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 an excellent 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, along with 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. For nature enthusiasts and photographers, Cowal offers endless opportunities to spot land and marine wildlife.
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
Why visit Cowal?
Exploring Argyll's Secret CoastThe Cowal Peninsula stands as one of Scotland's best-kept secrets. From the white sand beaches of Argyll's Secret Coast to lush rolling hills and ancient rainforest, this peninsula presents an extraordinary diversity of landscapes within a remarkably compact area.
Cowal feels wonderfully remote whilst remaining surprisingly convenient to reach. Easily reached from Glasgow, Cowal's unique location has made it a beloved destination since the Victorian ages for visitors seeking to escape the hustle & bustle of city life.
What truly sets Cowal apart is its authentic character. Expect traditional villages, family-run businesses, a thriving arts scene and a strong sense of community that welcomes visitors with open arms.
Weekend Getaways and Fun-Packed Holidays
Enjoy visiting castles, exploring Cowal's beaches or gardens and outdoor activities for the more adventurous
Dunoon's Rich Victorian Heritage
Dunoon's story is one of remarkable transformation, evolving from a modest coastal settlement into one of Scotland's premier Victorian resort towns. The town began its rise to prominence in the 1820s when wealthy Glasgow merchants discovered its charms and built impressive mansions along the shoreline. With the arrival of paddle steamers like the PS Waverley in the late 19th century, Dunoon rapidly became the destination of choice for Glaswegians travelling "doon the watter" for their holidays, establishing a tourism tradition that continues to this day.
The Statue of Highland Mary
Among Dunoon's most cherished landmarks is the statue of Highland Mary. Erected in 1896, the statue of Robert Burns' 'Highland Mary' Campbell stands on Castle Hill overlooking the Firth of Clyde. Mary Campbell was born in the Dunoon area in 1763 and became the beloved companion of Robert Burns. The bronze statue depicts her gazing wistfully southwards towards her lover's Ayrshire home.
Explore Dunoon & Cowal
Discover places to stay, eat & drink and things to do in and around Cowal.
Meg's Scottish Kitchen
At Meg’s Scottish Kitchen, food is more than a meal – it’s an experience rooted in Scotland’s seasons, landscapes and traditions. From our lochside home in A...
8 Dalavich
Loch Awe by Taynuilt
PA35 1HN
Tel: 07590676880
Holiday Cottages West Coast - The Cottage
The Cottage is situated on the shores of Loch Fyne and is just steps from the water, sit at the window and look out on the ever-changing loch. You might spot...
Leachd
Argyll
PA27 8DA
Tel: 07585709992
Selkie Tours
Selkies are magical and marvellous creatures, they are kind, caring and intelligent. When in human form, our seals curate unique Itineraries, hosting fabulou...
Oban
Argyll
PA34 5NJ
Tel: 07554371630
Portavadie Loch Fyne - Marina
Our Five Gold Anchor award-winning marina is a gateway to some of the best sailing waters on the west coast of Scotland. Highland landscapes and vistas, isla...
Portavadie Estates Ltd
Portavadie Marina
PA21 2DA
Tel: 01700 811075
Glendaruel Caravan Park
Situated in the heart of the stunning Cowal Peninsula and near the Kyles of Bute, the Park serves as the ideal rural getaway and a base for exploring Argyll....
Glendaruel Caravan Park
Glendaruel
Colintraive
Argyll
PA22 3AB
Tel: 01369820267
Ardkinglas Woodland Garden
Situated on the shores of Loch Fyne in Argyll, against a spectacular background of mountain and forest, Ardkinglas Estate covers about 4800 hectares.
Ardking...
Ardkinglas Estate Office
The Square, Cairndow
Argyll
PA26 8BG
Tel: 01499 600261
Portavadie Loch Fyne - Accommodation
Located on the eastern shores of Loch Fyne, a scenic 2-hour drive from Glasgow, this award-winning contemporary Spa Resort, with a marina at its heart, offer...
Portavadie Estates Ltd
Portavadie Marina
Millhouse
PA21 2DA
Castle House Museum
Situated in Castle Gardens, Castle House Museum is at the heart of the history of Dunoon.
From our windows, we have picturesque views of the Victorian Pier a...
Castle House Museum
Castle Gardens
3 Argyll Street
Dunoon
PA23 7HH
Tel: 01369 701422
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.
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.
Festivals & Events in Cowal
Cowal Highland Gathering
The Cowal Highland Gathering ranks among the largest Highland Games in the United Kingdom, and it is a fantastic time to visit Cowal. Held annually in Dunoon since 1894, this spectacular event attracts over 3,500 competitors and thousands of spectators from around the globe.
The gathering showcases the very best of Scottish culture, from the excitement of the heavy events and tug-of-war competitions to the grace of the World Highland Dancing Championships. The massed pipes and drums spectacle, featuring hundreds of pipers and drummers, creates an unforgettable experience that embodies the spirit of the Highlands.
This iconic event has become synonymous with Dunoon itself and represents a bucket-list experience for anyone interested in Scottish heritage. Discover more information on our blog.
