Kilchiaran Bay

Bay in Argyllshire

Scotland

Kilchiaran Bay

Disused quarry at Rubha na h-Airde MÃ²ire Credit: Mick Garratt

Kilchiaran Bay is a picturesque bay located on the western coast of Argyllshire, Scotland. It is nestled between the villages of Kilchiaran and Portnahaven, approximately 10 miles southwest of the town of Port Charlotte. The bay offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is known for its rugged beauty and tranquil atmosphere.

The bay is surrounded by rolling hills and cliffs, providing a dramatic backdrop to the sandy beach that stretches along its shoreline. The beach is composed of golden sand and is popular among locals and visitors alike for its scenic walks, beachcombing, and birdwatching opportunities.

Kilchiaran Bay is also renowned for its rich wildlife. It is a designated Special Protection Area (SPA) and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its importance for breeding and wintering birds. Visitors may spot various species of seabirds, including guillemots, razorbills, and puffins, as well as seals and otters that frequent the bay.

The bay is easily accessible by car, with a small parking area located nearby. There are no facilities or amenities directly at the bay, so visitors are advised to bring their own provisions. However, the nearby villages of Kilchiaran and Portnahaven offer a range of accommodation options, including bed and breakfasts and self-catering cottages.

In summary, Kilchiaran Bay is a stunning coastal gem in Argyllshire, offering a peaceful and picturesque retreat for nature lovers and those seeking solace in Scotland's natural beauty.

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Kilchiaran Bay Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.752338/-6.4680725 or Grid Reference NR1960. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Disused quarry at Rubha na h-Airde MÃ²ire

Mick Garratt

Kilchiaran Bay

Mick Garratt

Creag Bealach na Caillich â Granny's Crag

Mick Garratt

Disused military buildings

Mick Garratt

Winter view south-east from Cnoc nam Muc-chlach, Islay

Becky Williamson

Kilchiaran Bay, Islay

With ruined chapel in distance.

Becky Williamson

View north from Cnoc nam Muc-chlach

The view north from near the hilltop transmitters above Machir Bay.

Gordon Hatton

Old Woman's Pass

Old Woman's Pass is the name given to this old track which crosses the headland between Kilchoman and Kilchiaran. The splendid view northwards is along the beach at Machir Bay.

Gordon Hatton

Machir Bay

To the right is the path leading down to the beach from Old Woman's Pass. A fine stretch of sand backed by dunes and machair where the corncrake can often be heard, but rarely seen.

Gordon Hatton

Cill Chiarain

The church of Saint Ciaron, this church originates from around 1200.

Andrew Wood

Kilchiaran Farm

The farmstead of Kilchiaran on the Rinns of Islay.

Andrew Wood

Road to Kilchiaran

The road passing through high banks close to Kilchiaran.

Andrew Wood

Granny Rock

The profile of an old woman or 'Caillich' can be seen on this rock between Machir Bay and Kilchiaran. It is best viewed from the north. For a context photo, see NR2061 : Granny Rock, Islay.

Becky Williamson

Granny Rock, Islay

The profile of an old woman or 'Caillich' can be seen in this rock face between Machir Bay to the north and Kilchiaran to the south. It is best viewed from the north. For a closer picture, see NR2061 : Granny Rock.

Becky Williamson

Footbridge across the Abhainn na Braid, Islay

This footbridge is marked on my older version of the 1:25 000 Explorer map of Islay north, but not on the newer version that Geograph uses - the opposite way round of the water butt photo - see NR2162 : Farm Track near Machir Bay, Islay

Becky Williamson

Ruin near Kilchiaran, Islay

Marked as simply two rectangles on the Explorer map, with no name, the inhabitants of this erstwhile dwelling house surely enjoyed true tranquility. What stories could this lonely dwelling share?

Becky Williamson

Ruin near Kilchiaran, Islay

Marked as simply two rectangles on the Explorer map, with no name, the inhabitants of this erstwhile dwelling house surely enjoyed true tranquility. What stories could this lonely dwelling share?

Becky Williamson