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3 September 2021

It’s time for my first Hebridean island and a debut experience of a Calmac ferry. I wake up early in my hotel in Campbeltown and I’m excited about the trip. I have a full itinerary, including visits to Jura and Colonsay. I can’t wait.

The plan is to catch the morning ferry from Kennacraig to Islay. My route from Campbeltown takes me past Westport Beach, described as one of the best in Western Scotland, so it feels right that I stop here for a short walk first. It’s around 8am and deserted. The vast beach spans about six miles and is backed by the Machrihanish Dunes.  It’s a little miserable and grey, but it’s an invigorating start to the day.

I make my second trip to Westport as I head south on my tour of the Kintyre Peninsula in August 2022. This time the weather is better, with blue skies and moody clouds. The beach is busier too, with a few surfers catching the rolling waves. Dozens of jellyfish are washed up on the shore, which feels a little sad.