One of Scotland's Great Trails
‘Scotland in 57 miles’
The Loch Lomond & Cowal Way in Argyll is less than one hour from Glasgow and offers the best of Scottish Highlands; with beautiful coastlines, dramatic scenery, engaging heritage, abundant wildlife, and very friendly communities and people.
Route
Distance
6 miles/ 10km
Terrain
Mainly forest track, paths or quiet road. Easy undulating track, with a gentle climb to 85m (280 ft) over the first 2km
Summary
This is a fairly undemanding section, offering excellent views of both Loch Fyne and the Kyles of Bute. Points of particular interest along this section include the dramatic ruins of Asgog Castle, the remains of a gunpowder mill, and a World War II tank landing slip.
Distance
11 miles/ 18km
Terrain
Mostly tracks and roads, with a 1.5 km stretch of rough woodland path
Grade
Mainly a low-lying gentle walk, with a short stretch of steep, difficult woodland
Summary
The majority of this section is easy walking on quiet public and private roads, broken up by a more challenging section of shoreline and woodland. This middle section has been recently upgraded to include new wooden walkways and steps. Highlights of this stretch of the walk include a Telford bridge, Kilmodan Church and its historic carved stones, and the Lucknow Gates which are said to commemorate the 1857 Siege of Lucknow, India.
Distance
16 miles/ 26km
Terrain
Mainly on forestry or farm tracks and woodland trails, with the final 4km to Strachur on quiet public road.
Grade
Initial section on low lying road, followed by a steady climb on forestry tracks to a maximum height of 360m (1180ft), descending to low lying roads near sea level.
Summary
This longer section is fairly easy under-foot, mainly following well maintained forest tracks. It offers good views, and travels through a woodland gorge with spectacular waterfalls. There is also the option to take a short side-trip to the Dunans Castle Heritage Trail, which includes woodland gardens, a Telford bridge, and views of the ruins of Dunans Castle
Arrochar and Tarbet have lots of options for accommodation and there is a Visitor Information Centre in Tarbet at grid ref. 318045. Cruise Loch Lomond ferries at Tarbet give access to the West Highland Way at Inversnaid while The Cowal Way can be accessed at Arrochar.
Distance
9 miles/14km
Terrain
Quiet roads followed by farm and forest tracks, then a section of rough ground, before returning to forest track and roads for the final 5km.
Grade
Moderate climb to 350m (1150ft) with a steep, difficult descent
Summary
This section includes some challenging uphill terrain and small streams. However, the rewards are the rugged postcard scenery, a remote hilltop loch, and dramatic views of the Sruth Ban falls.
Distance
15 miles/24km
Terrain
Quiet road followed by farm and forest tracks, then a stretch of rougher ground where a map and compass may be needed in poor weather, with the final 5km of the route on forest track and road
Grade
Strenuous climb to a height of 500m (1640ft) followed by a steep descent on paths and forest road, then two further ascents of a less challenging nature
Summary
This final section of the Loch Lomond & Cowal Way includes the highest climb of the route. In clear weather, walkers will be rewarded with breathtaking mountain views ahead to the Luss hills and Ben Lomond, with Ben Bheula behind and the Brack to the left. This is followed by scenic walking alongside Loch Long and Loch Lomond. This final stage from Lochgoilhead to Inveruglas can also be broken up by an overnight stay at Arrochar. This option is suitable for those seeking an easier alternative, or for those wishing to climb the famous Cobbler before continuing on to Inveruglas.