Carradale: Hiking, Coast and History

For planning a trip to Carradale, hiking and cycling routes, the coastal landscape and local history provide useful points of reference. This lets you decide in advance whether you would rather set aside time for a long-distance walking route, rocky terrain, coastal views or historical interests.

Trails and Getting There

The Deer Hill Trail starts at the Port Na Storm car park. As you enter Carradale village, the car park is on the left. Check the parking conditions on site. Buses run regularly between Campbeltown and Carradale; if you plan to travel by bus, check the current timetable before your journey.

Carradale is on The Kintyre Way, a 100-mile long-distance walking route. For cyclists, there are two other route connections to note: National Cycle Route 78 passes close to Carradale, while The Kintyre 66 includes a detour to Carradale with views of the harbour. If you plan to include The Kintyre 66, check the latest route information before setting off.

Carradale Point has a challenging trail for climbing and hiking over rocky terrain. Make sure you have suitable footwear and take local conditions into account.

Coastal Landscape and Nature

Carradale Bay is a south-facing sandy beach with views of the mountainous landscape of the Kintyre Peninsula and the Isle of Arran.

With a little luck, you may spot basking sharks in the Kilbrannan Sound near Carradale. You may also see seals resting in Carradale’s shallow coastal waters. Both wildlife sightings are possible, but not guaranteed. Feral goats live on Carradale Point; their presence may vary. When planning, note the difference between the two: the sandy beach and views are permanent features of the landscape, while sightings of basking sharks and seals are uncertain.

History and Other Interests

On the eastern side of Carradale Bay, Carradale Point extends south as a narrow spit; a heavily vitrified fortification is located there. The ownership history of Airds Castle dates back to the late 15th century: it belonged to the Lords of the Isles until it was forfeited to the Crown.

The Carradale Heritage Centre is dedicated to Carradale’s history. Outside the Centre stands a wooden wheelhouse that once belonged to a local fishing boat. Check the current visitor arrangements before your visit. Carradale still has a small fishing fleet, which mainly fishes for langoustines. The wheelhouse is a reminder of a former fishing boat, while the small fleet is a continuing link to the fishing industry.

Carradale Golf Club is a nine-hole course on heath and moorland, with panoramic views across the Kilbrannan Sound to the Isle of Arran. If golf is part of your travel plans, check the current playing options before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Garelochhead, Isle of Jura, Dunoon, Minard, Bunessan, Tobermory, Tayinloan, Craignure.

For the broader travel overview: Argyll And Bute.