Loch Striven

Loch Striven is a sea inlet that stretches northward into the Cowal Peninsula, forming a deep narrow waterway. The shores are lined with low hills and patches of woodland, with the water creating a long protected channel.

During World War II, this inlet served the Royal Navy as a training ground for small submarines preparing for operations. The protected waters made it valuable for military preparations along the Scottish coast.

The waters here are part of Scottish maritime life, where fishing boats come and go with the seasons. This working relationship between people and the loch shapes how the place looks and feels.

The southern sections can be reached by minor roads, while visiting the northern parts requires a boat. Weather conditions can change quickly here, so bring suitable clothing and check conditions before heading out.

A fuel depot at Knockdow has supplied naval and NATO vessels here for decades, making it an essential part of military operations. This facility on the northern shore reflects how this peaceful-looking inlet remains strategically important.

Location: Argyll and Bute

GPS coordinates: 55.94170,-5.08220

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:09