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'.