Westport Beach

The beach at Westport feels properly remote, which is half the appeal if you're after somewhere quiet on the Argyll coast. It's a sweep of sand backed by low dunes and rough grass, with decent views across to Kintyre. The shore itself is mixed - sand and shingle depending on the tide - and the water's cold enough that you'll want a wetsuit unless you're genuinely hardy.

This isn't a resort beach with deckchairs and ice cream vans. What you get is space, clean air, and the kind of emptiness that makes you remember why you left the city. Low tide reveals more sand and a few rock pools worth investigating if you've got kids in tow, though they'll get bored if the mood isn't right. Walkers will find it works as a pleasant half-hour stroll either direction along the coast.

Tarbert, just up the road, is the nearest proper town if you need provisions or a cup of tea. The whole area suits people who actually want to do something - walking, kayaking, or just sitting with a book without anyone bothering them. If you're staying at Killegruer Caravan Site, which is only a few miles away, this is a decent option for a lazy afternoon when the weather cooperates. Parking's informal and free; just pull up near the dunes and go. It's free to visit, naturally, and there's nothing to book or organise. Just turn up.