Visit Knapdale to watch wildlife, explore ruins, discover lochs and enjoy great views. You might even meet a beaver.
There is a range of trails, from gentle strolls around Barnluasgan Loch or across the gorge at Dunardry. You might prefer more challenging rambles, and cycle rides up the ‘knaps’ and down into the ‘dales’ for magnificent loch, canal and sea views.
There’s plenty of wildlife here, but the stars of the show are Knapdale’s beavers. Find out more at Barnluasgan Information Centre. There’s a wealth of history too. Visit Castle Dounie, a holy well, abandoned villages or the remarkable Crinan Canal.
The best place to start exploring Knapdale. You’ll find an information centre, scenic woodland trails, unique wetlands and the chance to look for beavers. The Argyll Beaver Centre which is home of the Heart of Argyll Wildlife Organisation is a great place to learn more about wildlife.
Step back in time and discover 4,000-year-old rock art. Follow the Cup and Ring Trail or the more accessible Rock Art Trail to marvel at these mysterious ancient symbols.
Bird’s eye views of the Sound of Jura and the Inner Hebrides from old Atlantic oakwoods above Crinan’s pretty harbour. A steep climb takes you to Castle Dounie, a stone fort on a high rocky knoll.
Make royal connections at Dunardry. The picnic spot at the start of the Dunardry trails is a great vantage point above the Crinan Canal.
Wind through the woods to the atmospheric ruins of the village of Arichonan, with sweeping Caol Scotnish and Loch Sween views.