The Cowal Peninsula - Top 10 Picks

1.Benmore Botanic Gardens 

 

Walk along Benmore’s avenue of towering redwoods and you gain a sense of the age and stature of this mountainside garden. Highlights include spring rhododendron displays and the Victorian fernery.

rbge.org.uk

 

2. Studio Cinema

 

A great place to catch all of the major Hollywood films to entertain families. Catering for all ages with great snacks, drinks and comfortable seating – the perfect way to while away a few hours with the kids or enjoy a movie on a date night! Check out the current listings at studiocinema.co.uk

 

3. Dunoon

 

This Victorian resort retains its traditional seaside charm. Explore the shops, stroll along the promenade (under the gaze of a statue of Robert Burns’ sweetheart, Highland Mary) or paddle at West Bay.

 

4. Castle House Museum

 

Dunoon Castle was abandoned in the 17th century, but its site still boasts impressive views. Nearby Castle House Museum is a treasure-trove of local artefacts and was built partly using stone from the original castle.

Castlehousemuseum.org.uk

5. Ardentinny Beach

 

Keep your eyes peeled on Ardentinny Beach – for seals in the water, raptors above and treasures such as pebbles and shells at your feet. Picnic on the beach, or explore buggy-friendly trails nearby.

 

6. Puck’s Glen

 

A magical spot with an appropriately magical name, Puck’s Glen is a deep gorge with a cascade of waterfalls set in shady forest near Benmore Gardens. Will you encounter the forest sprites? Check ahead as may be closed due to storm damage clear-up

 

7. The Smiddy

 

This 19th-century blacksmith’s forge remains operational as the heart of a tiny, fascinating folk museum in the village of Strachur.

 

8. Loch Eck

 

A seven-mile ribbon of fresh water, Loch Eck teems with fish, including the rare powan, salmon, and arctic char. There are paths for walkers, including to the Paper Caves, where key local documents are said to have been hidden.

 

9. Glenfinart Walled Garden

 

Originally the kitchen garden of the Glenfinart Estate, this Victorian walled garden is now community owned and run. Explore the sensory garden, children’s area, orchards and raised beds. Dogs welcome on leads.

 

10. Lochgoilhead

 

Lochgoilhead is a stunning village nestled between mountains and Loch Goil. Don’t miss the Carrick Castle ruins, The Goil Inn for lunch, dinner and live music, Loch Goil Cruisers for boat hire and nearby Drimsynie Estate for family fun, spa treatments, and cosy lodge stays.

Incredible views in every direction.