When you are ready to head out and explore, here are some easy to follow routes to consider
Scotland and scenic drives, they go together.
Explore Argyll, and further afield, on a choice of tours. Lochgoilhead and the Cowal peninsula are well placed to use as a base for exploring Scotland. These scenic drives are here to give you a mix of the iconic places to go, such as Glencoe, Oban and Edinburgh, but also on a local level – places that new visitors would have to dig deep to find out about.
Driving times are different in Argyll. It may not look far on the map, but you may find a fair bit of your journey is on single track roads. That is no bad thing. Plan to take time for stopping to enjoy the views, call in to a cafe or gallery, have a walk,or take a picture of the highland cows.
Like all info on my website, these suggestions are my suggestions. The drives are based on years of answering guest questions about where to go and what to see. If you are touring Cowal then be sure to pick up a copy of the Dunoon & Cowal Map. It is Free and is available in the tourist information office and many other outlets around the area.
All the tours start and finish in Lochgoilhead – you can of course join at any other point along the route. Tips: Take a map. The descriptions on the tours are to give you a flavour of what to expect – they are not written like a SatNav. Opening times – some of the visitor attractions are seasonal. Best to check on their website for up to date information.
Have a great day out.
Click on the tour heading to show the details
History, Art & Gardens Tour
The Cowal Peninsula
Lochgoilhead is in the northern part of the Cowal Peninsula. This area is best discovered in 4 regions – each with a choice of places to visit. Distances are not large. It is possible to make a day of it and combine 2, or more, of the regions.
As you leave Lochgoilhead follow the road up through Hells Glen heading for Dunoon. Have your camera ready. It is worth pulling over to take in the view of the north of Loch Fyne and over towards Inveraray. No. 1 on the map. Leave the glen at the main road and turn left towards Strachur.
In Strachur consider visiting The Smiddy a small working forge with a long history going back to 1791. Visit a working forge and village blacksmith. Check for hours and days of opening.
Halfway down Loch Eck you leave the main road and follow a single-track road as it climbs over a hill in to Glen Finnart. This is a beautiful drive down towards the village of Ardentinny. Before you get to the village there is a sign on your left for Ardentinny Beach. If you are ready to stretch your legs then head for the car park. You’ll find WCs, picnic benches, marked walking trails and a notice board explaining how the area was used for beach landing training during WW2. No. 4 on the map. Look across the loch to Coulport, the storage and loading facility for nuclear submarines.
Head south of Ardentinny, along the shore of Loch Long, and you will come to 5- Quadmania, an outdoor center. Choose from archery, clay shooting or quad bike rides. The quad bikes follow tracks high above the loch – this is the easy and fun way of enjoying views of Loch Long from the mountains of the Arrochar Alps right down to the Firth of Clyde.
‘Historic Kilmun’
History buffs should stop at the 6 – Argyll Mausoleum located adjacent to Kilmun Church in the village of Kilmun. Built in 1790 to house the remains of the Dukes and Earls of Argyll, there is much to find out about the history of this area.
Leaving Kilmun carry on to the junction and turn right.
This tour has a bit of everything – so how about a trip to the rain forest of the Pacific Northwest in Canada. 7 – Pucks Glen Gorge Walk is a real surprise. Well worth the stop and climb.
Benmore Botanic Gardens
High on my list of recommended places to go in Cowal. Set in a magnificent mountainside location on the Cowal Peninsula, Benmore Botanic Garden is rich in history and surrounded by dramatic scenery.
This is a scenic drive – as you head north along the shore of Loch Eck, look out for the sign to 9 – Jubilee Point picnic site. Gorgeous views across the loch, this site is particularly photogenic. If you are visiting in the summer, you may be lucky. Look out for an Osprey.
Carry on north back to Lochgoilhead the way you came
History, Art & Gardens Tour
The Cowal Peninsula
Lochgoilhead is in the northern part of the Cowal Peninsula. This area is best discovered in 4 regions – each with a choice of places to visit. Distances are not large. It is possible to make a day of it and combine 2, or more, of the regions.
As you leave Lochgoilhead follow the road up through Hells Glen heading for Dunoon. Have your camera ready. It is worth pulling over to take in the view of the North of Loch Fyne and over towards Inveraray. No. 1 on the map. Leave the glen at the main road and turn left towards Strachur.
