Tranquil Escape
Beautiful Davaar at the mouth of Campbeltown Loch offers a unique trip for walkers and birdwatchers
IF you’re looking for a real escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, you can’t get further away from it all than Davaar Island. Situated off the Mull of Kintyre to the east of Campbeltown, this tiny isle is accessed from the mainland using the Dhorlin, a causeway that is crossable twice daily at low tide. You can take your car, or walk the 3km (1.8 miles) from Campbeltown, but make sure to consult the safe tide times before making the crossing!
Davaar is a hotspot of birdlife, so bring your binoculars and keep an eye on the skies to spot species like Lesser Scaup, Grey Phalarope and Todd’s Canada Goose.
There are seven caves to explore, but the most popular is Crucifixion Cave, where you can spot an unusual mural. In 1887, artist Archibald Mackinnon painted an image of Jesus Christ on the cross on the cave wall which, thanks to a few restorations, can still be seen today.
Take a stroll from the cave to the famous Davaar Lighthouse and enjoy the fantastic views. The automated lighthouse was built in 1854, and its commanding vista out to sea will make it a highlight of your visit.
There are two luxury holiday cottages for guests to stay on the island as well as two cabins near the lighthouse. The cabins, known as the Minke Cabin and Barnacle Pod, look out to sea and give guests the chance to wake up to the amazing sight of dolphins, seals and aptly enough, minke whales.
For a quiet weekend or a calming Scottish trip, Davaar Island is one of Argyll’s hidden treasures, a small
island that is certainly unique.