Experience Scotland in 57 miles — Loch Lomond and Cowal Way

The Loch Lomond and Cowal Way is hailed as Scotland’s most diverse long-distance footpath. It explores some of the most beautiful and varied landscape the Highlands has to offer.

Fondly known as ‘Scotland in 57’, this sublime route enables you to experience the many characteristics of the country on one trail. From stunning coastlines to serene lochs, wild moorlands to fragrant forests, friendly villages to empty hilltops — no long-distance hike affords a better sense of Scotland.

Starting from Portavadie, the route cuts northeast across the Cowal peninsula to finish in Inveruglas, on the shores of Loch Lomond. The official route is 57 miles (92 km). However, with a few minor, clearly marked detours to some worthy sites, this Collection is 58.3 miles (93.8 km) in total.

As well as beautiful and ever-changing scenery, you can expect ruined castles, historic churches, clan histories, and prehistoric sites. You can also observe plenty of wildlife, including seals, deer, rare red squirrels, and mighty golden eagles.

Highlights along the way include: Asgog Castle, a ruined 15th-century keep in a picturesque lochside setting; Asgog Loch, a natural freshwater loch nestled in spellbinding surroundings; the Kyles of Bute, a narrow sea channel known as ‘Secret Coast’; Dunans Castle, a magnificent ruin in Glendaruel; Curra Lochain, a stunning stretch of water between the summits of Beinn Lochain and Beinn Bheula; Loch Goil, a pretty sea loch surrounded by mountains; Loch Long, a dramatic sea loch; and An Ceann Mòr, an art installation at the finish line that affords a magnificent view of Loch Lomond, the Arrochar Alps, and Ben Lomond.

Although the route feels very remote at times, you are never too far from civilisation or a main road. The route is waymarked too, making it a good choice for seasoned hikers and those looking to break in their long-distance boots.

One of Scotland’s Great Trails, the Loch Lomond and Cowal Way also connects with the West Highland Way, Scotland’s most famous long-distance route, and the Three Lochs Way, ensuring endless opportunities to extend the route or tailor it to your desires.

In this Collection, I split the route into four stages: 18.1 miles (29.1 km), 16.6 miles (26.7 km), 9.1 miles (14.6 km), and 14.4 miles (23.2 km), respectively. I have given a suggestion on how to split stage 1 into two shorter hikes.

You find accommodation at the end of every stage. However, places to stay can be limited so it is worth planning in advance and scheduling your rest days accordingly.

As it is Scotland, though, it is super-easy to tailor the route as you are legally allowed to wild camp, thanks to the Right To Roam act (see more at scotways.com/faq/law-on-statutory-access-rights).

To get to the start of the trail, you can catch a train to Glasgow. From there, you can take the 907 bus service to Dunoon. From Dunoon ferry pier, the 478 service runs to Portavadie.

At the end, you can book the Glasgow to Loch Lomond/Fort William/Skye service (No’s 914/915/916) from Sloy Power Station, which is a few minutes walk from Inveruglas, to Glasgow.

For the 907 service, visit: mcgillsbuses.co.uk/resources/site1/general/timetables/901-904-906-907-908.pdf.
For the 478 service, visit: bustimes.org/services/478-dunoon-portavadie-2.
For the Glasgow to Loch Lomond/Fort William/Skye service, visit: argyll-bute.gov.uk/glasgow-loch-lomond-glencoe-fort-william-isle-skye.