Activities
Kintyre, claimed by the Vikings as an island, is a long narrow finger of land pointing from Argyll back to the Gaelic homeland in Northern Ireland just 11 miles away. The landscape is scenic, the climate mild and the people friendly and welcoming. It is often described as Scotland’s only mainland island and an undiscovered gem. If scenery, wildlife, the outdoor life and pursuits are your thing then you will find them here in abundance.
Walking & Hiking
On 12th August 2006, the Kintyre Way was launched. The way-marked route allows visitors to walk from Tarbert to Southend – a distance of approximately 89 miles. Depending on ability, it takes about 4-7 days to complete and incorporates serious hiking and gentle rambles. There are numerous other walks in Kintyre and the Island of Gigha.
Golf
Golfers are spoiled for choice as Kintyre is home to five superb, yet unique golf courses, each with its own character. Machrihanish Golf Course is set in wonderful dunes beside the small village of Machrihanish and the first tee has been voted by many as ‘the best opening hole in golf’.
The neighbouring links course, Machrihanish Dunes is the first new course on the west of Scotland in over 100 years and the only course ever created on a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This 7,082 yard course features no less than six greens and five tees at the ocean’s edge. It also boasts an all-season driving range.
Dunaverty, beside the village of Southend, is a stunning scenic undulating links course offering great views of Ireland and the Mull of Kintyre. On the east side of the peninsula, the nine-hole course at Carradale is a popular choice for visitors and this friendly course sees many families as children are made very welcome.
At the north end, Tarbert has a nine-hole moorland golf course which is a challenge to the novice and expert alike – you need to be straight to hit the green on this course!
Sports
Surfing is very popular in Kintyre and the 5 mile long beach from Westport to Machrihanish is one of the best spots in Scotland to practice the sport. Its a great location for surfers of all levels, whether its the white water with a foam board or the challenge of navigating through the best waves Scotland has to offer on your surfboard.
Mountain biking is also popular and there are a number of bike trails in the hills above Campbeltown for those who enjoy this sport.
Pony trekking and horse riding are available in Kintyre and the many tracks and beaches offer lots of places for hacking and trekking.
Daytrips
If you are looking for a day out in Kintyre then perhaps a drive around the peninsula on the Kintyre 66 taking in the scenery and views, and stopping at the various villages, tearooms and eating establishments is for you. A day trip to the Island of Gigha (God’s Isle), where the sun always shines for at least part of the day is a fantastic experience. Arran is another popular day trip – the island being described as ‘Scotland in miniature’.
At the North end of Kintyre you’ll find the picturesque fishing village of Tarbert which is overlooked by Robert The Bruce’s Castle.
If you wish to go farther afield, then Inveraray, with its famous jail or Oban, the ‘Gateway to the Isles’ are popular places to visit. The village of Crinan, where the canal from Ardrishaig ends is a picturesque and tranquil spot to spend a day.
Mull of Kintyre Sea Adventures offers fast and exhilarating boat trips from Campbeltown to the Mull of Kintyre, with other trips available to Arran, Ailsa Craig, the Ayrshire coast and Northern Ireland.
Campbeltown
Take a stroll around Campbeltown and admire the impressive architecture (keep looking up!) and visit the varied selection of shops there. Campbeltown is made special by it’s people so say ‘hello’ and everyone will reply!
If you’re looking for something to do in Campbeltown then you’ll find plenty going on. The Aqualibrium Leisure Centre is home to a swimming pool, gym, fitness class studio, a relaxation suite with steam room and sauna, and a library and conference room. The Heritage Centre gives you an insight into the history of the area.
Other activities include a sailing club, a putting green, tennis courts, and bowling clubs. There is also the Picture House, which is the oldest continuously operating cinema in Scotland.
Whisky aficionados can take tours of Springbank Distillery and Glen Scotia Distillery. Both are open for tours on weekdays. Outside Campbeltown, on the road to Carradale you can find the Beinn An Tuirc gin distillery which also features a gin school where you can blend your own gin!
Eating Out
There are no shortage of eating (and drinking!) establishments in the Kintyre area. You can choose from tearooms to restaurants to hotels and many menus feature fresh local produce. There is something to suit all tastes and pockets.
