Crinan Canal starts at Ardrishaig on Loch Fyne

The Crinan Canal starts at Ardrishaig on Loch Fyne ending at Crinan on the Sound of Jura. It provides a quick link between the west coast and the Clyde Estuary avoiding the long voyage around the south end of the Kintyre Peninsula and the difficult waters at the Mull of Kintyre. In the stretch from Ardrishaig to Crinan there are 15 locks and the canal reaches a height of 65 feet above sea level. At Cairnbaan there are several locks and a Hotel with a restaurant, carefully negotiate the crossing, rather narrow here and not easy to spot oncoming traffic, especially on your return journey to Lochgilphead. At Dunadry just up the road are more locks with a picnic area, walking and cycling tracks.
Taken from the Crinan Canal Web page	Taken from the Crinan Canal Web page
The village of Bellanoch is very picturesque with it's large basin where craft are moored, this basin is sea level, but the canal does not join the sea yet, it continues parallel with Loch Crinan. You can take the B831 to Crinan Ferry (no longer used) the road comes to a dead end, but the views from here are priceless, look out for the small island known as Lion Island with a small tree on the top which represents his bushy tail !! Ideal for cyclists who want a quiet road.
Crinan Harbour is one of the most attractive spots in Scotland. The tow paths throughout the nine miles are ideal for walkers or cyclists. At Crinan there is a Free Car Park for 100 vehicles. Lovely surroundings to sit and watch the boats "drop" to sea level before entering the Sound of Jura. Stunning views across the Sound of Jura from the harbour mouth. Plenty of vessels coming and going.
Taken from the Crinan Canal Web page
The canal is very popular with pleasure craft, providing a quick link to Loch Fyne, the east coast of the Kintyre Peninsula, the Clyde Estuary and stunning scenery. You can spend quite a time watching the boat negotiate the loch to and from the Sound of Jura.
	If you fancy a further walk, go to the right of the harbour, using the locks to cross over the water and follow the canal path, beautiful scenery, so peaceful, no sound of traffic, you have the Atlantic on your left and the canal on your right. If you are lucky you might even see an Osprey !!