Plans have been revealed for a new £50m leisure and adventure resort that could transform tourism on the west coast.
The Nevis Range and The Dunoon Project are uniting to build Scotland’s next world class outdoor adventure destination in Dunoon.
The Dunoon Project was launched as an innovative idea by the local community with a focus on turning the struggling town’s fortunes around - and is now set to transform the island.
At the heart of this multi-million-pound development will be a state-of-the-art mountain gondola, the first of its kind in the region, providing unparalleled access to Scotland’s spectacular landscapes and unlocking Dunoon’s full potential as a global adventure tourism hub.
The project will also include a new hotel, bike shop, retail outlets and multiple restaurants, along with a top-station café with panoramic views, delivering a truly iconic visitor experience.
By combining Nevis Range’s three decades of expertise in sustainable adventure tourism, mountain sports infrastructure, and international travel trade partnerships with Dunoon’s incredible natural setting and connectivity to Scotland’s major cities, bosses say the collaboration will establish a benchmark for world-class adventure tourism in Scotland.
A transformational investment in infrastructure will enable Dunoon to compete with the world’s leading mountain destinations, with the Dunoon Gondola hailed as the defining feature of the resort.
It will offer year-round access to high altitude adventure, providjng a seamless link to Dunoon’s summit, offering breathtaking views and direct access to world-class biking and hiking routes.
The gondola will reduce environmental impact by removing the need for vehicle access to the mountains, offering a smoother, more immersive experience for visitors.
The Dunoon Adventure Resort will be a world-class, all-in-one tourism destination, catering to international visitors, adventure seekers, and families alike.
A new modern, adventure-focused hotel, designed for bikers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts, with direct access to trails and gondola transport, will be at the heart of this phase of the development.
A full-service bike shop providing rentals, repairs, and premium equipment sales, supporting Scotland’s growing mountain biking industry will compliment a retail and outdoor store which will showcase top outdoor brands and Scottish-made products. A selection of dining options catering to all tastes, including local Scottish cuisine and global flavours, will also be built while a panoramic café at the summit will offer one of the most stunning views in Scotland.
There are also plans for elite mountain biking trails, designed by Nevis Range’s expert trail builders, hiking and outdoor walks, zip lines, climbing areas and an adventure park.
Chris O’Brien, Managing Director of Nevis Range, said: “Dunoon has always had the potential to be a world-class adventure tourism destination. With the construction of the gondola, we’re unlocking that potential and creating something truly extraordinary. We’ve seen first-hand how infrastructure like this can transform an area, and Dunoon will now be at the forefront of adventure tourism in Scotland.”
John Sutherland, Activities and Technical Director at Nevis Range, added: “This is more than just a gondola—it’s the foundation of an entire adventure resort. The trails, the infrastructure, and the visitor experience will all be world-class, and this will put Scotland on the map as a global leader in adventure tourism."
Brendon Wallace, Chairman of The Dunoon Project, commented: "We’re thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Nevis Range that will catapult Dunoon into the upper echelon of global adventure resorts. By harnessing decades of Nevis Range’s expertise, we’re not just aiming to compete with the best—we’re set to become one of the best! This monumental collaboration will turbocharge local businesses, spark a wave of job creation, and firmly establish Dunoon as a premier outdoor tourism destination in Scotland.
"The ripple effects will be felt throughout the area, driving significant investment and igniting an entrepreneurial spirit that will transform the town and the wider Argyll region. Get ready for a vibrant, exciting and prosperous future."
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