TAYVALLICH

Its position in a sheltered inlet called Loch a' Bhealaich on the east coast of a narrow peninsula at the upper end of Loch Sween has earned Tayvallich a reputation as an ideal place for watersports, and the village has its own Sailing Club. As well as regular races, the club holds a regatta with participants coming from far and wide, and the annual Jura Race. The beauty of the surroundings has also proved a magnet for artists. The peninsula at this point is only around 1 kilometer wide, meaning that Carsaig Bay on the west coast is just a short hop away, from where there are wonderful views across the Sound of Jura to the islands of Scarba and Jura. Nature lovers should head for the nearby Taynish National Nature Reserve, where the oak woodlands are home to the enchanting red squirrel, and the shoreline is visited by otters, while In springtime the reserve is carpeted with wild flowers. For hikers wanting to strike out in search of the diverse wildlife of the reserve there are walking trails, such as the elevated Barr Mor trail, with views over the peninsula. Each year in July the Tayvallich Weekend is held in the village of Tayvallich, with a range of activities and entertainment on offer.

Map of the area.

Tayvallich. Photo by E. Gammie, via Wikimedia Commons.