Oban & Lorne

Just 15 miles away, Oban is the main ferry port to the islands which earned it the name of “Gateway to the Isles”.
As the capital of North Argyll, Oban offers the visitor a wealth of things to see and do. It’s situated in a crescent-shaped bay on the west coast of Scotland, and many people take a trip to the town en route to the islands of Mull, Iona, Coll, Tiree, Barra and Colonsay. To find out more about ferry times and island hopping opportunities check out the Calmac website.

McCaig’s Tower is the name of the Coliseum-inspired tower which looms high above the town. It was built in 1897 by a local resident as a monument to his family, and whilst the full building plans never came to fruition, it still offers an enchanting place to visit and marvel at the spectacular views over the town and across to the neighbouring islands. Expect a steep climb to the top.

Dunollie Castle, once a stronghold of the MacDougall clan, also overlooks the entrance to the bay at Oban and offers an interesting place to visit and learn about local history whilst enjoying the surrounding castle grounds and scenery.

Lovers of whisky should head to one of Scotland’s oldest and smallest distilleries, which can be found right in the heart of Oban. Dating back to 1794, the distillery gives visitors the opportunity to see how whisky is produced and enjoy a wee dram.

Just 15 miles away there is the Inverawe Smokery & Country Park. Boasting a traditional smokehouse, one of the finest stocked fisheries in the country, Nature Trails, Walks and a fantastic Smokery Shop and Cafe its a popular day out.

When the sun comes out, visitors to Oban should head to Ganavan Sands, just north of the town. This stunning Blue Flag beach has beautiful views out to the islands and is adjacent to a lovely coastal walk. See what the weather is like today by checking out the Oban Webcams.

For details on forthcoming events and festivals in and around Oban the What’s On is an excellent place to start.

What can I find there?

McCaig's Tower Oban

McCaig's Tower

The climb 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 in Oban.

Kilmelford Yacht Haven

Roxy's Coffee & Tea House

Roxy's Coffee and Tea House, in the centre of Oban, Catering for locals and Visitors alike with delicious home baking, snacks and friendly service.

Their Afternoon Teas are particularly good.

Dunollie Castle

Dunollie Castle

A small ruined castle located on a hill north of Oban and enjoys views over towards Kerrera and a view of the town, harbour & outlying isles.

Visit and discover the life of the Clan MacDougall throughout the ages.

Eeusk Restaurant Oban

Eeusk

Ee-Usk is a world renowned Scottish fish restaurant. With lobsters and crabs caught from the rocky coast of Luing, scallops from Mull and langoustines, mussels, and oysters from the cold clear waters of Loch Linnhe, our Ee-Usk shellfish is 100% locally sourced.

The Green Shack, Oban

The Green Shack

The Green Shack is situated on the Railway Pier in Oban and they take great pride in offering local produce. The Green Shack was established in 1990, by fisherman John Ogden, wanting to give affordable, high quality seafood, provided by local fishermen.

The View from Poppies of Oban

Poppies Garden Centre

Nestled on the banks of the Firth of Lorne, Poppies has spectacular views across to Dunstaffnage Castle, the Islands, Mountains and beyond. They have a large undercover Garden Centre which leads through to a Gift Shop and their Shore side Tea Room.

Dunstaffnage Castle

Dunstaffnage Castle

On an immense rock overlooking the Firth of Lorn near Oban stands the remains of one of the oldest stone castles in Scotland and the former stronghold of the MacDougalls.


Cruachan Visitor Centre

Cruachan Visitor Centre

Cruachan the Hollow Mountain Power Station is hidden deep within the mountain of Ben Cruachan on the shores of Loch Awe. Discover the wonders of an underground world on a spectacular scale.

Oban Chocolate Company

Oban Chocolate Company

Warm, family-owned shop & cafe offering innovative handmade chocolates, plus tea, coffee & pastries.



34 Corran Esplanade, Oban PA34 5PS, UK

Cruachan Power Station Lochawe, Dalmally PA33 1AN, UK

Castle Grounds, Dunbeg, Oban PA37 1PZ, UK

Saulmore shore, Oban PA37 1PU, UK

Calmac Pier, Oban PA34 4DB, UK

North Pier, Oban PA34 5QD, UK

Dunollie Castle and the Clan MacDougall, Oban PA34 5BQ, UK

7 Argyll Square, Oban PA34 4AZ, UK

Duncraggan Rd, Oban PA34 5DP, UK