Tarbert
Scotland's Adventure CoastNestled on the sheltered shores of Loch Fyne, Tarbert is a picturesque fishing village and acts as the gateway to the beautiful Kintyre peninsula along the Kintyre 66 route.
Stop off in Tarbert
Why visit Tarbert?Tarbert’s setting is nothing short of spectacular. The village is framed by rugged hills and overlooked by the ruins of Robert the Bruce’s 14th-century castle, which guards the entrance to the natural harbour. Strolling along the waterfront, you’ll spot a mix of traditional fishing vessels and sleek sailing yachts, especially during the summer months when the village becomes a popular anchorage. The village is also an important travel hub for the region, offering access to four ferry terminals.
The village's strategic position made Tarbert an essential stronghold for centuries. Walk up to the ruins of Tarbert Castle to enjoy panoramic views of Tarbert harbour and Loch Fyne. There are steps up to the castle and a red waymarked path from the harbour front. You can also head on longer walks along Kintyre's East Coast towards all the way over to Skipness or, for a shorter stroll, to the far end of Pier Road, where there is a tiny but charming shell beach.
Outdoor Activities in Tarbert
Cycling
Tarbert is a gateway to some of Argyll’s most rewarding cycling routes. Cycle on the Calendonian Way all the way from Oban to Tarbert and continue your adventure further along the Kintyre 66. Along the way, you will experience the region's natural wonders, from wide sandy beaches and historic landmarks to whisky distilleries and wildlife-rich habitats.
Walking
For walkers, head on the short Tarbert Castle Heritage Trail, which winds up to the ruins of Tarbert Castle and offers panoramic views over the harbour. If you're looking for a longer hike, set off on routes towards Skipness, West Loch Tarbert, or further along the Kintyre Way, a long-distance trail stretching the length of the peninsula.
Sailing & the Scottish Series
Tarbert is also one of Scotland’s premier sailing destinations. Its well-equipped marina attracts visiting yachts year-round. Each spring, the village comes alive for the Scottish Series, one of the UK’s biggest sailing regattas, drawing competitors and spectators from across the country. A great time to visit!
Places to Eat & Stay in Tarbert
Places to Eat
Food lovers will be spoilt for choice, with Tarbert renowned for its seafood. Local restaurants and pubs serve freshly caught langoustines, scallops, and mussels, often landed at the harbour that very day.
Festivals in Tarbert
The village hosts a variety of music and food festivals annually. Highlights include the Scottish Series, Tarbert Seafood Festival, Traditional Boat Festival, and the Loch Fyne Viking Festival, as well as Live on the Loch, a fantastic traditional music festival. These are all great times to visit!
Accommodations in Tarbert
For those looking to extend their stay, Tarbert offers a range of cosy bed and breakfasts (B&Bs), harbourside hotels, and self-catering cottages, many with stunning coastal views. A little further afield, you find Torrisdale Castle Estate with its unique self-catering accommodations and on-site gin distillery.
Download the Kintyre 66 Brochure
Plan your adventure to Kintyre with the detailed Kintyre 66 brochure, which includes places to stop, recommendations, and distances.
How to get to Tarbert
Planning Your VisitBy Car
From Glasgow, the drive takes around 2.5 hours, following the A82 along the shores of Loch Lomond before joining the A83 through the dramatic scenery of the Rest and Be Thankful pass and Inveraray, making the journey itself an experience to savour.
By Public Transport
Regular buses run from Glasgow and Inveraray to Tarbert, connecting with ferries and other transport links across Argyll. For those coming from further afield, trains from Glasgow serve nearby stations such as Oban and Arrochar, with onward bus connections.
By Ferry
Tarbert is also a key ferry hub. CalMac ferries operate from nearby Kennacraig, just a few miles south of the village, linking Kintyre to Islay and Jura. This makes Tarbert not only a destination in its own right but also a stepping stone to Scotland’s whisky islands.
If you are travelling from southern Scotland, you can also sail from Ayrshire to Campbeltown using the CalMac ferry link.
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