Faith in Cowal: Fearnoch - Kilfinan

The route from Fearnoch Chapel to Kilfinan Church takes place mostly on tarmac roads or Forestry tracks, with two short sections where some battling through undergrowth may be involved (depending on the time of year). Making up the second leg of the South West Loop, it's a relatively easy pilgrim route to walk and offers spectacular views over Loch Riddon, into Glendaruel valley, and over towards the Kintyre Peninsula at various different points of the walk. These are some of the best views in Scotland, so it's ideal if you're a fan of landscape photography. Walking poles are recommended due to the length of the journey and some steep hills in the middle section. This route can be also cycled, with some easy amendments to avoid the unpaved sections.

The route starts by heading downhill from Fearnoch Chapel towards the farm below. The trail down to the road is faded and can be muddy or slippy in parts. It's not suitable for cyclists, so if you're on wheels or prefer surer footing, then the solution is to head up to the main road (A886) and follow that northwest. Whichever way you choose, once you hit tarmac it's plain sailing most of the rest of the way. There's a small section of the Old Stone Bridge road near Stronafian, which is overgrown with gorse bush, so cyclists are instructed to stick to the main road. Walkers may wish to do the same if they're more put off by brambles and bracken )and the prospect of ticks) than by traffic!

Find the full route on our website: Faith in Cowal