FREE | Scotland’s hidden gem: Oban

Oban is a very special place to me as it was the first place I solo travelled to. However, the charming Scottish seaside town immediately captured my heart and I spent a month visiting both popular and not-as-well-known sights. In this guide, I will be revealing the best attractions, restaurants, accommodations, and nearby islands to make the most out of your trip. 

Best places to visit in Oban

McCaig's Tower

Cost: Free

McCaig's Tower & Battery Hill

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If you google ‘Oban’ and look at the images, chances are, you’ll see pictures featuring McCaig’s Tower or being taken from McCaig’s Tower. McCaig’s Tower is a prominent landmark in Oban that looks like a smaller version of the Colosseum in Rome. It lies on the top of a hill and it takes around 10 minutes to get to the tower. Once up there, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the town and the surrounding islands.

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Oban Distillery 

Cost: From £22

Oban Distillery

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Whisky lovers will not want to miss a visit to Oban Distillery, which has been producing single-malt Scotch whisky since 1794. Guided tours of the distillery are available, where you can learn about the whisky-making process and sample three of the distillery’s famous Oban whiskies.

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Pulpit Hill

Cost: Free

Pulpit Hill

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Pulpit hill is another spot where you can get stunning views of the town and the surrounding islands. This viewpoint has the added benefit of catching sight of the iconic McCaig’s Tower, setting it apart from the other observation points. It takes around 15 minutes to get to the summit where there is a grassy area for children or pets to romp around in, and several benches for you to relax and enjoy the scenery.

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Oban War and Peace Museum

Cost: Free

Oban War & Peace Museum

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The Oban War and Peace Museum is an excellent place to visit if you would like to learn more about Oban’s history. The museum provides an insight into life in Oban during World War II, and the role of Oban during the war, including the town’s strategic importance as a naval base. The museum also showcases the history of the Oban railway, fishermen, and McCaig’s Tower. You will definitely leave this museum with a better understanding of Oban’s role in shaping Scotland’s past.

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Ganavan Sands

Cost: Free

Ganavan Sands

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If you are looking for a beach, head to Ganavan Sands, just a few miles from Oban town centre. It is the nearest beach to Oban. You can swim in the glistening sea, sunbathe on the beach, or stroll along the coast.

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Must-try food spots in Oban

Known as the Seafood Capital of Scotland, Oban is famous for its abundant seafood, locally sourced produce, and regional specialities. Many restaurants here sell fresh and top-quality seafood harvested from the local fishermen, as well as local specialities. 

Best Seafood restaurants

EE-SUK

Price: ££-£££

EE-USK

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EE-SUK is a modern glass-fronted fish and seafood restaurant that offers amazing views of the Oban Bay. This restaurant is one of the best seafood restaurants I've been to. They offer an extensive range of delicious seafood dishes made with locally caught ingredients. Whether you are in the mood for scallops, crabs, lobsters, or oysters, the menu is sure to satisfy your seafood cravings. To avoid disappointment, I recommend making a reservation in advance.

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Waterfront Fishouse Restaurant

Price: ££

The Waterfront Fishouse Restaurant

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Another seafood restaurant with amazing views of the Oban Bay, the Waterfront Fishouse Restaurant is conveniently located right next to the railway station. This restaurant serves a variety of dishes made with locally caught fish, oysters, and mussels. The restaurant’s cosy and inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect place for you to enjoy a meal with friends or family. To avoid disappointment, I recommend making a reservation in advance

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Oban Seafood Hut

Price: £

Oban Seafood Hut.. (Green Shack)

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For a casual dining experience, head to The Seafood Hut located on the pier. This charming little hut serves locally caught produce and is only open during the months of April-October. The menu changes daily depending on the catch of the day, ensuring that the food is always fresh. You can enjoy your meal at one of the picnic tables outside the shack while taking in the beautiful views of Oban Bay.

