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Routes
Cycling routes
United Kingdom
Scotland
Argyll and Bute

Dunoon

The best cycling routes around Dunoon

4.4

(69)

1,470

riders

14

rides

Best touring cycling routes around Dunoon traverse the diverse landscapes of Scotland's Cowal Peninsula, offering a mix of coastal views and forested paths. The region is characterized by numerous sea and freshwater lochs, including Loch Eck and Holy Loch, which often form part of cycling routes. Extensive areas of Argyll Forest Park provide opportunities for cycling through woodlands and alongside burns. The terrain varies from relatively flat coastal sections to more undulating routes with moderate elevation gains.

Best touring cycling…

Last updated: April 25, 2026

2

riders

#1.

Toward Castle & Inverchaolain Church loop from Dunoon

40.6km

02:48

460m

460m

Cycle a difficult 25.2-mile loop from Dunoon to Toward Castle and Inverchaolain Church, enjoying coastal views and historical sites.

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Hard

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

5.0

(2)

33

riders

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard

13

riders

13.2km

01:23

420m

420m

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Tips from the Community

Andrew
October 15, 2024, Redwood Coffee

Good food and coffees

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Good little cafe van for coffee and food

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Mark Davison
March 30, 2024, Loch Eck

Currently (29/3/24) blocked by landslides, flood damage and fallen trees so not recommended at end of March 2024.

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Straight on through gate (not left into somebody's garden) for short single track section leading to forest track.

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Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Eck and Tarzan lochs from this picturesque vantage point. Settle into a comfortable spot, unpack your lunch, and allow yourself to be captivated by the scenery before you.

1

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A beautiful garden with great views and paths. Really worth a visit, especially when the Rhododendrons are in bloom. Only 15min by bike from Dunoon!

1

0

Alex
November 29, 2022, Benmore Botanic Garden

Benmore botanic gardens is a 120-acre mountainside garden surrounded by the dramatic scenery of Argyllshire. The gardens also have a tearoom. Perfect for a snack stop! Open daily from 1 March - 31 October, 10am - 5pm The Fernery opens at 11am and closes one hour before the Garden.

1

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Dunoon is the largest town on the Cowal peninsula on the southern end of Argyll and Bute. It is on the western shore of the upper Firth of Clyde.

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available around Dunoon?

There are 14 touring cycling routes around Dunoon, offering a variety of experiences across the Cowal Peninsula. These routes range in difficulty from easy to difficult, ensuring options for different skill levels.

Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Dunoon?

Yes, Dunoon offers easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. An excellent option is the Puffin Rock – View of the loch at Dunoon loop from Dunoon, which is 9.8 km long and takes about 36 minutes to complete, leading through scenic coastal areas.

What kind of scenery can I expect on touring cycling routes in Dunoon?

Touring cycling routes in Dunoon showcase the diverse landscapes of Scotland's Cowal Peninsula. You can expect stunning coastal views along the Firth of Clyde, serene freshwater lochs like Loch Eck and Holy Loch, and extensive woodlands within the Argyll Forest Park. Routes often feature a mix of these natural elements, from quiet roads hugging loch shores to paths winding through forests.

Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?

Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Dunoon has several difficult routes. The Toward Castle & Inverchaolain Church loop from Dunoon is a difficult 40.6 km trail with significant elevation gain, offering coastal views and historical sites. Another demanding option is the Benmore Botanic Garden – Loch Eck loop from Dunoon, which spans 65.8 km with over 1000 meters of elevation.

What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see along the cycling routes?

Many touring cycling routes in Dunoon pass by or near interesting landmarks and natural attractions. You might cycle past the historic Dunoon Pier, or incorporate a visit to the magnificent Puck's Glen with its waterfalls and moss-covered rocks. The Benmore Botanic Garden – Loch Eck loop from Dunoon, for example, starts and finishes at the impressive Benmore Botanic Garden, known for its towering redwoods.

Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Dunoon area?

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Dunoon are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Toward Castle & Inverchaolain Church loop from Dunoon and the View of Gare Loch – View of the loch at Dunoon loop from Dunoon, providing convenient options for exploration.

What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Dunoon?

The touring cycling routes in Dunoon are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning coastal and lochside views, the variety of terrain, and the generally quiet roads that make for an enjoyable experience.

Can I find routes that offer views of the lochs around Dunoon?

Absolutely. The region is rich with lochs, and many touring cycling routes offer spectacular views. The View of Gare Loch – View of the loch at Dunoon loop from Dunoon provides scenic vistas of Gare Loch. Additionally, the Benmore Botanic Garden – Loch Eck loop from Dunoon offers magnificent views of Loch Eck and the surrounding mountains.

Are there any routes that pass through forested areas or parks?

Yes, Dunoon is a gateway to the Argyll Forest Park, Britain's oldest forest park, which offers extensive cycling opportunities. Routes often traverse woodlands and follow burns, providing a tranquil experience amidst nature. While specific routes are not detailed in the provided data, the region is known for its forested paths.

What is the typical duration for a touring cycling route in Dunoon?

The duration of touring cycling routes in Dunoon varies significantly depending on the distance and difficulty. Shorter, easy routes like the Puffin Rock – View of the loch at Dunoon loop from Dunoon can be completed in about 36 minutes. More challenging and longer routes, such as the Toward Castle & Inverchaolain Church loop from Dunoon, typically take around 2 hours and 47 minutes, while the longest routes can take several hours.

Are there any routes that include historical sites?

Yes, some routes allow you to combine cycling with exploring historical sites. The Toward Castle & Inverchaolain Church loop from Dunoon is a prime example, offering coastal views while passing by historical landmarks like Toward Castle and Inverchaolain Church.

Is it possible to access Dunoon's cycling routes using public transport?

Dunoon is accessible by public transport, including ferries and trains from Glasgow, and it is generally possible to bring bikes on these services. This makes it convenient to reach the starting points of many cycling routes in and around the town.

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