Travelling the Kintyre Coastline
Written by Graeme Johncock
If you enjoy getting off the beaten track in Scotland, the Kintyre Peninsula is definitely for you. This part of Argyll deserves a lot more attention, but because it takes a little more time to get to, it took me until last year before even I visited! I was blown away by how much Kintyre had to offer in just a single day’s journey.
Tarbert Castle
Begin at the very top of the peninsula in Tarbert, a harbour town protected by a prominent, but sadly ruined, royal castle. Only a small remnant remains of what was once an enormous fortress, guarding not just passage up Loch Fyne, but also across land. The name Tarbert literally means...
Skipness Castle
First built by the powerful MacSweens in the early 1200s, Skipness Castle is a much more impressive sight! The walls are just a stone’s throw from the water and along with Lochranza Castle on Arran, they guard passage through the Kilbrannan Sound. It’s grown over the centuries, falling first into...
Skipness Chapel
A short stroll along a grass path brings you to Skipness Chapel, moved here away from the castle by the MacDonalds. It’s much larger than the average church from this time, showing just how important the castle once was and you’ll find ornately carved graveslabs of important residents from the...
Take A Walk At Carradale
As you head south, the views of the Arran mountains are stunning, but keep your eyes on the narrow winding road! Once you arrive in Carradale, it’s time to stretch your legs and you’ve plenty of choice. You could wander the small village, down to the harbour and beach or...
Beinn an Tuirc Distillery
You’ve earned a drink after all of that and thankfully, Beinn an Tuirc Distillery isn’t far away. This is where Scotland’s “other” national spirit is made – delicious gin! This is a small, family run operation, powered by hydroelectricity so not only is your tipple tasty, but it’s sustainable too!...
Saddell Abbey
In a little hollow at the meeting of roads, the 12th century Sadell Abbey seems very removed from the world. Founded by the famous warlord Somerled, who carved himself out a kingdom from parts of Scotland under Norse control, it shows he was as pious as he was violent. There’s...
Saddell Bay & Castle
A short walk away leads you towards Saddell Castle, once home to the Bishop of Argyll and actually built using stone from the abbey ruins. Today, it’s a holiday home, but you can walk past it straight onto the sweeping sand of Saddell Bay. You might recognise it from the...
Explore Campbeltown
Known as the Victorian Whisky Capital of the World or sometimes “Whiskyopolis”, Campbeltown is one of the most underrated places in Scotland. It might not be home to dozens of distilleries anymore, but it’s packed full of character and history. Walk past the 650-year-old town cross to explore the streets...
Glen Scotia Distillery
It wouldn’t feel right to visit Campbeltown and not enjoy a dram, it is what made the town famous after all! My favourite is undoubtedly Glen Scotia, a place that truly represents the spirit of the town. Even if you’re not in time for a tour, it’s worth stopping into...
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