10 things to do this spring on Argyll's Secret Coast
It's forecast to be a cracking week on Argyll's Secret Coast. It's time to get outdoors and have some fun in the spring sunshine. Here's a round-up of the top ten things to do on Argyll's Secret Coast this season.
1. Discover Carry Point
Walk around Carry Point at Carry Farm. It’s a short stroll but there’s plenty to see along the way, including magnificent views of Bute, Inchmarnock and Arran, a flock of Hebridean sheep and some fabulous wildlife. At this time of year, you’ll find the front field full of adorable black lambs leaping around by the shore. You’ll also meet the two donkeys, Barney and Louis. When you’ve finished your stroll, pop into the Coffee Bar at the Hayshed Gallery to enjoy a cup of Argyll Coffee.
2. Glenan Wood
See the bluebells in Glenan Wood. Argyll’s Secret Coast has some lovely old oak woodlands that support a vast range of flora and fauna. And in May you’ll be treated to a carpet of bluebells on the forest floor. Glenan Wood at Portavadie is easily accessible and has a range of walks, from easy coastal rambles to slightly more strenuous hilly ones. Follow the sign for the ‘Coast Path’ and head back by the ‘Forest Path’ for a stunning loop with plenty of beautiful bluebells. Listen out for wood warblers and cuckoos too.
3. Watch the Scottish Series
Watch the Scottish Series boats racing in Loch Fyne. The Scottish Series is a fantastic weekend of yacht racing based around Tarbert on Loch Fyne. The yachts make for a magnificent sight and there are great vantage points from which to watch the racing on Argyll’s Secret Coast, including Portavadie. Or you could hop on the ferry to Tarbert to enjoy the shoreside fun.
4. The standing stones at Stillaig
Visit the standing stones at Stillaig. The walk from Portavadie across the headland to the standing stones at Stillaig is stunning at this time of year. The views across Loch Fyne are wonderful and you can spot the ferry ploughing backwards and forwards between Portavadie and Tarbert. Listen out for the ravens, which nest in the cliffs close by, and the cuckoo which calls at this time of the year.
5. Hire a kayak
There's no better way to experience the tranquillity of Loch Goil than on a kayak. It will be just you and nature – and maybe a few other paddlers. Hire your kayak with Loch Goil Kayak at Carrick Farm and spend a day paddling around the ancient monument of Carrick Castle. You might even get lucky and catch sight of the local Seal colony, Porpoises and occasional Dolphins that frequent Loch Goil.
6. Enjoy a scenic lunch at the Blairmore
Located on the shore of Loch Long beside Blairmore Pier, this mother-daughter-run cafe offers the very best of locally sourced produce, lots of home baking, light meals, speciality coffees, teas, wine, cocktails and Loch Fyne Ales. Whether you sit in or take away, a warm welcome is guaranteed at the Blairmore!
7. Portavadie
Watch the ganets diving from the infinity pool at Portavadie. Portavadie’s Spa & Leisure Experience is the perfect place for some water-based fun and relaxation this spring. You’ll love the views from the biggest heated outdoor infinity pool in Scotland! Sit back in the spa pool and look out for ganets diving in the loch.
8. Ardlamont Point
Go for a spin around Ardlamont Point. This 10-mile loop is perfect for family cycle. The route spins you along the coast road, hugging the water’s edge where grey seals bask on the rocks. Right now, the fields are full of lambs and the air is rich with the smell of gorse flowers.
9. Otter Bay
Take a walk along Otter Bay. Nothing beats a walk along Otter Bay at Otter Ferry on a sunny spring day, with lambs in the fields, ganets diving and beautiful views.
10. Feast on local food
You’ll find plenty of seasonal, local food on the menu in the area’s many cafes, restaurants and pubs, from foraged treats to the freshest seafood to free-range pork from Auchinbreck Farm. Try the Colintraive Hotel, the Kames Hotel and Portavadie Restaurant & Bar.
