Explore the Cowal Peninsula
For those eager to experience the highlights of the West Highlands without an extended journey, Cowal offers the perfect escape. The start of the Cowal peninsula is just 15-minutes by bus or car from Inveraray, an hour from Glasgow or an even quicker ferry ride from Gourock to Dunoon, this region delivers breathtaking landscapes that feel worlds away from the city.
Cowal’s accessibility made it a beloved steamer trip destination in the early 1900s, shaping Dunoon into the charming seaside town it is today. Visitors can still take in the timeless appeal of the waterfront promenade, where the statue of Highland Mary gazes south toward Robert Burns’ Ayrshire home. Stroll through town to explore independent shops offering local produce and gifts, or step back in time at Castle House Museum, which tells the story of Dunoon’s rich heritage.
Just beyond the town, Benmore Botanic Garden is a must-visit. Nestled in the lush mountainside, this 120-acre wonderland welcomes visitors with an awe-inspiring avenue of giant redwoods. As you wander through themed plantings - from the Tasmanian Ridge to a Bhutanese Glade - you’ll encounter a vibrant display of flora, particularly in spring when azaleas and rhododendrons burst into color.
Nature lovers are drawn to Cowal’s dramatic landscape, where craggy coastlines meet dense forests and towering mountains. Hikers and cyclists can explore scenic trails that range from gentle paths to more rugged backcountry routes. The region’s coastal waters also offer unforgettable experiences, whether you’re setting sail from one of Cowal’s marinas, kayaking along its shores, or diving into thrilling rib-boat adventures. For sailing enthusiasts, the area hosts a variety of yachting events, adding to its maritime charm.
Bring history to life at Historic Kilmun. This is a venue that holds so many stories on the spectacular banks of Holy Loch. Discover the history and burial places of Argyll’s Campbell Clan chiefs and Dukes dating back hundreds of years and take a peek at one of the UK’s only fully restored water-powered organs and the stunning stained glass windows designed by Stephen Adam and much more. www.historickilmun.org
Cowal’s forests are just as defining as its coastline. The Argyll Forest Park, stretching from the Holy Loch to the Arrochar Alps, showcases dramatic landscapes shaped by the Highland Boundary Fault. Its network of trails leads through enchanting woodland, past shimmering lochs and cascading waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for walkers of all abilities.
For breathtaking hill-walking, head to Glen Croe, home to the iconic Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint, where soldiers carved their gratitude into stone after building a military road in the 18th century. Nearby, Arrochar serves as a gateway to the Arrochar Alps, featuring The Cobbler, one of Scotland’s most renowned peaks for climbers and hikers alike.
Dunoon is also a thriving events hub, hosting everything from Punk on the Peninsula and the Argyll Rally to endurance races like the 52K Ultra Marathon and the 10K Coastal Road Race. The town’s festival calendar wouldn’t be complete without the Cowal Highland Gathering, one of the world’s premier Highland games.
Plan your trip and discover what’s on at www.dunoonpresents.co.uk
Dates for your diary
COWAL GATHERING HIGHLAND GAMES
28th - 30th August
cowalgathering.com
COWALFEST WALKING FESTIVAL
18th - 22th September
cowalfest.com
Latest News
JOBS
Fibre Installation Engineer - Highlands Region - Highland Broadband
Gas & Oil/ Refrigeration/ Air Conditioning Engineers/ Electricians - Granite Recruitment
Sign up to our daily Newsletter
Permission Statement
Yes! I would like to be sent emails from West Coast Today
I understand that my personal information will not be shared with any third parties, and will only be used to provide me with useful targeted articles as indicated.
I'm also aware that I can un-subscribe at any point either from each email notification or on My Account screen.
You may also like
Chieftains announced for Cowal Gathering 2025
Seeing Stars: Kintyre’s beautiful night sky
Latest News
JOBS
Fibre Installation Engineer - Highlands Region - Highland Broadband
Gas & Oil/ Refrigeration/ Air Conditioning Engineers/ Electricians - Granite Recruitment
Sign up to our daily Newsletters
Permission Statement
Yes! I would like to be sent emails from West Coast Today
I understand that my personal information will not be shared with any third parties, and will only be used to provide me with useful targeted articles as indicated.
I'm also aware that I can un-subscribe at any point either from each email notification or on My Account screen.
© 2026 Wyvex Media Limited.