Kilmun Arboretum

Kilmun Arboretum is a hillside tree collection north of Dunoon, planted in the 1930s as a forestry research project. It holds more than 150 species in groups, including Japanese cedars, Himalayan spruces, California redwoods, monkey puzzles and eucalyptus. Keep it for a short woodland stop rather than a full-day attraction.

The 0.4 km John Jackson Trail takes about 15 minutes on mostly firm gravel, with uneven patches, short steep slopes and a narrow bridge. The 1.3 km Conifer Trail and 1.6 km Eucalyptus Trail take roughly 30 and 45 minutes, but both are classed strenuous, with steep slopes, uneven gravel, grass and bridges. The reward is a closer look at unusual trees and, on the Conifer Trail, views across Holy Loch to the Cowal mountains. Warm weather can bring out the eucalyptus scent.

The free car park is signposted from the A815 about four miles north of Dunoon. A bus to Kilmun pier leaves about a ten-minute walk from the arboretum. There’s a picnic area, so bring something to eat. Public toilets are in Dunoon or at the Benmore Garden café. If you want an easier stroll, stick to John Jackson; the longer trails are much steeper than their short distances suggest. For a photo, use the Conifer Trail’s gaps in the trees to frame Holy Loch and the Cowal hills, or get close to the eucalyptus bark.