At the south-west corner of Cowal you’ll come to Argyll’s Secret Coast, an undiscovered area of sparkling sea lochs and ancient forests. Discover fabulous seafood, welcoming pubs, a wide range of holiday accommodation, a vibrant arts scene, breathtaking scenery, ancient sites and loads of outdoor activities.
This is world-class sailing country, with islands, natural harbours, sheltered beaches, anchorages and shore-side facilities. There’s also excellent walking, cycling and kayaking on offer. Make sure you visit Ostel Bay, a stunning white sandy beach.
Image and Video Credit: James F E Raeburn
To mark the Secret Regatta, we're pleased to share with you Thoughts From A Puffer Skipper, a new piece of writing by the legendary Nick Walker, Skipper of the Puffer, ‘Steam Lighter VIC 32'.
To mark the Secret Regatta, we're pleased to share with you A Bone In Her Teeth, a new piece of writing by the Secret Diary, which celebrates sailing on the Secret Coast.
In the second in our series of stories about Argyll’s Secret Coast, come with us on an adventure int...
A fabulous foodie event on the beautiful island of Colonsay.
Tours, trips and trails
Relax, kick back and enjoy the sights and sounds of a cruise with Argyll Cruising.
Walking and climbing
The Loch Lomond & Cowal Way, is one of Scotland’s Great Trails. It runs for 57 miles (92 km) across the Cowal Peninsula, starting at Portavadie on Loch Fyne and ending at Inveruglas on Loch Lomond shore.
Beaches and islands
This crescent-shaped sweep of sand is the jewel in the crown of Argyll’s Secret Coast.
Tours, trips and trails
Join ex-naval commander Donald Clark on board his refurbished fishing boat Morag for spectacular views of Argyll’s Secret Coast from the sea.
Landmarks and attractions
Dunans Castle sits at the head of Glendaruel. The seat of the Clan Fletcher, the historic structure was shown on maps as far back as 1590.
Cycling and mountain biking
National Route 75 of the National Cycle Network connects Leith with Portavadie and Tarbert via Edinburgh, Glasgow and the ferries between Gourock and Dunoon.
Wildlife and nature
Glenbranter Forest is part of the Argyll Forest Park, a magnificent stretch of rugged hill country
Golf
The Kyles of Bute course offers truly panoramic views across the water to the Island of Bute.
Music, art and culture
Tig Gallery is a fantastic art gallery sitting at the heart of the seaside village of Tighnabruaich on Argyll's Secret Coast.
Cycling and mountain biking
This cycle route near Portavadie may be short, but it’s a gem. It offers stunning scenery, epic views, a loch, a ruined castle and some great, but not too challenging, off-road riding.
Walking and climbing
This is a short walk takes you high above Tighnabruaich along the Back Road and returns along the shorefront. It gives you amazing elevated views.
Walking and climbing
This circular walk around Carry Point is a cracker, with magnificent views of Bute, Inchmarnock and Arran, a flock of Hebridean sheep and some fabulous wildlife.
Walking and climbing
Kilfinan Community Forest is a wonderful woodland environment to explore, with a range of walks and wildlife to discover.
Fishing and country sports
Fly fish for brown and rainbow trout on three stocked lochs set amidst wild and beautiful scenery near Tighnabruaich, Argyll.
Food and drink
Enjoy locally roasted coffee and the very best of local produce at this lovely rural cafe.
Food and drink
The Oystercatcher is a pub and restaurant on the east banks of Loch Fyne at Otter Ferry. The location is pretty unbeatable, as it sits right on the beach looking out over the loch.
Food and drink
Pick up seasonal organic produce from Evanachan Farm, eggs, fresh flowers, jams, chutneys and Fi's cheese made with milk from her Jersey cows.
Food and drink
Kames Village Store is a traditional grocers based in the heart of Kames on Argyll’s Secret Coast.
Accommodation
Carry Farm sits in 60 acres of coastal wilderness on the Kyles of Bute about two miles south of Kames. It’s an idyllic spot for a self-catering holiday. You can also enjoy The dairy Gallery
Accommodation
Portavadie provides stunning four- and five-star holiday accommodation right on the banks of Loch Fyne.
Accommodation
Tregortha is a traditional stone-built Victorian villa from the 19th century in the village of Tighnabruaich.
Accommodation
This beautifully renovated 18th-century Georgian laird’s house provides luxury self-catering accommodation for eleven.
Accommodation
The seven pretty holiday cottages at Home Farm at Glendaruel sit in the peaceful wooded valley of the River Ruel.
Accommodation
The Hollies is a new luxury, exclusive use holiday home in the beautiful village of Tighnabruaich on Argyll's Secret Coast. Opening early 2021.
Landmarks and attractions
The Argyll Botany Company is small natural skincare business based in Tighnabruaich on Argyll's Secret Coast.
Food and drink
Crossroads Pet & Garden Centre on the Crossroads in Millhouse near Tighnabruaich is a treasure trove of a shop.
Food and drink
Northern Lights Cakery is an artisan baker of bespoke cakes and treats based in Glendaruel on the beautiful west coast of Scotland
Music, art and culture
The Hayshed Gallery is a new space for exhibiting textiles and ceramics all made at Carry Farm.
Watersports and diving
You can walk here from Portavadie across the headland or follow the farm vehicle access path past Stillaig Farm. A narrow isthmus separates two shallow bays, which are both great places to beach comb at low tide and lovely for a summer swim.
