Argyll’s Secret Coast

from Holiday West Highland - Summer 2021

Gin Trail

Off the beaten track on the south west tip of the Cowal Peninsula is Argyll’s Secret Coast, a small but spectacular destination. Shaped by a collection of dramatic sea lochs, including Loch Goil and Loch Riddon, and comprising a scenic string of villages, beaches and coves, this haven boasts history, wildlife, hospitality and more.

The geography here makes for a beautiful setting, but it is vibrant communities that bring that setting to life, from Colintraive (from where you can catch a ferry to nearby Bute) with its Community Garden and muralled Heritage Centre, to Glendaruel, a medieval battle site that is home to Dunan’s Castle and the historic Kilmodan Church, and the peaceful Otter Ferry.

Portavadie’s marina provides extensive facilities (and a spa resort) for those travelling by land or sea who crave luxury with a memorable backdrop. The resort is home to Scotland’s biggest outdoor infinity pool. A unique spot from which to enjoy the views, it’s even more magical after dark.

Nearby Tighnabruaich is a popular fishing and sailing destination with distinctive charm. It is also the local home of the fierce highland sport of shinty – if you’re in the area on a Saturday, it’s well worth joining the crowd for a captivating fast-paced match. Smaller, but equally scenic, is Kames, so peaceful today that it’s hard to believe it was once the home of a gunpowder mill.

These locations may be out of the way, but they still have a buzz, and you’ll find atmosphere and quality cuisine in the hotels, restaurants and cafes, where menus consistently offer fresh local produce, including seafood sourced close by.

The outdoor options here are plentiful too, with walking and cycling routes for travellers of all abilities. Wildlife watchers will do well to head for one of area’s woodlands, such as Kilfinan community forest or Glenan Wood, where you could spot red squirrels, deer and woodpeckers. Glenan Wood also conceals an abandoned village, a collection of crumbling stone cottages that harken back to a different time.

For a coastal walk with views to breathe in, head to Carry Point at Carry Farm, or for ancient history, visit the standing stones at Stillaig via a stunning walk across the headland from Portavadie.

Argyll’s Secret Coast is flanked by two beautiful stretches of water, the Kyles of Bute and Loch Fyne. Together, they lend atmosphere and life to this unique setting, and provide endless pleasure for visitors, whether observing their riches from the shore, or heading out for an immersive ocean experience – perhaps a swim, a sailing trip, or exploring by kayak or canoe.

With such inspiring surroundings, it’s little wonder that the arts scene here is lively too.

Cowal’s annual Open Studios event, when you can visit local artists in their places of work, is scheduled to go ahead in the Autumn, but if you’re an art lover, the spirit of creativity continues year round, in galleries, craft shops and with regular exhibitions and events.