Looking for something a little different that includes a distinctive whisky region, sandy beaches and a fine links? Well take a moment and read on…
Home to unforgettable settings and challenging golf courses
Machrihanish is attracting a small number of tourists from around the world. Situated along the west coast of the Kintyre Peninsula and home to welcoming sandy beaches, this village makes for a relaxing stroll when not on the golf course. Many visitors play the the classic links course, Machrihanish Golf Club and the newer —Machrihanish Dunes. However, depending on weather, a variety of activities to interest both golfers and non-golfers are available within the area.
Things slow down along the Kintyre Peninsula
The Kintyre Peninsula is approximately 40 miles from north to south. Situated along the west coast of Scotland, the peninsula enjoys a mild climate compared to other Scottish regions. Known for quaint ports, tranquil settings and challenging golf courses, Kintyre is quiet as much as it’s beautiful.
Tarbert sits in the north, known as a pretty little fishing port famed for delicious oysters. Looking over Tarbert is the ruins of 13th century Bruce Castle. Along the southern tip of the peninsula, visit the Mull of Kintyre, which strikes most as an isolated point of raw beauty. Walk down the path to the lighthouse and take a moment out of your busy schedule —breathe in the fresh sea air, enjoy your break from the hustle and bustle of life!
Need a reason to spend time in Campbeltown?
Campbeltown attracts annual visitors due to its location and attractions. The port village surrounded by green hillsides and historical settings, is home to the Campbeltown Heritage Centre which helps explain the towns past by utilizing art, science and archaeology through the years. This modest attraction makes for a nice visit; furthermore, it is not surprising to learn that most of the town’s history revolves around sea life and whisky.
Campbeltown was home to a variety of whisky distilleries, exceeding 30! However, time has a way of changing things and today the area only consists of three major distilleries. This whisky region is known for its distinct character of single malts, often having robust peaty notes and a subtle briny essence. The three distilleries; Springbank, Glengyle and Glen Scotia situated in the area are world famous for their excellent quality and for this reason are well worth a visit.
Even more, the town’s central shopping area can be fun to browse through after a day of touring the local sights. Campbeltown Pottery makes a memorable visit for a chance to see pottery being made. Here you can purchase stoneware or a whisky jug. Additional shopping opportunities would include Grant Logan Goldsmith, where handmade gold jewelry is assembled. By using traditional techniques, Grant Logan designs collections inspired from Scottish lore and landscapes.
And there’s more
For the more adventurous, a visit to Davaar Island and Crucifixion Cave may be worth adding to your itinerary. The island can be reached during low tide by crossing the long causeway. Once on the island, there are a number of sea caves to explore; most notable is Crucifixion Cave, which houses a famous painting. The trick here is not to get caught out when the tide returns!