Tarbert
COVID-19 update
All FLS visitor centres are currently closed. Walking and mountain bike trails remain open, as do most toilets and car parks, but do check below for local updates for closures.
We want to ensure your visit is an enjoyable and safe one.
Make sure you follow the Scottish Government’s FACTS advice – helping to protect yourself, your family and your local community, and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code helping to keep Scotland beautiful.
Climb above Tarbert village for views across Kintyre
Choose from two scenic trails from Tarbert Castle, taking you up to rocky hillside and the high moors beyond. From here, you'll have panoramic views over the pretty village harbour and across Loch Fyne to the Cowal peninsula.
Guide map to the forests of Mid Argyll and Kintyre (PDF 9.5MB)
Walking trails
Tarbert Castle Trail
A charming stroll through bracken and heather with great views over East Loch Tarbert and legendary Tarbert Castle.
Wide, uneven grassy surface with sections that may be muddy. Includes some steep slopes and a narrow kissing gate.
Allow ¾ hours
Corranbuie Trail
Climb across the craggy heath high above Tarbert to Barr Reamhar and the Millennium Cairn. There are fabulous views across Kintyre and Loch Fyne.
Long and very steep slopes. Uneven gravel surface, with some grassy and rough rocky sections. Occasional patches may be muddy. Includes several bridges and some narrow chicanes and kissing gates.
Allow 2 hours
Look out for roe and sika deer amongst the trees as you climb, and watch the skies for glimpses of golden eagles.
Activities
Kintyre Way
Tarbert is the start of the 100 mile Kintyre Way, a waymarked long distance trail that criss-crosses the lovely Kintyre peninsula to Dunaverty in the south. Take on the full challenge on foot or by bike over several days. From Tarbert, you can also sample the first section: a 9 mile trail over the hill to the village of Skipness, where you can catch the ferry to Arran.
Long distance cycle route
National Cycle Route 78 passes through Tarbert.
Facilities & access
There are public toilets and plenty of places to eat, drink and shop in Tarbert.
Getting here
There is no specific car park for the trails but plenty of parking in Tarbert village. Once parked, head for the path up to the castle about 100 yards beyond the Visitor Information Centre on Harbour Street. The trails start from the castle.
Using SatNav?
PA29 6UD is the nearest postcode, on Harbour Street.
Public transport
There are regular local and national bus services that stop in Tarbert. Plan your journey at Traveline Scotland.
Get in touch
Have a question or suggestion for improvement?