Ostel Bay is simply stunning. This crescent-shaped sweep of sand is the jewel in the crown of Argyll’s Secret Coast. Walk over the dunes and the beach stretches out ahead of you with Arran on the horizon. On a sunny day it’s the perfect place to spend the day, paddling, sun-bathing and swimming. There’s plenty of room for a game of rounders or football when the tide’s out. It’s a good walk along the length of the beach, and there are plenty of opportunities for beach combing – look out for the lovely shells.

To get there, you walk down the track by Kilbride Farm. The track passes through beautiful farm land and woodland. When you reach the gate, you’ll see a ‘to the beach’ sign. Turn right and follow the path which will take you across springy machair that’s full of flowers in the summer. It’s about a fifteen-minute walk in total.

Park Sensibly

Ostel Bay is huge, so even in the summer it never feels crowded. However parking is a bit of an issue. You can park in the layby by Kilbride Farm, but it does get quite full. There’s another area where you can park just up the hill past Kilbride Farm. Please don’t block the road. This has happened on sunny days during the holidays, with badly parked cars blocking traffic from passing. It’s absolutely critical that emergency vehicles should be able to pass. If a car is blocking the road, you should call 101 and let the police know and the vehicle will be removed.

Better Still, Cycle

It’s a glorious cycle to Ostel Bay from Portavadie. Follow the quiet coastal road that loops around the Ardlamont Peninsula. There are a few hills, but nothing too strenuous. Hire your bikes from our main reception and set out to spend a day at the beach.

Please bring all your rubbish back with you, leave the beach as you find it for everyone to enjoy. Thank you!