General information
Charges
Most walks are free however to help offset administrative costs. there is a non-refundable booking fee of £3 per person per walk, except where otherwise indicated.
Walk grading
Walks have been carefully graded by experienced walkers to give an iindication of the type of walk participants can expect, enabling them to select those they will find most suitable and most enjoyable.
Cowal’s hills are often challenging and the terrain can be rough. Please pay attention to our walk descriptions and ensure you are wearing appropriate footwear and clothing for autumn walking in Scotland.
Public transport
Bus timetables are available from Dunoon Tourist Information Centre. Walks which can be accessed by public transport are indicated, but bus times should always be verified before setting out. Walk times should give adequate time but will depend on walking speed and conditions. Please inform the walk facilitator if you have a deadline to meet. Bicycles can be hired in Dunoon.
Transport
Transport is provided for some walks. The organisers would appreciate donations towards cost where transport is not provided by an agency but by Cowalfest.
Car parking
Car parking is usually available at walk start points but can sometimes be limited.
Prior booking
Numbers participating on guided walks are limited. The walk facilitator has set these limits to ensure your safety and enjoyment. To avoid disappointment prior booking of all walks is strongly recommended. In the event of a walk being fully booked, this allows us to offer you an alternative.
To book please book online on our website or contact:
Tourist Information Centre
Alexandra Parade, Dunoon, Argyll, PA23 8AB, Scotland
Telephone - 08707 200629
email -
Children
Under 18s - must always be accompanied by an adult.
Registration
Walkers must register for each walk with the walk facilitator at the walk start point 15 minutes before setting off. Anyone who has not booked will be accepted at the walk facilitator’s discretion providing places are available.
Dogs
Dogs on short leads are allowed on some walks. See walk details for information.
Liability
Participants in Cowalfest 2006 take part at their own risk. The organisers and supporters shall not be liable for any accident or injury however caused. You are strongly advised to check your personal accident insurance. Cowal Walking Festival Association reserves the right to cancel any walk at any point.
Enjoy yourselves
Most of our walk facilitators are volunteers. They will share with you their knowledge and passion for the breathtaking scenery, hills, forests, wildlife, history and culture of this special place. Without their generous support and input this event could not take place.
Walking in Cowal
Apart from the guided festival walks there are many places to walk in Cowal throughout the year. Further details can be obtained from Dunoon Tourist Information Centre.
Accommodation
Please support our accommodation advertisers. They have signed up to ensure you have a happy stay and that your needs and requirements as walkers are catered for, including facilities for drying wet gear and muddy boots.
The local VisitScotland Accommodation Guide is available from Dunoon Tourist Information Centre, Alexandra Parade, Dunoon, Argyll PA23 8AB, telephone 08707 200629, email -
Walk Grades
Most forest tracks in Cowal are all purpose routes so you may encounter cyclists or horse riders. With sometimes difficult terrain underfoot, and often rapidly changing weather conditions, it is essential you wear sturdy footwear and appropriate autumn clothing when out walking, especially on the C, D and E grade walks.. This is for your own safety as well as comfort.
If you are in any doubt about what to wear, Highland Stores or Outdoor Spirals, both in Dunoon, will offer help and advice as well as carrying a wide range of suitable clothing, footwear and accessories.
The walk leader is entitled to refuse to take anyone unsuitably attired.
Walkers are responsible for their own safety.
- Easy – mainly flat walking on paths with good surfaces. No stiles, few, if any, steps.
- Fairly easy – gentle walking on paths with uneven surfaces. Gentle or short inclines. Stiles or steps to be expected.
- Moderate – varying landscape or shoreline. Marked inclines, stiles or steps to be expected. Suitable for anyone who is reasonably active.
- Fairly strenuous – a challenging walk. Fitness and proper equipment required. Steep inclines and rough ground.
- Strenuous – long with varied terrain. Suitable for fit, experienced walkers with proper
equipment.
Enjoy the Countryside Responsibly
Know the Country Code
Everyone has the right to be on most land and water providing they act responsibly.
Your access rights and responsibilities are explained fully in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
Remember
• take responsibility for your own actions
• respect the interests of other people
• care for the environment
Find out more by visiting - www.outdooraccess-scotland.com
or phoning Scottish Natural Heritage on 01369 705377
