Intrepid Scottish TV adventurer Paul Murton is encouraging people across Argyll to put their best foot forward and explore the peninsula during this year’s Cowalfest walking festival. A list of 24 walks and events have now been finalised by the Cowalfest organising committee to be held over a five-day period from the 12th to 16th September.
Paul, who grew up in Ardentinny and is well known for his longstanding Grand Tours of Scotland TV series, commented: “The vast panoramic seascapes of Loch Long, Holy Loch and the Firth of Clyde complemented by the wonderful Cowal hills were my inspirations as a child. This is the place that nurtured a desire for adventure that has never left me and that’s what I attempt to reflect in my TV programmes. I always wanted to know what was over the next hill and what amazing views that could be experienced. It’s fantastic to know that events like Cowalfest provide a great opportunity for folks to experience that sense of wander through a wide variety of guided walks aimed at all abilities. This is where the Highlands start, both geologically and aesthetically, and it should be as widely accessible as possible. There are so many stories, so much history and awe-inspiring nature to be experienced across Cowal. There’s the magnificent Benmore Botanic Garden, a perfect starting and point for a trek along the banks of Loch Eck which offers some inspiring views as well as lots of myths and legends, and the history which you can find in spades at places like Historic Kilmun. Both of those places have been featured in my Grand Tours programmes and played a part in my childhood.”
Highlight the nature and history of the Cowal area
Paul who attended Dunoon Grammar School, Aberdeen University and the National Film and Television School before embarking on a life of adventure that took in a myriad mountains across the globe added, “There’s also a popular five-mile hike from Ardentinny to Carrick Castle near Lochgoilhead that will feature in the Cowalfest programme. It follows the shorelines of Loch Long and Loch Goil. Walking festivals provide participants with the ability to engage in the vistas and learn all about what helped to shape them as well as providing a boost for our physical health and mental wellbeing which has become such an important issue in recent times.”
Andy Armstrong, chair of Cowalfest, commented: “Paul embodies the adventurous spirit that has been a part of Cowalfest since its inception 20 years ago. After last year’s false start due to the weather and a couple of years when the pandemic took its toll, I’m delighted to say that we have put together an ambitious programme of walks and events that seeks to highlight the nature and history of the Cowal area. There will be a geology walk through Innellan, a historic trek around Kilmun and a foraging nature walk as well as various walks and talks around the peninsula aimed at all levels of experience and fitness. There really is something for everyone. We have also been boosted recently with grants from Western Ferries and the National Lottery Community Fund that will go a long way to helping us get Cowalfest back on the map.”