Dunoon & Cowal
Scotland's Adventure CoastDunoon and the Cowal peninsula are as beautiful and diverse, from towering mountains in the north to the mellow scenery and sea lochs of the south. Catch a boat trip from a variety of destinations in Cowal on one of the last sea-going paddle steamers in the world.
Cowal’s major town, Dunoon, is a wonderful destination for both weekend breaks and longer vacations. It also hosts the Cowal Highland Gathering, one of the largest Highland Games in the UK, and the World Highland Dancing Championships. Additionally, it features CowalFest, an annual walking festival, as well as a mix of sports, music, and family-focused events, all reflecting the broad appeal and the beautiful surrounding countryside.
Cowal's 'Secret Coast' has sparkling sea lochs and picturesque villages. Here you can enjoy some world-class sailing experiences and world-class food and drink.
Gaelic in Scotland
The indigenous language of Argyll contains a great richness of expression. Here we have shared a phrase from local Gaelic poetry about the Cowal peninsula.
Bha pìobairean am pàilteas ann (There were pipers in plenty there)
’S bu taitneach leinn an ceòl (And pleasant to us was the music)
Ann an éideamh fasanta (In fashionable uniform)
Mar chleachd bhith ann an Comhall (As used to be in Cowal)
Gaelic with thanks to CHARTS
Weekend Getaways and Fun-Packed Holidays
Enjoy visiting castles, exploring Cowal's beaches or gardens and outdoor activities for the more adventurous
Explore Dunoon & Cowal
Discover places to stay, eat & drink and things to do in and around Cowal.
Annie's Herb Kitchen
Annie’s Herb Kitchen is a small family run business based in rural Argyllshire on the West Coast of Scotland. We hand make seasoning salts using locally sour...
16A Unit
Kilmory Estate
Lochgilphead
PA31 8RR
Tel: +44 (0) 7423 595 768
Holiday Cottages West Coast - Tanamuir
The open plan cosy sitting /dining room has a wood-burning stove at its heart, with comfy seating to curl up around it while enjoying the gorgeous views over...
Strachur
PA27 8DE
Tel: 07585709992
Lochs, Bens & Glens
Lochs, Bens & Glens is a bicycle tour company based in Dunoon, Argyll. We’re here to guide you through one of the most stunning places in the world, expl...
Stores 1 & 2 Jura Building
Sandbank Business Park
Dunoon
PA23 8PB
Tel: 01369 554123
Tighnariddon Cottages Ltd
Teal and Shelduck Cottages, built in 2010, are in a magnificent position overlooking Loch Riddon. They are fully equipped with everything needed for a great...
Andrew & Sheila Barker
Tighnaruel
Glendaruel
Argyll
PA22 3AF
Tel: 07500661328
The Colintraive
Winner of Scotsman Gastropub 2024, The Colintraive is a family-run restaurant with rooms focusing on high-quality local produce, including fresh langoustines...
Kyles of Bute
Argyll
PA22 3AS
Tel: 01700 841207
Ballochyle Cottage
Pet friendly Ballochyle Cottage sleeps up to 10 guests and is ideal for families and groups of friends. Located in a quiet private estate, this spacious, sem...
Cottage 3, South Courtyard
Ballochyle
Sandbank
Dunoon
PA23 8RD
Live Argyll - Riverside Swim and Health Centre, Dunoon
Riverside Swim and Health Centre is situated on the promenade of Dunoon, close to the town centre. It is within easy walking distance of the local ferry term...
8 Moir Street
Dunoon
PA23 8AA
Tel: 01369 701170
The Snug
The Snug is a cosy detached cottage perfect for a relaxing retreat.
Many years ago The Snug was a haybarn - now it’s a cosy modern cottage which comfortably...
Trinity Lane
Innellan
Dunoon
PA23 7TS
Tel: 07979784825
TIGHNABRUAICH
Sitting on the shore of the beautiful Kyles of Bute, this little village lies on the rural west coast of Cowal.
CAIRNDOW
Lying in an idyllic setting at the head of Loch Fyne, near Inveraray and 'The Rest & Be Thankful'
TARBET & ARROCHAR
Villages located in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National and gateway to the Argyll Forest Park.
Explore Dunoon and Cowal's Places of Interest
Discover some special places of interest while staying in Dunoon and Cowal. Click on our map icons to discover where to see on your travels. If you see multiple icons clustered in one area, simply zoom in on the map to decluster the icons.
4 Places for Wild Swimming in Cowal | Argyll & the Isles
Wild Swimming along Cowal Pennisula is a fantastic way to embrace the open waters of Argyll & the Isles. Here are our top 4 places to wild swim in Cowal.
Where to go walking on the Cowal Peninsula | Argyll & the Isles
Whether you fancy a hill climb, a woodland walk, a coastal amble or a loch side stroll – or all four – Cowal is your perfect Scottish walking destination.
Be inspired by our latest itineraries!
Created by locals, just for youLocation based itineraries, created by locals, to help inspire you on what to do and see when visiting. From romantic getaways to seasonal trips and family holidays, to value breaks.
Dunoon & Cowal on YouTube
Immerse yourself in all things Dunoon & Cowal by watching our dedicated YouTube playlist for food and drink, activities and so much more!
Your destination for a magical wedding
Tie the knot in Argyll & the IslesWhether you're dreaming of a romantic beach ceremony on a secluded island or a traditional Scottish wedding in a historic castle, there are plenty of venues to choose from.
Planning your journey
Travelling to and from Cowal is commonly done 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.
It is possible to take ferries 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.
