Local Area
Known as the Gateway to the Isles, Oban is the ideal place to stay to explore the surrounding area. Once given the Royal Seal of approval from Queen Victoria who called it "one of the finest spots we have seen", Oban continues to this day to welcome and captivate visitors from far and wide.
The panoramic views of the mountains, lochs and islands are as striking now as they were to Queen Victoria, and thanks to the ferry links to the exquisite surrounding Isles, Oban is one of Scotland’s most popular west coast holiday towns.
McCaig’s Tower
(Pictured above at night)
Undoubtably Oban's most outstanding feature, the Colosseum-like McCaig's Tower was built in 1897 by local banker John Stuart McCaig. His aim? To provide work for local stonemasons and a lasting monument to the McCaig family.
The steep climb (approx 10mins walk) from the town centre to McCaig's Tower is well worth the effort when faced with the spectacular views across Oban Bay to the Atlantic Islands. The gardens inside the tower are well maintained and are a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of town life.
http://www.obanargyll.com/mccaigs-tower.html
Oban Distillery
Oban distillery is one of the oldest in Scotland and is well worth a visit - especially if the weather is unkind!
Unusual in being located in the heart of such a busy town, there has been a distillery here since 1794. It can readily be identified by its tall chimney and by its location, almost on the waterfront and immediately underneath McCaig's Folly.
http://www.discovering-distilleries.com/oban
Oban Harbour/Marina
The harbour in Oban is the real heart of this West Highland town. As the main ferry terminus for Mull, Colonsay, Coll, Tiree, Lismore, Barra and South Uist, Oban is always a busy, bustling place. The Corran Esplanade is great for walking along, simply to enjoy the sea air or watch the boats and ferries come in. Fishing and boat trips are available, including special trips to view the seals.
You can shop down George Street and explore the small lanes leading away from the centre; eat lunch at one of the cafes on Argyll Street and admire its floral display.
http://www.harbourguides.com/harbours.php/Oban
Scottish Sealife Sanctuary
Nestling in a mature spruce forest on the shores of beautiful Loch Creran the Scottish Sea Life Sanctuary enjoys one of the most picturesque settings in Britain, and is home to some of the UK's most enchanting marine creatures. In crystal clear waters you can explore over 30 fascinating natural marine habitats containing everything from Octopus to Sharks.
http://www.sealsanctuary.co.uk/oban1.html
Mull & Iona
Take the ferry across the Firth of Lorne to the spectacular Isle of Mull. Mull & Iona are both renowned for their landscape, wildlife, beaches and hills - but there’s more to these Hebridean islands, and more things to do. Discover the human history, the hidden geology, the contemporary island culture.
Drive across Mull to Fionnphort for the short ferry crossing to the enchanting and magical island of Iona. There will be plenty of time to explore this fascinating island including the famous 13th century Iona Abbey, one of Scotland’s most historic and sacred sites (pictured right).
Oban War & Peace Museum
Contains a fascinating collection of artefacts and photographs depicting the rich cultural history of the busy port town and its people.
You can find out about the fishing and maritime industries, the railways, road transport, and the strategic role played by Oban during the war years when the town was home to Australian, Canadian and US aircrew and RAF Flying Boats operated from the bay.
Argyll Pottery
Visit a working pottery in the beautiful Argyll scenery.
Treat yourself and your friends to a hand made ceramic peice from a selection in the gift shop, all are made on the premises in a woodburning kiln
The pottery is situated by the southern shore of Loch Creran on the A828, main Oban to Fort William Road
Members of Guild of Master Craftsmen and Scottish Potters Association.
Only 20 mins from Oban
Cruachan Power Station
Situated amongst some of Scotland's most beautiful scenery, lying deep within Ben Cruachan is one of the country's most amazing engineering achievements. The world's first high head reversible pumped storage hydro scheme is housed in a gigantic man-made cavern. The Visitor Centre houses the free exhibition area and is the starting point of the guided tour.
Only 40 mins from Oban
Inveraray Jail
Inveraray Jail is a living 19th century jail and museum, located in the Argyll town of Inveraray, in the Scottish Highlands. It was the original 19th century jail for the Argyll area, and has now been developed into one of the most original visitor attractions in the west of Scotland.
http://www.inverarayjail.co.uk/
38 miles from Oban
Inverawe Fisheries & Country Park
Spend a day in the country! Learn to fly-fish, join the Falconry Display, take a leisurely walk on any of our Nature Trails, you never know what you might meet! Find out how a traditional smokehouse works, take a look around our exhibition and peep into the working smokehouse. Only 20 minutes drive from Oban, 2 miles south of Taynuilt just off the A85 at Bridge of Awe.
Sealife Adventures
Sealife Adventures is your way to experience whale and wildlife watching boat trips on the West Coast of Scotland near Oban in Argyll. Cruise through the infamous Corryvreckan Whirlpool. The stunning panorama of the Inner Hebrides includes Mull, Iona Jura and Islay.
www.sealife-adventures.com
8 miles south of Oban
(External links - Strathmore Hotels Ltd is not responsible for the content of external websites.)
