Faith in Cowal: Dunoon - Ardnadam (loop)

Assuming you’re staying in Dunoon, then this walk to Ardnadam Chapel, over the hilltop of Dunan – locally known as the Camel’s Hump –  is a pleasant afternoon gamble along forestry roads. If it weren’t for a few muddy patches when you join the Ardnadam Heritage Trail, then this could even be done in trainers.

It should take no more than 2.5hrs at an easy pace. The loop starts from the top of John St, following Forestry paths uphill in a northwesterly direction. The path bends north then begins to descend. Just as this happens, there's the option of taking in a slight detour to Dunan Hill viewpoint. A path (signposted Hetitage Trail) appears off to the left and following it is a 5 min hike up steep, occasionally muddy hills, with fantastic views as a reward.

Rejoining the main route, the path descends and passes Loch Loskin (on your right). As the Forestry path reaches loch level it wants to switch back toward the loch (and then exit to the road), however, our route continues north through the woods, picking up the heritage trail once more, and following it to Ardnadam Chapel.

If you continue on this route to where it offiicially starts, then you can also visit a neolithic Chambered Cairn in the fields nearby (more details on our website).

The return journey leads away from the entrance to the Heritage trail, heading uphill for a short time at a steep incline. The Forestry road bends back upon itself as it climbs, then leads to a junction. Take the left fork to continue southwards. There are two or three more junctions to navigate,  but if you maintain a roughly south east bearing, you'll soon arrive at familiar trails back to the top of John Street.


A full route guide can be found on our website: Faith in Cowal.