When is St Andrew's Month and what is its significance?

St Andrew's Month is the entire month of November, leading up to St Andrew's Day on the 30th. It is a time when Scotland celebrates its patron saint, with communities gathering for cultural events, gatherings, and national celebrations. It is considered one of the most atmospheric and authentic times to visit Scotland.

Why is Dunoon a great place to celebrate St Andrew's Month?

Dunoon, located on the Cowal Peninsula and accessible via a short ferry crossing from Gourock, is an ideal destination because of its rich local culture, warm community spirit, and stunning natural surroundings. Throughout November, the town comes alive with local events and cultural gatherings that offer an authentic Scottish experience away from the bustle of city celebrations.

What are some top things to do in and around Dunoon during St Andrew's Month?

There are several fantastic activities to enjoy, including visiting Burgh Hall Dunoon for exhibitions, performances, and workshops; exploring the breathtaking Benmore Botanic Garden just six miles away, which is stunning in autumn colours; and taking a day trip to the historic town of Inveraray, around 38 miles away, where you can visit Inveraray Castle and the historic Inveraray Jail.

Where is a recommended place to stay when visiting Dunoon for St Andrew's Month?

St Ives Boutique Hotel on Victoria Parade in Dunoon is highlighted as the perfect base for exploring the area during St Andrew's Month. It offers cosy accommodation and is conveniently located close to local attractions, including Benmore Botanic Garden and easy access to day trip destinations like Inveraray.

What is Benmore Botanic Garden and why should I visit it in November?

Benmore Botanic Garden is a spectacular 120-acre garden situated at the foot of Beinn Mhòr, just six miles from St Ives Hotel. In November, the garden is particularly beautiful, with golden and russet autumn tones beneath towering conifers, scenic footbridges over the River Eachaig, and stunning mountain backdrops, making it one of Scotland's most memorable autumn walks.

What is shinty and how is it played?

Shinty (known in Scottish Gaelic as camanachd) is a fast-paced, full-contact stick-and-ball sport with ancient roots. It is played with a curved wooden stick called a caman and a small hard ball, and is often described as a turbocharged mix of field hockey and football. It is renowned for its speed, skill, and physicality.

When is the autumn shinty season on the Cowal Peninsula?

The shinty season runs from spring through to late autumn, with league fixtures and cup competitions continuing right through October and into November. Autumn fixtures are particularly exciting as they often decide league positions and cup fates, making for an electric atmosphere on the touchline.

Where can I find shinty fixture listings for the Cowal area?

You can find up-to-date fixture listings on the Camanachd Association website. Local clubs in the Cowal area compete in the South Division of the Camanachd Association leagues. You can also ask the team at St Ives Boutique Hotel in Dunoon, who are happy to point you toward the nearest match and share local knowledge.

What should first-time shinty spectators know before attending a match?

First-time spectators should dress in layers with waterproofs and sturdy boots, as autumn weather on the Cowal Peninsula can be unpredictable. Arriving early is recommended to secure a good vantage point at compact community pitches. Shinty crowds are famously welcoming, so don't be shy about striking up a conversation with locals who can guide you through the game.

Is watching shinty a good way to experience authentic Scottish Highland culture?

Absolutely. Matchdays on the Cowal Peninsula are genuine community events, complete with sideline banter and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. For visitors, attending a shinty match offers a wonderful window into authentic Scottish Highland life, far removed from typical tourist trail experiences.

Stives Hotel

Cooked Breakfast Menu

We provide a full Scottish Breakfast with local Quality pork sausage, grilled back bacon, sauteed mushrooms, grilled tomato and delicious tattie scone and free-range farm eggs cooked to your liking... And don't forget to include traditional Stornoway black pudding of course! Baked beans on request should you wish.

If you fancy something different, then how about local farm eggs scrambled with the most amazing Scottish salmon smoked locally by the famous multi-award winning Argyll Smokery and accompanied with thick wholewheat toast!

Or sample our healthy selection option with a healthy fruit, cereal and croissant.

We cater to most dietary requirements - vegan, dairy and gluten free options are always available!

Breakfast

We take our breakfast very seriously here at the St Ives.

Each morning, our guests are treated to a delicious cooked breakfast while enjoying the stunning sea views from our dining room window.

We Also have created an outdoor terrace and beer garden at the front of the hotel overlooking the Clyde. We only use quality and fresh ingredients and always try to source local Scottish foods. Our free-range eggs come from Stronchullin Farm and our salmon is Scottish and smoked by the local heroes Karen and Allan at the multi-award winning Argyll Smokery. Enjoy an array of morning coffees prepared expertly by our staff We are happy to accommodate your dietary requirements and special requests with advance notice.

Our Bar

We have a lovely wee bar onsite so come and try local gins and whisky! You are welcome to have a wee dram there or in our guest lounge while enjoying the stunning sea views over the Bay or in your bedroom.

We will be happy to bring one up for you or have a bottle/glass waiting on ice for your arrival.

Our bar (as well as our Dining room) are exclusive to our guests only but you are very welcome to bring your family and friends. Just let us know with as much notice as possible so we can welcome them properly.

Guest Reviews

★★★★★

"Exceptional, friendly environment, and personal attention by the owners made this stay memorable. The owners of the establishment were excellent hosts who made…"

Andt

Booking.com · Sep 2026

★★★★

"Superb option for this lovely town Very central and a lot of thought gone into every detail All good!"

Joseph

Booking.com · Sep 2026

★★★★★

"Nice location, easy walk into town, good choice for breakfast, Kenny was a very good host and an excellent barman"

Martin

Booking.com · Sep 2026

★★★★★

"Relaxing and very enjoyable The location was fantastic for the Cowal Gathering weekend. The hotel itself I couldn’t fault for cleanliness, decor and breakfast."

Evelyn

Booking.com · Aug 2026

★★★★★

"The personal touch, the healthy breakfast choice was exceptional"

Sarah

Booking.com · Aug 2026

★★★★★

"Great hotel, welcoming owners/staff, central location Central location, spacious room very clean and tidy. Owners/staff very friendly and great breakfast. Noth…"

Angela

Booking.com · Aug 2026

★★★★

"Super schöne Aussicht und gemütliche Stimmung!"

Salome

Booking.com · Aug 2026

★★★★

"Perfect wee getaway to see gorgeous scenery and relax The St. Ives is cosy, welcoming and clean and the sea view was a real treat… Kenny & Lesley are always on…"

Cheryl

Booking.com · Aug 2026

★★★★

"Very enjoyable for the short time we were there. Kenny and Lesley were very welcoming and more than happy to pass on information about the local area. Breakfas…"

Gill

Booking.com · Aug 2026

★★★★★

"Excellent location, friendly and welcoming staff. Great stay."

Don

Booking.com · Aug 2026

★★★★★

"Fantastic stay Very central clean friendly staff"

Suzanne

Booking.com · Aug 2026

★★★★

"Kenny was a really great host and so welcoming. He explained everything we needed for our stay including the amazing bre The welcome, the view, the breakfast w…"

Piercy

Booking.com · Aug 2026