Kilmun Arboretum
About Kilmun Arboretum
Nestled on the Cowal Peninsula in Argyll, Kilmun Arboretum is a serene treasure that invites visitors to explore a world of global forestry. Overlooking the Holy Loch and just a short drive from Dunoon, this tranquil site is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts, botany lovers, and those seeking a peaceful escape from the bustle of everyday life.
Kilmun Arboretum was established in 1930 as an experimental forestry site, hosting over 150 tree species worldwide. The Arboretum was part of a bold endeavor to assess the potential of non-native species for timber production in Scotland’s unique climate. Today, it’s a living museum of trees, offering a fascinating glimpse into the variety and resilience of global forestry.
Among its highlights are towering coastal redwoods from California, Japanese cedars with their delicate, feathery foliage, and monkey puzzle trees from Chile that seem almost otherworldly. Each tree is labelled, making it easy for visitors to learn about their origins and characteristics.
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What to expect at Kilmun Arboretum
The arboretum is open year-round, with parking available nearby at Kilmun Church. While there’s no on-site café, the nearby village of Kilmun offers refreshment spots. Wear sturdy footwear, as some trails can be uneven, particularly after rain.
As is true for the Arglly Forest, Cowal part of the National Park Kilmun Arboretum’s quiet charm ensures it remains one of Scotland’s best-kept secrets.
Kilmun Arboretum Trails
The trails all start from the free car park. The easiest and shortest is John Jackson, which is just 15 minutes. Follow the yellow posts for ornamental maples, Japanese cedars, and Himalayan spruce.
The Conifer Trail has steeper slopes and takes around 30 minutes. This time, there are redwoods and sequoias from California and monkey puzzles from South America. You will also get good views through the trees of Holy Loch.
Finally, the longest trail, but still less than an hour, is the Eucalyptus Trail, where you experience the tres of the Australian bush. There are some longer, steeper slopes and bridges.
Experiencing a wide variety of species is very easy, thanks to these short trails. There are also connecting pathways to Puck's Glen, Glenbranter and Benmore Botanic Garden.
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Words and photography by Paul Saunders. Visit Paul’s Marketing and Photography websites for details of his services in Scotland.
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