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Explore
Kennacraig Lodge is located at Whitehouse on the edge of Kintyre peninsula just 6 miles southwest of the idyllic village of Tarbert. Here you will discover an array of cafés, bars and local art galleries. For keen historians; Robert the Bruce’s 14th century abode - the Royal Castle of Tarbert - is situated a few minutes away overlooking the town. The well maintained ruins of Skipness Castle (an Historic Scotland site) is a must see at less than 20 min drive. Enjoy excellent views towards Arran and the renowned Seafood Cabin nearby for some delicious local delicacies.
From Tarbert harbour you can catch one of the regular car ferry crossings to Portavadie and explore the nearby Cowal Peninsula. The beautiful islands of Arran, Islay, Gigha and Jura are easily accessible from nearby ports.
Head south by road for the Mull of Kintyre’s white sandy beaches and magnificently scenic golf courses Machrihanish Dunes, Dunaverty Golf Club and Machrihanish Golf Club. To the north Kilmartin Glen is steeped in history and archaeological sites. Scotland’s largest sea loch - Loch Fyne - is not far away with the world renowned Oyster Bar at the north end. Inveraray Jail and Castle make for a great family day out, meanwhile Oban - the seafood capital of Scotland - is an easy day trip and a must for ardent foodies!
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Local attractions
With the area steeped in history and surrounded by beautiful scenery you will not be short of places to visit on your stay. For whisky lovers the award-winning Glen Scotia Distillery in Campbeltown offers whisky tours and tasting experiences. Nearby Springbank Distillery is one of 3 remaining independent family owned distilleries in Scotland. Boasting a 100% on-site production, Springbank’s malts are very much sought after by whisky connoisseurs. Kennacraig Lodge is perfectly located to visit several nearby island whisky distilleries in Islay, Jura and Arran.
There is an abundance of wildlife and and outdoor activities on your doorstep including sailing, sea fishing, horse riding, cycling, walking and windsurfing. To the north; Taynish Nature Reserve has beautiful walks along a mix of grassland, salt marsh, heath and shoreline. Otters and seals are often spotted in the nearby waters along with a wealth of woodland wildlife as well as boasting 20 species of butterfly. A little further inland you will discover Moine Mhor Nature Reserve known for being the heartland of Kilmartin Glen, its plentiful wildlife and easy circular walk.
Families will love the Argyll Beaver Centre - based in an extremely biodiverse region you are guaranteed to spot a variety of wildlife and fauna on your visit as well as the beavers which were introduced to the area in 2009.
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Events in the area
Tarbert hosts several popular seafood, music, cultural and sporting events throughout the year and is home to the annual Scottish Series Yacht Race. The regatta takes place in late May/early June every year attracting a worldwide audience with a mix of onshore and offshore entertainment. Likewise, the popular Tarbert Seafood Festival sees a plethora of stalls, entertainment, cookery demos, workshops, parade and an open air party on the Sunday afternoon of this annual 2-day event. Very much a family affair the festival is not to be missed.
Tarbert Music Festival has been running for over 30 years and hosts a great weekend of live music at venues throughout the village in September. This laid back festival plays host to local bands and performers with encouragement for impromptu sessions from musicians from far and wide. The village plays host to a number of events and festivities in the winter months with dates to be confirmed.
Music fans will love the Carradale Music Festival in late April as well as the Mull of Kintyre Music Festival which is held in Campbeltown in August. Previous festivals have seen headline acts such as Deacon Blue, Eddi Reader, Idlewild, and the Saw Doctors. Whisky aficionados flock to the Campbeltown Malts Festival hosted by Glen Scotia Distillery in Campbeltown featuring tastings, dinners, and art exhibits.