Isle of Bute.

16-19th May 2024.

Leaders – Annette Morris, John Soady.

Participants – David Mawdsley, Sally Coleman, Sue Richardson, Dan Farley, Clare Farley.

We all happened to meet in the ferry queue at Wemyss Bay, waiting for Calmac to whisk us over to Rothesay on Bute. A quick look round the Victorian station there was definitely worthwhile. Porpoises were spotted from the ferry on a calm and sunny day, before we drove to Kilchattan bay – our start point.

We paddled south, making the most of the benign conditions, heading round the bottom of the island. A lovely campsite was found near Ardscalpsie point. Total distance 15.3 km.

Day 2 headed up the Kyles of Bute on the west coast. Finding one of Annettes famous cafes for a welcome break at Tighnabruaich. A chat to the lovely lady in the RNLI life boat station ensured our water stocks were replenished too. Sadly we missed their annual open day by a week – no venison burgers to be seen, but there were at least 2 cafes and a shop to be visited. Onwards north, avoiding “The Waverley” (iconic paddle steamer – very lovely to look at, but not known for its fine tuning on the steering/braking front.) The bracken had taken hold at the kayakers campsite near buttock point but plenty of room was found about 200m further on. Lovely views of the burnt isles with their resident population of birds. A total of 25.6 km.

Day 3, Now heading south towards Rothesay, with views back up loch Striven, slightly into the wind. The Rothesay victorian toilets near the ferry port worth a visit (the gents particularly – you wouldn’t believe the extravagant tiles!) Our last night was at the very south of Mount Stuart (former home to the Earl of Bute), some opted to camp on the beach and others just in the tree line. A wonderful spot and Annette made full use of an abandoned chair for her viewspot. 26.1 km.

Day 4. A short paddle to Glencallum bay, to enjoy the stunning headland views over to Arran. This would have been a good camping spot too. The drivers then returned to collect vehicles and take the ferry, whilst 4 members of the group opted to paddle back to Largs via Great Cumbrae and the coal terminal. All reunited at Largs marina. 23.8 km.

A wonderful trip, with many highlights and much laughter. Dolphins, porpoises, gannets feeding, art installations, culinary wonders, swimming and almost wall to wall SUNSHINE! (scotland at its very best!)

Thanks to Annette and John our leaders.