Loch Lomond and Cowal Way
The first section of the 57-mile Loch Lomond and Cowal Way takes you from Portavadie to Tighnabruaich through Argyll's Secret Coast. You’ll pass through beautiful coastal scenery, with the first section taking you high along a forest path to a lookout point with views of Loch Fyne. The second section from Tighnabruaich to Glendaruel takes you along a lovely coastal track via Caladh Harbour, with plenty of opportunities for your dog to take a refreshing dip! Portavadie, at the start of the walk, has some dog-friendly accommodations.
Ostel Bay
Ostel Bay is perhaps Cowal’s most beautiful beach. This crescent-shaped sweep of sand is the perfect place to let your dog run free and splash in the waves. It’s a good walk along the length of the beach. It takes about 20 minutes to walk down to the beach along a track. There are sheep in the neighbouring fields, so keep your dog under control. A few miles up the road is Botanica at the Barn, a lovely dog-friendly café where you can sit outside on a sunny day and enjoy a locally roasted coffee.
Ardentinny to Carrick Castle
For a longer walk with your dog, try the seven-mile linear walk from Ardentinny to Carrick Castle. This walk follows the western shore of two beautiful sea lochs, Loch Long and Loch Goil, from Ardentinny to Carrick Castle. Most of the walk is along forest tracks.
Toward Point
Some smashing short coastal dog walks are near Toward Quay, which is located around seven miles south of Dunoon. You can access most of the walks from Ardyne Car Park. Check out the map of various routes at the car park. One great option if your dog likes a hill walk is a two-hour trail, which includes climbing Toward Hill. The coastal views are tremendous, with views to Arran, Bute, Kintyre and Loch Lomond.
Loch Eck
The narrow seven-mile-long stretch of Loch Eck is located north of the town of Dunoon. Set within Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, it’s a beautiful location with craggy hills rising steeply above the serene water. From Inverchapel car park, you can walk along the eastern shore of Loch Eck to Whistlefield. You’ll climb up through woodland at one point, but the views across the loch are still stunning. It’s also possible to walk along the western shoreline on the Loch Eck Loop. This 21-mile route through remote terrain is a full day for fit and experienced walkers only. The section of forest track along the western shore of Lock Eck to Benmore Botanical Gardens is delightful, passing through peaceful forest and past many tranquil beaches.
Where to stay in Cowal?
There's plenty of choice when it comes to places to stay in Cowal. Carry Farm and Ruskin Lodges provide you with the perfect escape to nature, whereas Loch Riddon Bothy and Innellan Cottages are the ideal romantic getaway for couples. Travelling with the whole family? The Hollies, Baileyfield Self-Catering and Stratheck Holiday Park are fantastic options for those seeking a larger place for the whole family to stay. Prefer to stay at a hotel? Portavadie, the Kames Hotel and Douglas Park Guesthouse are fantastic options. Discover all places to stay in Cowal here.
