This short walk explores the coastline to the west of the stunningly situated village of Machrihanish. There are good sandy beaches, superb views across to Rathlinn island and Ireland, and great bird-watching opportunities.
Summary
Tracks to the Gauldrons; optional variant return can be wet underfoot
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1. There is a parking area in Machrihanish at the start of the beach in the village centre. Begin the walk by continuing along the road to the west. Stop for a moment at the bus turning area; there is a colony of grey seals near here which is usually visible on the rocks by detouring to the right for just a few yards.
2. Continue along the road, which curves left away from the stunning shoreline past a white house. As the road climbs slightly to a bungalow, turn right onto a track - signed for the Bird Observatory and the Gauldings. Head through the gate and follow the track as it curves round above a lovely bay.
3. Fork right at the junction and continue past the Marine laboratory buildings. Beyond these there is a small wooden hut to the right. This is a bird observatory run by enthusiastic local volunteer bird-watchers. It is usually manned from Easter to October, and with its great outlook over Machrihanish bay and position on migration routes it offers a great opportunity to spot birds of the sea and shore.
4. After visiting the observatory it is worth cutting up the white triangulation point. The views across the sea are superb on a fine day, with Northern Ireland visible as well as Rathlinn island and the Scottish isles of Gigha, Jura and Islay. Continue down the other side from the pillar to join the other branch of the track as it runs behind an attractive pebble beach.
5. Continue along the track to reach the Gouldings, a dramatic beach of rocks, shingle and sand backed by cliffs. After exploring the beach, you can either return the same way or vary the route slightly by following a boggy track which climbs up from the shore at the near end of the Gouldings and gives good views across it.
6. When the track reaches a gate in a fence, turn left alongside the fence. When the ground permits slope back down to the track at the back of the pebble bay before returning to Machrihanish.
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