‘The Hidden Gallery‘
If you enjoy original art 2 – Fyne Studios – The Hidden Gallery, in the hamlet of Newton, is worth a short diversion when you reach Strachur. The home and studio of 2 local artists who produce bold and colourful work.
Back in to Strachur for the option of calling in to 3 – The Smiddy a small working forge with a long history going back to 1791. Visit a working forge and village blacksmith.
Half way down Loch Eck you leave the main road and follow a single track road as it climbs over a hill in to Glen Finnart. This is a beautiful drive down towards the village of Ardentinny. Before you get to the village there is a sign on your left for Ardentinny Beach. If you are ready to stretch your legs then head for the car park. You’ll find WC’s, picnic benches, marked walking trails – and a notice board explaining how the area was used for beach landing training during WW2. No. 4 on the map. Look across the loch to Coulport, the storage and loading facility for nuclear submarines.
Head south of Ardentinny, along the shore of Loch Long, and you will come to 5- Quadmania, an outdoor centre. Choose from archery, clay shooting or quad bike rides. The quad biked follow tracks high above the loch – this is the easy and fun way of enjoying views of Loch Long from the mountains of the Arrochar Alps right down to the Firth of Clyde.
‘Historic Kilmun’
History buffs should stop at the 6 – Argyll Mausoleum located adjacent to Kilmun Church in the village of Kilmun. Built in 1790 to house the remains of the Dukes and Earls of Argyll, there is much to find out about the history of this area.
Leaving Kilmun carry on to the junction and turn right.
This tour has a bit of everything – so how about a trip to the rain forest of the Pacific Northwest in Canada. 7 – Pucks Glen Gorge Walk is a real surprise. Well worth the stop and climb.
‘Snack time at Benmore Cafe’
Time for a coffee & cake break. 8 – Benmore Cafe is the real deal offering home made cakes, scones and snacks. The cafe is at the the entrance to the wonderful 8 – Benmore Botanic Garden which is high on my list of recommended places to go in Cowal.
This is a scenic drive – as you head north along the shore of Loch Eck, look out for the sign to 9 – Jubilee Point picnic site. Gorgeous views across the loch, this site is particularly photogenic. If you are visiting in the summer, you may be lucky, look out for an Osprey.
Carry on North back to Lochgoilhead the way you came.
History, Art & Gardens Tour
The Cowal Peninsula
Lochgoilhead is in the northern part of the Cowal Peninsula. This area is best discovered in 4 regions – each with a choice of places to visit. Distances are not large. It is possible to make a day of it and combine 2, or more, of the regions.
As you leave Lochgoilhead follow the road up through Hells Glen heading for Dunoon. Have your camera ready. It is worth pulling over to take in the view of the North of Loch Fyne and over towards Inveraray. No. 1 on the map. Leave the glen at the main road and turn left towards Strachur.
‘The Hidden Gallery‘
If you enjoy original art 2 – Fyne Studios – The Hidden Gallery, in the hamlet of Newton, is worth a short diversion when you reach Strachur. The home and studio of 2 local artists who produce bold and colourful work.
Back in to Strachur for the option of calling in to 3 – The Smiddy a small working forge with a long history going back to 1791. Visit a working forge and village blacksmith.
Half way down Loch Eck you leave the main road and follow a single track road as it climbs over a hill in to Glen Finnart. This is a beautiful drive down towards the village of Ardentinny. Before you get to the village there is a sign on your left for Ardentinny Beach. If you are ready to stretch your legs then head for the car park. You’ll find WC’s, picnic benches, marked walking trails – and a notice board explaining how the area was used for beach landing training during WW2. No. 4 on the map. Look across the loch to Coulport, the storage and loading facility for nuclear submarines.
Head south of Ardentinny, along the shore of Loch Long, and you will come to 5- Quadmania, an outdoor centre. Choose from archery, clay shooting or quad bike rides. The quad biked follow tracks high above the loch – this is the easy and fun way of enjoying views of Loch Long from the mountains of the Arrochar Alps right down to the Firth of Clyde.
