Visitor Guide for Kilmun by Holy Loch on Cowal Peninsula

Lochside Villages

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park has some beautiful towns and villages, including on the Cowal Peninsula, where there are several communities in beautiful lochside settings. This guide features one of them, Kilmun, by Holy Loch, close to Dunoon.

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Kilmun by Holy Loch

Walking along the edge of the water at Kilmun, there is a nod to the village's history. It was one of the destinations for the steamers that took Glaswegians 'doon the watter' during the golden age of steam. There is a pleasant public green space by the water in the village, with a children's playground.

St. Munns Parish Church

Much of the St. Munns Parish Church building that you can see today dates back to the 19th century, although there has been a church on this site since the thirteenth century. The much-photographed view from the back of the church shows the church, Argyll Mausoleum, graveyard and Holy Loch.

Kilmun Arboretum

Kilmun Arboretum is just beyond the church on the way to Dunoon. It has a large sign to direct you, but it's a narrow road that you may miss.

The arboretum has around 150 different tree species from around the world. From the parking area, there are three trails to follow. These paths are different levels of length and effort, all taking you to see trees native from other parts of the world.

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Near Kilmun

If you’re visiting Kilmun you are well placed to explore Blairmore and Ardentinny. Stay on Shore Road, once it reaches Strone Point Holy Loch becomes Loch Long. There is a regular bus service that runs between Ardentinny and Toward Point (beyond Dunoon).

Benmore Botanic Garden and Puck’s Glen are a short drive away. There is also a connecting forestry trail from Kilmun Arboretum to both. From Dunoon Western Ferries run a regular service to Gourock.