Is Scotland = Edinburgh + Glasgow + Inverness?

Hmmm……No! You need to add several + + + to make the equation balance.

Here’s one of those pluses – Oban and surrounds – a less-traveled part of Western Scotland.

Oban is a large seaside town (population about 8,500) with a few nice attractions, but more than this it has charm and some of the pleasures of life – fresh seafood, good whisky and a bustling seafront. It is an ideal hub for several enjoyable day-trips and the perfect place to put your feet up and enjoy a bit of what you fancy after a great day out.

We based ourselves in the picturesque village of Connel which is 5 miles from Oban.

On Day 1, we drove to Oban and checked out a couple of its ‘must-see’s.

1. McCaig’s Tower

This 650 foot tower has a viewing platform, seats and a well-kept garden. Its 100 lancet arches on two levels make it look a bit like the Colosseum in Rome. Climbing up the rather steep battery hill  is worth the effort because of the spectacular all-round view which awaits you at the top.

This unfinished tower dominating the Oban skyline actually looks quite impressive!

2.  Oban Distillery

Another “must-see” is Oban Distillery. It has a very informative tour around the place, generously fortified by a 14 years old single malt with some crystallized ginger – quite a taste sensation! The tour also includes a give-away memento for your mantelpiece. 

3. Carnasserie Castle

Carnasserie Castle is a late 16th-century fortress-cum-residence, with some excellent architectural details, located in Kilmartin. There is a 10-minute steep walk up the hill to the castle which has no demarcated entrance. You could also climb up to the tower for some good views of the surrounding area.

Day 2: Check out what this little town of Connel has to offer.

1) Connel Bridge and the Falls of Lora 

This cantilever steel bridge spans a narrow channel, partly blocked by an underwater rock ledge, which connects Loch Etive to the Firth of Lorn. As the tide changes seawater pours over the ledge, changing direction every time and creating a spectacular white-water tidal rapid called the falls of Lora.  The strong current produces a torrent of water that is a boon for kayakers and divers as well as a lovely sight for photographers and visitors. One of the best views of the falls is from the car park viewpoint in Connel village.

We were lucky to be in a B&B cottage that had a sun deck overlooking them!

2) Dunstaffnage Castle and Chapel

Dunstaffnage Castle is a partially ruined castle in Argyll and Bute, western Scotland.  Built in the 13th century, when Scotland and Norway were fighting for control of the Hebrides, this fortress has seen many battles, sieges, famous prisoners and intrigue.  Its formidable stone curtain still has the power to inspire awe while Dunstaffnage Chapel, concealed amongst the trees, is a classic example of 13th century architecture.

3) Inveraray Castle 

Not to be missed is the famous Inveraray Castle, just about an hour’s drive from Oban. It is an iconic 18th century Scottish castle (or you could call it a magnificent chateau) featuring striking symmetry and conical roofed towers, plus extensive and very lovely gardens.  The interior is worth a visit as well, albeit at a bit of expense.

Yes, this was the location for the Downton Abbey Christmas 2012 episode – portrayed as ‘Duneagle Castle’. 

To round off your Oban visit, try an adventurous drive to the most westerly part of Scotland – Fort William to Mallaig and Ardnamurchan. 

This is just the tip of the iceberg! Western Scotland has many more  gems to explore.

Oban in Scotland, UK
Oban sights in Scotland

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