If you're heading to the Cowal Peninsula, you can drive via the Rest and Be Thankful or take the car ferry from McInryoy's Point in Gourock to Hunter's Quay in Dunoon. This guide has information about the Western Ferries service, which began in 1973. The beauty of this fast and frequent service is that you turn up with no need to prebook.

There are frequent sailings for the 20-minute crossing, and you pay from your vehicle. You can also get out to view the scenery, including good views of Kilmun, on Cowal.

Western Ferries

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We've used this service many times and find it an excellent alternative to Rest and Be Thankful journey. We are especially keen to use it at weekends in the summer if we've spent a day on Cowal and know that by the time we arrive back at Loch Lomond, there will be a good chance of being stuck in slow-moving traffic on the A82 after a busy day on the loch.

If you have never considered visiting Cowal, I highly recommend the Argyll Forest part of the National Park. The ferry takes you just a short distance from the park's edge, close to beautiful villages such as Kilmun, Blairmore and Ardentinny. Also speical places such as Benmore Botanic Garden, Kilmun Arboretum, Loch Eck, Glenbranter and Puck's Glen. Read more in our Cowal Highlights guide.