One of the most beautiful spots on the Cowal Peninsula is the little village of Lochgoilhead at the Northern end of Loch Goil. Under the shadow of the spectacular Arrochar Alps the village feels cosy and protected. There are plenty of walking and hiking opportunities in the area for all levels.
There is a nice walk down by the beach and the Goil Inn serves good liquid refreshments for when the feet are tired. Lochgoilhead has a 9 hole Par 62 golf course on the Drimsynie Estate which is open all year round. The ruins of Carrick Castle can be found a few miles to the South of the village and was one of the many castles used as a hunting lodge by James IV.
Carrick Castle lies on the west shores of Loch Goil. It is a 14th century tower house (although some believe it to be an original Viking Fort ) and it used to be one of the main strongholds of the Campbells of Argyll. Mary Queen of Scots is said to have stayed there in 1563 whilst on her way to Inverary Castle.
Tucked away on the road to Carrick Castle there is a fantastic little cafe called the Boat Shed. It is open every day from 10am until 4pm serving breakfast, lunch and delicious coffee and cakes. The setting is stunning with a cosy seating area both inside and out. There is a large wooden veranda built around a tree with plenty of blankets available for the wintery days.
Set on the shores of Lochgoilhead the views from the Boat Shed Café are truly spectacular. We stopped for lunch and had a delicious hearty Highland Broth accompanied by a panini, and naturally followed by some cake and coffee (roasted in the Scottish Highlands.) They offer a great selection of teas and cakes and to top it all, they are dog friendly, so Bruce and Charlie our two Dachshunds, could join in the fun.
Hi Anne-Marie,
Love the post, fab photos especially of the 2 lads Bruce & Charlie with their wee coats on. Next sunny Saturday we’ll certainly be paying a visit to the Boat Shed.
Cheers Tom 🙂