Distance: 90 km Grade: 3 (Moderate)
Bridge over the Inveruglas Water
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Jim Barton - geograph.org.uk/p/6294654
© Copyright Gordon Brown and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
This trail connects with the following trail(s):
Kintyre Way at Portavadie (Ferry)
Three Lochs Way at Arrochar
Mary, Queen of Scots Way at Arrochar
West Highland Way at Inveruglas (Ferry)
Great Trossachs Path at Inveruglas (Ferry)
Description:
A 6‑stage, 90 km route of moderate difficulty, the Loch Lomond & Cowal Way is often described as Scotland’s most diverse long‑distance footpath. It runs the full length of the Cowal Peninsula, weaving through some of the most beautiful and varied landscapes in the Highlands.
The terrain is mixed and occasionally steep, and while the waymarking is generally good, there are sections where confident map‑reading skills are useful. The route follows a blend of established footpaths, forestry tracks, open hillsides, quiet minor roads, and traditional rights of way.
Along the way, walkers are treated to an ever‑changing backdrop of shorelines, ancient forests, rolling hills, and tranquil lochs. This constant variety—both in scenery and underfoot—makes the Loch Lomond & Cowal Way a richly rewarding journey across one of Scotland’s lesser‑known peninsulas.
Stages:
- Portavadie - Tighnabruaich 10,5 km (Easy)
- Tighnabruaich - Glendaruel 18,25 km (Slightly harder)
- Glendaruel - Strachur 25,5 km (Slightly harder)
- Strachur - Lochgoilhead 14,5 km (Moderate)
- Lochgoilhead - Arrochar 14,5 km (Moderate)
- Arrochar - Inveruglas 7,75 km (Easy)