Ardentinny—about 4 miles from the cottage

Take a leisurely stroll along the beach or relax with a packed lunch at the picnic benches overlooking Loch Long. Hike up the forest tracks and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views over the lochs.

Kilmun Arboretum—about 2 miles from the cottage

Around 160 exotic tree species grow successfully in the humid west coast environment. Walks of varying lengths can start from the Forestry Commission carpark.

Benmore forest gardens—about 5 miles from the cottage

Benmore’s 120 acres boast over 300 species of rhododendron; and a spectacular avenue of Giant Redwoods. You can purchase tickets to visit the gardens in the café. Opening times:

Tel: 01369 706 261; www.rbge.org.uk/the-gardens/benmore

Loch Eck cycle trail

From Benmore you can set off on a good cycle trail that uses forest roads around Loch Eck. A round trip using path/forest road on the east side of Loch Eck or by the use of the public road is approximately 18 miles/3.5 hours.

For more information about Argyll Forest Park contact: Recreation Team, Cowal & Trossachs, 01877 382383,

e-mail: cowal.trossachs.fd@forestry.gsi.gov.uk