Mid Argyll

From Lochgilphead the A816 heads north along the western coast of Argyll to Oban. Along the way it passes some of the most historical sites in the area, including the hill fort at Dunadd, the capital of the kingdom of Dalriada.

The initial section of the A816 follows the route of the Crinan Canal northwest to Cairnbaan. From there the canal heads west to Crinan itself, as does the B841. The A816 turns northeast with a minor road heading east to Achnabreck. Rock carvings can be found at Cairnbaan and Achnabreck. Further along the A816, still heading northeast, is another minor road, which heads to Kilmichael Glassary where more rock carvings can be found.

The A816 continues north towards Bridgend where the road crosses the River Add before the road heads northwest. Heading along the road that heads west, following the route of the river, leads to the fort at Dunadd. There is a car park at the bottom of the hill just after this road crosses the river.

Continuing north on the A816, the road passes through Kilmartin Glen, with its numerous monuments dating back to 3000 BC, to Kilmartin itself.