Taynuilt Travel Guide - Scotland

There are few countries more varied and beautiful than Scotland, and within this scenic country there are few places as lovely as Taynuilt. This good sized village is located in Argyll and Bute, right at the western entrance to a spectacular and narrow pass known as the Pass of Brander. It is a wonderful place to visit for all types of people with all kinds of interests and hobbies.

A natural crossing leads to a thriving village

Just east of Taynuilt is the River Awe, where it flows into the narrow part of Loch Etive in a place called Airds Bay. This narrow spot is a formed a natural crossing point for Scotland's travellers over the centuries so it was not surprising that the village of Taynuilt came about and continues to thrive. For many centuries Taynuilt was a resting spot for weary travellers as well as a launching off spot for those heading further up into the hills.

Because of its early importance as a way point, a number of historic churches were built in and around Taynuilt through the centuries. Many of these ruins are still visible and have become quite popular with visitors; examples include Killespickerill, Muckairn Parish Church, and Ardchattan Priory. The Ardchattan Priory is especially interesting because in 1308 it was the site where the Scottish Parliament held its final session in the Gaelic language.

Scenic beaches and a scenic village

The two main beaches of Taynuilt are Airds Bay and Kelly's Pier, both of which are lovely to explore. Scotland is known for its plentiful pebble beaches, and Airds Bay is a great example of this. From the shores of the bay you can see all the way to Duirinnis Hill as well as to Bonawe when the weather is clear. Kelly's Pier is home to a much smaller pebble beach, but it is somewhat more popular because it is a better location for launching small water craft and even rowboats out onto the waters of the loch.

As beautiful as the scenery is, the village itself is just as scenic. Because the main road runs around the outside of the village rather than right through the middle, the village remains pedestrian-friendly and filled with wonderful shops such as tearooms, gift stores, craft stores, and the like. It's a terrific place to stroll and spend the day.