Travelling Scotland: The Town of Oban

Oban, on the west coast of Scotland was the first stop on our three week journey around Scotland and a perfect place to start. 

It's a big town in comparison to those nearby with plenty to do in the town and in the surrounding area.

 















Oban is overlooked by what looks like a Roman amphitheatre, it is instead McCaig's Tower commissioned by John McCaig and built between 1897 & 1902 when McCaig himself died. Only the outer walls were finished. It houses gardens and is well worth a walk up the hill to visit. The tower offers wonderful views of Oban's harbour. 

There are many boat trips available from Oban which visit islands or wildlife. Laura decided to do the full day "swim with basking sharks" which we believe is only available from Oban (www.baskingsharkscotland.co.uk). 

Sadly, this was the only day that week that they didn't find any sharks (in 2013 75% of trips out saw the sharks). Despite the disappointment, the group swam with seals and saw sea eagles in addition to experiencing beautiful scenery, white sand beaches and clear blue water. 

While Laura was living it up with seals, I took the short drive to Oban airport and had my first flying lesson (http://www.borderair.co.uk)It was amazing. It also counts towards a pilots licence if I wish to pursue that.

Two more top tips of must-do's in Oban are a visit to the distillery to see how the famous single malt whisky is made and a night at Skipinnish Ceiledh. At the distillery for the entry fee of £7.50 you get a whisky glass and £3 off a bottle of Oban. The distillery is right on the harbour and impossible to miss. 

Finally if you fancy a night of music, dancing and Scottish culture The Skipinnish Ceiledh bar is definitely worth a visit. I would also advise getting there early to get a table. Doors open at 8.30pm and entry is £9.50.  

And finally - don't miss the sunsets.  

Next Blog: Around Oban