On the edge of beautiful Loch Fyne, Tarbert is a village famous for its sumptuous seafood and quaint maritime charm. The local landscape is filled with wildlife, ancient fortifications, and historic walking trails, while Tarbert itself is a mixture of traditional architecture and modern design.
There’s plenty to uncover on foot or bike in this remarkable region. Head out on the Kintyre Way to get to know the rugged and beautiful landscape the West of Scotland is renowned for, or set off alongside the loch for beautiful bays, secret coves and unbeatable views.
Intrepid explores can navigate the coastline by colourful kayak on the hunt for isolated beaches and quiet picnic spots. Diving is another popular way to make the most of the enchanting location – take a dip in the chilly waters with Loch Fyne Dive Charters to see pinnacles, wrecks and reefs up close.
Wildlife is abundant across much of Scotland’s breathtaking landscape and Tarbert is no different. Dolphins and basking sharks often visit the waters and seals can be spotted basking in the rocky bays or bobbing about among the waves. Red squirrels are a favourite of visitors, see these cheeky creatures skitter about on a local forest walk, while roe deer are more elusive yet far more impressive when spotted in the wild. In the autumn, you can hear the stags bellowing echo across the hills.
Birdwatchers should visit in the autumn to greet the thousands of white-fronted and barnacle geese that arrive at this time of year, while many wading birds can be spotted the rest of the year including lapwings, snipe and curlews. And you don’t have to be a keen birdwatcher to be amazed at the rare sight of a golden eagle soaring overhead.
Despite its small size, this holiday destination is one of the largest in the area, giving you a sense of the rurality and serenity of this far-flung setting. It boasts a wonderful community with a couple of bistros, art galleries, and a busy harbour where you can watch the boats bob about on the water.
"Soak up serene views and spot golden eagles as you explore..."
Ferries chug across the loch throughout the day taking visitors on day trips to picturesque Portavadie. Take a boat trip to this delightful village where you could follow the Portavadie and Low Stillaig Hike for scenic views, take to the Kyles of Bute Golf Course for an afternoon, or rent bikes and take to the 10-mile family trail that begins in Kames.
The best way to experience the beauty of Loch Fyne is, of course, to stay in one of our luxury holiday cottages in Tarbert where they overlook the bobbing boats in the marina.