‘Historic Kilmun’
History buffs should stop at the 6 – Argyll Mausoleum located adjacent to Kilmun Church in the village of Kilmun. Built in 1790 to house the remains of the Dukes and Earls of Argyll, there is much to find out about the history of this area.
Leaving Kilmun carry on to the junction and turn right.
This tour has a bit of everything – so how about a trip to the rain forest of the Pacific Northwest in Canada. 7 – Pucks Glen Gorge Walk is a real surprise. Well worth the stop and climb.
‘Snack time at Benmore Cafe’
Time for a coffee & cake break. 8 – Benmore Cafe is the real deal offering home made cakes, scones and snacks. The cafe is at the the entrance to the wonderful 8 – Benmore Botanic Garden which is high on my list of recommended places to go in Cowal.
This is a scenic drive – as you head north along the shore of Loch Eck, look out for the sign to 9 – Jubilee Point picnic site. Gorgeous views across the loch, this site is particularly photogenic. If you are visiting in the summer, you may be lucky, look out for an Osprey.
Carry on North back to Lochgoilhead the way you came.
History, Art & Gardens Tour
The Cowal Peninsula
Lochgoilhead is in the northern part of the Cowal Peninsula. This area is best discovered in 4 regions – each with a choice of places to visit. Distances are not large. It is possible to make a day of it and combine 2, or more, of the regions.
As you leave Lochgoilhead follow the road up through Hells Glen heading for Dunoon. Have your camera ready. It is worth pulling over to take in the view of the North of Loch Fyne and over towards Inveraray. No. 1 on the map. Leave the glen at the main road and turn left towards Strachur.
‘The Hidden Gallery‘
If you enjoy original art 2 – Fyne Studios – The Hidden Gallery, in the hamlet of Newton, is worth a short diversion when you reach Strachur. The home and studio of 2 local artists who produce bold and colourful work.
Back in to Strachur for the option of calling in to 3 – The Smiddy a small working forge with a long history going back to 1791. Visit a working forge and village blacksmith.
Half way down Loch Eck you leave the main road and follow a single track road as it climbs over a hill in to Glen Finnart. This is a beautiful drive down towards the village of Ardentinny. Before you get to the village there is a sign on your left for Ardentinny Beach. If you are ready to stretch your legs then head for the car park. You’ll find WC’s, picnic benches, marked walking trails – and a notice board explaining how the area was used for beach landing training during WW2. No. 4 on the map. Look across the loch to Coulport, the storage and loading facility for nuclear submarines.
Head south of Ardentinny, along the shore of Loch Long, and you will come to 5- Quadmania, an outdoor centre. Choose from archery, clay shooting or quad bike rides. The quad biked follow tracks high above the loch – this is the easy and fun way of enjoying views of Loch Long from the mountains of the Arrochar Alps right down to the Firth of Clyde.
‘Historic Kilmun’
History buffs should stop at the 6 – Argyll Mausoleum located adjacent to Kilmun Church in the village of Kilmun. Built in 1790 to house the remains of the Dukes and Earls of Argyll, there is much to find out about the history of this area.
Leaving Kilmun carry on to the junction and turn right.
This tour has a bit of everything – so how about a trip to the rain forest of the Pacific Northwest in Canada. 7 – Pucks Glen Gorge Walk is a real surprise. Well worth the stop and climb.
‘Snack time at Benmore Cafe’
Time for a coffee & cake break. 8 – Benmore Cafe is the real deal offering home made cakes, scones and snacks. The cafe is at the the entrance to the wonderful 8 – Benmore Botanic Garden which is high on my list of recommended places to go in Cowal.
This is a scenic drive – as you head north along the shore of Loch Eck, look out for the sign to 9 – Jubilee Point picnic site. Gorgeous views across the loch, this site is particularly photogenic. If you are visiting in the summer, you may be lucky, look out for an Osprey.
Carry on North back to Lochgoilhead the way you came.
History, Art & Gardens Tour
The Cowal Peninsula
Lochgoilhead is in the northern part of the Cowal Peninsula. This area is best discovered in 4 regions – each with a choice of places to visit. Distances are not large. It is possible to make a day of it and combine 2, or more, of the regions.
