2025 Islay and Jura Sea Kayak Trip Day 9 Tarbet and Lochgilphead

So we woke early after a sheltered night from the remains of Storm Erin. The Crinnan Canal campsite next to lock 10 was our favourite overnight stop. (There is a campervan overnight parking area there, but a nice area for tents next to the lock gate).

 Ex-Hurricane Erin’s remnants were predicted to bring rain and wind to the UK around August 25-26, 2025, with the Met Office issuing warnings for potential heavy downpours and flooding in Wales and other areas. While the hurricane itself wouldn’t hit, its weakening system was expected to cause a significant shift in weather after a period of dry, hot weather. 

We packed up and headed back to Tarbet and to our favourite cafe – Cafe Ca Dora. We enjoyed a leisurely breakfast and then set about discussing options for the last 4 days of our trip. It was clear that we would not get settled conditions, and any paddling would be a little “bitty”. Dave was using his road atlas to help plan options, and then someone spotted Loch Awe. This was an inland option, but would be ideal for a more sheltered option given the forecast. It did not take long for everyone to agree on the Loch and castles trip from Tuesday to Friday.

We paid the bill and then explored the harbour and the surrounding town. We found several signs advertising the NW Coast Kayak trail, but then it was time to find a campsite and to prepare for the next part of our trip.

Debbie had stayed at the campsite at Lochgilphead before, and we headed there to see our options. It proved ideal with good showers, a quality grass pitch with picnic benches and a friendly owner. We spent the rest of the day sorting gear and relaxing. We ate in the best restaurant in town, the 2-star Indian and were glad we had booked, as we took up most of the tables.