinan Canal and has interpretation boards, leaflets and podcasts in an area with natural and cultural heritage features including the Mòine Mhòr national nature reserve; Dunadd Fort, where the first Kings of Scotland were crowned; ancient Atlantic oak woodlands; some of the finest prehistoric rock art in Europe and an unique linear cemetery where walkers can enter bronze age tombs and walk around stone circles.

Part of the trail is also accessible to cyclists.

Opening the trail today, VisitScotland chair Mike Cantlay was joined by members of the Dalriada Project, a Heritage Lottery-funded scheme covering the ancient kingdom in Argyll. The Heart of Argyll Tourism Alliance was also officially launched.

Dalriada Project chair Karen Moore, said: “The Dalriada Project was set up six years ago to enhance people’s access and understanding of the natural and cultural heritage of the Mid-Argyll region.

“The opening of the access network today and the emergence of the Heart of Argyll Tourism Alliance is just a small part of what has been achieved and will provide a lasting legacy of the Dalriada Project. We hope to see many more people visiting the region and enjoying all that the area has to offer.”

Stan Phillips, Scottish Natural Heritage area officer said: “This part of Argyll is extraordinary – perhaps richer in wildlife, history and as beautiful as anywhere else in Scotland.

“Those of us who live here know that but we want to inspire people from further afield to come and enjoy it. With the website, the walking trails and our Explore for a Day leaflets you can go on a self-guided tour of some of the highlights of this often forgotten part of the world, and see them for yourself.”

More details of the area are on the Heart of Argyll website.