As you leave Lochgoilhead follow the road up through Hells Glen heading for Dunoon. Have your camera ready. It is worth pulling over to take in the view of the North of Loch Fyne and over towards Inveraray. No. 1 on the map. Leave the glen at the main road and turn left towards Strachur.
‘The Hidden Gallery‘
If you enjoy original art 2 – Fyne Studios – The Hidden Gallery, in the hamlet of Newton, is worth a short diversion when you reach Strachur. The home and studio of 2 local artists who produce bold and colourful work.
Back in to Strachur for the option of calling in to 3 – The Smiddy a small working forge with a long history going back to 1791. Visit a working forge and village blacksmith.
Half way down Loch Eck you leave the main road and follow a single track road as it climbs over a hill in to Glen Finnart. This is a beautiful drive down towards the village of Ardentinny. Before you get to the village there is a sign on your left for Ardentinny Beach. If you are ready to stretch your legs then head for the car park. You’ll find WC’s, picnic benches, marked walking trails – and a notice board explaining how the area was used for beach landing training during WW2. No. 4 on the map. Look across the loch to Coulport, the storage and loading facility for nuclear submarines.
Head south of Ardentinny, along the shore of Loch Long, and you will come to 5- Quadmania, an outdoor centre. Choose from archery, clay shooting or quad bike rides. The quad biked follow tracks high above the loch – this is the easy and fun way of enjoying views of Loch Long from the mountains of the Arrochar Alps right down to the Firth of Clyde.
‘Historic Kilmun’
History buffs should stop at the 6 – Argyll Mausoleum located adjacent to Kilmun Church in the village of Kilmun. Built in 1790 to house the remains of the Dukes and Earls of Argyll, there is much to find out about the history of this area.
Leaving Kilmun carry on to the junction and turn right.
This tour has a bit of everything – so how about a trip to the rain forest of the Pacific Northwest in Canada. 7 – Pucks Glen Gorge Walk is a real surprise. Well worth the stop and climb.
‘Snack time at Benmore Cafe’
Time for a coffee & cake break. 8 – Benmore Cafe is the real deal offering home made cakes, scones and snacks. The cafe is at the the entrance to the wonderful 8 – Benmore Botanic Garden which is high on my list of recommended places to go in Cowal.
This is a scenic drive – as you head north along the shore of Loch Eck, look out for the sign to 9 – Jubilee Point picnic site. Gorgeous views across the loch, this site is particularly photogenic. If you are visiting in the summer, you may be lucky, look out for an Osprey.
Carry on North back to Lochgoilhead the way you came.
History, Art & Gardens Tour
The Cowal Peninsula
Lochgoilhead is in the northern part of the Cowal Peninsula. This area is best discovered in 4 regions – each with a choice of places to visit. Distances are not large. It is possible to make a day of it and combine 2, or more, of the regions.
As you leave Lochgoilhead follow the road up through Hells Glen heading for Dunoon. Have your camera ready. It is worth pulling over to take in the view of the North of Loch Fyne and over towards Inveraray. No. 1 on the map. Leave the glen at the main road and turn left towards Strachur.
‘The Hidden Gallery‘
If you enjoy original art 2 – Fyne Studios – The Hidden Gallery, in the hamlet of Newton, is worth a short diversion when you reach Strachur. The home and studio of 2 local artists who produce bold and colourful work.
Back in to Strachur for the option of calling in to 3 – The Smiddy a small working forge with a long history going back to 1791. Visit a working forge and village blacksmith.
Half way down Loch Eck you leave the main road and follow a single track road as it climbs over a hill in to Glen Finnart. This is a beautiful drive down towards the village of Ardentinny. Before you get to the village there is a sign on your left for Ardentinny Beach. If you are ready to stretch your legs then head for the car park. You’ll find WC’s, picnic benches, marked walking trails – and a notice board explaining how the area was used for beach landing training during WW2. No. 4 on the map. Look across the loch to Coulport, the storage and loading facility for nuclear submarines.
Head south of Ardentinny, along the shore of Loch Long, and you will come to 5- Quadmania, an outdoor centre. Choose from archery, clay shooting or quad bike rides. The quad biked follow tracks high above the loch – this is the easy and fun way of enjoying views of Loch Long from the mountains of the Arrochar Alps right down to the Firth of Clyde.
