This is a lovely place to walk just inland from Dunoon on the Cowal, through the forest of birch, sitka spruce and Scots pine, at the heart of the Dunoon Woodland Park. Its original name was the Balgaigh Glen but it was changed in the 1950s, part of a tourist initiative by all accounts, and from then on took its name from the nearby hill known (for centuries) as Bishop's Seat (504m). This is a fair climb which we have not yet undertaken but there are apparently wonderful views of the Firth of Clyde from the top - it's definitely on the list for next year! For now, here are some of my photos from some of the woodland paths.
The Balgaigh Burn and rowan trees
In the middle is a beautiful reservoir which once provided Dunoon with its drinking water (before Loch Eck was used instead). Now a home for many varieties of wildfowl and also used for fishing.
It's a wonderful place for other wildlife too and one of the few remaining places in the UK where red squirrels can be seen. Alas, I didn't spot any!
The rowan trees along the banks were laden with vivid berries when we were there last
I was fascinated to read that Loch Eck was once joined to the Clyde (via the Holy Loch) 14,000 years ago!
Argyll Street - a great little shopping centre
Bells of Dunoon - a fantastic clothes and souvenir shop! Website here
The Argyll Hotel is opposite the pier, and is one of Dunoon's distinctive landmarks.
Hillfoot Street and Argyll Vintners - the only place in the town (owing to new licencing laws) where you can buy gift packs of alcohol to take home (miniatures in tartan boxes etc).
Tourist Information Centre along Alexandra Parade - a great place for books, maps, gifts and good helpful advice
The Castle House Museum details the history of Cowal to the present day, the history of the Clyde steamers, the wartime years and the American Naval base at the nearby Holy Loch. It is one of Dunoon’s most historic buildings set in beautiful gardens - unfortunately I have not had time to go inside yet!
On the hill opposite Dunoon Pier and erected in 1896, the statue of Robert Burns' 'Highland Mary' Campbell stares sadly across the water. You can read the full story here
The Yachtsman Cafe - probably the best place to eat, such good food and so reasonably priced too!
Geoffrey listening to those lovely Clyde waves (they sound nicer than any other kind!!)
Below, the beach near the cafe - swans, gulls and the odd crow
Below: looking south from the same spot, and the road to Innellan...
...and across the water to the Cloch Lighthouse
