Introduction

Tonight, I am reporting on the village of Tarbert in the county of Argyll & Bute, west of Scotland. This village is located directly west of Glasgow but the semi-circular road route covers 106 miles.

Information on Tarbert

In Scotland there are at least six places named Tarbert or Tarbet. The name means a strip of land where boats could be manhandled overland between two stretches of water. In this case the bodies of water are East Loch Tarbert and West Loch Tarbert. In the 11th century the Norwegian king, Magnus Barefoot, annexed the region of Kintyre. Barefoot executed this by having his ship dragged across the isthmus with himself at the helm.

Close by is the port of Kennacraig where ferries travel to the whisky island of Islay.

Other facts and information:

• Considered as the gateway to the peninsula of Kintyre.
• Population 1300.
• The busy harbour is used by fishermen and yachting enthusiasts,
• Hosts a seafood festival in July.
• Overlooking the village are the ruins of a 14th century castle.
• Close to four ferry terminals.
• Well endowed with tourist accommodation and restaurants.

Harbour

Loch Tarbert as viewed from Stonefield Castle

Tarbert Castle

More information

For more information on Scotland in general please refer Visitors’ Guide to Scotland, ISBN 978-1-9161332-0-4. This publication is also available via Kindle.