Visitors to Scotland, and even the Scots themselves tend not to visit our small area of unspoiled coastline which has got so much to offer in terms of natural environment, history, culture and hospitality.

The South West Highlands of Scotland

Argyll’s Secret Coast is on the Cowal Peninsula which forms part of the southern edge of the Highland Boundary Fault and is therefore Highland in nature. The land is steep and rugged and ranges from sea level up to 3000ft. The slopes are covered in forest and woodland up to 1200 ft with some intact ancient broadleaf woodland which is preserved and protected. The open hill from the forest to the peaks provides some of the best walking and most spectacular views in Scotland.

Visit the Communities of the Cowal Peninsula

Dotted throughout the area are many charming communities and special places which provide a wonderful escape from the stresses of modern life and offer great things for visitors to see and do, as well as excellent hospitality.

Spotlight on Colintraive
Colintraive village is set in the unspoilt natural beauty which is typical of Argyll’s Secret Coast; the locals are very proud of where they stay and are very friendly and welcoming. Colintraive has an award winning hotel which was inn of the year 2010 with a gold medal for local food and is open every day of the year. It is a very sunny spot and a great viewing point for the Waverly paddle steamer on the way to Tighnabruaich. Within the village there is superb heritage centre, outdoor bowls and a community garden.

Rush hour in Colintraive is getting on the bike and meeting red squirrels, roe deer, spotting seals and hawks, and the occasional human or car. There is a 6 mile cycle route along a very quiet road fringed with woodland along the shore line the whole way with wonderful coastal scenery, some bikes are for hire at the Hotel. There is a lovely walk too, very safe for families. Hill walks provide spectacular sea views.

Colintraive is an excellent base for sailing with 6 fully serviced moorings provided. The sheltered waters are also perfect for kayaking; a magical experience is to kayak amongst the seals through the straights and round the numerous islands of the Kyles of Bute. Enquire at Colintraive Hotel for kayaking instruction.

The village benefits from the warming effect of the Atlantic Gulf stream with many gardens growing tropical plants; visit Millton Wood to see a wonderful variety of plants from around the world

Spotlight on Kilfinan Community Forest
Kilfinan Community Forest lies behind the charming village of Tighnabruaich with stunning views over the Kyles of Bute. It is run as a charity by local people who successfully purchased the 300 acres of forest in March 2010. The vision entails the restoration of the woodlands to native species while at the same time providing work for locals and a recreational and educational facility for both the community and visitors. The forest is very rich in wildlife and is home to badgers, stoats, weasels, pine martens and red squirrels. There are many woodland bird species with the occasional golden eagle spotted soaring overhead.