Discover Dunoon: the charming coastal town

In the Cowal peninsula in the south of Argyll and Bute, lies the town of Dunoon. The town has an attractive promenade and boasts a wide range of accommodation, from friendly B&Bs and self-caterings apartments to hotels and holiday parks. Take a walk along the high street and browse the selection of craft shops and galleries or enjoy a refreshment in one of the cafes or restaurants.

Discover more on Cowal and Dunoon

Outdoor Adventure

The narrow seven-mile-long stretch of Loch Eck is located north of the town of Dunoon. Set within Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, it’s a beautiful location with craggy hills rising steeply above the serene water. The breathtaking views over the loch make it the perfect spot for walkers, boaters and kayakers. 

Puck's Glen is a magical place, full of lush greenery, tumbling waterfalls, and hidden pathways. It's like stepping into a fairy tale! As you explore the glen, you'll discover all sorts of hidden treasures, from mossy rocks to sparkling pools. It's a great place to go for a walk and enjoy the beauty of nature. 

Benmore Botanic Gardens’ 120 acres are home to a world-famous collection of plants from regions ranging from the Himalaya, China and Japan to North and South America. On arrival, you will be welcomed through the 150-year-old Redwood Avenue, one of the finest entrances to any botanic garden. 

For cyclists there are plenty of routes nearby, including The Cowal Way - a long-distance walking route which can also be cycled. It passes through some stunning scenery, including Loch Eck and Ben Lomond. Argyll Forest Park is a brilliant base for gravel or mountain biking. 

History and heritage

Castle House Museum sits atop a hill with picturesque views across the Clyde and is a great place to learn about the history of Dunoon and the surrounding area. Key exhibits include the life of Robert Burns' companion, Highland Mary, the history of The Clan Lamont, and Dunoon's growing popularity as a holiday resort from the 1890s onwards, a vital destination for those travelling 'doon the water' on steamers. 

Music and culture

Cowal Highland Gathering is a popular event in Dunoon. Every year, around 23,000 people attend the event to experience the unique atmosphere and watch the competitions. The event features traditional Scottish music, dancing, and athletics, and is known to be the most spectacular Highland Games in the world. There is also a huge range of family entertainment for the kids from face painting to fun-filled shows. 

Accommodation

Stratheck Holiday Park is nestled between Benmore and Loch Eck in a stunning mountainside location, just a short distance from Dunoon and is a peaceful walker’s and angler’s paradise. 

Award-winning Hunter’s Quay Holiday Park has a range of accommodations from comfy caravans to lodges with hot tubs. With activities and entertainment there’s so much to do for all the family (dogs welcome too). 

Getting there

Dunoon is accessed by ferry from Gourock. The journey takes 25 minutes. For more information visit our timetable page. 

Immerse yourself in Dunoon and Kilcreggan in our Scottish Island Adventures podcast episode. 

A view of Dunoon pier and across to Gourock
Father and his daughters standing on deck looking out to sea

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