The ferry to Bute from Colintraive takes a short 10 minutes – a lowland island with green rolling hills and many farms – a total contrast to the highland, rugged scenery you have just left.  The incredible and breathtaking Mount Stuart House & Gardens is an essential visit and Rothesay abounds with Victorian buildings and cake confectionary architecture.  Before you leave you just have to stop for a ‘99’ or an ‘Oyster’ at the famous ice cream shop! 

Back on the mainland – on the road to Dunoon (the biggest town and ferry crossing in the area) we arrive at the 19thC Benmore Gardens with the amazing Redwood Avenue of Giant Sequoias. In Spring and early summer the rhododendrons and azaleas are a delight.  A little further on this route and you come to Kilmun Church with The Campbell Mausoleum and the fascinating gravestones.

More recent history in this area as the USA Polaris submarine was based here during the 1960’s with easy access to the famous River Clyde and The Atlantic.  Large cruise ships still arrive on the opposite shore at the terminal in Greenock. Visit the Castle House Museum in Dunoon for a trip down memory lane and plenty of shops and nice cafes. Finish a wonderful day out by strolling along the promenade to watch the yachts and craft on The River Clyde and you may even catch a glimpse of the last sea going paddle steamer in the world – The Waverley!