The PS Waverley is the last sea going paddle steamer in the world, and frequently lands at the Tighnabruaich pier.

Based at the Holy Loch, Dunoon, the River Rocket offers adventure power boat trips on the Firth of Clyde, including the Kyles of Bute. They also offer gentler cruises which allow plenty of opportunity to take in the scenery and view the many examples of wildlife in the area including seals, gannets, porpoises and occasionally dolphins.

On occasion, the River Rocket operates out of Tighnabruaich, and it is available for charter, so it's worth giving them a call if you're interested in organising a ride.

Quadmania is based in Blairmore near Dunoon and provides a wide range of action-packed activities from quad-bikes to abseiling, rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, rib-boat adventure, archery, gorge walking and more.

Inverary Castle, the seat of the Clan Campbell whose Chief is the Duke of Argyll, is well worth a visit. And nearby is Inverary Jail, Scotland's living 19th Century prison.

Back nearer Dunoon in the wonderful woodland setting of the Eachaig Valley lies Benmore Botanic Gardens, which is steeped in history and surrounded by dramatic scenery. Benmore boasts a world-famous collection of magnificent conifers, flowering trees and shrubs. Its 150 acres feature some of the tallest trees in Britain, including a spectacular Avenue of Giant Redwoods - these majestic giants soar over 40 metres high!

The Cowal Highland Gathering each August is the most important event on the Cowal calendar. It is the largest Highland Gathering in the world and attracts more than 3500 competitors including pipe bands, Highland dancers and athletes.

Additional Website links that you may find useful are:

Visit Bute - Official site of Isle of Bute Marketing and Tourism

Kintyre.org - Travel information for Kintyre Peninsula

Highland Horse Riding - Riding centre in Tarbert

Sports facilities in Tighnabruaich include a floodlit tennis court and 5-aside football pitch. Shinty is the local game and is a great game to watch. Referred to as hockey without rules, this is a sport only played by hard folk. You can always tell a shinty player as they have most of their teeth missing. Kyles Athletic is the local club.

There is a tennis court next to the shinty pitch which can be hired for a couple of £'s - the key is available from Kames Post Office.

In the winter the tennis court is a 5 a side football pitch. Irvine's the clothier and carpet shop have tokens for the floodlights.