If you’re planning a short break during the October holidays (or anytime of the year for that matter) then look no further than Campbeltown and South Kintyre. Here are a few suggestions for what to do and where to stay.
For Golfers
The area around Campbeltown is blessed with some fabulous links courses. You can find out more about where to play in my previous blog, “Kintyre: the Almighty had golf in his eye when he made this place’. The Village at Machrihanish Dunes is running a special ‘Machtoberfest’ promotion throughout October. As well as unlimited golf at Machrihanish Dunes Golf Club and discounted golf at neighbouring Machrihanish Golf Club, guests can enjoy food and drink specials and live music every weekend in the Mach Dunes pubs and restaurants.
The Machtoberfest package starts from £159 per person and includes a 2-night stay for two people in the four-star Ugadale Hotel & Cottages, Daily cooked breakfasts, £20 per person food and drink voucher for any of their pubs or restaurants plus unlimited Golf at Machrihanish Dunes and discounted Golf at Machrihanish Golf Club.
For Families
For an active, outdoorsy break, this place is hard to beat – whatever the weather! Our beaches,coastline and forestry tracks offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and even if the weather gets a bit wild there’s plenty to keep everyone occupied – head to the swimming pool, the historic cinema or hire the community centre sports hall for a family badminton tournament.
Sitting just on the edge of the pretty village of Machrihanish, The Machrihanish Holiday Park, with its choice of lodges, caravans or glamping-style wigwams offers the perfect opportunity to get closer to nature and experience the great outdoors without foregoing any home comforts (unless you want to of course!).
They are offering 30% off October Breaks on all Caravans, Lodges, Wigwams and
Touring Pitches when booked online.
For Whisky Fans
With three single malt distilleries, an independent bottler and a whisky shop all within the town itself, it’s no surprise that Campbeltown is becoming more and more popular as a whisky destination. Springbank, Kilkerran and Glen Scotia are all open to visitors and offer a range of tours and tastings to suit every taste and budget. Don’t forget to check out the Cadenhead’s Warehouse Tours and Shop too.
The Ardshiel Hotel, with its award-winning whisky bar, makes a great base to explore from; it’s easy walking distance from all the whisky attractions and the perfect place to relax with a dram (or a craft beer, or one of their ever increasing range of gins) in the evening.
For Couples
Treat yourself to an autumn break at the newly renovated boutique guesthouse, Carradales, on the East Coast of the Kintyre Peninsula. Offering both woodland and beach walks and a picturesque working harbour to explore, the peaceful village of Carradale is the perfect location for a romantic escape. It also has its very own gin distillery on nearby Torrisdale Estate where you can take a tour or just visit their lovely shop and tasting room.
Carradales are offering a Dinner, Bed and Breakfast rate any day in October and November, including weekends, for £260 per room. (Minimum stay 2 nights)
This is just a small selection of what Campbeltown and the surrounding villages have to offer. You can check out more accommodation options and things to see and do here.
