Discover the delights of Dunoon with CalMac
DUNooN was the destination of choice for the Victorians but a trip “doon the watter” remains a lovely day out today.
The largest town in Argyll, Dunoon lies on the west shore of the Firth of Clyde on the mountainous Cowal peninsula and is more easily accessible by boat than land, giving it an island feel.
In its heyday, Dunoon was one of the most popular west coast resorts and it still exudes old-time glamour, with classic seaside vistas, fancy villas and an iconic Victorian Pier – recently renovated to bring it back to its former glory.
Wander up to the Castle House Museum for an insight into the town’s history. Archive photos show a vibrant time when many west coast families holidayed in the area and the museum is a fascinating step back in time.
A must-visit location is benmore Gardens, seven miles north-west, although there’s a regular bus service from Dunoon.
Renowned for the Giant Redwood Avenue, which forms the entrance to the 120-acre estate, there is also a world-famous collection of plants from the Orient and the Himalayas to North and South America.
The hill trails around Dunoon in the Argyll Forest Park have become something of a magnet for mountain bikers.
There are some awesome trails in bishop’s Glen, a wooded, hilly area just behind Dunoon, or a gentler option is the 20k Corlarach Loop that starts at bishop’s Glen and takes you through Corlarach Forest – a great route for all the family along undulating forest track.
Combine a train and ferry on one ticket for less hassle, and more time to explore this gorgeous part of Scotland. CalMac offer several Rail and Sail options allowing you to explore the west coast, to destinations including Arran, bute, Cumbrae and Mull.
Sailing down the Clyde coast reveals a mixture of rugged mountains, shimmering beaches, azure seas and enchanting islands.
The climate is warmer than the east and north coasts, but also wetter, which makes for lush greenery, and it’s a landscape that draws day-trippers.
Don’t miss the wildlife in Cowal: look out for red squirrels, red deer, otters, and the occasional bird of prey. Other attractions easily accessible from Dunoon include Pucks Glen and Kilmun Arboretum.
CalMac operates a fast and frequent passenger ferry service between the coastal town of Gourock to Dunoon, and with excellent rail links from Glasgow, it’s easy to enjoy a day away from city life.
Alternatively, take the ferry to Cowal from Rhubodach on bute, which takes five minutes. There is a stop off at the sculpture park at Caol Riadh in Colintraive on the way – and head to Ostel bay for the area’s best beach.