Local Attractions & Days Out

From woodland gorges and giant redwoods to historic castles, sandy dog-friendly beaches, and paddle steamer cruises.

Puck's Glen waterfalls and woodland trail 10 mins drive · 5 miles

Puck's Glen Gorge Walk

🐾 Dogs on lead 🥾 1–2 hrs circular

An enchanting gorge walk through ancient woodland with cascading waterfalls, mossy rock walls, and Victorian wooden bridges. Steep steps in places, easily combined with Benmore Gardens.

Giant redwood avenue at Benmore Botanic Garden 15 mins drive · Bus 489

Benmore Botanic Garden

🐾 Dogs on lead 🌿 120 acres (Feb–Nov)

World-famous 120-acre hillside garden featuring an avenue of towering giant redwoods, historic walled garden, café, and plant shop.

PS Waverley paddle steamer near Blairmore Pier 2 mins walk · Blairmore Pier

Waverley Paddle Steamer

🐾 Dogs on outside decks ⛴️ May – September

The world's last seagoing paddle steamer calls right at Blairmore Pier during summer for unforgettable afternoon cruises up Loch Long and Loch Goil.

Blairmore and Strone Golf Course overlooking the loch 10 mins walk

Blairmore Golf Course

⛳ Scenic 9 holes 🏌️ Clubs available at Snug

A hidden gem perched above Blairmore with panoramic views over the Holy Loch and Argyll hills. Visitors welcome — borrow clubs from the Snug if needed.

Inveraray Castle beside Loch Fyne 50 mins drive · Bus 486

Inveraray Castle & Town

🐾 Dogs in grounds 🏰 Open Apr – Oct

The fairytale seat of the Duke of Argyll overlooking Loch Fyne, paired with Inveraray's historic jail, independent shops, and waterfront inns.

Mount Stuart Gothic mansion and gardens on Isle of Bute 1.5 hrs via 5-min ferry

Mount Stuart, Isle of Bute

🐾 Dogs in grounds ⛴️ Colintraive–Rhubodach

Spectacular Victorian Gothic mansion surrounded by 300 acres of woodland and formal gardens, reached via a scenic 5-minute crossing to Bute.

Argyll coastline near Ostel Bay beach 25 mins drive + 1 mile walk

Ostel Bay Sandy Beach

🐾 Dog-friendly beach 🏖️ Dunes & Bute views

An unspoilt sweeping crescent of sand backed by dunes with views toward Arran and Bute — ideal for picnics, paddling, and coastal walks.

Lochgoil Boat Hire on Loch Goil 25 mins drive · 12 miles

Lochgoil Boat Hire

🚤 Motor & rowing boats 🎣 Fishing permits

Explore the sheltered waters of Loch Goil framed by steep Highland peaks. Boats available by the hour or half-day; advance summer booking advised.

Highland hills and forest trails near Blairmore From the door · 30 mins Alps

Cowal Way & Arrochar Alps

🗺️ OS OL37 spares in Snug ⛰️ The Cobbler 30 mins

Step straight onto coastal paths and Argyll Forest trails from the door, or tackle classic Munro and Corbett peaks around The Cobbler (Ben Arthur).

Handy Tips for Days Out

Check Seasonal Hours: Many castles and ferries adjust timetables between winter and summer.
Route 489 Bus: Connects Blairmore Pier directly to Dunoon for wider Argyll bus links.
OS Maps Provided: Spare OS Explorer OL37 maps and local leaflets are waiting inside the Snug.