Kintyre and Gigha |
Unhurried, unspoilt and unforgettable, Kintyre is a long finger of land that stretches south towards Ireland. This beautiful peninsula feels like another world. Clear waters, warmed by the Gulf Stream, lap its shores and tiny villages dot the landscape.
The west coast has numerous deserted sandy beaches which are often pounded by Atlantic breakers, making it a destination for adventurous (and very experienced) surfers. The east coast is gentler, with stunning views to Arran. It’s worth taking a detour to Skipness to see the ruins of the 13th-century castle and chapel and to enjoy the freshest scallops, mussels and oysters at the Seafood Cabin.
Tarbert, a pretty fishing village and sailing haven, sits to the north where the peninsula is joined to the Argyll mainland by a narrow isthmus. Down at the southern end of the peninsula you’ll find Campbeltown, the other major town. It’s full of character and home to no less than three distilleries. Further south still is the Mull of Kintyre, immortalised in song by Sir Paul McCartney. Saddell, the beach where the song’s promotional video was shot, is on the eastern side of the Kintyre Peninsula.
Kintyre packs in three of Scotland’s best links golf courses within 20 miles, and its quiet roads are great for cycling and walking. The Kintyre Way is an 87-mile walk that criss-crosses the peninsula. It’s a wonderful way to explore this strikingly beautiful and undiscovered part of Scotland.
Sitting three miles west of Kintyre, community-owned Gigha is an enchanting small island. Just seven miles long by a mile and a half wide, the main attractions – aside from the peace, quiet and wildlife – are the white sandy beaches that dot the coastline. There’s also a nine-hole golf course and a host of rare plants in the Achamore Gardens. |
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| Explore like a local |
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