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Best Fish and Chips in Oban

The Oban Fish and Chip Shop

Price: ££

The Oban Fish & Chip Shop

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This popular fish and chip shop serves one of the tasiest fish and chips I had in the UK. If you only have time to visit one fish and chip shop, make sure it’s this one! They serve freshly battered fish that isn’t too oily, crispy fluffy chips, delicious mushy peas, and homemade sauces here. The staff here are friendly and efficient, and the shop is conveniently located in the heart of Oban, making it an easy choice for a quick and satisfying meal.

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Nories

Price: £-££

Nories

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Nories is a family-operated fish and chip shop that has been serving classic fish and chips and Scottish specialities for generations. The freshly fried fish, generous portions, quick service, and reasonable prices make this a popular spot for sit-ins and takeaways for both locals and visitors. Take note that they charge extra for sit-ins.

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Best Cafes in Oban

Oban Chocolate Company

Price: £-££

Oban Chocolate Company

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For those with a sweet tooth, the Oban Chocolate Company is a must-visit. This family-owned shop and cafe specialize in handmade chocolates and truffles which make perfect gifts. In addition to chocolates, the shop also sells a range of other sweet treats, including cakes, scones, waffles, and hot chocolate with seasonal flavours (vegan-friendly options available!). Enjoy the treats as you look out through the large glass windows and admire the scenic sea views.

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Bossards

Price: £

Bossards Patisserie is a cosy coffee shop that uses locally sourced produce. The cafe offers affordable baked goods, such as scones, donuts, pastries, and cakes, as well as savoury dishes like soups, sandwiches, and Scottish breakfasts. The friendly and welcoming staff, coupled with the delicious food, make it a great breakfast or lunch spot while in Oban.

Address: 2 Combie St, Oban PA34 4HN

Roxy’s Coffee and Tea House

Price: £

Roxy's Coffee & Tea House

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Roxy’s Coffee and Tea House is a charming breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea spot in Oban. This dog-friendly café serves up a range of coffees and teas, as well as delicious home-baked pastries and cakes. They also provide more savoury dishes like sandwiches, soups, avocado toasts, Scottish breakfasts, and more. The inviting atmosphere, coupled with the friendly staff, make it a great place to visit while exploring Oban.

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Best local speciality shops in Oban

Taste of Argyll Kitchen

Price: ££

Taste of Argyll Kitchen

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Taste of Argyll Kitchen is a delightful farm-to-table cafe that focuses on using locally sourced ingredients to create beautifully presented meals. The cafe is famous for Scottish Highlands food and Argyll specialities, and the menu displays the origin of their produce, assuring you of the authenticity and quality of their dishes. To avoid disappointment, I recommend making a reservation in advance as there is limited seating space.

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Food from Argyll Pier

Price: £

Food From Argyll at the Pier

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Food from Argyll at the Pier is a quaint shop/cafe that sells local produce. Located right beside the ferry terminal, it is the perfect place to grab some biscuits, drinks, or baked goods while waiting for the ferry. They also sell hot food like rolls, toast, Scottish breakfasts, and soups. The friendly staff, welcoming atmosphere, and wide selection of Argyll and Bute snacks and souvenirs make it a must-visit place while in Oban.

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Highland Fold HQ

Price: £

Highland Fold

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Highland Fold is a wonderful barn-turned ice cream cafe that you simply can’t miss when in Oban. What sets them apart from normal shops is that they use milk from Highland cows to produce fresh ice cream. Their sustainable farm + cafe lies 11 miles north of Oban, and you can see their Highland cows first-hand! It is important to note that they are only open during the months of April – November from Thursday – Monday to avoid making a wasted trip.

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Best accommodations in Oban

Luxurious

Perle Oban Hotel & Spa

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Located in the heart of Oban, The Perle Oban Hotel effortlessly combines luxurious comfort with a contemporary ambiance. With its prime location on the waterfront, this boutique hotel offers stunning views of Oban Bay and the nearby islands. The elegantly designed rooms feature modern amenities and tasteful decor, ensuring a restful and enjoyable stay. The hotel's attentive staff and exceptional service add an extra touch of hospitality to make your visit truly unforgettable.

