Barmore Island faces Shore Cottage and is connected to the mainland by a short causeway creating two bays, with the cottage looking out over South Bay and Stonefield Castle Hotel perched on the hill above North Bay. Take a walk round the Island looking for seals and otters, scramble over the rocks and shells when the tide is out in the bay, wander through the splendid woodland gardens of Stonefield – all straight from the door. The colours, views and wildlife are captivating at any time of year. The bar and restaurant at the hotel are open to non-residents with lovely views over the loch and island. 

Tarbert is a picturesque fishing and sailing port with a good range of shops, pubs, cafes, and restaurants, a ruined castle to explore and harbour-side walks to enjoy.

Check venues and their facebook pages for opening times and menus.

There is a well-stocked Coop that is open 7 days a week, plus a greengrocer, The Larder, a local fishmonger (behind Castle Street) and a specialist shellfish outlet – Prentices – next to the ferry terminal to Portavadie. Don’t miss the Whisky Shop!