The Cowal Peninsula is as beautiful as it is diverse, from the towering Munros of the north to the mellow scenery and sea lochs of the south. Paddle steamers used to bring throngs of Glaswegian holidaymakers ‘doon the water' to its shores.
Today you will find plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, including kayaking, sailing, walking and the chance to explore Cowals beaches.
Cowal’s major town, Dunoon, hosts the Cowal Highland Gathering, the biggest Highland Games in the UK and Europe, and other events, including the World Highland Dancing Championships. Dunoon is also home to the outstanding Benmore Botanic Gardens.
Head southwest and you’ll come to Argyll’s Secret Coast, an undiscovered area of sparkling sea lochs and picturesque villages. Here you can enjoy some world-class sailing experiences.
Robin McKelvie, Award-winning Travel Writer & Broadcaster says there's something about Cowal, whilst giving us insight into what makes Cowal so wonderful to visit all year round. Is it the Unique art of the Ark or is it the beautiful Cowal landscape, which makes Cowal a must-visit destination?
You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to woodlands in Cowal. Argyll Forest Park stretches across much of Cowal and there are precious pockets of ancient Atlantic oakwoods hugging the coast.
Wood you believe it? There more many magical woodland areas in Argyll & the Isles than you can s...
Travel to and from Cowal by bus or car via the A82 along Loch Lomondside and then the A83 over the Rest and Be Thankful, turning south onto the A815 shortly before Cairndow – or by ferry across The Firth of Clyde from Gourock.
A passenger ferry operated by Argyll Ferries links the train station and the car ferry operated by Western Ferries runs from McInroys Point to Hunter’s Quay.
Alternatively, you can take the ferry from Wemyss Bay to Rothesay on the Isle of Bute,
then across to Cowal at the north of the island on the Rhubodach to Colintraive ferry.