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Oban Bay Hotel

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Uniquely positioned on the edge of Oban's picturesque bay, the Oban Bay Hotel offers a captivating blend of coastal beauty and contemporary luxury. From here, guests can admire breathtaking sunsets and watch fishing boats meander by. The spacious rooms are designed to provide comfort and tranquility, and many offer stunning sea views. With its relaxed ambiance, excellent dining options, and warm hospitality, the Oban Bay Hotel guarantees a truly memorable stay.

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Mid-Range

The Ranald Hotel

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Situated in the heart of Oban, The Ranald Hotel is a charming boutique hotel renowned for its friendly atmosphere and stylish interiors. Each room has been uniquely decorated to create a cozy and inviting space for guests. The hotel's central location allows easy access to Oban's vibrant streets, shops, and restaurants. After a day of exploration, unwind in the hotel's bar, which offers a wide selection of Scottish whiskies and local beverages.

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Budget-Friendly

Oban Backpackers

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Located in the heart of the town, Oban Backpackers offers affordable and comfortable lodging for backpackers, solo travelers, and those seeking a budget-friendly stay. The hostel provides a range of dormitory-style rooms, as well as private rooms for those desiring more privacy.

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Best islands to visit on a day trip  

Oban is known as the “gateway to the isles”, and for good reason too. A bustling port town, Oban is the perfect base for exploring the many beautiful Hebridean islands on the Scottish west coast. These islands that are within easy reach from Oban offer an unparalleled opportunity for you to experience the abundant wildlife and rugged beauty of the Argyll and Bute region.

The CalMac ferry operates all the ferry lines in this area. Depending on the journey, you can get tickets online, on board, via phone, and/or at the port office. The link shows where you can get your tickets for your chosen route.  

Standard Tickets - CalMac Ferries

www.calmac.co.uk

Mull

Ferry: Oban to Craignature (~1 hour)

Ticket: Adult Return £7.80

Isle of Mull

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Mull is the third largest island in the Inner Hebrides and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, picturesque villages, and breathtaking natural formations.

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Duart Castle

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On the ferry ride there, take a glimpse of the majestic Duart Castle, a castle home of Clan MacLean.

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Tobermory

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Visit the island’s main town of Tobermory, where you can explore the colourful buildings and quaint shops lining the harbour. Many boat rides to the treshnish Isles and Fingal's cave depart from here.

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Treshnish Isles

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You can take one of the many boat tours to Treshnish isles to see puffins, seals, and dolphins.

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Fingal's Cave

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Many boat tours combine Treshnish Isles and Fingal's Cave. This awe-inspiring geological wonder features basalt columns and sea caves. If visiting between the months of Jun-Aug, you may even see puffins on the island!

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Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa

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If you would like to extend your trip to Mull, consider staying at this luxurious hotel. The well-appointed rooms are designed with elegance and modern amenities, ensuring a restful stay. The on-site spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments and therapies, allowing guests to pamper themselves and unwind in style. With its exceptional service, breathtaking location, and a wealth of facilities, the Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa provides an idyllic sanctuary for those seeking a truly memorable Scottish getaway.

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Isle of Kerrera

Ferry: Gallanach (this port lies 2 miles from the Oban town centre) to Kerrera (5 minutes)

Tickets: Adult Return £3.40

Kerrera

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The island is known for its rugged and wild landscape, with steep cliffs, rocky coves, and beautiful ocean views.

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Gylen Castle

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The hike to Gylen Castle ruins from the ferry landing takes around 1.5 hours one way. The trail initially follows a small road, passing by grazing sheep and a shipwreck. Upon nearing the Kerrera Tea Garden and Bunkhouse, the road disappears and becomes a dirt trail. Follow the dirt trail for around 8 minutes and you should see the castle. You can explore the castle’s interior or admire it from the rugged coastline. From the castle, you can see stunning views of Oban Bay.

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Conclusion

 Whether you’re interested in history, scenic views, or outdoor nature, there is something for you in this picturesque seaside town of Oban. I hope my recommendations will help you plan your trip and experience the best this charming town has to offer!