CowalFest Walking Festival
The annual CowalFest celebrates the region's exceptional hiking with guided walks led by knowledgeable locals who share insights into the area's history, geology, and wildlife. It's a brilliant week of events and guided walks for the whole family.
Cycling in Cowal
Cycling enthusiasts will love Cowal! The peninsula offers exceptional cycling routes ranging from gentle coastal paths perfect for families to challenging mountain trails that test even experienced riders. Here are some fantastic routes:
Cycle the Cowal Way
The Cowal Way provides an outstanding long-distance route spanning 57 miles from Portavadie to Inveruglas, taking cyclists through ever-changing landscapes of forests, mountains, and lochs.
The Five Ferries Cycle Route
The Cowal Peninsula is part of the famous 72-mile-long Five Ferries cycling route. Enjoy beautiful coastal cycling routes on Arran and Bute, as well as the wild, remote and unspoiled parts of the mainland at Cowal and Kintyre. An unforgettable journey!
Mountain Biking in Argyll Forest Park
With its vast tracts of forest and mountain, Argyll Forest Park is a top destination for mountain bikers. There are hundreds of miles of well-managed trails and forest tracks to explore, all amid stunning Highland scenery of hill, glen, loch and woodland.
E-Bike Adventures
You can hire e-bikes in Dunoon or join a guided e-bike cycling tour, making the hillier routes accessible to all fitness levels whilst still delivering that exhilarating sense of adventure.
Go walking in Cowal
You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to walking in Cowal! From gentle forest strolls to challenging Munro ascents, there are options suitable for every ability level.
Puck's Glen & Benmore Gardens
The Puck's Glen woodland walk offers an enchanting journey through an ancient forest with dramatic waterfalls. Keep your eyes out for mischievous spirits wandering the woodlands! Nearby Benmore Botanic Garden provides spectacular displays of rhododendrons and exotic plants beneath towering redwoods.
Note: Puck's Glen is currently closed due to storm damage. Visit Glenan Wood and its lost village as a great alternative!
Hillwalks in Cowal
Head for the hills around Loch Eck, just north of Dunoon, for some fantastic hill walking. Starting from Inverchapel, Beinn Ruadh is a wonderful cross-country hill walk with breathtaking views over Loch Eck. Alternatively, Ben Donich is a fantastic hill walk with views of the Arrochar Alps, down Loch Goil to the Clyde Estuary and west towards the Paps of Jura.
Cowal's Vibrant Makers Scene
Cowal has a vibrant community of artists and producers that draw inspiration from the incredible surrounding landscapes.
Art Galleries & Shopping
You will discover many galleries and studios scattered across the peninsula showcasing everything from traditional Highland scenes to contemporary pieces. The village of Tighnabruaich is a fantastic spot to visit for those seeking to sample some fantastic local produce and discover local artists.
Dunoon Burgh Hall regularly hosts exhibitions, performances, and cultural events that bring the community together and welcome visitors into local life. Cowal Open Studio is an annual event where artists across the peninsula open their workshops to visitors.
Food & Local Produce
The food scene celebrates Cowal's exceptional natural larder, with restaurants and cafes championing locally sourced seafood, Highland beef, lamb, and seasonal produce. Loch Fyne oysters, langoustines landed at nearby harbours, and artisan products from local makers feature prominently on menus throughout the area. Discover places to eat in Cowal here.
How to get to Cowal & Dunoon
Reaching Dunoon and Cowal is straightforward and forms part of the adventure, with the journey itself offering spectacular scenery and a genuine sense of arriving somewhere special.
By Ferry
CalMac operates a frequent passenger and vehicle service between Gourock and Dunoon (Hunter's Quay), with crossings taking just 20 minutes across the Firth of Clyde. Foot passengers and cyclists are welcome on all services.
If travelling by car, jump on the Western Ferries service from Gourock instead. We recommend booking your ferry ticket in advance here.
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.
By Car
Take the scenic route via the spectacular "Rest and Be Thankful" through Glen Croe, one of Scotland's most famous mountain passes. This scenic drive forms part of the A83, connecting the Central Belt to Cowal via Arrochar and Lochgoilhead. The route showcases the dramatic transition from Lowlands to Highlands, with photo opportunities at every turn.
By Public Transport
Public transport connections serve the region well, with Scottish Citylink coaches operating services to Dunoon from Glasgow, connecting with ferry services. Local bus routes link communities across the peninsula, allowing car-free exploration of the area's key attractions.
By Bike
If you are feeling active, why not make use of the excellent ferry connections and cycling routes? Cycle along the Cowal Way or take on the Five Ferries island hopping route, passing through Bute, Arran, Cowal and Kintyre.
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'
ISLE OF BUTE
Only a short ferry ride from Cowal, this Victorian gem of an island makes for the perfect weekend adventure.
Discover more inspiration on our blog
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.
8 Things to Do in Dunoon, Cowal | Argyll & the Isles
Head doon the watter and discover 8 things to do in Dunoon. A trip to Argyll’s largest town never gets boring!
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.
