A Day in Oban

The lovely town of Oban, nestled in a scenic bay and gazing out at an island-dotted horizon, is the perfect place to unwind.  Known as the 'Gateway to the Isles' and the 'Seafood Capital of Scotland', this pretty coastal town is only a twenty minute drive from Taynuilt and has a host of attractions and sights to discover.  If you're looking for ideas on how to spend a day in Oban, here are a few suggestions.

Head to Dunollie Museum, Castle and Grounds in the morning to delve into its fascinating and rich history and soak up some beautiful views.  The castle is only a two minute drive from the centre of Oban and a twenty minute walk for those keen to take in some sights on foot.  If you decide to walk, head north from Oban town centre along the shoreline, past Corran Halls and take the old carriage track across the road from the War Memorial.  (You can also keep walking along the coastline and take a right just before the castle).

Dunollie stands on Bronze Age foundations and the castle that remains today dates from the 15th century.  It is the ancestral home of Clan MacDougall, and has been occupied by chiefs of the clan for around 900 years.  Explore the 1745 House Museum to find out the story of the castle and the MacDougall family, enjoy a stroll in the castle grounds and visit the castle site to bask in stunning views towards the islands.  If you're in need of a morning coffee, there is also a cafe which is open daily.

Walk back into the centre of town for a spot of lunch at Bossards Patisserie on Combie Street.  This charming coffee shop is ideal for a light lunch, with a range of mouth-watering cakes and pastries as well as home cooked soups and delicious sandwiches.

After lunch, why not explore one of Scotland's oldest distilleries?  Established in 1794 Oban Distillery is also one of the smallest distilleries in the country, with two pot stills.  The distillery is near the centre of town, just off George Street.  Visitors can learn about the production of its classic malt during a distillery tour, as well as enjoy a complimentary dram of Oban 14 year old West Highland Malt.  (Advance booking for the tour is advisable).

Not far from Oban Distillery, you'll find the Oban War and Peace Museum which is brimming with interesting photographs and historical artefacts.  It's a great place to find out more about local history, including the fishing and maritime industries, and the building of the iconic McCaig's Tower - the Colosseum-style building that sits like a watch-guard over Oban Bay.

For an afternoon treat, head to the Chocolate Factory on the Esplanade, renowned for its scrumptious hot chocolate and handmade chocolates, where you can also admire the stunning views across Oban Bay.

To end the afternoon, take a walk or drive up to McCaigs Tower.  A word of warning if you decide to walk, the hills are quite steep - but the gorgeous views over Oban and the islands of Kerrera, Mull and Lismore are more than worth the effort.  The tower was built in 1897 by a local banker and is now a public garden.  It is a must-see whilst in Oban for the sweeping west coast vista.

If you want a slightly different angle, you can also drive up to Pulpit Hill Viewpoint to enjoy views across Oban and towards McCaig's Tower.

End your day in Oban with a seafood dinner at the Waterfront Restaurant.  This fantastic restaurant is located on the Railway Pier, with picturesque views, and specialises in quality, fresh seafood.  A fitting way to top off your day in the country's 'Seafood Capital'.

Exploring the Isle of Easdale

Dotting the edge of the Isle of Seil like a full stop is the charming Isle of Easdale.  Just under an hour's drive from Taynuilt, the former slate islands of Seil and Easdale are fascinating places to explore.

The Isle of Seil is separated from the mainland by a sliver of sea and reached via the 18th century 'Bridge over the Atlantic' (otherwise known as Clachan Bridge).

The main village on Seil is Ellenabeich, with its pretty lines of whitewashed cottages built in the 18th century for those working in the slate quarries.  It is also the stepping stone for hopping over to Easdale; the car-free and smallest permanently inhabited Inner Hebridean island.

A small ferry whisks you from Ellenabeich to Easdale in under five minutes.  Easdale was at the heart of the Scottish slate mining industry and there are reminders of its past everywhere you turn.

Once on Easdale you can take in the beautiful views and slate-filled landscape by walking around the island, visit the award-winning Easdale Island Folk Museum and enjoy lunch or homebaking in the excellent Puffer Bar and Restaurant.

The Easdale Island Folk Museum (open March - mid October) is a great place to learn more about the island's past, with displays on the slate industry, geology, boats and much more.  There is also a craft area selling slate goods, locally handmade crafts, preserves, cards and wooden furniture. 

No trip to Easdale is complete without a visit to the Puffer Bar and Restaurant.  With its lovely sea views, friendly atmosphere and fresh, locally sourced food it's a great place to enjoy a drink or meal while you wait for the ferry back to Ellenabeich.

On the last Sunday of September each year the island becomes the arena for the World Stone Skimming Championships - where better to skim stones than an old slate quarry?!  Anyone of any age can compete, and competitors can register on the day (Sunday 28th) at the Easdale Island Community Hall.  There is also a Pre-Skim Party on Saturday 27th in the Community Hall, with live music and a licensed bar.

Ellenabeich on the Isle of Seil is also home to Seafari Adventures - read more about their wildlife watching and Corrywreckan whirlpool boat trips here.