Must Visit Scotland: Oban

In the first of a new travel blog, Lisa Wilson of Must Visit Scotland seeks out the best hotels, activities and restaurants that the country has to offer.
Picture:  Donald MacLeodPicture:  Donald MacLeod
Picture: Donald MacLeod

Scotland is universally recognised for a staunch heritage and roots set firmly in a proud and often turbulent history. Nowhere is this pride more apparent than in Oban or An t-Oban, as the resident Gaelic speakers would refer to their hometown – The Little Bay.

In an enviable position on the rugged west coast, Oban, as belies the name, is a major fishing port and ferry terminal with superb water connections to Scotland’s western islands with an abundance of aquatic based activities and daily fresh seafood!

Hide Ad

The seaboard coast of Argyll easily lends itself to wildlife watching and photographic opportunities, in addition to sporting and activity holidays. A popular tourist destination, Oban is currently experiencing something of a revival with new, invigorated businesses, proudly boasting their offering within one of Scotland’s most beautiful locations.

Picture: Tony YoungPicture: Tony Young
Picture: Tony Young

STAY:

An impressive Victorian exterior belies the contemporary interior of this established Oban Bed and Breakfast. Sitting high above the bay, guests are treated to fabulous panoramic views from peaceful rooms and extensive grounds.

Ultra modern and in complete contrast to the heather clad hills in which it sits, Ardtorna offers 5 star luxury and unrivalled hospitality, with an emphasis on relaxation, fine food and picture perfect views of West Coast sunsets.

DO:

Exhilirating and informative, Seafari Adventures offers the ultimate in fast moving, ocean bound adventures.

Experienced guides make the trips fun with plentiful photographic opportunities of the wonderful sea and wildlife, inhabiting the rugged coastline waters.

The recently opened museum and cultural centre houses fascinating historical artefacts and plays host to Kitchen Ceilidhs and informal gatherings within the atmospheric walls of the 18 history brought to life at the 1745 house, in the shadow of the crumbling Dunollie Castle.

TASTE:

Hide Ad

A wonderful little find, secreted down an almost hidden road, with wonderfully unique, quirky and unusual gifts. The most magnificent home baking and delicious soups are served either indoors or from a welcoming deck, boasting views of the 12th century Dunstaffnage Castle.

Hide Ad

THE must go place for all worshippers of everything seafood. Nowhere are the fruits of the sea more fresh, varied and perfectly prepared than in the Seafood Temple, where simplicity counts and food is the focus.

Stunning Oban bay views don’t detract but compliment the experience.

To request a review by Must Visit Scotland, please contact Lisa Wilson: [email protected]

Twitter: @mvscotland

Related topics: