Where to Stay in Cowal
Argyll peninsula accessible by ferry with forest trails.
Knockderry Country House Hotel
Stunning 4-star country house hotel on the banks of Loch Long with 2 AA Rosettes. Features 15 individually designed rooms with antique furniture, a wood-panelled dining room with stained glass windows, and luxurious touches like handmade shortbread and organic toiletries. Dog-friendly with private moorings available.
Park Hotel Dunoon
Family-run hotel in a scenic, tranquil West Bay location offering impressive sea views across the Firth of Clyde. Features stylish, comfortable rooms with modern amenities, free parking, and a traditional Scottish restaurant serving locally-sourced produce. Warm, welcoming atmosphere with excellent staff.
Argyll Hotel
Historic Victorian landmark hotel built in 1837 with distinctive tower, centrally located opposite Dunoon Ferry pier. Features 33 individually designed rooms, two restaurants (traditional Scottish and Italian), and panoramic views over the Firth of Clyde. Mix of traditional charm and modern comfort.
Kames Hotel
Charming waterfront boutique hotel on the shores of the Kyles of Bute with original Edwardian features. Offers 10 individually designed rooms, home-cooked food featuring local seafood, extensive whisky selection, and 15 free moorings for visiting boats. Dog-friendly with stunning coastal views.
Whistlefield Inn
Award-winning 16th century drovers inn overlooking Loch Eck with 8 characterful en-suite rooms. Features cosy bar with log burner and 'Rosie the coo', restaurant with panoramic loch views, and hearty traditional Scottish food. Close to Benmore Botanic Gardens. Family-run with warm Highland welcome.
Abbots Brae Hotel
Elegant Victorian mansion hotel built in 1843, set in secluded woodland gardens with elevated position overlooking Holy Loch. Just 8 individually decorated rooms with antique furnishings, Egyptian cotton sheets, and four-poster beds. Intimate boutique experience with excellent breakfast and personal service.
The Royal an Lochan
Historic beachfront hotel established in 1865 on the shores of the Kyles of Bute. Features 11 individually decorated rooms with loch views, Shinty Bar, Deck Restaurant specialising in fresh local seafood, and sun lounge with panoramic views. Old-world charm with warm Scottish hospitality.
Cairndow Stagecoach Inn
One of the oldest coaching inns in the Highlands, situated on the upper reaches of Loch Fyne with 19 en-suite rooms including deluxe ground-floor rooms with balconies. Features traditional bar, lochside beer garden, and restaurant. Ideal touring base for Loch Lomond and West Highlands. Recently reopened with new management.
Royal Marine Hotel
Historic Tudor-style building dating from 1890, located by Hunter's Quay Ferry Terminal. Features 31 en-suite rooms, many with sea views, Kintyre Bar & Restaurant, and free parking. Built by famous architect T.L. Watson, with royal patronage dating from 1872. Pet-friendly accommodation available.
Selborne Hotel
Large seafront hotel with 98 rooms offering spectacular views across the Firth of Clyde. Features open-plan dining room and lounge, bar with entertainment, and garden leading directly to the promenade. Waiter-service meals, evening entertainment, and easy level access to Dunoon town centre.