Explore scenic walks near Ruskin Lodges in Argyll
- Abigail Daly
- Mar 29
- 3 min read
There are lots of maps and walking guides in the cabin, but for more inspiration, check out Walk Highlands for walks across Argyll or Cowal Walks for trails in the immediate area.
The area is heavily forested, and the Forestry Commission sometimes needs to close routes for maintenance or to tackle tree diseases. Alternative routes are usually signposted at the start of walks—please observe any instructions regarding infection control.
Short walks from the lodge (under 1 hour)
Benmore Gardens & River Eachaig loop (40-45 mins, easy)
A flat, family-friendly walk with well-surfaced tracks, suitable for buggies and bikes. Enjoy scenic river views and take a break at Benmore Gardens, where there are toilets, a café (with outdoor seating), and bins.
Route:
Leave the lodge park via the chain gate and walk north for 5-10 minutes.
Turn left along the road past a small group of houses.
Carefully cross the A815 and follow signs for ‘Uig Hall.’
Cross the footbridge on your right and turn right along the farm track.
After 15 minutes, reach Benmore Gardens car park.
Walk through the car park and cross back over the main road.
Follow the track south, parallel to the main road, back to the lodges.
Please note that some of the upper routes are closed for maintenance following storms in early 2025.
Puck’s Glen (currently closed – check for updates)
TripAdvisor’s No. 1 attraction in the area is just minutes from the lodge. A magical walk through a twisting gorge with waterfalls and moss-covered rocks, it’s especially dramatic after rain. There are steep sections, but benches offer rest stops.
Route:
Leave the lodge park via the chain gate and turn left.
The Puck’s Glen trails start almost immediately on your right.
For a short 30-minute loop, take the first right when the track splits.
For a longer walk (up to 1 hour), keep climbing until you meet a metalled road.
Turn right to descend through the forest, or turn left to follow a high track leading to the Big Tree Walk or Benmore Gardens.
Local walks (short drive from the lodge)
Kilmun Arboretum (10-min drive, moderate)
A sheltered, sometimes steep, collection of woodland walks with interesting trees and great views. The main track leads to the top of Puck’s Glen.
Getting there: Drive towards Dunoon, turn left onto the A880 toward Kilmun, and look for the Forestry Commission sign. Follow the steep road to the car park, where there’s a useful map.
Bishop’s Glen, Dunoon (gentle woodland loop)
A scenic walk behind Dunoon with a reservoir, forest trails, and gentle slopes.
Getting there: Drive into Dunoon and park at the top of Nelson Street. Follow the track uphill.
Glen Massan, Sandbank (riverside & forest trails)
Walks along the River Massan, with varied routes through forestry and farmland. Be mindful of livestock and keep dogs on a lead in fields.
Walks further afield
Ardentinny (25-30 min drive)
A great spot for a day out with a sandy beach, picnic areas, accessible toilets, and barbecue-friendly spaces. Watch for wildlife and, occasionally, submarines and military vessels.
Getting there: Drive towards Dunoon, take the A880 to Kilmun and Strone, and follow it to Ardentinny. To reach the beach, continue past Glenfinart Holiday Park and take the next right with a green Forestry Commission sign. Drive parallel to the river and cross the bridge nearest the sea to access the car park.
Another option: Park in the village car park after the church. A 15-minute track leads to the beach, or take woodland trails from the back of the car park.
Glenbranter (forest walks & waterfalls, 30-min drive)
A beautiful forest with a gorge, waterfalls, picnic benches, and a visitor centre. Springtime brings spectacular displays of bluebells.
Getting there: Turn right when leaving the lodge park, drive past Loch Eck, and follow signs for Glenbranter. Park near the visitor centre.
More inspiration
For more walking guides, visit Walk Highlands, check updates from Forestry Land Scotland and take a look at Nature Scotland's local path network.
Plan your stay at Ruskin Lodges
With breathtaking walks on your doorstep, Ruskin Lodges is the perfect base for exploring Argyll’s stunning landscapes. Whether you prefer a short stroll or a longer hike, there’s something for everyone. Pack your walking boots (and waterproofs!) and enjoy the beauty of Argyll!
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