Nevis Range and The Dunoon Project unite to build Scotland’s next World Class adventure destination
Nevis Range [Lochaber], Scotland’s leading adventure tourism and destination management company, has partnered with The Dunoon Project to create a world-class outdoor adventure resort in Dunoon, set to become one of Scotland’s premier tourism attractions. (The Dunoon Project was launched as an innovative idea by the local community with a focus on turning the struggling town’s fortunes around.)
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.
This landmark project will feature a full-service base station with a hotel, bike shop, bike hire, 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, this collaboration will establish a benchmark for world-class adventure tourism in Scotland.
A Vision for Dunoon: A New Era for Adventure Tourism
Dunoon is an untapped jewel in Scotland’s adventure landscape, with its stunning topography, proximity to Glasgow and Edinburgh, and ideal conditions for outdoor recreation.
Now, for the first time, a transformational investment in infrastructure will enable Dunoon to compete with the world’s leading mountain destinations.
The Centrepiece: Scotland’s Next Iconic Gondola System
The Dunoon Gondola will be the defining feature of the resort, offering:
Year-Round Access to High-Altitude Adventure – The gondola will provide a seamless link to Dunoon’s summit, offering breathtaking views and direct access to world-class biking and hiking routes.
A Game-Changer for Scottish Tourism – Nevis Range’s existing mountain gondola in Fort William attracts over 250,000 visitors per year—proving that this model can drive year-round growth.
Sustainable, Scenic Transportation – The gondola will reduce environmental impact by removing the need for vehicle access to the mountains, offering a smoother, more immersive experience for visitors.
A Fully Integrated Adventure Resort
The Dunoon Adventure Resort will be a world-class, all-in-one tourism destination, catering to international visitors, adventure seekers, and families alike.
Base Station Features:
A New Adventure Hotel – A modern, adventure-focused hotel, designed for bikers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts, with direct access to trails and gondola transport.
Bike Shop & Hire Centre – A full-service bike shop providing rentals, repairs, and premium equipment sales, supporting Scotland’s growing mountain biking industry.
Retail & Outdoor Gear Stores – Showcasing top outdoor brands and Scottish-made products, enhancing the visitor experience.
Restaurants & Après-Adventure Dining – A selection of dining options catering to all tastes, including local Scottish cuisine and global flavours, ensuring visitors have world-class hospitality at the base station.
Top Station Features:
Panoramic Café at the Summit – A high-altitude café offering one of the most stunning views in Scotland, providing an unforgettable dining experience.
Elite Mountain Biking Trails – Designed by Nevis Range’s expert trail builders, these downhill, enduro, and cross-country tracks will position Dunoon as a leading international MTB destination.
Hiking & Outdoor Experiences – A variety of walking trails, guided nature hikes, and exploration routes, suitable for all ages and abilities.
Zip Lines, Climbing Areas & Adventure Park – Expanding beyond biking and hiking, the resort will include thrill-seeking activities to attract a diverse global audience.
Nevis Range’s Proven Success in Adventure Tourism
Nevis Range has set the gold standard for adventure destinations in Scotland, with a track record of attracting international tourists and boosting the Scottish economy.
Key Achievements:
- 250,000+ annual visitors via the Nevis Range Gondola, proving that mountain lifts drive sustainable tourism.
- Host of major international mountain biking competitions, including the British Downhill Championships and IXS Downhill Series.
- Winner of the 2024 Scottish Thistle Award for Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience, recognizing Nevis Range’s excellence in delivering high-quality adventure experiences and international tourism growth.
- A driving force behind Scotland’s outdoor economy, supporting hundreds of jobs across hospitality, retail, and outdoor sports industries.
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!”
A Game-Changing Economic Boost for Scotland
The Dunoon Project will be a major catalyst for economic growth, ensuring:
Hundreds of jobs created across tourism, hospitality, and outdoor industries. Scotland competes on a global stage for adventure tourism dollars. Year-round revenue growth, reducing seasonality and expanding off-peak tourism markets. More international visitors through Nevis Range’s partnerships with Destination Management Companies (DMCs) and global tour operators.
Scotland needs bold investment in adventure tourism to remain competitive—and Dunoon will be the blueprint for the future of the industry.
A World-Class Adventure Resort to Redefine Scotland’s Tourism Industry
With its cutting-edge gondola, full-service base station, international-standard bike trails, and top-tier visitor experiences, Dunoon will rival the best adventure resorts in the world.
Scotland has always been a leader in outdoor adventure. Now, Dunoon will take its place alongside the greatest adventure resorts globally, drawing visitors from across Europe, North America, and beyond.
ENDS
Media Contacts:
- Nevis Range – Chris O’Brien – chris.obrien@nevisrange.co.uk
- The Dunoon Project – Gavin Dick – governor@inverarayjail.co.uk
Images:
Images attached – supplied by Nevis Range.
