"A Fine Day Out on Kerrera" by Karen and Lyndsey
28 July 2025
Hello everyone! It’s Karen and Lyndsey here- some of you know us from the pub, where Lyndsey makes the Aperol Sprtizes and Karen drinks them (well-deserved after she’s put in a shift cleaning)!
We had a shared day off recently, and with the forecast looking decent, we decided to take Ozzy and Bailey for an adventure over to Kerrera. It turned into one of those days that fills you right up with good air, good company and good views. So we thought we’d tell you how it went, in case you haven’t been and are tempted to give it a go yourself.
The Ferry and First Footsteps
We caught the wee passenger ferry from Gallanach just south of Oban- it only takes a few minutes, and Bailey was more excited than any of the kids onboard. Once landed, we set off clockwise around the island, heading south first toward the tea garden and Gylen Castle. The path is rough in places but nothing too tricky. Bailey tried to chase a rabbit within the first ten minutes (apologies to anyone who heard the shouting), but she was soon back with us and we headed onwards.
Ahoy- A Wreck!
Karen photographed a shipwreck in Horse Shoe Bay, the rusted hull of an old fishing boat, weathered and left to deteriorate against the rocky shoreline. The atmospheric wreck was a quiet landmark and an evocative backdrop to the rugged beauty of the bay.
Gylen Castle: A View and a Breather
Gylen Castle was our first real stop, and what a spot. It sits dramatically on a clifftop, watching over the Firth of Lorn like something out of a film. We let the dogs have a splash in the water while we climbed up and explored the ruins. From the top, you can see across to Mull and even over to Jura on a clear day. There’s something deeply peaceful about sitting there with the sea breeze in your hair/ fur, looking out over it all.
Unexpected Wildlife Encounters
We’d barely left the castle behind when we spotted something moving in the heather ahead: more rabbits, calmly munching on the grass. They clocked us but didn’t run- Ozzy didn’t notice them at all. (Not the sharpest lad when it comes to wildlife!) A bit further along, we saw a buzzard circling high above the track. We’re fairly sure there were stonechats darting between fence posts too- small but very busy birds!
The Tea Garden That Saved Us
Around lunchtime, we reached the Kerrera Tea Garden: a welcome sight indeed. If you’re walking the full loop, this is the perfect place to stop. We each had something to eat and drink while the dogs snored under the table. The folks who run it are lovely, and it has lots of outdoor seating so dogs are very welcome. There are also compost loos and a water tap, which is handy if you’re running low.
Wildflowers and Western Views
The west side of the island has a wilder, more rugged feel. The cliffs drop steeply to the sea in places, and as we walked through meadowsweet, it smelled amazing- like crushed herbs and salt air. There were gulls, of course, but also gannets (maybe?!) diving for fish though we didn’t have the binoculars to confirm it. Lyndsey took loads of photos but didn’t manage to catch any of the wildlife since Bailey barked and scared them all off. Classic.
The Final Stretch and the Ferry Home
By the time we reached the northern tip and started looping back toward the ferry, we were all starting to flag – even Bailey. We passed a few cyclists (e-bikes, smart move) and exchanged weary but happy nods. The ferry came into sight and we made it back to Gallanach just after 4pm, ready for tea, toast, and a lie-down.
Top Tips If You’re Thinking of Going
- Footwear: Sturdy boots recommended. It’s not hard, but it’s uneven in places.
- Dogs: Very dog-friendly but keep leads handy—especially for rabbits and other wildlife.
- Bring water – especially in summer: There’s only one stop for refreshments.
- Time it right: The full loop is about 6-7 miles. Allow a full day if you’re taking it easy and want to stop and take it all in.
A Good Day in Good Company
We’d honestly recommend this walk to anyone, whether you’re after wildlife, fresh air, a bit of history, or just somewhere different to stretch your legs. We’re already planning to go back in autumn, maybe take the binoculars and a flask next time.
Karen, Lyndsey, Ozzy & Bailey xxx
