The Crinan Canal is frequently called the most beautiful short-cut in Scotland: the short-cut being between the Sound of Jura at Crinan and Loch Fyne at Ardrishaig, which avoids a long diversion around the Kintyre peninsula for boats sailing between the Clyde Estuary and the Inner Hebrides. The towpath that hugs the 14km/9 miles of the canal provides an easy, relaxed, linear walk through some of Scotland’s finest scenery. The 15 locks along the Crinan Canal are not automated so anyone can help to open and close the locks, making for a fun addition to this superb walk.
[1] From the car park at the back of Crinan Basin (NR787943), follow a track towards the canal to reach a lock.
For a short, optional diversion, turn right here and climb a path through lovely woodland to reach a viewpoint, which grants a stunning vista over the Sound of Jura to the distinctive Paps of Jura.
Otherwise, cross over the lock, and turn right onto the Crinal Canal towpath (NR789944).
(A) Work started on the canal in 1794 under the guidance of the civil engineer John Rennie, but problems with the design and locks meant it was not completed until 1816 after a major redesign by the great Thomas Telford.
[2] Follow the towpath beneath Crinan Wood, with the Crinan Canal to your right and the sea to your left.
You will be able to enjoy fine views across to Crinan Ferry and over the historic Argyll countryside.
After a cottage beside a swing bridge (NR793938), the canal swings left and continues by the small marina (NR797928) at Bellanoch – home to some impressive yachts.
[3] Just after Bellanoch, you cross a minor road at the Islandadd Bridge (NR805924), where the sea is left behind and the canal continues alongside the great expanse of the Mhoine Mhor (the Great Moss).
Rising above the moor is the conspicuous outline of Dunadd, once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Dalriada where many of the first Scottish kings were crowned.
The towpath then approaches a series of locks between Dunardry and Cairnbaan.
(B) Here the canal rises to its highest point at some 21m/68ft above sea level. As you watch the water rise and fall between locks, you can really begin to appreciate what a marvel of engineering the canal is. It’s also a lot of fun helping to open and close the locks along this stretch, although be prepared slow progress if you do!
From Dunardry (NR819913) the towpath then develops into a single-track road near Cairnbaan, passing by locks and several houses to reach the swing bridge beside the B841 (NR839908).
[4] Cross the road and then turn right through an opening in a wall near the Cairnbaan Hotel. Turn left onto the towpath and simply follow the line of the canal.
Look out for the diverse variety of wildlife residing here that includes butterflies, heron and otter.
After a couple of miles, you reach the outskirts of Lochgilphead with its variety of amenities. Otherwise, continue along the towpath beside more lovely woodland and cross the swing bridge at Oakfield (NR856879).
[5] Keep along the canal, where peace and quiet prevails among some attractive houses as you approach Ardrishaig, to reach the A83 and the end of this beautiful and historic stretch of water.