Kintra Farm - Frachdale - Grasdale - Kintra Farm

The first half of this walk is on well-defined farm tracks as it steadily climbs a low ridge. The track then divides into several as it descends the valley the other side with opportunities to explore ruined croft buildings. These were once more numerous but, being turf-walled, many have now sunk into the ground. Tockmal, shown on the Explorer map on the far side of the valley, is the oldest settlement of the area. A little further on are the remains of a chapel.
The route then proceeds down to a particularly interesting stretch of coast. Soldiers Rock is a sea stack in front of a large cave which is only accessible by boat – so called because of its upright posture and diagonal band of quartz which resembles a soldier's shoulder belt. There is also a magnificent sea arch – see general photo. Take care not to fall down the cliffs when exploring this spectacular spot and closely supervise any children. Similarly when leaving to embark on the last leg of the walk back to Kintra along the coast, it is important to walk inland first to gain some height before turning left along one of the many sheep tracks. There is much choice of routes on this leg – I have described the way I went! ( Anyone wanting to add their own experiences or any helpful tips for others do feel free to use the comment facility!) However with the sea on your left hand side and the hill on your right hand side it is impossible to get lost!
My bird sightings included swallow wheatear, skylark and eider duck. Other species to look out for are golden eagle, corncrake and chough.

At the start of the walk a notice advises walkers to give the cattle grazing on the hillside a wide berth even if it means leaving the track (I did not find this a problem – plenty of room for both cattle and walkers) and also that no dogs are allowed on the walk by order of the landowner. In addition the walk is a bit boggy in places.

Scotland - Central Scotland - Argyll and Bute - Islay

Walk id: 6005

Walk grade

Moderate Walk

Length

4.7 Miles

Height gain

90 Metres

Duration

2 Hours 1 Mins

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