Oban is a beautiful coastal town situated on the west coast of Scotland with beautiful sceneries, historical background, and welcoming people. A weekend here guarantees relaxation and some action if one is fascinated by the natural beauty or history of the place. However, to get the best out of your visit, planning is crucial. From picking the right place to stay to finding out about hidden gems, this guide will assist in planning the perfect trip.
Where to Stay in Oban
Choosing the right hotel is the key to creating the right mood for the whole vacation. Accommodation in Oban ranges from budget friendly bed and breakfasts, guest houses to high end boutique hotels. If you are looking to relax and have everything taken care of then many hotel breaks in Oban include B&B accommodation with a view over the bay. On the other hand, if you want something more intimate, there are numerous guesthouses located all over the town and they offer a welcoming home feel with a traditional Scottish breakfast most of the time.
Must-See Attractions
Of course, your weekend would not be complete without visiting the best places that Oban has to offer. Begin your tour by visiting McCaig’s Tower, a landmark that stands on Battery Hill. This round shaped structure constructed in the 19th century provides vantage views of the town and the neighboring islands. To learn more about the history of the region, visitors can go to the Oban War and Peace Museum where there are interesting displays of the history of the town especially during the two world wars. Another place of interest is the Scottish Sea Life Sanctuary that is situated not far from the castle, a car ride away, where the visitors can learn about the sea creatures native to the region and the work of the sanctuary in marine wildlife protection.
Exploring the Isles
It would be remiss to visit Oban and not catch a ferry to the islands that are located in the vicinity. Known as the ‘Gateway to the Isles’, Oban is a gateway to beautiful islands including Mull, Iona and Kerrera among others. These are some of the most beautiful islands one can imagine, with steep cliffs and gorgeous sandy shores a short ferry ride away. Mull has Duart Castle, a medieval fortress, and Iona has retreats and religious sites, including Iona Abbey. For those who want to get some exercise, the untouched nature of the trails on the island of Kerrera will be to their liking.
Local Dining and Culinary Delights
When it comes to food, Oban offers a rather rich and diverse choice of restaurants and cafes for those who like to dine out. The town is well known for its seafood as it is located in the coastal region. Ee-Usk is one of the most famous seafood restaurants where you can taste the dishes with the freshest fish, lobster, scallops, and much more. For those who want an informal dining experience, there is the Oban Fish and Chip Shop which offers British style food. If you are looking for something quite different, then The Olive Garden is the place to be as Mediterranean cuisine dominates the menu.
Evening Entertainment and Nightlife
Like most towns and cities in Scotland, there is a lot to do in Oban at night. If you fancy a night on the town and you are in the mood for a nice dinner and a few beers you can go to a pub or if you are in the mood for some dancing and live music there are options available as well. Oban Distillery is one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland, and visitors can taste some of the finest single malt scotch whisky in the region. Or, for a more laid-back experience, visit The Lorne Bar, which offers a local beer and a chance to interact with the locals.
Making the Most of Your Time
Maximizing a short stay in Oban requires a well-balanced itinerary. On your first day, focus on soaking up the town’s historic charm with a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, before heading up to McCaig’s Tower for a sunset view. Spend your second day exploring the islands, returning in time for a delicious seafood dinner. Oban’s laid-back atmosphere and scenic surroundings make it the ideal location for unwinding, yet there’s always something to see or do.
Departure Day and Final Thoughts
As you prepare to leave Oban after a weekend of fun, remember the beauty and serenity of this Scottish coastal town. Regardless of whether you are taking a train, a car or a ferry out of Oban, the beauty of the place is sure to make you want to come back for more. A good weekend here is not only a rest from the working week but also a chance to get acquainted with one of the most beautiful towns in Scotland.
By following this guide, you’re sure to create lasting memories in a place where history, nature, and warm hospitality converge in perfect harmony.