‘Historic Kilmun’
History buffs should stop at the 6 – Argyll Mausoleum located adjacent to Kilmun Church in the village of Kilmun. Built in 1790 to house the remains of the Dukes and Earls of Argyll, there is much to find out about the history of this area.
Leaving Kilmun carry on to the junction and turn right.
This tour has a bit of everything – so how about a trip to the rain forest of the Pacific Northwest in Canada. 7 – Pucks Glen Gorge Walk is a real surprise. Well worth the stop and climb.
‘Snack time at Benmore Cafe’
Time for a coffee & cake break. 8 – Benmore Cafe is the real deal offering home made cakes, scones and snacks. The cafe is at the the entrance to the wonderful 8 – Benmore Botanic Garden which is high on my list of recommended places to go in Cowal.
This is a scenic drive – as you head north along the shore of Loch Eck, look out for the sign to 9 – Jubilee Point picnic site. Gorgeous views across the loch, this site is particularly photogenic. If you are visiting in the summer, you may be lucky, look out for an Osprey.
Carry on North back to Lochgoilhead the way you came.
History, Art & Gardens Tour
The Cowal Peninsula
Lochgoilhead is in the northern part of the Cowal Peninsula. This area is best discovered in 4 regions – each with a choice of places to visit. Distances are not large. It is possible to make a day of it and combine 2, or more, of the regions.
As you leave Lochgoilhead follow the road up through Hells Glen heading for Dunoon. Have your camera ready. It is worth pulling over to take in the view of the North of Loch Fyne and over towards Inveraray. No. 1 on the map. Leave the glen at the main road and turn left towards Strachur.
‘The Hidden Gallery‘
If you enjoy original art 2 – Fyne Studios – The Hidden Gallery, in the hamlet of Newton, is worth a short diversion when you reach Strachur. The home and studio of 2 local artists who produce bold and colourful work.
Back in to Strachur for the option of calling in to 3 – The Smiddy a small working forge with a long history going back to 1791. Visit a working forge and village blacksmith.
Half way down Loch Eck you leave the main road and follow a single track road as it climbs over a hill in to Glen Finnart. This is a beautiful drive down towards the village of Ardentinny. Before you get to the village there is a sign on your left for Ardentinny Beach. If you are ready to stretch your legs then head for the car park. You’ll find WC’s, picnic benches, marked walking trails – and a notice board explaining how the area was used for beach landing training during WW2. No. 4 on the map. Look across the loch to Coulport, the storage and loading facility for nuclear submarines.
Head south of Ardentinny, along the shore of Loch Long, and you will come to 5- Quadmania, an outdoor centre. Choose from archery, clay shooting or quad bike rides. The quad biked follow tracks high above the loch – this is the easy and fun way of enjoying views of Loch Long from the mountains of the Arrochar Alps right down to the Firth of Clyde.
‘Historic Kilmun’
History buffs should stop at the 6 – Argyll Mausoleum located adjacent to Kilmun Church in the village of Kilmun. Built in 1790 to house the remains of the Dukes and Earls of Argyll, there is much to find out about the history of this area.
Leaving Kilmun carry on to the junction and turn right.
This tour has a bit of everything – so how about a trip to the rain forest of the Pacific Northwest in Canada. 7 – Pucks Glen Gorge Walk is a real surprise. Well worth the stop and climb.
‘Snack time at Benmore Cafe’
Time for a coffee & cake break. 8 – Benmore Cafe is the real deal offering home made cakes, scones and snacks. The cafe is at the the entrance to the wonderful 8 – Benmore Botanic Garden which is high on my list of recommended places to go in Cowal.
This is a scenic drive – as you head north along the shore of Loch Eck, look out for the sign to 9 – Jubilee Point picnic site. Gorgeous views across the loch, this site is particularly photogenic. If you are visiting in the summer, you may be lucky, look out for an Osprey.
Carry on North back to Lochgoilhead the way you came.
History, Art & Gardens Tour
The Cowal Peninsula
Lochgoilhead is in the northern part of the Cowal Peninsula. This area is best discovered in 4 regions – each with a choice of places to visit. Distances are not large. It is possible to make a day of it and combine 2, or more, of the regions.
As you leave Lochgoilhead follow the road up through Hells Glen heading for Dunoon. Have your camera ready. It is worth pulling over to take in the view of the North of Loch Fyne and over towards Inveraray. No. 1 on the map. Leave the glen at the main road and turn left towards Strachur.
‘The Hidden Gallery‘
If you enjoy original art 2 – Fyne Studios – The Hidden Gallery, in the hamlet of Newton, is worth a short diversion when you reach Strachur. The home and studio of 2 local artists who produce bold and colourful work.
Back in to Strachur for the option of calling in to 3 – The Smiddy a small working forge with a long history going back to 1791. Visit a working forge and village blacksmith.
Half way down Loch Eck you leave the main road and follow a single track road as it climbs over a hill in to Glen Finnart. This is a beautiful drive down towards the village of Ardentinny. Before you get to the village there is a sign on your left for Ardentinny Beach. If you are ready to stretch your legs then head for the car park. You’ll find WC’s, picnic benches, marked walking trails – and a notice board explaining how the area was used for beach landing training during WW2. No. 4 on the map. Look across the loch to Coulport, the storage and loading facility for nuclear submarines.
Head south of Ardentinny, along the shore of Loch Long, and you will come to 5- Quadmania, an outdoor centre. Choose from archery, clay shooting or quad bike rides. The quad biked follow tracks high above the loch – this is the easy and fun way of enjoying views of Loch Long from the mountains of the Arrochar Alps right down to the Firth of Clyde.
‘Historic Kilmun’
History buffs should stop at the 6 – Argyll Mausoleum located adjacent to Kilmun Church in the village of Kilmun. Built in 1790 to house the remains of the Dukes and Earls of Argyll, there is much to find out about the history of this area.
Leaving Kilmun carry on to the junction and turn right.
This tour has a bit of everything – so how about a trip to the rain forest of the Pacific Northwest in Canada. 7 – Pucks Glen Gorge Walk is a real surprise. Well worth the stop and climb.
‘Snack time at Benmore Cafe’
Time for a coffee & cake break. 8 – Benmore Cafe is the real deal offering home made cakes, scones and snacks. The cafe is at the the entrance to the wonderful 8 – Benmore Botanic Garden which is high on my list of recommended places to go in Cowal.
This is a scenic drive – as you head north along the shore of Loch Eck, look out for the sign to 9 – Jubilee Point picnic site. Gorgeous views across the loch, this site is particularly photogenic. If you are visiting in the summer, you may be lucky, look out for an Osprey.
Carry on North back to Lochgoilhead the way you came.
History, Art & Gardens Tour
The Cowal Peninsula
Lochgoilhead is in the northern part of the Cowal Peninsula. This area is best discovered in 4 regions – each with a choice of places to visit. Distances are not large. It is possible to make a day of it and combine 2, or more, of the regions.
As you leave Lochgoilhead follow the road up through Hells Glen heading for Dunoon. Have your camera ready. It is worth pulling over to take in the view of the North of Loch Fyne and over towards Inveraray. No. 1 on the map. Leave the glen at the main road and turn left towards Strachur.
‘The Hidden Gallery‘
If you enjoy original art 2 – Fyne Studios – The Hidden Gallery, in the hamlet of Newton, is worth a short diversion when you reach Strachur. The home and studio of 2 local artists who produce bold and colourful work.
Back in to Strachur for the option of calling in to 3 – The Smiddy a small working forge with a long history going back to 1791. Visit a working forge and village blacksmith.
Half way down Loch Eck you leave the main road and follow a single track road as it climbs over a hill in to Glen Finnart. This is a beautiful drive down towards the village of Ardentinny. Before you get to the village there is a sign on your left for Ardentinny Beach. If you are ready to stretch your legs then head for the car park. You’ll find WC’s, picnic benches, marked walking trails – and a notice board explaining how the area was used for beach landing training during WW2. No. 4 on the map. Look across the loch to Coulport, the storage and loading facility for nuclear submarines.
