Kintyre Way

The Kintyre peninsula dangles 60 km south from mainland Argyll, nearly reaching Ireland at its tip — Paul McCartney's song was not entirely exaggerating the remoteness. The Kintyre Way runs the full length of the peninsula from the fishing port of Tarbert in the north to Southend near the Mull of Kintyre in the south.

For trail runners it is a two to three day challenge on genuinely remote terrain. The route crosses open moorland, follows coastal paths and climbs several high ridges. The west coast section offers views to Islay, Jura and, on clear days, Ireland. Southend and the Mull of Kintyre lighthouse are the atmospheric finish.

The waymarking uses a Celtic knotwork marker and is consistent throughout.

Tarbert to Skipness (~25 km): The eastern coast — quieter, more sheltered, with views to Arran.

Skipness to Carradale (~30 km): Across the Kintyre spine — the highest section with views to both coasts. Carradale is a small fishing village with limited facilities.

Carradale to Campbeltown (~25 km): Along the eastern shore to the main town on the peninsula.

Campbeltown to Southend (~27 km): The final section to the Mull of Kintyre — the atmospheric finish at the lighthouse.

Start: Tarbert. Ferry from Portavadie (Cowal peninsula) or bus from Campbeltown (which has a small airport with services from Glasgow).

Finish: Southend. Bus to Campbeltown; bus to Glasgow or ferry from Tarbert.

Best time: May to September. The peninsula is exposed to Atlantic weather year-round.