The Tighnabruaich to Ormidale walk looks deceptively easy for the most part, however its Grade D listing relates to the scramble along the side of Loch Riddon which can be quite hard going. This walk, which is almost 9 miles long, and takes approximately 5.5 hours to complete is a well trodden section of the official Cowal Way.

Starting at Tighnabruaich Post Office, head along the promenade passing the old pier which was built in 1843. Although the pier is no longer in day-to-day use it still receives summer visitors from the paddle steamer Waverley. Keeping the West Kyle of Bute on your right hand side, follow the road past the houses and then along a shore track which crosses a boatyard slipway. After following the track past a prominent grey crag, this will take you round to the Rubha Ban headland where the Isle of Bute seems a mere stone’s throw away.

As the Kyles of Bute merge into Loch Riddon you will see a small island named Eilean Dubh just beyond the disused lighthouse. This was once a 14th Century stronghold of the Campbells. Archaeological digs have uncovered the foundations of the castle along with numerous artefacts of iron, pottery and slate.

Proper footwear is required for walking through the woods as the path veers off into the West Glen. If you pick the right time of year, you could be fortunate enough to catch sight of the seal colonies that inhabit this stretch of Loch Riddon, or if you are particularly lucky you may spot an elusive otter or porpoise.

The route continues past where Loch Riddon gives way to the River Ruel.

At this point there is a detour through the Ormidale Gorge. Access to this part of the walk, however is restricted to certain times of the year.

As you near Glendaruel, you have to cross the River Ruel by way of a two-arched bridge designed and built by Thomas Telferd in 1808. If time permits, it’s worth paying a visit to Kilmoden Church which dates approximately from 1783. Here you find a fascinating collection of carved stone grave slabs dating back to the 14th Century.