Head south of Ardentinny, along the shore of Loch Long, and you will come to 5- Quadmania, an outdoor centre. Choose from archery, clay shooting or quad bike rides. The quad biked follow tracks high above the loch – this is the easy and fun way of enjoying views of Loch Long from the mountains of the Arrochar Alps right down to the Firth of Clyde.
‘Historic Kilmun’
History buffs should stop at the 6 – Argyll Mausoleum located adjacent to Kilmun Church in the village of Kilmun. Built in 1790 to house the remains of the Dukes and Earls of Argyll, there is much to find out about the history of this area.
Leaving Kilmun carry on to the junction and turn right.
This tour has a bit of everything – so how about a trip to the rain forest of the Pacific Northwest in Canada. 7 – Pucks Glen Gorge Walk is a real surprise. Well worth the stop and climb.
‘Snack time at Benmore Cafe’
Time for a coffee & cake break. 8 – Benmore Cafe is the real deal offering home made cakes, scones and snacks. The cafe is at the the entrance to the wonderful 8 – Benmore Botanic Garden which is high on my list of recommended places to go in Cowal.
This is a scenic drive – as you head north along the shore of Loch Eck, look out for the sign to 9 – Jubilee Point picnic site. Gorgeous views across the loch, this site is particularly photogenic. If you are visiting in the summer, you may be lucky, look out for an Osprey.
Carry on North back to Lochgoilhead the way you came.
History, Art & Gardens Tour
The Cowal Peninsula
Lochgoilhead is in the northern part of the Cowal Peninsula. This area is best discovered in 4 regions – each with a choice of places to visit. Distances are not large. It is possible to make a day of it and combine 2, or more, of the regions.
As you leave Lochgoilhead follow the road up through Hells Glen heading for Dunoon. Have your camera ready. It is worth pulling over to take in the view of the North of Loch Fyne and over towards Inveraray. No. 1 on the map. Leave the glen at the main road and turn left towards Strachur.
‘The Hidden Gallery‘
If you enjoy original art 2 – Fyne Studios – The Hidden Gallery, in the hamlet of Newton, is worth a short diversion when you reach Strachur. The home and studio of 2 local artists who produce bold and colourful work.
Back in to Strachur for the option of calling in to 3 – The Smiddy a small working forge with a long history going back to 1791. Visit a working forge and village blacksmith.
Half way down Loch Eck you leave the main road and follow a single track road as it climbs over a hill in to Glen Finnart. This is a beautiful drive down towards the village of Ardentinny. Before you get to the village there is a sign on your left for Ardentinny Beach. If you are ready to stretch your legs then head for the car park. You’ll find WC’s, picnic benches, marked walking trails – and a notice board explaining how the area was used for beach landing training during WW2. No. 4 on the map. Look across the loch to Coulport, the storage and loading facility for nuclear submarines.
Head south of Ardentinny, along the shore of Loch Long, and you will come to 5- Quadmania, an outdoor centre. Choose from archery, clay shooting or quad bike rides. The quad biked follow tracks high above the loch – this is the easy and fun way of enjoying views of Loch Long from the mountains of the Arrochar Alps right down to the Firth of Clyde.
‘Historic Kilmun’
History buffs should stop at the 6 – Argyll Mausoleum located adjacent to Kilmun Church in the village of Kilmun. Built in 1790 to house the remains of the Dukes and Earls of Argyll, there is much to find out about the history of this area.
Leaving Kilmun carry on to the junction and turn right.
This tour has a bit of everything – so how about a trip to the rain forest of the Pacific Northwest in Canada. 7 – Pucks Glen Gorge Walk is a real surprise. Well worth the stop and climb.
‘Snack time at Benmore Cafe’
Time for a coffee & cake break. 8 – Benmore Cafe is the real deal offering home made cakes, scones and snacks. The cafe is at the the entrance to the wonderful 8 – Benmore Botanic Garden which is high on my list of recommended places to go in Cowal.
This is a scenic drive – as you head north along the shore of Loch Eck, look out for the sign to 9 – Jubilee Point picnic site. Gorgeous views across the loch, this site is particularly photogenic. If you are visiting in the summer, you may be lucky, look out for an Osprey.
Carry on North back to Lochgoilhead the way you came.